Angling International (2025)

20/08/2025

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JAPANESE LURE BRAND WITH DIFFERENCE LAUNCHED

A Japanese fishing tackle manufacturer with a difference made its debut this month.
STONEAGE – a manufacturer of fishing gear for travelling anglers – was launched in collaboration with Noriaki Endo, founder of the world-renowned Japanese street apparel brand, DEVILOCK, a former punk rocker and pioneer of the hugely popular Japanese Ura-Harajuku fashion scene.
A larger than life character and avid fisherman, Noriaki was the vocalist of the hardcore punk band GMF in the 1990s during which time he launched DEVILOCK and its DEVILOCK Night event which attracted over 200,000 devotees celebrating the blend of street fashion and music.
Noriaki has continued to blend diverse fields and maintain connections across various cultures with a lifestyle that includes travel and fishing around the world. STONEAGE founder, Reo Kodera, a renowned fishing tackle designer, said: “Over the last few years Endo has begun to recognise the importance of fishing travel gear and came up with ideas for its development.
“In this context, he met members of the STONEAGE team, which has been travelling and fishing for years, and they found common ground. To share their vision and passion, they launched the STONEAGE travel gear brand.”
The first of what STONEAGE says will be many products for the sector, is the TOPAZ range of five travel rods designed to conquer the most extreme fishing locations in the world, specifically Brazil’s River Amazon, a venue that the STONEAGE team has been visiting for more that 15 years.
TOPAZ is a lure casting rod that will be available to anglers in Japan. “It is a reliable companion – a trusted tool for journeyman fishermen. Unexpected challenges are part of fishing trips and TOPAZ is designed to deal with those situations.”

20/08/2025

ANGLING DIRECT DELIVERS STRONG REVENUE PERFORMANCE

Angling Direct, the UK’s largest fishing tackle retailer, has delivered another strong performance in the first half of its 2026 financial year, posting a 17% increase in total revenue of £53.6m compared to £45.8m in the previous year.
The east of England-based business, which has 55 stores across the UK, reported in store and online sales of £51.1m (£43.5m), up 17.7%. Total like-for-like revenue grew 14.2% reflecting the strength of its omni-channel proposition and increasing customer reach, says Angling Direct, pointing to the continued growth of the MyAD customer loyalty club to over 496K subscribers on July 31 and breaking the 500k barrier earlier this month.
Outside the EU, the group’s first European store in Utrecht celebrated its first anniversary in May and FY 26 will mark its first full year of trading through the peak summer period. AD reported that customer visits in the comparable two months – May and June – almost trebled as the Netherlands business further established its presence in the region.
The group said: “The digital European market remains challenging and the business continued its focus on the key markets of Germany and the Netherlands, with sales increasing in those territories. The company will maintain its primary digital focus on those countries to build a sustainable and efficient European business.”
Steve Crowe, CEO of Angling Direct, told investors: ” I am pleased to report that we have delivered another period of sustained progress against our medium-term objectives. Our increasing customer appeal, underpinned by MyAD and the asssociated growth of revenues in our existing UK stores and digital platforms, provides us with further confidence of achieving our medium-term UK revenue target of £100m.
“In the UK, we have continued to build on the strong momentum delivered in FY 25 by leveraging both our digital and physical footprint to increasingly join up our omni-channel offer. We have made pleasing progress on gross margin development against the inflationary cost case backdrop. Our focus remains on delivering best value, flexibility and service for our customers and we are pleased to have opened two new stores to date, and the new openings pipeline remains strong.”
Angling Direct expects revenues for the year-ending January 31 to be £97,7m.

18/08/2025

SONIK REVEALS FIRST PHASE OF PREDATOR BRAND TACKLE

One of Europe’s top fishing tackle manufacturers has revealed the first phase of products to cater for the exploding predator scene.
Sonik Sports says that following the success of its brands for carp and coarse fishing, it is set to shake up the predator market with a ‘fresh and focused’ brand delivering high-performance gear designed by anglers for anglers.
European Director, Pascal Vermeulen, who leads product development and sourcing, said: “Predator fishing has exploded in popularity, but there is still a gap between value and real-world performance. That’s exactly where Skeater comes in! Every item in the range is built with the angler in mind – smart, sustainable and serious about performance.”
Rooted in a strong mission to minimise environmental impact while delivering top-tier functionality, the Skeater range includes gear for both bank and boat anglers and even pushes into new terrain with kayaks and float tubes.
Sonik Sports CEO, Atle Haakonsen, added: “Skeater reflects our core belief that great gear need not come at the expense of the planet. By combining thoughtful design with sustainable packaging and smart sourcing, we’re building trust with anglers across Europe. We have a strategy that includes lots of more products to come.”
Phase one in the launch process includes:
Rods and reels tailored for deadbait fishing;
Braided lines, hooks, floats and essential accessories;
Compact kayaks and purpose-built float tubes;
Electronics for modern predator techniques;
Custom built pliers, nets and fish care products;
Accessories and terminal tackle;
All delivered in sustainability-focused packaging.
Sonik Sports founder and Commercial Director, Ian McCormack, said: “Skeater has been in the works for a long time – a real passion project for the team.We have spoken with anglers from across Europe and this brand is built with their input, their needs and their challenges on the water.”
He added that stock is already arriving and Sonik Sports will begin supplying shops from its official launch date at the beginning of September.

17/08/2025

SPRO SET TO LAUNCH NEW JAPANESE LURE BRAND IN EUROPE

One of the world’s best known producers of lures is set to introduce a new bait brand to anglers in Europe.
Spro has agreed a deal with Hideup, a Japanese lure brand, to sell its products in Europe from next month. The company – launched by Japanese bass fishing tournament angler Hideo Yoshida in 2004 – has created a new genre of lures that are said to be completely new. The Coike was showcased at this year’s ICAST for the first time and is a lure that has enjoyed success in Japan for more than 20 years and is designed to see things from the perspective of fish like bass, rather than humans.
Hideup products have already been on sale in the US and Canada since the beginnig of the year and Spro’s Kazutomo Nakamura (pictured with Hideo Yoshida) told Angling International: “Since its release in the US, the Coike has sold very well and has become especially popular among tournament bass anglers. This is because many of the lures are suitable for forward facing sonar fishing.
“However, it is also true that some people are confused by its unique concept and how to use it. Spro is helping to spread the word to anglers in the US, Canada and Europe.”
He added that Spro was attracted to the unique Japanese lure designs and the original ideas of Yoshida.
“We also welcome a wide range of brands seeking sales representation in both North America and Europe. Originality and creativity are key. We are particularly interested in products and brands developed by true anglers.”

14/08/2025

RAPALA ANNOUNCES NEW US HEAD AND KEY BRAND APPOINTMENT

Marcus Twidale, who has led Rapala USA for the last four years, is leaving his role to work on the group’s long-term strategy to accelerate the growth of its flagship brand.
In a major announcement, the Finnish giant has apppointed Twidale (right of picture) Vice President Rapala Brand and Group Strategic Brand Management, and will be replaced in the US by current Head of Sales, Travis Tuma (left of picture) as Rapala VMC USA President on January 1 next year.
Explaining the moves, Rapala VMC President and CEO, Cyrille Viellard, said it was essential for the group to commit to a strong, long-term strategic plan for the group’s flagship Rapala brand. “Marcus will play a central role in this effort. He will work closely with our product development, marketing, manufacturing, sourcing and sales teams to develop the global Rapala brand while also creating processes and driving strategic development of all the group’s brands.
“With these leadership changes, we are building on a strong foundation and positioning Rapala VMC for a dynamic and exciting future. I am confident that with Marcus and Travis in their new roles, we will continue to deliver exceptional products, inspire anglers worldwide and drive the growth of our iconic brands for years to come,” said Viellard.
“I am also pleased to announce that Travis Tuma, currently Head of Sales and a valued member of the USA Senior Leadership Team, will succeed Marcus as President of Rapala VMC USA.”
Travis joined Rapala VMC in 2006 as Sales Manager, bringing over a decade of experience from fishing retail. Since then, he has advanced through the organisation, becoming Vice President of Sales in 2022. Under his leadership, Rapala VMC achieved its highest three-year sales volumes. Travis will continue to lead U.S. sales as part of the Senior Leadership Team.

13/08/2025

US DISTRIBUTORS EXPANDS SEA OFFER WITH NINE NEW HIRES

One of North America’s leading suppliers of fishing tackle to the trade has announced a major expansion of its salesforce to better serve the southern coastal regions.
Pitman Creek Wholesale has taken on nine seasoned industry veterans to bring personalised service and support to saltwater fishing retailers. James Coffey, President and Owner of the company, said: “Recent developments in the trade have allowed us to extend our best-in-class shipping and data services to a broader customer base.
“We have been building our saltwater offering for nearly a decade and this expansion is a natural next step to meeting growing demand.”
Vice President, Addison Coffey, added: “Bringing on a new coastal salesforce reinforces our commitment to thoughtful growth. It follows our successful acquisition of Sports Specialists in Wisconsin and aligns with our mission to foster strong partnerships with both customers and vendors. Coastal communities are deeply connected to fishing and we are excited to provide them with the service and product depth they deserve.
“The addition of a dedicated coastal sales team underscores Pitman Creek’s goal to remain the top distributor in the fishing tackle industry through purposeful expansion and unwavering service.”

12/08/2025

DAIWA OWNER VICTIM OF HEIGHTENED GLOBAL UNCERTAINTY

The owner of Daiwa saw a marginal increase in revenue from its brands in sports that include fishing, golf and cycling for its last quarter as it remained victim of heightened global uncertainty.
Japanese giant Globeride reported group sales rose by just 0.7% for the period ended June 30 to 31,691m yen compared to the same period of the previous year of 31,481m. Operating profit rose by 11.8% to 2,373m – down 5.4% year-on-year.
The group said that the Japanese economy experienced a gradual recovery trend against a backdrop of improved employment, income and inbound tourism. “However,” it told investors: ”The future remains difficult to predict due to high material and energy prices as well as stagnant consumer confidence caused by rising commodity prices, fueled by the depreciation of the yen.”
Overseas, Globeride reported heightened uncertainty about the outlook due mainly to the geopolitical risks such as the situations in Ukraine and the Middle East, continued high interest rates in the U.S. and Europe, the slowdown of the Chinese economy and future policy developments and monetary policy in the United States.
“Under these circumstances, the outdoor sports and leisure markets are lacking in strength mainly due to the impacts of rising energy prices and the increased burden felt by households,” said the company.
Japan
The market still remains sluggish due to low disposable income. To combat the situation Globeride launched new products for anglers, including the SALTIGA (picture) and LUVIUS spinning reels. Net sales for the region were 20,575m – flat -year-on-year – and segment profit 1,947m, up 28.75%.
Americas
Globeride reported that inventory adjustment has almost calmed, but warned the recovery in market conditions were gradual, hampered by the high level of interest rates. Net sales: 4,522m (up 3.8% year-on-year); profit: 220m (up 38%).
Europe
Persistently high interest rates and soaring energy prices slowed the pace of recovery. Net sales: 4,688m (down 5.2%); profit: 347m (down 25.12%).
Asia and Oceania
While the situation varies from country to country, business remains stagnant, particularly in China. Net sales: 11,345m (up 8.8%); profit: 763m (down 17.6%).

05/08/2025

SONIK SPORTS TO LAUNCH PREDATOR BRAND

UK fishing tackle supplier Sonik Sports has announced that it is set to launch a new predator brand in September.
Pascal Vermeulen, the company’s Managing Director Europe, made the announcement on its Facebook and LinkedIn pages this week. “Over the past 12 months we have been working very hard with the team on something special – and we can finally show a first glimpse,” he said.
“SKEATER is a brand new predator fishing brand where everything is right from the look and feel to the products themselves. Stay tuned, this is just the beginning!”
On its website – www.skeaterfishing.com – the brand says it’s time to rewrite the rules with the ‘next-gen tech & performance that leaves the rest in the dust’.

05/08/2025

ATLANTA FLY SHOW CANCELLED AS VENUE REVOKES CONTRACT

One of the most popular events in the US series of fly fishing shows has been cancelled after the venue owner unexpectedly revoked the contract with the organiser.
The cancellation of the 2026 Atlanta Fly Fishing Show has been described as a ‘major blow’ by Fly Fishing Show President & CEO Ben Furimsky. He told Angling International: “I have lost tens of thousands of dollars that I invested in the show.
“I put a lot of work into that location and built it up to be the third largest fly fishing event in the world behind our shows in Denver and Edison. I stuck with the exhibition centre through its renovations, a pandemic and its staffing issues.
Furimsky, who runs the seven show series across the US, said that he mounted an intensive search for alternative venues in the Atlanta area. “Multiple locations were considered and tentative dates secured,” he said.
“However, as plans progressed, we recently learned the new venue would not allow us to have a casting pond – an essential part of the show experience.
“Because of this late stage change and time lost, we cannot confidently produce a show that meets our standard. We are heartbroken to share this news.”
He added that he is working actively to return to Atlanta in 2027 and beyond. “The challenge lies in securing space at venues that prioritise events with larger hotel blocks than we can offer, but we remain committed to finding a solution.”

05/08/2025

FISHING RETURNS TO GROWTH AT JOHNSON OUTDOORS

Fishing revenue at Johnson Outdoors – the leading outdoor recreational sports equipment supplier – increased 7% in the third quarter as the group reported a 5% net increase in sales.
The jump in revenue from the division, which includes the Humminbird, Minn Kota and Cannon brands, signalled a welcome turnaround from the previous two quarters of its financial year which saw 3% and 25% decreases.
The uptick was attributed to continued success of its new products, which included success for Humminbird at last month’s ICAST, where it won the Best Electronics category for the XPLORE fish finder series.
Johnson’s Camping & Watercraft Recreation sector saw a 1 4% drop in sales compared to the previous comparable period. The group reported that sales would have improved 3% year-on-year had it not been due to the exit of the Eureka business.
Total company net sales rose 5% to $180.7m, compared to $172.5m. Helen Johnson-Leipold, Chairman and CEO, said: “While the market continues to fluctuate, this quarter’s positive results emphasise our focus and investment on delivering market-winning innovation.
“Importantly, we continue to make progress against our strategic priorities – innovation, digital and e-commerce and operational efficiency – which are critical to achieving our goal of delivering future healthy profitable growth.”
For the year to date, net sales were $456.7m, a 6.2% decrease over last year’s nine month period.
David W. Johnson, Chief Financial Officer, told investors that the tariff environment was ‘uncertain. “We continue to work through short and long-term strategies to mitigate the potential increases in costs. Our focus is ending the year with our brands well positioned for the future.”

30/07/2025

FISHING SALES REMAIN WEAK AT SHIMANO

Strong fishing sales in Europe and Australia were offset by weak demand in its domestic market in the first quarter of the year for tackle giant Shimano, who reported a 3.1% increase in sales compared to the previous year.
In its latest report to investors, Shimano says that while interest in fishing tackle continued, sales remained weak. Revenue from the quarter totalled 55,751 million yen, with operating income decreasing 32.4% to 4,493m.
In a global market that it described as uncertain because of factors that include trade policies around the world, prolonged conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East and a slowdown in the Chinese economy, the bicycle components and fishing tackle supplier saw its group sales rise by 9.5% to 237,409m.
In Japan, although efforts to reduce inventories made headway, fishing sales remained sluggish. Increased prices contributed to a slump in consumer spending, weighing on the market despite an underlying interest in fishing tackle.
Overseas trends differed by region. In North America sales were largely unchanged from the previous year and inventories remained healthy and appropriate for market conditions.
Europe stood out with ‘robust’ sales, bolstered by favourable weather that encouraged more fishing activity, while inventories were kept at optimal levels.
Asian markets, led by China, showed positive signs as inventory adjustments began to ease, delivering firm sales. Australia benefited from stable fishing conditions, translating into strong sales and well maintained inventory levels.
New product launches contributed to market momentum with the company’s new ULTEGRA spinning reel and ANTARES baitcaster being well received. Additionally, Shimano said demand for its METANIUM DC reels and EXPRIDE rods remained brisk, highlighting ongoing consumer enthusiasm for fishing gear.
Shimano has reduced its guidance for the year from 470,000m in net sales to 460,000m in light of the anticipated continuation of inventory adjustments in the Chinese market, leading to an expected drop in profit margins due a phase of production adjustments at factories and an increase in non-operating expenses.

29/07/2025

AFTA REVEALS SHOW WINNERS INCLUDING BEST HOME GROWN PRODUCT

Wilson Fishing was the pride of the locals when it won Best Australian Product at the country’s trade show last weekend.

The 100% owned and operated business won the prestigious award with the Venom RLFV1266 rod to add to other awards that included the Venom Backpack (tackle management), Venom RLFV1266 (game rod) and Blade N Tailes RLFBT 27 (rod) at the Australian Fishing Trade Association (AFTA) show on Australia’s Gold Coast.

The full list of winners were:

Line: Saltiga 12 DURASENSOR x12EX+Si3, Daiwa Australia;

Tackle Management: Venom Backpack, Wilson Fishing;

Reel: 25 Saltiga (G) 14000-XH, Daiwa Australia;

Soft Lure: CrushCity Trickster 1.5”. Rapala Australia (above);

Hard Lure: Laser Pro 210DD, Halco;

Sunglasses: Conquest Matt Black Green Mirror, Shimano;

Game Fishing Lure: Countdown Magnum Elite, Rapala Australia;

Terminal Tackle: Bait Ju**ie Covert Jighead, Daiwa Australia;

Fly Fishing Product: Averon 6000 Cassette Reel, Hardy – Pure Fishing;

Boating Accessory: 275 Inflatable, Response – JM Gillies;

Fishing Accessory: Fillet Mat, Rapala Australia;

Marine Electronics: Geo-Spot Kayak 40lb/36”, Watersnake – Jarvis Walker;

Outdoor Camping Product: 3m Auto Self Tension Retractable Ratchet Tie Down, AFN Fishing & Outdoors;

Combo: Sienna FG 2500 & Maikuro 602 2-4kg Rod, Shimano Australia;

Game Fishing Rod: Live Fibre Relax Game, Wilson Fishing;

Australian Made Product: Venom RLFV1266, Wilson Fishing;

Rod: Blade N Tailes RLFBT 27, Wilson Fishing;

Clothing: Pro Fishing Shirt Navy, Shimano;

John Dunphy Award for Innovation, Reaper Rig – XL, Lure Us In.

Angling International

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