Angling International

23/12/2024

HARDY LIMITED EDITION HONOURS CONSERVATION GROUP'S ANNIVERSARY

One of the world’s oldest and most iconic reel brands is celebrating the 65th anniversary of a leading conservation group that is dedicated to caring for rivers and streams in the US.
Hardy, part of the Pure Fishing portfolio, is highlighting Trout Unlimited’s 65 years of conservation efforts with the launch of a limited edition Trout Unlimited Tealweight fly reel.
“At Hardy we have always believed that the beauty of fly fishing goes beyond the act of fishing – it is about the rivers we fish, the ecosystems we treasure and the legacy we leave,” said Jake Fishenich, Brand Manager for Hardy. “This collaboration with TU is our way of honouring its decades-long commitment to safeguarding these invaluable waters while offering anglers a piece of history they can carry to the stream.
“The Limited Edition TU Tealweight is more than a fishing reel – it is a tribute. Featuring a striking deep teal anodised finish, hand-polished nickel silver line guard and Hardy’s iconic check mechanism, this reel bridges heritage with innovation. Each reel, crafted in Hardy’s Alnwick workshop, is individually numbered and engraved with Trout Unlimited’s signature “Trout” logo, ensuring its place as a collector’s item for fly fishing enthusiasts. Limited to just 300 reels, the TU Tealweight is designed for 3-4 weight rods and delivers the timeless click-check sound that echoes Hardy’s storied legacy.
Hardy is committed to making a lasting impact through this partnership. For every reel sold, $100 will be donated to Trout Unlimited, supporting its ongoing work in river, stream, and watershed restoration across the United States.
“This collaboration underscores our shared belief in preserving the waters that are vital to our sport,” Fischenich added. “From the skilled hands that craft each reel in Alnwick to the conservationists in the field, this partnership is a testament to what we can achieve together.”
The Limited Edition TU Tealweight Reel is now available for purchase through authorised Hardy dealers and online at www.hardyfishing.com.

19/12/2024

US APPAREL BRAND ENTERS EUROPE

Fishing apparel from an award winning US brand will be available in Europe for the first time following a distribution agreement reached with Denmark-based Catch Partners.
Starting from February 1 next year, the company will be representing Skwala Fishing’s line of waders, footwear, outerwear, insulation and sportswear in the region, focusing on key Scandinavian markets that include Denmark, Norway, Sweden, and Finland as well as central and southern Europe.
“Since we launched Skwala Fishing in 2022, we have had our eyes on Europe. Its line of technical apparel is perfectly suited for the demands of European anglers,” said Kevin Sloan, Skwala’s CEO/Founder. “When we searched for European partners to help with this deployment, Hanna and the team at Catch quickly surfaced as the perfect solution. Their experience with premium brands will serve Skwala well in this market.”
Hanna Bossow Vestergaard, CEO at Catch Partners, added “We have been watching Skwala since it launched. We are impressed with the experience of the team, the incredible product line it has already come to market with and its vision for the future. We expect Skwala to be a leader in fly fishing apparel in Europe very soon.”
The partnership is the first step in an expanded distribution plan for the Montana-based fly fishing company. “We have seen great success in our wholesale strategy in the early years of our business,” said Rich Hohne, Skwala CMO. “With our product line growing in the next few years, the time is perfect for the brand to extend our reach across the globe.”

The move into Europe follows the opening of wholesale partnerships by Skwala in Canada (Fishtales and Bow River Troutfitters) and Australia (The FlyFisher).

18/12/2024

GAMAKATSU NAMED BIG ROCK SPORTS CANADA'S TOP VENDOR

Gamakatsu has been named Vendor of the Year for 2024 by Big Rock Sports Canada following the North American-based fishing tackle distributor’s show in Toronto.
The Japanese maker of fishing hooks and equipment was praised for its excellence in shipping performance, show support, sales growth and retailer engagement. The annual award is given to the vendor that has demonstrated a strong commitment to collaboration and constant delivery of excellent service.
“We are honoured to receive this award and are grateful for the continued partnership with Big Rock Sports Canada,” said Ted Thibault, Sales Manager at Gamakatsu USA. “It is one of the leading distributors of outdoor equipment in North America, with more than 60 years of experience in supplying goods to retailers across the US and Canada.
“This longstanding history of success reflects its commitment to providing quality products and services to the retail market. This recognition motivates us to keep pushing for excellence in every aspect of our business and we are excited for what the future holds as we continue to grow together.”

17/12/2024

NEW RAPALA VMC HEAD ANNOUNCED TO REPLACE RETIRING LARS OLLBERG

The Board of Directors of Rapala VMC Corporation has today appointed Cyrille Viellard as the new President and Chief Executive Officer of the business effective from March next year.
Current President and Chief Executive Officer Lars Ollberg will continue in his position until March 6 and will then retire after serving the company for over 45 years in various roles.
“During the years Lars Ollberg has been a significant contributor to the development of Rapala VMC, and we would like to thank him for his long-term commitment and dedication to the Group. Going forward, – speaking for the whole Board of Directors – we would like to express our support for Cyrille Viellard and the Group’s Executive Committee in the ex*****on of the strategy,” said Chairman of the Board of Directors Emmanuel Viellard.
Ollberg said: “I am pleased with the appointment of Cyrille Viellard. I believe he brings valuable expertise and vision that will drive the company forward. As a new CEO he has a strong background, extensive industry experience and a deep understanding of Rapala VMC’s business. When I rejoined Rapala VMC in May 2023 my role was to stabilise the group’s situation and I am proud that I have been able to act as a leader during this transition period.
“I would like to thank all employees, customers and stakeholders for their support and cooperation during this transition. Over the past eight years, Rapala has had five CEOs, and I believe the appointment of Cyrille Viellard as CEO will bring the company the continuity it needs along with new growth opportunities.”
“I deeply thank Lars Ollberg for his energy, unequalled industry knowledge and stewardship that brought trust and unity in our organisation and among our stakeholders. With our strong team, I feel greatly honoured to continue implementing our defined Rapala VMC roadmap to further strengthen our operational excellence and exciting brands,”said Cyrille Viellard.
Cyrille Viellard (born 1977, MBA, ESSEC Graduate School of Management, Paris) has worked at Rapala VMC Corporation since 2014. Prior to joining the the group he worked for Selectarc Welding & Brazing Group and Bosch Group. He has acted as the Deputy CEO of Rapala VMC Corporation since 2023 while at the same time managing the Group’s EMEA and Latin America business regions. Before that he worked with the Group’s European distribution management and business development and later managed VMC Pêche, the group’s hook business from 2020. Cyrille Viellard has been a member of the Rapala VMC Group’s executive committee since 2015.

16/12/2024

TOP FRENCH FISHING MAGAZINES HALT PUBLICATION

Four of the top fishing magazines in France have been closed after its owner went into receivership.
An announcement on the website of La Pêche et les poisons reads:
The December issue of La Pêche et les poissons, as well as the January issues of Brochet Sandre Magazine, Pêche Mouche and Média Carpe will not be published. We were unable to communicate earlier and are truly sorry, but the group to which our four magazines belong is in receivership.
Today, more than 100 employees have been made redundant, not counting those who left before the summer. Concerning La Pêche et les poissons, Pêche Mouche, BSM and Media Carpe, we are “only” seven employees, but there are also many collaborators who are obviously impacted, as well as our advertisers (brands, retailers, federations, guides, etc.) and of course you, dear readers and loyal subscribers.
Ultimately, it is an entire economy that is being put in jeopardy and we are torn between immense sadness and great anger. The few people who were let into the secret were all outraged by this situation that we are experiencing. Petition, kitty, their ideas touch us deeply but they are useless to implement.
Indeed, now our future is in the hands of justice, we cannot imagine that such fishing press titles will disappear overnight and we will fight until the end. Naturally, we will keep you informed in the days and weeks to come.

11/12/2024

MUSTAD APPOINTS NEW CEO

Arild Aakre, former Head of Global Sales at Cermaq, a worldwide supplier of salmon with operations in Norway, Chile, Canada and the US, has filled the gap left by Kenni Riise, who left the company earlier this year and was replaced on an interim basis by former Pure Fishing executive Grant Ottignon-Harris.
Writing on his LinkedIn page, Aakre said: “I’m thrilled to announce that I’ve been appointed CEO of O. Mustad & Son AS. Mustad is the world’s largest manufacturer of fishing hooks for sport and commercial applications with a global presence spanning countries like China, Malaysia, the USA, Portugal, Norway and Singapore, Mustad is truly a world-class brand.
“I’m eager to leverage our strong international footprint and collaborate with our talented teams across the world to drive innovation, enhance our brand and deliver exceptional value to our customers worldwide.”

10/12/2024

FAR BANK ENTERPRISES ANNOUNCES CHANGES TO SCANDINAVIAN AND IRELAND DISTRIBUTION

Far Bank Enterprises, the parent company of industry-leading brands Sage, Redington, RIO Products, and Fly Water Travel, has announced that UK-based Guide Flyfishing will further expand its established Far Bank distribution reach across Europe.
A Far Bank partner for 15 years with a reputation as one of the best fly fishing distributors globally, Guide Flyfishing will be taking over Scandinavian distribution responsibilities effective January 1, 2025, and throughout the Republic of Ireland beginning February, 1, 2025.
Guide Flyfishing’s deep Far Bank portfolio will also facilitate the reintroduction of the Redington brand to the Scandinavian market where sister brands Sage and RIO are deeply entrenched and widely respected.
“Guide Flyfishing has a critical understanding of the Far Bank brands and how to help their retail partners profitably sell our products,” said Mike Moore, CRO at Far Bank. “In addition, Guide Flyfishing’s commitment to providing extensive stock availability and the best B2B site in the business has made them a great Far Bank partner and one in which retailers will certainly find new opportunities.”
Guide Flyfishing replaces Fairpoint Outdoors in Scandinavia following the latter’s exit from the fly fishing distribution business, and takes over distribution responsibilities in the Republic of Ireland from Gowen & Bradshaw. A longtime and highly respected partner instrumental in growing the Far Bank brands throughout the region, Gowen & Bradshaw began distribution of Sage products in the mid-1980s and the Redington and RIO product lines in the early-2000s.
“Europe’s fly fishing roots run deep in Scandinavia and Ireland and the Far Bank brands have long been an integral part of those cultures,” said John Legg, owner of Guide Flyfishing. “Our proven distribution network in Europe and our history with Far Bank have us primed and ready to expand into these regions and continue to build the Sage and RIO legacy, as well as revitalise the Redington brand in those enthusiastic markets.”
Regional retailers have already begun the transition to the Guide Flyfishing distribution platform and will benefit from a comprehensive in-territory training and support service model for products, sales, warranty, and repairs. With the move, retailers in these regions will enjoy competitive pricing at or below their current levels, as well as expanded Far Bank product offerings.

10/12/2024

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09/12/2024

RAPALA VMC CORPORATION CEO AWARDED MAJOR FINNISH HONOUR

Lars Ollberg, CEO of Rapala VMC Corporation, has been awardED a top honour to mark Finland’s Independence Day.
As a mark of distinction, the President of the Republic of Finland has awarded Ollberg the Commander of the Order of the Lion of Finland, an honour he immediately dedicated to the entire staff at Rapala. “I am truly honoured by this recognition, which does not only belong to myself, but to the entire staff of Rapala VMC Corporation,” he said.
“Our main markets, such as North America, are highly competitive and maintaining our position over the long term reflects our strong reputation and solid establishment. I am proud to have been part of building and sustaining Rapala’s global reputation across all continents for many years.
“I have sought to foster a positive sense of community both within our people and our partners. I believe this has been an essential part of our success. I would like to thank everyone for their support and commitment over the years. This achievement belongs to us all.”

09/12/2024

DAIWA RELEASES DETAILS OF MONSTER FISH FIGHTER

Daiwa in Japan has released details of its new Saltiga 35 – an overhead jigging reel designed to tackle monster fish – that is set for launch in May next year.
It boasts long-lasting performance with HyperDrive, a concept that was introduced a number of years ago on its baitcasting reels. Key features include:
Hyper Armed Housing: Lightweight, yet robust body design;
HyperDrive Digger: Designed for smooth and powerful winding that lasts longer;
Hyper Double Support: Uses ball bearings to support both ends of the pinion gear, reducing rotational resistance;
Hyper Tough Clutch: Improved durability for longer use.
The reel also incorporates MagSealed ball bearings for heavy-duty applications.
To stop larger fish and prevent them from diving into structures, the Saltiga 35 features the Ultimate Tournament Drag (UTD). It also has a Thumb Holding Frame, a new body shape that makes it easier to hold the reel securely and facilitates actions like thumbing, making it more user-friendly despite being larger.
The Saltiga 35 utilises Anode Protection, inherited from the Saltiga 15. By placing a zinc plate that corrodes instead of the critical parts, overall corrosion resistance is significantly improved. This technology is also used in boat outboard motors.
Release dates vary by model:
Normal gear model – May 2025;
Left-hand model – June 2025;
High gear models (35H & 35HL) – July 2025.

09/12/2024

PURE FISHING EMEA APPOINTS NEW MARKETING HEAD

Pure Fishing EMEA has appointed a Marketing Director with 20 years of experience with top international brands that include Coca-Cola, Heineken, ASICS and The North Face.
Vicki Bohlbro-Lyngholm has joined the world’s largest fishing tackle conglomerate and will be heading up the marketing for its 17 brands across Europe, the Middle East and Asia. She took up her role in August.
Writing on her LinkedIn page, she said: “I have been very fortunate to work for some of the greatest brands in the world and have always been able to follow my passions throughout my career. While most of my brands have been centred around outdoor ‘ground’ sports, I am now very excited to venture out to sea (or lake or river). I have joined Pure Fishing and will proudly lead a large and talented marketing team across the region and be part of the Executive Leadership Team
“I see so many opportunities to communicate the inspiring stories from passionate anglers across the world, to working on the conservation of oceans, rivers and lakes, as well as to inspire the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts. To me, fishing taps nicely into what is occupying our minds at the moment – mental health, mindfulness and spending time in nature so I am of course looking forward to learning to fish.”
Bohlbro-Lyngholm joins a Pure Fishing EMEA business without a man at the helm following the surprise resignation of its Managing Director John Henderson, who left the company after just three months in the role for a post outside the industry. Its Abu Garcia brand also recently announced that was making more than half of its workforce redundant at its factory in Sweden.

06/12/2024

BERKLEY POWERBAIT RELEASES NEW DRIP SWIMMER

The Drip Swimmer was meticulously designed in conjunction with the Berkley PowerBait Drip Minnow to mimic shiners and other baitfish with an anatomically correct internal core and over-moulded body that creates bite-inducing contrast and adds unmatched detail to the bait.
Berkley’s newest finesse swimbait - available this month - gives anglers an option with less thump than a traditional swimbait, providing a bait that most fish have never seen before. Featuring Berkley’s proven HD Tru Colour technology, the Drip Swimmer gives anglers unprecedented colourway options and increased confidence. The extremely versatile swimbait pairs up beautifully on a dropshot, offset-EWG, or jigheads like the new Berkley Fusion19 Hybrid Jighead.
Features:
• Micro-boot tail delivers tight actions for finesse swimbaiting;
• Internal core and ultra-high definition colours provide extreme realism;
• Three sizes to match the hatch;
• Rig on a dropshot, swim-shot, strolling, jighead, trailer or snap jigs
• Available in 14 ultra-realistic colours;
•Sizes: 3” • 4” • 5”;
• Colours: Ghost Perch • HD Spottail Shiner • HD Emerald Shiner • Blue Liner • HD Purple Shiner •
HD Pink Shiner • Green Liner • White Shiner • HD Goby • Green Pumpkin Shad • HD Rainbow Shiner • Mutilator Minnow • Black Shad • HD Blacknose Shiner.
• MSRP: $9.99.

06/12/2024

ABU GARCIA UNVEILS NEXT GENERATION OF VERITAS LTD RODS

The next generation of Abu Garcia Veritas LTD rods are on sales this month.
They have received a set of upgrades and a stylish new look. These advanced new rods are stronger and lighter than previous models, ensuring anglers experience top-level performance, whether they are fishing for fun or competing at the highest level.
At the heart of the new Veritas LTD rods is Abu Garcia’s Powerlux 100 resin system, which distributes nano-particles throughout the rod blank, which prevents cracks in the blank and enhances the rod’s performance and strength. The newly integrated resin system not only improves strength but also improves impact and fracture resistance, ensuring the Veritas LTD rods are built to stand up to the toughest conditions.
“The Abu Garcia team did a fantastic job updating these rods, leaving no feature overlooked,” said Director, Brand and Product at Abu Garcia, Andrew Wheeler. “The next generation of Veritas LTD rods has taken a huge technological leap, increasing strength while also reducing the overall weight – all of which help anglers succeed on the water and fish to win.”
Paired with titanium frame guides and a comfortable EVA split-grip, the rods are said to exceed expectations and push the boundaries of performance for anglers at all levels. The Abu Garcia custom-designed reel seat exposes part of the blank for increased sensitivity, feel and comfort during long days on the water.
Key Features:
• Powerlux 100 resin system allows a thin, ultra-light blank construction with superior impact and fracture resistance;
• ROCS (Robotically Optimised Casting System) guide train for maximised casting distance with lighter lures;
• Titanium alloy guides with zirconium inserts;
• High density EVA gives greater sensitivity and durability;
• Ergonomic Abu designed reel seat;
• Limited three-year warranty;
•MSRP: $129.95 (US).

06/12/2024

ST. CROIX ANNOUNCES LEADERSHIP PROMOTIONS

St. Croix – one of the top rod makers in the US – has announced the promotions of two of its best-known employees.
The Park Falls, Wisconsin, business, parent company of SEVIIN Reels, St. Croix Fly and Rod Geeks, has created the position of Vice President of Innovation for Ryan Teach, (below right) currently Product and Brand Manager, and appointed National Sales Manager, Dan Johnston, as its Director of Sales (below left).
As a new member of the St.Croix Executive Leadership Team, Teach will lead the product development activities of all St. Croix brands. He said: “I am most excited about what actually having a newly created Vice President of Innovation means to our anglers. It’s an outward show of our continued commitment to support anglers with new products that deliver better fishing experiences on all fronts. Our product, engineering, operations, marketing and sales teams are completely aligned in this commitment and everything we’ve done during my tenure with St. Croix has been for that purpose.”
A 25-year veteran of the St. Croix sales team, Johnston will serve an expanded role in his promotion for the company’s St. Croix and SEVIIN brands. “I have committed a great amount of my career to St. Croix because of my love affair with the brand and its people,” he said. “I will be doing what I’ve always done – working creatively day in, day out to help our dealers and anglers succeed.
“The fishing industry is changing and part of my job is helping our partners navigate those changes. But fishing – at its core – remains the same. It will always be about fun and the other unique rewards it brings to anglers. That can never be forgotten or overlooked. But from a fisherman’s perspective, it is becoming difficult to know if a brand they used and trusted yesterday is the same company that is worthy of their trust and business today. It’s our job at St. Croix to prove that we are.”
“Working with the rest of our team, Ryan and Dan have consistently developed and delivered the kinds of meaningful innovation and leadership that create better fishing experiences for growing numbers of anglers,” said Scott Forristall, St. Croix CEO. “The Executive Team is excited to move Dan and Ryan into these expanded roles where their creativity, work ethics and fishing knowledge will accelerate and expand our mission and promise to give anglers the upper hand on the water.”

03/12/2024

Follow their lead for new business in Europe...

Calling all Japanese makers of superior fishing tackle. Europe wants your products – and the show floor of Angling International LIVE is your entry point.

Fisherman Corp of Kobe made the trip in September and made the face-to-face meetings that will secure it new customers in Europe.

It has already booked to be with us again in Bratislava in June, safe in the knowledge that the investment it makes will pay back in new business. “That is one of the main reasons why we are looking forward to returning the Angling International LIVE next year,” says the company’s Rie Takeuchi.

27/11/2024

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27/11/2024

SOUTH AFRICAN TACKLE SUPPLIER SOLD TO GLOBAL RETAIL GROUP

One of the largest suppliers of fishing tackle in Southern Africa has been sold to a leading global retail group.
Holdsport – owner of Sportsmans Warehouse – has been acquired by Frasers Group, which boasts a collection of some of the world’s most iconic brands, including Sports Direct, Flannels, GAME, Jack Wills and Evans Cycles. Holdsport is a diversified business operating across retail, wholesale, distribution and e-commerce focused on the sport, outdoor and recreation sectors across South Africa and Namibia.
It is home to Sportsmans Warehouse, a leading supplier of fishing tackle, outdoor, camping, hiking and adventure brands. In the financial year ended February 2024, sales generated exceeded R3 billion (£130m). With a total of 88 stores across the two countries and a rapidly growing e-commerce offering, Holdsport’s network will act as a platform to expand Sports Direct across the region, says Frasers. It said: “Frasers Group will utilise this strong position to grow its sports, fashion and brand distribution presence, furthering the group’s commitment to international expansion.”
The acquisition includes Holdsport’s infrastructure, including modern warehouses with capacity for growth and offices in Johannesburg and Cape Town as well as factories that support local manufacturing and distribution.
Michael Murray, CEO of Frasers Group, said:” Holdsport has built an incredible brand and reputation across Southern Africa and we see potential in combining its regional expertise and own brand with our scale and resources, to establish a strong platform for growth. This acquisition is a great step forward for us, not only in expanding our footprint, but also in enhancing our ability to meet rising demand for high quality sporting goods in a region with such dynamic growth.”

22/11/2024

ABU GARCIA SWEDISH WORKFORCE CUT BY MORE THAN HALF

Pure Fishing – the world’s largest fishing tackle company – has made more than half of the employees at one of its top brands redundant.
According to reports in Sweden, 48 jobs – more than half of the 70-strong Abu Garcia workforce at its factory in Svängsta – have lost their jobs. The news was relayed to staff earlier this week. It is not known which parts of the workforce are affected. The company has a long history in the region and has been making reels in the town since the Second World War.
The company has blamed declining sales of its world famous reels as the reason for the job losses. Fredrik Svensson, Ombudsman at the trade union, IF Metall, told Sverige Radio that the news was a ‘sad day’ for the whole region. “The notice has come as a surprise and shock and many employees are very sad and frustrated by the news.”
Founded in 1921 as a maker of watches and telephone timers, Abu Garcia moved into the fishing business in the 1940s and has become an iconic international reel brand. It was taken over by the Jarden Corporation in 2007, which sold the group to Newells Brands before it was taken over by its current owner, Sycamore Partners, a private equity group based in New York.
Last month, Angling International reported that Pure Fishing had closed a deal that saw the refinancing of its $750m debt in an agreement that provided the group with additional long-term capital to enable it to continue its ‘growth trajectory’.
Dave Allen, Chief Executive of Pure Fishing, said at the time: “We look forward to continuing to grow our iconic brands, drive innovation and execute our strategic plan.”

Angling International has asked Pure Fishing for comment regarding the situation at Abu Garcia but has yet to receive a reply.