Last week’s virtual 2020 Sportfishing Summit brought together more than 200 ASA members and other industry leaders to engage on the issues impacting recreational fishing.
 
During the Summit we welcomed Jesse Simpkins, Marketing Director for St. Croix Rod, as our new board of directors chairman. My thanks go to Chris Megan, publisher, On The Water, who handed the gavel over to Jesse after two years at the helm.
 
My thanks also go to our board of directors, committee chairs and members who are willing to give so much of their time and talent as your business representatives to work on your behalf.
 
ASA’s goal was to provide an online forum where we could share information to help our industry understand what’s in front of us, whether it be government affairs issues or retaining new anglers, and develop strategies for 2021 and beyond.
 
We had a full week of presentations, board meetings and program committee meetings that highlighted the most pressing industry topics while focusing on future solutions.
 
If you missed GA Vice President Mike Leonard and his team’s presentation, you can still watch this great overview video which is available on the Summit website. I encourage you to take the time to learn what is going on around the country that impacts recreational fishing.
 
I also encourage you to watch the remarks that Jesse Simpkins and I recorded about the current state of our industry. They will remain online for on-demand viewing.
 
While cancelling the 2020 in-person ICAST Show had an impact on the association, I extend my sincere thanks to ASA’s members who took advantage of the digital opportunity by exhibiting in ICAST 2020 Online. We look forward to seeing everyone next July 20 – 23, for ICAST 2021 in Orlando, Fla.
 
I also want to thank you for showing your support for our sport and industry as a dues-paying ASA member. This association has proudly represented the business interests of the recreational fishing industry and our nation’s anglers for 88 years and we’re still going strong.  
 
October 1, 2020, marked the beginning of the 2021 fiscal year. With continued strong fishing tackle sales and increased participation, our tremendous ASA staff and your support, we are looking forward to a productive new year.
 
Sincerely,
 
Glenn Hughes
President
American Sportfishing Association