Five New Ways to Make the Most of ICAST 2026
For nearly seven decades, ICAST, along with its predecessors, has been the largest annual event in the sportfishing industry.
2026 promises to be one of the most retailer-focused ICAST events in the modern era thanks to a new show features and events made just for tackle buyers.
For nearly seven decades, ICAST, along with its predecessors, has been the largest annual event in the sportfishing industry. Imagine six football stadiums full of fishing tackle and multiple city blocks bristling with anglers for nearly a week. Last year, attendees from 75 nations totaling almost 13,000 individuals gathered in Orlando, Florida for the industry’s most important buying event. And while nearly 70 years of tradition has cemented ICAST as the premier destination to build connections, make deals and see new products in person, show organizers at the American Sportfishing Association are not resting on their laurels.
This year, a reimagined ICAST is placing more emphasis on retailers than any other in the modern era. While favorite events like the Lunkers & Bunkers golf scramble, On the Water Day and Major League Fishing’s ICAST Cup return, a series of brand new events made just for tackle dealers are taking the spotlight this year. Here’s how to make the most of new features at ICAST 2026:
Experience the “Speed Dating” Event for Tackle Buyers
An all-new event called Meet the Market will join the packed Super Tuesday lineup on July 14. Following ICAST On the Water and Major League Fishing’s pro-am bass tournament, the ICAST Cup, tackle buyers are invited to Meet the Market. This four-hour event, held within the Orange County Convention Center, will function as a unique speed dating experience for both buyers and manufacturers.
For first-time attendees, Meet the Market is an event not to be missed. Before entering the event, each participant will receive a personalized itinerary of one-on-one meetings tailored to maximize opportunities to discover new products and establish business connections throughout the rest of the week. In essence, by the time the show doors open the following day, every Meet the Market attendee should have a head start on finding potential business partners who align with their specific needs.
The event also leads directly into the New Product Showcase Reception, where voting for coveted ICAST Best of Category awards takes place.
Attend the New Retailer Leadership Breakfast
ICAST has long been the home of the American Sportfishing Association’s State of the Industry breakfast, a bird’s eye overview of the entire sportfishing industry.
This year, ICAST will also host a second pre-show event this year–the Retailer Leadership Breakfast. On Thursday morning, July 16, a panel of seasoned executives will share their real-world experiences, strategies, candid insights and new opportunities shaping the marketplace this year. Topics will cover navigating economic pressures and shifting consumer behavior, as well as identifying growth opportunities. Attendees will gain valuable insights into what’s working and what’s not working, and learn how to plan for the future.
Relax in the New Retailer Lounge
In addition to the State of the Industry breakfast, retailers will have access to a brand-new Retailer Lounge throughout the nearly week-long event. Traditionally, lounges have been located within exhibitor booths. This year, retailers get their own spot to slow down as well.
The new centralized, on-floor area is designed to provide a comfortable and welcoming environment for recharging, networking and conducting business. Located beside the New Product Showcase, the Retailer Lounge offers a variety of amenities, including phone charging stations, comfortable seating and light refreshments. It’s the perfect place to take a break, engage in casual meetings, and build relationships with peers.
Find Business Upgrades at the Service Provider Pavilion
While products are undoubtedly the focal point of ICAST for tackle buyers and gear junkies alike, service providers are also making significant business moves. In a new, dedicated service provider area, exhibitors offering business solutions converge. The Service Provider Pavilion features a curated group of exhibitors providing services that help businesses perform at their best. These brands offer a range of services, including eCommerce solutions, marketing support, data and analytics, consulting and emerging technologies designed for both independent and large-scale business operations around the globe.
Watch the New ICAST Live!
ICAST Live!, a reimagined version of the show’s popular Lunch & Learn seminars, is the most noticeable new addition to ICAST 2026. This “high-energy hub” will feature business seminars, product launches, press announcements, special guests, daily kickoff events and a constant stream of activities updates on the ICAST smartphone app. ICAST Live! will expand the show’s reach beyond its original space, which became so popular that it outgrew its confines.
Getting to ICAST
ICAST 2026 is scheduled for July 14-17 at the Orlando County Convention Center. Orlando, a city that regularly welcomes over 70 million travelers annually, boasts a vibrant International Drive area surrounding ICAST. This area is conveniently located near hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues, all within walking distance or a short Uber ride from the trade show floor.
Non-stop flights connect Orlando to major hubs in the Americas, while Asia, Africa and Oceania transit usually require just one connection. Registration for ICAST 2026 is currently ongoing at ICASTFishing.org. This year, ICAST doors open on Wednesday, July 15, but the party gets going on Monday, July 13 with the ICAST Lunkers and Bunkers charity golf scramble before ICAST On the Water and the ICAST Cup presented by Major League Fishing on July 14.