ICAST By The Numbers: What The Yearly Event Means For FLy Fishing Growth

Every summer, Orlando transforms into the epicenter of sportfishing innovation, drawing tens of thousands of industry insiders, brand reps, and passionate anglers. Last week's International Convention of Allied Sportfishing Trades (ICAST), held from July 15–18, 2025, wasn't just another trade show—it was the industry's heartbeat, and fly fishing made waves.

By the Numbers: Massive Economic Impact

ICAST isn't just about cool gear and product launches—it's big business. With around 14,000 attendees flooding the Orange County Convention Center, this year's event drove an estimated $36–40 million directly into the local economy. Hotels filled up, restaurants buzzed, and local businesses thrived as Orlando welcomed attendees from over 75 countries. Comparatively, in 2021, ICAST generated $27.9 million with around 10,850 attendees, highlighting the event's growing scale and economic significance.

Fly Fishing Steps into the Spotlight

While ICAST has always been influential, fly fishing's presence has steadily grown. This year, fly gear wasn't relegated to a corner booth—it took center stage. Fly rods, reels, lines, and waders were prominently featured in the prestigious New Product Showcase. Notable brands such as Orvis, Sage, and Simms presented groundbreaking products, many winning top honors, signaling the sport's rising popularity and market strength. Categories dedicated specifically to fly fishing gear saw multiple winners, highlighting the segment's significant expansion.

Deals, Innovation, and Big Wins

Beyond economic impact, ICAST is the critical moment for industry deals. The event sees nearly 1,100 new product launches annually, with fly fishing brands increasingly taking a slice of that pie. Retailers and manufacturers finalize contracts on the showroom floor, ensuring the hottest gear hits shelves around the globe. For fly anglers, this means more innovative products, better availability, and competitive prices. This robust deal-making environment positions ICAST as the key platform for businesses aiming to drive future market trends.

Fly Fishing's Growing Footprint

The Fly Shop and FlyCASTing Pond became focal points, reflecting how far fly fishing has come. Major manufacturers leveraged these zones for live demonstrations and hands-on experiences, drawing huge crowds eager to test the latest gear firsthand. The visibility and excitement were palpable, proving fly fishing isn't a niche—it's mainstream. Fly fishing zones were strategically located adjacent to high-traffic areas, maximizing exposure and engagement.

What's Next?

ICAST is more than a snapshot of the industry's health; it's a forecast of what's coming. Recreational fishing represents a $128 billion industry in the U.S., supporting approximately 825,000 jobs nationally. Florida alone generates $13.8 billion annually from angling, sustaining nearly 120,000 jobs. This year's strong showing by fly fishing indicates sustained growth and broader adoption across traditional angling communities. Expect even greater representation, innovation, and excitement in years ahead.

In short, fly fishing made a big splash at ICAST 2025, reinforcing its critical role within the broader sportfishing economy. And for all anglers, that's something worth celebrating.