Author : MICHAEL DETROIA
Attending iCast 2025 was an eye-opening experience. The sheer scale of the show was impressive – aisles of new products, innovative gear, and passionate people all gathered under one roof with a shared love for fishing. But what really stood out wasn’t just the size of the event, it was the energy. Every corner of the show floor buzzed with creativity, collaboration, and a genuine desire to move the fishing industry forward.
In performance marketing, we often say that relationships drive growth more than anything else. iCast proved that true in a big way.
I had the chance to sit down with brands and hear their stories firsthand, share ideas with media outlets about new ways to engage anglers, and explore collaborations that go well beyond traditional promotion. What struck me most was the openness—this wasn’t a room full of competitors, but a community of builders eager to work together.
A few highlights from the show:
- Kast King was impossible to miss. From custom tote bags and lanyards for every attendee to an impressive booth experience, they made their presence felt. Game & Fish Magazine even featured their MG12 Baitcaster as one of the top reels at the show.
- I also enjoyed connecting with AFTCO, Marsh Wear, and Engel Coolers—all brands now active merchants on AvantLink. Seeing them in person reinforced the value of the partnerships we’re building together.
As I left Orlando, I realized that what I’ll carry forward isn’t just product knowledge. It’s the conversations—the booth demos, the fishing stories swapped in between meetings, and the sense of shared purpose. iCast 2025 reminded me why this industry is so special: it’s fueled by passion, innovation, and real connections that last.
At AvantLink, we’re excited to keep strengthening our role in this community by connecting merchants, affiliates, and agencies who share that same vision.
