Showcase The Place To Be

The New Product Showcase is the No. 1 reason given by buyers and media why they attend ICAST, the sportfishing industry's trade show being held this week in Las Vegas.

Only at the New Product Showcase can industry representatives see the latest gear, apparel and accessories before they are unveiled to the fishing public. ICAST, which is produced by the American Sportfishing Association, allows those holding media badges to attend the New Product Showcase Preview Reception, sponsored by Fishing Tackle Retailer, on Tuesday.

During the reception, media members can take a look at all the new products on display. In addition, they are asked to vote for the best new products in 22 categories. The Best of Show awards have helped many companies market those products.

Also during the reception, POMA (Professional Outdoor Media Assocation) and the ASA will announce the recipient of the 2013 Homer Circle Fishing Communicator Award. POMA media member Ken Cook, managing editor of Fishing Tackle Retailer, will make the big announcement with POMA board members in attendance.The POMA/ASA Homer Circle Fishing Communicator Award is the fishing industry's most prestigious media honor. The award recognizes a journalist who exemplifies the spirit, dedication to fishing, extraordinary talent, and commitment to mentoring the next generation of sportfishing communicators as displayed by outdoor journalist legend Homer Circle during his storied career.

John E. Phillips of Night Hawk Publications, who has served the field for 40 years, won it last year. Previous winners include Frank Sargeant and Robert Montgomery.

Once the "Best of Show" voting is over at 3 p.m. on Wednesday, the Showcase is open to all trade show attendees and exhibitors.

Click here for videos, stories and photos from this year's ICAST.