December 2005 American Sportfishing Association Member Update

Member Updates are periodic information sources for members of the American Sportfishing Association and partners on issues of interest to the future of fishing. For more information, contact ASA Communications, 703.519.9691.

This is a partial list of the topics covered in this update. Please scroll down for the complete document. ASA Member Updates are available in the ASA Newsroom.

Federal Manufacturers’ Excise Tax Update

FishAmerica Classic Angler Charity Auction

Upcoming ASA Board Meetings

Second Annual CA Anglers’ Caucus

ICAST 2006—Hooked on Innovation

2006 Sportfishing Summit—Mark Your Calendars for Sunny San Diego

National Fishing and Boating Week 2006

Welcome New Members!

Member Services Needs Your Help

Policy Watch—Government Affairs Update

NOAA Award Nominations due in January

Future Fisherman Foundation Updates

FishAmerica Foundation Updates

Message from ASA President and CEO Mike Nussman

Federal Manufacturers’ Excise Tax Update
The IRS continues to review a document submitted by ASA, at the IRS’s request, outlining members’ comments and proposed scenarios regarding the IRS’s revised essential terms scenario document distributed during a November 1, 2005, meeting. The IRS will meet with ASA’s Excise Tax Committee and archery industry representatives on January 31, 2006, to discuss the comments on the essential terms scenario’s document. This meeting was originally scheduled for December 14, 2005. The IRS has indicated this document, once finalized, will be available to taxpayers and agents via the IRS Web site. The IRS’s draft document can be reviewed on the ASA Web site under the Government Affairs section, Federal Excise Tax Update. For more information, contact ASA President and CEO Mike Nussman, x233, or ASA VP Gordon Robertson, x237.

Classic Angler Charity Auction Supports FishAmerica Gulf Fund
Octagon, eBay and four pro anglers have teamed up to raise money for the FishAmerica Foundation’s Gulf Coast restoration efforts. From January 16-26, 2006, eBay will host the “Classic Anglers Auction” to raise money for the FishAmerica Gulf Fund. Davy Hite, Mike Iaconelli, Kevin VanDam and Takahiro Omori contributed items for bid including a bass boat, a VIP tackle box, a day on the water and a year of wearing a logo patch representing the highest bidder’s company. Interested bidders should visit www.fishamerica.org beginning January 9 to pre-qualify for the auction. The Classic Anglers Auction has been designated and endorsed as a 'charity auction' by Missionfish of the Points of Light Foundation. Other than basic expenses, the FishAmerica Foundation is the beneficiary of the proceeds. For more information, visit www.fishamerica.org or contact John Bryan, 804.356.9552.

Upcoming ASA Board Meeting
The ASA Board of Directors is scheduled to meet Friday, March 3, 2005, in conjunction with the ASA/Fred Hall Fishing Tackle and Boat Show in Long Beach, Calif. The Show Committee meets Saturday morning, March 4. The Nominating Committee meets the morning of March 3, prior to the Board meeting. Please contact Joyce Anderson, 703.519.9691, x233, for more information or to confirm attendance.

Second Annual CA Anglers’ Caucus
The second annual northern California Anglers’ Caucus will meet for a breakfast briefing on Sat., January 7, 2006, during the ASA/Fred Hall Show at the Cow Palace in San Francisco. ASA President and CEO Mike Nussman, Representative George Miller (D-CA), Ryan Broddrick, director, Calif. Department of Fish and Game, members of the Calif. Fish and Game Commission, members of the Coastside Fishing Club and representatives from other state agencies and anglers groups will be there to brief breakfast attendees. The show is scheduled from January 4-8. A second anglers’ caucus will meet for a lunch briefing on Thursday, March 2 during the show at the Long Beach Convention Center, March 1-5, in Long Beach, Calif. Ryan Broddrick and members of the Calif. Fish and Game Commission, representatives and members of United Anglers of Southern California and other agencies and organizations will be there to brief attendees. For more information, contact Bart Hall, 805.389.3339.

ICAST 2006—Hooked On Innovation
With over 90 percent of the show floor already reserved, ICAST 2006 is on track for another record breaking year. ICAST booth sales are a hot ticket soaring well ahead of last year’s pace. Booth space is limited so all interested companies should submit a booth space contract as soon as possible. The New Product Showcase, the show’s flagship feature, is expected to garner even more attention in 2006 as competition for the "Best of Show" awards intensifies. Look for new information on the Showcase in the coming weeks. Sponsorship opportunities are currently in the works and should be available in early 2006 as well as the annual Exhibitor Promo Pak. Once again, ICAST will coincide with the National Marine Manufacturers Association’s Marine After Market and Accessories Trade Show (MAATS). ICAST 2007 is scheduled for July 11-13 in Las Vegas. For a booth space contract or to get the most current ICAST information, contact ICAST coordinator Kelly Camirand, x231.

2006 Sportfishing Summit—Mark Your Calendars for Sunny San Diego
ASA invites its members and partners to join us for the 2006 Sportfishing Summit scheduled for October 18–20 at the Paradise Point Resort and Spa in San Diego, Calif. ASA’s staff and Board of Directors met immediately after the 2005 Summit to jump-start the planning process for 2006. ASA plans to have a program in place and information distributed before ICAST 2006. For more information, contact Mary Jane Williamson, x227.

National Fishing and Boating Week 2006
ASA’s 2006 National Fishing and Boating Week events will be held on June 5-7, 2006 in the Washington, D.C. area. Highlights of the event include a members and guests reception and boat cruise on the Potomac River; various ASA committee meetings; a luncheon with a briefing from a Member of Congress, a Capitol Hill reception and meetings with Members of Congress and federal agency administrators. Please plan to attend and make your voice heard on important sportfishing issues. For more information, contact Patrick O’Rouke, x230.

Welcome New Members!
ASA welcomes these new members or members who reinstated their membership in November: Dee’s Diamond Flashers, Faultline Outdoors, Fly Fishers of Virginia, Inc., Pepper’s Eyeware, Slam Gear, Inc., Tormenter Fishing Products and Wingli Craftwork Factory.

Membership Services Needs Your Help
In order to have the most current contact information, we’re asking ASA members to please update your company’s listing for our Member Directory. Please go to the Member Directory on ASA’s Web site to check your listing and e-mail any changes to Ann Sweeney, Membership assistant, x241. Thank you for assistance in helping us to maintain this important resource.

Policy Watch—Government Affairs Update
For more information on ASA Government Affairs activities, contact Gordon Robertson, VP and Government Affairs lead, x237 or Carol Forthman, director, Ocean Resource Policy, x244.

Sale of Public Land Proposal Withdrawn
A provision in a House budget reconciliation bill that would have made possible the sale of public lands to mining and other companies was pulled from the bill. ASA joined forces with 24 other fishery and conservation groups in a united effort to have the provision removed. A joint letter was sent to members of Congress opposing the sale of public lands to mining companies and other developers because it would “open these previously public lands to development, fragmentation, habitat loss and potential pollution.”

Landmark Legislation Introduced to Improve America’s Waters
After years of work by ASA and others in the fisheries community, a streamlined version of the Fishable Waters Act will be included in the Clean Water Trust Act of 2005. The American Sportfishing Association (ASA) applauds the landmark legislation introduced by Chairman John J. Duncan, Jr. (R-TN) of the House Water Resources and Environment Subcommittee to address America’s growing infrastructure funding crisis. The Clean Water Trust Act of 2005 (H.R. 4560) will provide $7.35 billion annually to improve America’s waters.The Clean Water Trust Act will enhance fisheries through controlling sewer overflows, improving wetlands, encouraging research, spurring new technologies, enhancing investment in small and rural utilities and protecting critical regional waters such as the Great Lakes, Chesapeake Bay and Gulf of Mexico.

Magnuson-Stevens Act Activity Continues
On December 15, the Senate Commerce Committee approved a revised bill reauthorizing the Magnuson-Stevens Fisheries Conservation and Management Act. Most of ASA's top priorities—guidelines for no-fishing areas, consideration of economic data from all sectors, improving the Scientific and Statistical Committee, setting up an angler registration system, improved data collection, provisions for rationalizing commercial fleets and bycatch provisions—were included in revisions to the bill. ASA will continue to work with key members of the Senate and their staff as the bill moves to consideration by the full Senate.

Lawsuit Challenges Off Road Vehicle Use in National Park Service Lands
ASA joined with the Cape Hatteras Access Preservation Alliance, United 4 Wheel Drive Association, Dare County (NC) and other groups as an intervener in a lawsuit to defend vehicle access at Cape Hatteras. The Bluewater Network (a division of Friends of the Earth), the National Park Conservation Association and Wildlands CPR have filed a lawsuit asking the court to terminate all off road vehicle use in national seashores, national recreation areas and other Park Service lands that have not adopted regulations. If such an order were entered, many coastal areas would be shut off to angler access during rulemaking processes that could take many years. ASA has agreed to join other affected parties to intervene in the lawsuit to protect off road access.

Alaska Charter IFQs Put on Hold
The North Pacific Fishery Management Council voted at their early December meeting to establish a working group to revisit the management of the charter halibut fleet.  This move effectively removes from consideration the proposed Charter Individual Fishing Quota (IFQ) program that had been previously submitted to NOAA for review. ASA had filed comments with the Council opposing the imposition of IFQs for charter fishing and requesting that the proposal be withdrawn from NOAA.

Wetlands Protection Challenged
In a move that may resolve unanswered questions left after the Court's decision in a previous case, the U.S. Supreme Court has agreed to hear two cases concerning filling of wetlands. ASA has joined with other conservation organizations to file a “Friend of the Court” brief supporting the administration's view that the wetlands in question are subject to regulation. The two consolidated cases have challenged the federal government's right to regulate certain wetlands that are at the headwaters of, or adjacent to, streams. A ruling restricting the government's ability to control filling of these wetlands could seriously endanger many wetlands that serve as nursery grounds for fish, protect against the impacts of floods and keep pollutants from reaching surface waters.

FishNet Looks to 2006
In November, ASA convened a meeting of FishNet to discuss its course of action for 2006. Among the issues discussed were Forest Service Rise to the Future program needs, energy policy, the 2007 Farm Bill, the Eastern Brook Trout Joint Venture, Magnuson-Stevens reauthorization, the National Fish Habitat Action Plan, the Open Rivers Initiative, the National Aquatic Invasive Species Act, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service “Scaling Up” events, the Fish Passage Center, a BLM update, Casting Call 2006 and National Fishing and Boating Week 2006.

NOAA Award Nominations due in January
NOAA’s Stewardship & Sustainability Awards recognize outstanding performance, achievements and leadership by companies, organizations and individuals that promote best stewardship practices for the sustainable use of living marine resources. NOAA is seeking nominations from marine fisheries stakeholders including industry, environmental or trade organizations, individuals and government agencies. The deadline for nominations is January 10, 2006. For details on the nomination and selection process, contact Laurel.Bryant@noaa.gov, or visit NOAA’s Web site.

Future Fisherman Foundation Update
For more information on Future Fisherman activities contact Acting Executive Director Laura Jerome, x254 or Program Coordinator Jesse Graytock, x224.

Executive Director Search
A search for a new Executive Director for the Future Fisherman Foundation continues. Preliminary phone conversations have been conducted with potential candidates. The goal is to have the new director in place by the end of January 2006. For more information, contact Gordon Robertson, x237.

National Fishing and Boating Education Grants Initiative Branches Out
The National Fishing and Boating Education Grants Initiative began as a grant program with awards of up to $5,000 for physical education teachers to teach fishing and boating. In cooperation with the Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation, the program is now also available to recreation and parks personnel to include fishing and/or boating in their public recreation classes. A training workshop for the recreation and parks personnel is scheduled for January 23–26 in Ala.

National Fishing and Boating Education Grants Initiative Program Update
To date, 11 of the 34 schools awarded grants for the 2005/2006 school year started their program instruction with three schools offering ice fishing instruction—Milwaukee Lutheran High School (Wisconsin), Rhinelander Highs School (Wisconsin) and Woodland Elementary (Michigan). Thirty-two of the 43 2004/2005 recipients have completed the required reporting process.

Hooked On Fishing–Not On Drugs® Leadership to Meet
The HOFNOD Advisory Committee is meeting in January to discuss the future of the HOFNOD program. The foundation would like to hear comments about the program and will take comments to the January meeting. Please direct your comments or questions to Laura Jerome, x 254.

FishAmerica Foundation Updates
For more information about FishAmerica activities, contact Managing Director Johanna Laderman, x245 or Grants Coordinator Jeff Bloem, x247. For more information about the Gulf Fund, contact Philanthropy Officer John Bryan, 804.356.9552.

Zebco Supports FishAmerica Gulf Fund
Zebco created Operation F.I.S.H. (Fishermen In Support of Hurricane Relief) as an industry-wide fundraising campaign to raise money for the FishAmerica Gulf Fund. Zebco commissioned the design of a special Operation F.I.S.H. ball cap to be used as the focal point for the campaign. Zebco has already kicked off this effort by purchasing and donating the first 1,000 hats. The Game Headwear, of Phenix City, Ala., is providing the hats at cost, and Mailing Services, Inc., of Richmond, Va., is providing fulfillment services. For a $20 or more contribution to the Gulf Fund, FishAmerica will send a F.I.S.H hat. To purchase a hat, visit www.fishamerica.org.

Support Operation F.I.S.H and the Gulf Fund
ASA members and other organizations can support the Operation F.I.S.H initiative by purchasing and donating the hats to FishAmerica. Operation F.I.S.H. hats have no branding other than the project name, however, participating donors can benefit from their own publicity efforts in support of the project and through FishAmerica’s announcements. To obtain information on how to purchase and donate hats, contact John Bryan, 804.356.9552.

Primedia Gulf Fund Subscription Offer
Primedia is offering discounted subscription rates to In-Fisherman, Fly Fisherman, and Walleye In-Sider in support of the FishAmerica Gulf Fund. Half of each $10 subscription to these magazines will go to the fund. To order your subscription or for more information, visit www.fishamerica.org.

Gulf Fund Contributors
FishAmerica thanks the following companies and individuals for their cash or in-kind contributions to the Gulf Fund: G.Loomis; John Mazurkiewicz; TTI-Blakemore Fishing Group; Octagon; eBay; pro anglers Davy Hite, Mike Iaconelli, Kevin VanDam, and Takahiro Omori; Zebco/WC Bradley; The Game and Mailing Services Inc.; Primedia and ASA staff.

$800,000 Available for Habitat Restoration
Up to $800,000 for local, on-the-ground sportfish habitat restoration projects is available through FishAmerica’s partnership with the NOAA Restoration Center. Proposals are due January 27, 2005. Successful proposals will restore habitat important to marine and anadromous fish species (salmon and striped bass) along coastal America and the Great Lakes. Grants up to $50,000 will be awarded on June 30after approval by FishAmerica’s Conservation Committee. The partnership, in its eighth year, has awarded more than $3.5 million for community projects to restore sportfish habitat in 25 states.

FLW Outdoors Renews Conservation Partnership
FLW Outdoors is once again partnering with the FishAmerica Foundation to enhance fisheries at each of the seven tournament sites along the 2006 Wal-Mart FLW Tournament Trail. FLW will donate $5,000 to FishAmerica at each of the seven stops. FishAmerica will also team up again with BP Castrol on the “It’s My World” wristbands—available for donations of $1 or more at the tournament Family Fun Zones and www.fishamerica.org. The wristband promotion, recently featured on boxes of Kellogg’s Corn Flakes sold in Wal-Mart Stores, has raised an additional $7,200 for FishAmerica efforts. Since 2000, FLW has donated $285,000 (including the 2006 pledge) resulting in more than $2 million in local projects.

FishAmerica Contributors
Since October 1, 24 members of the American Sportfishing Association have donated more than $17,500 through direct donations, FishAmerica Gulf Fund donations, licensed-product sales, tournament partnerships and endowment donations. These members include: American Rod & Gun; Angler's Choice by Suncoast; Calderone & Associates; Carrera-Werner Sales Company; E-Tackle, Inc.; Ferguson-Keller & Associates, Inc.; Fishing and Hunting News; Frank and Fran's Fisherman's Friend; G.Loomis; KFM & Associates; Kreha Corporation of America; Lamiglas, Inc.; Lipper Tools, Inc.; Ludwikoski and Associates, Inc. ; Magic Products, Inc.; NETGRA; Pacific Products; Pro Line Manufacturing; Reel E Good Products, Inc. ; Sportco Marketing, Inc.; Tormenter Fishing Products; TTI-Blakemore Fishing Group; Yakima Bait Company; and Zebco/WC Bradley. Names in bold are new since the November 2005 update.

Message from ASA President and CEO Mike Nussman
Here we are, just days away from the beginning of 2006. It’s been four years since I became president of the American Sportfishing Association and the association has accomplished a lot in those four years. Attendance at ICAST, National Fishing and Boating Week and the Sportfishing Summit are up as we develop new and innovative ways to meet the needs of our membership. Our Government Affairs program, our consumer shows and our foundations, FishAmerica Foundation and the Future Fisherman Foundation, are vital components of the association that help ensure a healthy business environment for our industry.

Looking ahead, what gives me the most confidence is that there's a terrific group of 20 talented people here at ASA who make service to our membership a fundamental way of doing business every day. They make things happen because of persistence, creativity and genuine dedication to our members. However, over the past four years, you, our members, have become more engaged in the work of the association and it’s your involvement that makes all the difference in our success. My thanks go to the Board of Directors, our committee members and our partners in the sportfishing community for your support and dedication to the association.

ASA’s partnership with the Fred Hall Fishing Tackle and Boat Shows attract hundreds of thousands of avid California anglers. Bart Hall likes to say these events are like "sports shows on steroids." They provide ASA with a vital revenue stream we use to boost our efforts to protect your interests and help your business succeed. That's why we all have a stake in their success. But the shows don't just give us a good source of funds. We believe that partnering with consumer shows is an important way to support the sportfishing industry and provide a way for anglers, boaters and outdoor enthusiasts to support the vital work of the association.

It seems that all good things policy-wise come with an enormous investment of patience and perseverance. This month, the Senate Commerce Committee approved a revised bill reauthorizing the Magnuson-Stevens Fisheries Conservation and Management Act. Most of ASA's top priorities—guidelines for no-fishing areas, consideration of economic data from all sectors, improving the Scientific and Statistical Committee, setting up an angler registration system, improved data collection, provisions for rationalizing commercial fleets and bycatch provisions—were included in revisions to the bill. We will continue to work with key members of the Senate and their staff as the bill moves to consideration by the full Senate.

Finally, and I can’t place enough emphasis on this, if we’re going to grow our sport, we all need to get behind the “Take Me Fishing” campaign. Join with me in making it a New Year’s resolution to take at least one new person out on the water in 2006. Sharing our passion for our sport is one of the most important ways we can all make a difference in angling participation.

On behalf of the ASA staff, I want to wish you and your families a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year.

November 2005 American Sportfishing Association Member Update

Member Updates are periodic information sources for members of the American Sportfishing Association and partners on issues of interest to the future of fishing. For more information, contact ASA Communications, 703.519.9691.

This is a partial list of the topics covered in this update. Please scroll down for the complete document. ASA Member Updates are available in the ASA Newsroom.

Federal Manufacturers’ Excise Tax Update

October/November Issue of American Sportfishing Available

New Data and Stats Service for ASA Members

ICAST 2006—Hooked on Innovation

2006 Sportfishing Summit—Mark Your Calendars for Sunny San Diego

Welcome New Members!

ASA Membership Invoices Sent

ASA/Fred Hall Shows

Policy Watch—Government Affairs Update

Future Fisherman Foundation Updates

FishAmerica Foundation Updates

Message from ASA President and CEO Mike Nussman

 

Federal Manufacturers’ Excise Tax Update

The IRS is currently reviewing a document submitted by ASA outlining members’ comments and proposed scenarios regarding the IRS’s revised essential terms scenario document distributed during a November 1 meeting. The IRS had asked the sportfishing and archery industries to provide comments. The IRS will meet with ASA’s Excise Tax Committee and archery industry representatives on December 14 to discuss the comments on the essential terms scenario’s document. Once this document is finalized, it will be available to taxpayers and agents via the IRS Web site. The IRS has indicated it will be finalized in early 2006. The IRS’s draft document can be reviewed on the ASA Web site under the Government Affairs section, Federal Excise Tax Update. A detailed article about this issue is in the current edition of ASA’s newsletter. For more information, contact ASA President and CEO Mike Nussman, x233, or ASA VP Gordon Robertson, x237.

October/November Issue of American Sportfishing Available

The October/November issue of American Sportfishing was mailed out before the Thanksgiving holiday and is currently available on ASA’s Web site. Click here to view or download the current issue. For more information, contact Mary Jane Williamson, x227.

New Data and Stats Service for ASA Members

During the 2005 Sportfishing Summit, ASA announced a new service for association members. In partnership with SportscanINFO (SSI), ASA members will receive a 20 percent discount on SportscanINFO’s point-of-sale (POS) information services. This service, initiated by ASA’s Data and Statistics Committee, provides the sportfishing industry with better access to comprehensive POS data from many of the major tackle and general sports retailers in the United States. For more information on SSI’s services, contact Rob Southwick, Southwick Associates and point of contact for ASA’s Data and Statistics Committee, 904.277.9765, or Barry Gauthier, SportscanINFO, 561.615.0240.

ICAST 2006—Hooked On Innovation

As of November 23, 250 exhibitors have reserved 1,095 booths for ICAST 2006, scheduled for July 19-21 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. This means that 89 percent of the planned floor space is reserved; an increase of more than 170 booths during the same time in 2005. With nearly 90 percent of the floor already reserved, ICAST 2006 is on track for another record breaking year. The New Product Showcase, the show’s flagship feature, is expected to garner even more attention in 2006 as competition for the "Best of Show" awards intensifies. In 2006, ICAST will, once again, coincide with the National Marine Manufacturers Association’s Marine After Market and Accessories Trade Show (MAATS). ICAST 2007 is scheduled for July 11-13 in Las Vegas. For more information, contact ICAST Director Maria del Valle, x240.

2006 Sportfishing Summit—Mark Your Calendars for Sunny San Diego

ASA invites its members and partners to join us for the 2006 Sportfishing Summit scheduled for October 18–20 at the Paradise Point Resort and Spa in San Diego, Calif. ASA’s staff and Board of Directors met immediately after the 2005 Summit to jump-start the planning process for 2006. ASA plans to have a program in place and information distributed before ICAST 2006. For more information, contact Mary Jane Williamson, x227.

Welcome New Members!

ASA welcomes these new members or members who reinstated their membership in October: Black Magic Tackle, Ltd.; IDEA America, LLC; Krexim International, Inc.; Lael Enterprises, LLC; New York State Department of Environmental Conservation; Professional Outdoor Media Association; Tackle Specialties, Inc.; Tarpon Anglers Club, LLC; Tech Tackle; and Trust for Public Lands.

ASA Membership Invoices Sent

Membership dues invoices for 2006 were mailed in early November. If you did not receive your invoice or have any questions, contact Membership Director Ric Ice, x234 or Membership Assistant Ann Sweeney, x241.

ASA/Fred Hall Shows

The West's most popular sportfishing consumer shows, the ASA/Fred Hall Fishing Tackle and Boat Shows, are just around the corner. The season kicks off January 4-8 at the Cow Palace in San Francisco, Calif., and the excitement continues March 1-5 at the Long Beach Convention Center in Long Beach, Calif., and caps off with the final show of the year March 15-19 in San Diego, Calif., at the Del Mar Fairgrounds. As co-owner of these shows, ASA benefits from show revenues that support advocacy and member services. For more information, contact Bart Hall, 805.389.3339.

Policy Watch—Government Affairs Update

For more information on ASA Government Affairs activities, contact Gordon Robertson, VP and Government Affairs lead, x237 or Carol Forthman, director, Ocean Resource Policy, x244.

Robertson Testifies Before Congress on Invasive Asian Carp

On November 3, Gordon Robertson provided testimony before the House Fisheries and Oceans Subcommittee on the problems with Asian Carp in the Great Lakes and Upper Mississippi River system. Robertson described the sportfishing community’s concerns stemming from these invasive species. Also testifying were Congressman Mark Green (R-WI) and representatives from the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, International Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, Great Lakes Fishery Commission, Wisconsin Commercial Fisheries Association and Catfish Farmers of America. Click here to view Robertson’s testimony.

FishNet Holds Reception for New USFWS Director

On November 7, FishNet held a reception at ASA to welcome Dale Hall, the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service’s incoming director. Hall comes to Washington from his former post as the USFWS’s Southwest Regional Director. Members used the opportunity to meet and describe the interests of FishNet as a whole as well as their own individual groups.

ASA Meets With Senator Crapo to Discuss Farm Bill

On November 17, ASA led a delegation comprised of BASS/ESPN, the International Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies and Trout Unlimited to a meeting with Senator Mike Crapo (R-ID) and members of his staff to review fisheries priorities in the 2007 Farm Bill. Items discussed included the possible creation of a new Farm Bill program and modifications to existing programs that would make them more conducive to fisheries projects. ASA will work with Crapo and other members of Congress to help ensure that fisheries are represented in the next version of the bill.

ASA President and CEO Appointed to SFBP Council

In November, Mike Nussman was appointed by the Secretary of the Interior to the Sport Fishing and Boating Partnership Council, the leading federal advisory committee on two of American’s most popular outdoor pursuits. The Council includes 16 members who serve two-year terms (as well as two ex officio members), making recommendations to the Department of the Interior through the Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Gordon Robertson, who represented ASA during the November meeting of the Council in San Diego, Calif., was appointed alternate.

Robertson Attends NASC’s Annual Meeting

On November 22, Gordon Robertson attended the 2nd Annual Sportsmen-Legislator Summit, “Promoting a Pro-Sportsmen’s Agenda,” which serves as the National Assembly of Sportsmen’s Caucus annual meeting. Members met to formulate a unified front in protecting the interests of sportsmen in state government. Robertson met with legislators from 23 states. ASA also hosted a lunch to discuss several sportfishing and angler access issues with state legislative leaders.

Cape Hatteras Access Issues

ASA recently gave testimony and submitted written comments on alternatives for a proposed interim plan for protected species at Cape Hatteras. The plan will address protection of certain species while the negotiated rulemaking on motorized vehicle access at the Cape proceeds. A new permanent superintendent has been appointed at Cape Hatteras National Seashore following two interim superintendents. ASA has met with the superintendent and will continue to work with the Park Service to ensure reasonable vehicle access for sportfishing.

Magnuson-Stevens Act Activity Continues

In October, the Senate Commerce Committee heard testimony on the proposed Magnuson-Stevens bill. It appears that the Committee is planning to take up the bill on December 13, although no official hearing has been scheduled. ASA has been working with Commerce Committee staff and will be meeting with staff and other Committee members prior to the hearing.

Katrina Follow-Up

The Senate Commerce Committee staff is planning a trip to the Gulf of Mexico in December to review the recovery efforts for the commercial fishery. ASA has worked with other groups to have recovery efforts include ways to reduce the previous overcapitalization of the fleet in the Gulf.

New Director for Coastal States Organization

The Coastal States Organization has appointed Katherine Andrews as new Executive Director. Andrews was previously the director for Florida's Coastal and Aquatic Managed Areas program as well as coordinator of the Gulf of Mexico Alliance. ASA has met with Andrews and is looking forward to greater coordination between the two organizations.

Future Fisherman Foundation Update

For more information on Future Fisherman activities contact Laura Jerome, x254 or Jesse Graytock, x224.

Executive Director Search

A screening committee is in place to review applicants for the Executive Director of the Future Fisherman Foundation. The committee intends to conduct interviews during the month of December. November 30 was the deadline for application submissions. For more information about the Executive Director position, contact Gordon Robertson, ASA VP, x237.

National Fishing and Boating Grants Initiative

The Future Fisherman Foundation is working with the Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation on a National Fishing and Boating Grants Initiative aimed at parks and recreation personnel. The initial workshop for grant recipients will be January 23-26, 2006, location to be determined. The workshop will focus on helping grant recipients acquire resources and training in spin fishing, fly fishing and fly tying, canoeing and kayaking. Up to 20 parks and recreation personnel are expected to participate. The foundation is creating the workshop manuals, lining up instructors and assisting with conducting the workshop.

2005 Future Fisherman Statistics

·                     1,145 confirmed new HOFNOD instructors in FY 2005.

·                     Approximately $103,166 in gross sales through the Tackle Box Equipment Service to not-for-profit organizations that promote fishing and/or boating.

·                     160,018 confirmed youth and adults involved with HOFNOD in FY 2005.

·                     10,237 of confirmed adults and youth involved with the National PE Fishing and Boating Grants Initiative during FY 2005.

FishAmerica Foundation Updates

For more information about FishAmerica activities, contact Johanna Laderman, x245 or Jeff Bloem, x247.

FishAmerica Makes Mark on Kellogg’s Corn Flakes Boxes

In partnership with FLW Outdoors, BP Lubricants USA, Kellogg’s and Wal-Mart, FishAmerica’s “It’s My World” wristbands have made their debut on the side panel of the Championship Edition of Kellogg’s Corn Flakes. The cereal box, featuring the Wal-Mart FLW Outdoors 2005 Land O’Lakes Angler of the Year, invites consumers to purchase wristbands to help FishAmerica maintain our nation’s fisheries and habitat. The boxes of Corn Flakes are available in Wal-Mart SuperCenters across the nation. The wristbands have raised more than $1,200 for the foundation. To get your wristband and support FishAmerica, visit www.fishamerica.org.

Gulf Fund Receives First Donations

On November 2, FishAmerica announced the establishment of the FishAmerica Gulf Fund to help restore the sport fisheries and fishing facilities in areas affected by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. The story was carried by the New York Post and several other publications. FishAmerica accepts cash, checks or credit card contributions. Please make checks payable to FishAmerica Gulf Fund and mail to FishAmerica, 225 Reinekers Lane, Suite 420, Alexandria, VA, 22314 or go online to www.fishamerica.org for information on credit card donations.

Grants Available for Habitat Restoration Projects

FishAmerica recently announced the availability of up to $800,000 for marine and anadromous fish habitat restoration projects through FishAmerica’s partnership with the NOAA Restoration Center. Proposals up to $50,000 are due January 27, 2006. Since 2000, FishAmerica has partnered with NOAA to fund more than 200 projects valued nearly $3.5 million. These projects have restored habitat in 24 states for sportfish including salmon, trout, striped bass, bluefish, snook, tarpon, redfish, black drum, sheepshead and flounder.

Grant Proposals Due for Chesapeake Bay Restoration Efforts

Proposals are due December 2 for community-based, fisheries habitat restoration efforts in the Chesapeake Bay watershed of Maryland. FishAmerica has teamed up with the Chesapeake Bay Trust to make up to $100,000 in funding available for 2006. Projects will restore fish and habitat, improve water quality and enhance fish stocks in this ecologically critical bay and its tributary rivers in Maryland. Since 2004, the partnership has funded eight projects, valued at over $148,300.

FishAmerica Contributors

Since the beginning of the new fiscal year (October 1), 9 members of the American Sportfishing Association have donated more than $14,600 through direct donations, donations to the FishAmerica Gulf Fund, licensed-product sales, tournament partnerships and endowment donations. These members include: Calderone & Associates; G.Loomis; Lipper Tools; Magic Products, Inc.; NETGRA; Pacific Products; Pro Line Manufacturing; Sportco Marketing; and the Yakima Bait Company. Names in bold are new since October 2005 update.

Message from ASA President and CEO Mike Nussman

From my perspective, for our members, there is no issue of greater importance to our industry than the manufacturer’s federal excise tax. The fair and equitable application of the excise tax law creates an equitable playing field in a highly competitive industry as well as provides essential funding for management of fisheries and boating access in this country.

In March, ASA’s Board of Directors made it a top priority to establish a dialog with the Internal Revenue Service and keep the communication lines open between the IRS and our members by establishing the Excise Tax Committee. As your trade association, it is mission critical to ensure that the federal excise tax is applied fairly and equitably across the board so that the tax does not influence competition.

On November 1, the IRS presented its revised essential terms scenario document to the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund Working Group and asked for comments from the sportfish and archery industries in anticipation of a December 14 meeting in Washington, D.C. We moved quickly to inform our members and I thank everyone who provided comment and new tax scenarios for the IRS’s review. The IRS’s document is available on our Web site. A more detailed update on this issue is in the latest edition of American Sportfishing, our association’s newsletter.

From the association’s standpoint there are three outcomes that must come from this review process: 1) fair and consistent application of the laws regarding the excise tax; 2) the IRS must take into consideration that its revised interpretation of essential terms has lead to companies being out of compliance and that these companies should not be penalized for the IRS’s inconsistent application of the law; and 3) the IRS is clear that the industry values maintaining the revenue integrity of the trust fund established by the 1950 Sport Fish Restoration Act.

However, having said all this, from all indications, it appears that the IRS intends to wrap up this process by the end of 2005 and move forward with new guidelines in early 2006. ASA, through its member leadership and your colleagues, represents your best interests in this debate and will continue to do so. As I said in my message in the October/November issue of American Sportfishing, our job as your trade association is to make a difference and we will continue to advocate for your best interests with the IRS.

If you have any questions about this process, please don’t hesitate to contact me, 703.519.9691, x233, or Gordon Robertson, x237.

October 2005 American Sportfishing Association Member Update

Member Updates are periodic information sources for members of the American Sportfishing Association and partners on issues of interest to the future of fishing. For more information, contact ASA Communications, 703.519.9691.

This is a partial list of the topics covered in this update. Please scroll down for the complete document. ASA Member Updates are available in the ASA Newsroom.

2005 Sportfishing Summit Overview

FishAmerica Announces Gulf Fund

Sportfishing Summit Attendees Have Their Say

ASA Board Approves Plans

ASA Thanks Summit Sponsors

2006 Sportfishing Summit—San Diego, CA

ICAST-ing in 2006

Welcome New Members!

ASA Membership Invoices Sent

Anglersurvey.com Launched in September

Policy Watch—Government Affairs Update

Future Fisherman Foundation Update

FishAmerica Foundation Updates

Message from ASA President and CEO Mike Nussman

2005 Sportfishing Summit—Bringing Industry Leaders Together
From Oct. 5-7, more than 125 sportfishing industry leaders representing 65 companies and organizations from the United States and Europe met in Key Largo to focus on issues surrounding angling participation, the federal manufacturers’ excise tax on sportfishing equipment and the future of the industry and beyond. Three representatives from this country’s most prominent consumer participation success stories—NASCAR, NMMA’s “Grow Boating” initiative, and the “Milk Moustache” campaign—shined the spotlight on their industry challenges. Ron Ten Berge, Pure Fishing, Inc., set the stage by providing an overview of current angling participation numbers. Summit attendees were also provided with an in-depth look at opportunities and challenges facing recreational angling from the wholesale, manufacturer, retail and marketing points of view. Federal and state officials also provided an overview on an array of topics including the excise tax, the management and administration of the dollars generated by the tax and state and federal fisheries management programs. Look for a full reporting on special speakers, sessions, and committee activities in the next issue of ASA’s newsletter due out next month. For more information, visit ASA’s Web site or contact Mary Jane Williamson, x227.

FishAmerica Announces Gulf Fund
During the Summit, FishAmerica Foundation announced its intent to help the Gulf Coast rebuild its sportfish habitat and facilities with the establishment of the Gulf Fund. The foundation will work with state and federal natural resource agencies to identify and prioritize projects. Recreational fishing and boating are significant contributors to the economy of this area and it’s only appropriate that the sportfishing community play a role in helping rebuild it. FishAmerica accepts cash, checks or credit card contributions. Please make checks payable to FishAmerica Gulf Fund and mail to FishAmerica, 225 Reinekers Lane, Suite 420, Alexandria, VA, 22314 or go online to www.fishamerica.org for information on credit card donations. For more information, contact Foundation Managing Director Johanna Laderman, x245.

Sportfishing Summit Attendees Have Their Say
According to the results, 100 percent of the survey respondents rated the 2005 Sportfishing Summit as good or excellent. The Thursday morning signature session, “Challenges Facing Angling Participation,” received high marks by the attendees. Respondents indicated that they would like to hear more about how other organizations deal with increasing consumer participation as well as increasing industry participation at future Summits. If you attended the Summit, but did not complete an evaluation, please fill out the Evaluation Form and fax it to 703.519.1872. We would like to hear your thoughts. If you would like more information, contact Brad Fisher, x222, or Ann Sweeney, x241.

ASA Board of Directors Approves Plans
During its October 6 meeting, ASA’s Board of Directors unanimously approved plans to develop a new comprehensive sponsorship program through a Chicago-based firm experienced working with associations. The Board also approved a plan to raise the profile and effectiveness of the association’s federal political action committee (PAC). In addition, the Board also moved to dedicate more resources to strengthening and streamlining the Data and Statistics program. The Board, along with the association’s committees, met during the 2005 Sportfishing Summit. For more information, contact Gordon Robertson, x237.

ASA Thanks Our 2005 Summit Sponsors
ASA would especially like to thank its sponsors—Shimano American Corporation, Fishing Tackle Retailer/ESPN Outdoors, the Trust for Public Land, the National Assembly of Sportsmen’s Caucuses, the Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation, BASS/ESPN Outdoors, Pure Fishing, Inc., SportScanINFO and Florida Fishing Weekly—for helping make this year’s membership meeting a great success.

2006 Sportfishing Summit—Make Your Calendars for Sunny San Diego
ASA invites its members and partners to join us for the 2006 Sportfishing Summit scheduled for October 18-20 at the Paradise Point Resort and Spa in San Diego, Calif. ASA’s staff and Board of Directors met immediately after the 2005 Summit to jump-start the planning process for 2006. ASA plans to have a program in place before and information distributed before ICAST 2006. For more information, contact Mary Jane Williamson, x227.

ICAST-ing in 2006
As of September 29, 2005 exhibitors have reserved 1,016 booths for ICAST 2006, scheduled for July 19-21 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. This means that 83 percent of the planned floor space is reserved; an increase of more than 150 booths during the same time in 2005. With more than 80 percent of the floor already reserved, ICAST 2006 is on track for another record breaking year. The New Product Showcase, the show’s flagship feature, is expected to garner even more attention in 2006 as competition for the “Best Of Show” awards intensifies. In 2006, ICAST will, once again, coincide with the National Marine Manufacturers Association’s Marine After Market and Accessories Trade Show (MAATS). ICAST 2007 is scheduled for July 11-13 in Las Vegas. For more information, contact ICAST Director Maria Del Valle, 703.519.9691 x240.

Welcome New Members!
ASA welcome these new members or members who reinstated their membership in September: Adamsww, Inc.; Canyon Plastics; Coastside Fishing Club; George L. Mc Nichol Company, Ltd.; Green Top Sporting Goods Corporation; Hi Way Innovation International Company Limited; and Polaris Flies.

ASA Membership Invoices Sent
Membership dues invoices for 2006 are being mailed this week with a due date of November 15, 2005 for full dues or for a first installment. If you have any questions, contact Membership Director Ric Ice, 703.519.9691 x234, or Membership Assistant Ann Sweeney, x241.

Anglersurvey.com Launched in September
www.anglersurvey.com, a new online survey, will help the sportfishing industry better serve its customers. AnglerSurvey.com, developed by Southwick Associates, Inc. will survey a panel of several thousand U.S. anglers each month about their angling activities and purchases. This information will be used to develop new products and better services to enhance the angling experience. Anglers need to register only once, with the typical survey taking about two minutes to complete. Anglers will be asked about their angling activities in the past month, species pursued, products purchased, opportunities desired and more. For more information, contact Southwick Associates, 904.277.9765.

Policy Watch—Government Affairs Update
For more information on ASA Government Affairs activities, contact Gordon Robertson, VP and Government Affairs lead, x237 or Carol Forthman, director, Ocean Resource Policy, x244.

Endangered Species Act
In October; the House of Representatives passed its proposed revisions to the Endangered Species Act. No action has been taken in the Senate. ASA is tracking the bill and will participate in any Senate activity although Senate staff told ASA that it is unlikely that the Senate will take any action in 2005.

Cape Hatteras National Seashore Access Meeting
In October, ASA arranged a meeting between Fran Mainella, Director of the National Park Service, the association and local interest groups concerning access to Cape Hatteras National Seashore for anglers using motorized vehicles. Director Mainella expressed the importance of maintaining access, and assured those present that their concerns would be addressed. The group also met with a number of Members of Congress from North Carolina who pledged their support.

Magnuson-Stevens Act Activity Continues
ASA is continuing to monitor the progress on the Magnuson-Stevens Act reauthorization. The Senate is yet to release a second draft of its version of the bill. The bill's progress has been delayed due to hurricane damage-related issues in the Gulf of Mexico.

Smithsonian Ocean Hall Planned
The Smithsonian Institution’s Museum of Natural History is planning on establishing an Ocean Hall as a new exhibit. ASA submitted comments on the project in October. ASA’s comments emphasized the need for a focus on recreational uses of the ocean, especially sportfishing, as part of our cultural heritage.

National Fish Habitat Plan Receives Funding
At the urging of ASA and other fishery conservation groups, the National Fish Habitat Plan received a $1 million Congressional appropriation. At least 80 percent of these funds will be used in “on the ground” habitat restoration projects. The purpose of the plan is to stop fish habitat loss and provide funding for a coordinated approach to fish habitat projects nationwide. ASA continues to play a major role in the development of the plan. The plan is expected to be completed by April 2006.

New Director of USFWS Confirmed by the U.S. Senate
Dale Hall, a fishery professional, has been confirmed as the new Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. In November, ASA will host a reception for Mr. Hall to acquaint him with the Washington, D.C. fishery conservation community.

Open Rivers Initiative
In October, ASA and staff of the new Open Rivers Initiative (ORI) met with NOAA regarding the dam removal program. Project money is expected to be available in the 2007 budget year which begins October 1, 2006. The initiative is for river systems with documented anadromous fish populations. Most of the funding will go to dam removal projects with design and engineering plans already in place, allowing for quick demonstration of results. ASA will continue to monitor the development of ORI with an expectation that it will become a viable option for fisheries restoration.

Farm Bill Update
The Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry recently held a markup for the budget reconciliation process in which 2002 Farm Bill conservation programs were recommended for reduction by approximately $1 billion, out of a total $3 billion cut for the entire Farm Bill. Programs affected were the Conservation Reserve Program, the Conservation Security Program and the Environmental Quality Incentives Program. ASA signed a letter, along with other conservation groups, urging Committee Chairman Saxby Chambliss (R-GA) to consider making cuts more equitable across the board for all programs. ASA will continue to support funding for conservation programs as the budget reconciliation process makes its way through Congress.

Future Fisherman Foundation Update
In September, Anne Glick, resigned as Executive Director of the Future Fisherman Foundation. Laura Jerome is now the acting Executive Director. Requests for information about the foundation should be directed to Laura Jerome, x254. Requests for information about the PE Grants program go to Jesse Graytock, x224. For information about the Executive Director position, contact Gordon Robertson, ASA VP, x237 or go to ASA's Web site.

FishAmerica Foundation Updates
For more information about FishAmerica activities, contact Managing Director Johanna Laderman, x245 or Grants Administrator Jeff Bloem, x247.

Annual FishAmerica Foundation Joint Committee
The FishAmerica Foundation held its annual Joint Committee Meeting during the Sportfishing Summit in Key Largo, FL. More than 13 organizations and state agencies were represented at the meeting.

FishAmerica Attends Conservation Resource Alliance Meeting
FishAmerica Foundation staff attended the Conservation Resource Alliance annual business meeting in Traverse City, MI. The Conservation Resource Alliance received a FishAmerica grant to restore fish passage in the Great Lakes watershed. This project was the first of two projects in the Great Lakes funded through FishAmerica’s partnership with the NOAA Restoration Center.

Planning for National Restoration Conference
FishAmerica Foundation participated in the planning sessions for the third National Conference on Coastal and Estuarine Habitat Restoration. The Conference is scheduled to be held in New Orleans in December 2006. FishAmerica was a sponsor of the second conference in Seattle, Washington in September 2004.

FishAmerica Contributors
Since the beginning of the new fiscal year (October 1), Pacific Products, Pro Line Manufacturing and NETGRA have donated more than $13,500 to the FishAmerica Foundation through a direct donation, FishAmerica-licensed products sales and an endowment donation.

FY 2005 FishAmerica Contributors
A special thanks to the 47 members of the American Sportfishing Association who donated more than $168,000 in Fiscal Year 2005 (ended Sept. 30) through direct donations, licensed-product sales, tournament partnerships and endowment donations. These members include: American Rod & Gun; Angler's Choice/Suncoast of America, LLC; Aqua-Scent; Arkansas Game & Fish Commission; Boone Bait; Captain Hook Enterprises, LLC; Castaic Soft Bait, Inc.; Catalyst Marketing; Creek Company; Do-It Corporation; Emmrod Fishing Gear; FisherGirl; FLW Outdoors; Folbe Products, LLC; Frank & Fran's Fisherman's Friend, Inc.; G. Pucci and Sons; Gudebrod, Inc.; HMT Marketing, Inc.; JBS Fishing Line; Kanji International Inc.; Kreha Corporation of America; Lamiglas, Inc.; Lil' Hustler; Lipper Tools, Inc.; Lucky Craft, Inc.; Ludwikoski and Associates, Inc.; M&M Tasmanian Devil; Matzuo America; Mercury Marine; Nanco; NETGRA; Nicholas-Shea; O. Mustad & Son (USA) Inc.; Outdoor Cap ; Outdoor Pro Shop; Persuader American Angling ; Pro Line Manufacturing; Reel E Good Products; Shimano American Corporation; Sphere Group Inc./Pro Baiter; Sportco Marketing, Inc.; Team Nu-Mark; The Redfish Nation; Thomas Spinning Lures, Inc.; Water Gremlin Company; Wright and McGill Company; and the Yakima Bait Company.

Message from ASA President and CEO Mike Nussman
Over the past several months, I can’t tell you how many people I’ve spoken with who’ve said how important it is to “make a difference.”  From assisting with the rebuilding of the Gulf Coast sportfish habitat and facilities to engaging more people in angling to working with the association on key issues affecting the sportfishing industry; it’s truly rewarding to know that we all want to make a difference together.

I know I’ve said it here several times over the past several months, but the devastation that Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, and now Wilma, has wreaked on the people of the Gulf Coast and Florida is almost too much to comprehend. As I’ve said, there is no doubt that it’s going to take many years for the Gulf Coast region to return to normal and ASA and the sportfishing community are going to play a role in helping that happen through the FishAmerica Foundation’s Gulf Fund. During its recent meeting, the ASA Board endorsed the establishment of this fund as a long-term investment in the recovery of the area. The foundation will work with state and federal natural resource agencies and local community groups to identify and prioritize projects. Recreational fishing and boating are significant contributors to the economy of this area and this is your opportunity to help make a difference.

The 2005 Sportfishing Summit is another prime example of how we work together to make a difference for the sportfishing industry. The success of our recent Summit reinforced to me how much we as an industry continue to evolve and how valuable the Summit is in providing a forum for our members to meet and discuss issues that cut across all sectors of our industry. We, as ASA staff, can provide a good venue, line up relevant speakers and seminars, and handle all the logistics to make things run, but everyone who came ready to contribute made the event a success, and I want to thank you for that. At times like these, I really think we've got what it takes to make a difference for the future of our industry and the future of our sport.

As for making a difference, I want to thank our Summit sponsors—Shimano American Corporation, Fishing Tackle Retailer/ESPN Outdoors, the Trust for Public Land, the National Assembly of Sportsmen’s Caucuses, the Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation, BASS/ESPN Outdoors, Pure Fishing, Inc., SportScanINFO and Florida Fishing Weekly—for their support and for helping make the Summit a success.

In the next couple of months, you’re going to hear about a new direction that the Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation is taking to further engage the sportfishing industry in the Take Me Fishing campaign. The foundation, with ASA support, will ask our industry leaders to focus on two things: growing school-based fishing and boating education programs and taking the passion that avid anglers have for the sport and actively sharing that with others. I believe this “one voice” approach is the way to truly engage the sportfishing industry in making a difference in angling participation.

I’m going to step away from my theme for a moment and update you on the status of the federal manufacturers’ excise tax. The IRS has told us that they, finally, will have a guidance document for our review in early November. Gordon Robertson continues to be our lead in this effort and we will provide you with information as soon as possible.

If ever there was a time to get involved in the work of the American Sportfishing Association, now is it. We’re here to make a difference by helping ensure the future of our industry and your livelihood, but we can’t do it without your help and involvement. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me or Gordon Robertson.

August 2005 American Sportfishing Association Member Update

Member Updates are periodic information sources for members of the American Sportfishing Association and partners on issues of interest to the future of fishing. For more information, contact ASA Communications, 703.519.9691.

This is a partial list of the topics covered in this update. Please scroll down for the complete document. ASA Member Updates are available in the ASA Newsroom.

2005 Sportfishing Summit Details

ICAST 2005 Highlights on the Web

Planning for ICAST 2006

Welcome New Members!

Policy Watch—Government Affairs Update

Future Fisherman Foundation Update

FishAmerica Foundation Update

Message from ASA President and CEO Mike Nussman

2005 Sportfishing Summit, October 5–7, Key Largo, FL
The Sportfishing Summit is one of ASA’s premiere member services providing an unparalleled opportunity for members to network and have an impact on the future of fishing. Registration materials for this year’s Sportfishing Summit, scheduled for October 5–7, 2005, at the Ocean Reef Club, Key Largo, Florida, were mailed in mid-August and are available on ASA’s Web site. ASA has developed a full agenda that will focus on angling participation, the manufacturers’ excise tax, and the future of saltwater fishing. The two Thursday morning business seminars will focus on the business culture of China and the efforts ASA is making to expand its data and statistics program to provide more information for ASA members. ASA’s committees and the Board of Directors will meet on Wednesday, October 5, with all ASA members and Summit attendees welcome to attend. As usual, the agenda has ample time for social gatherings, fishing and golf and other networking opportunities. For more information, visit ASA’s Web site or contact Mary Jane Williamson, x227.

Summit Housing Reservations – Deadline September 7
Please note that in order to receive the special ASA Summit group rate, reservations must be made by September 7. You may fax your housing form directly to the Club at 305.367.5948 or call them directly at 800.741.7333 to make reservations.

ASA Committees and Board to Meet at Summit
Much of the work of the association is accomplished with the guidance of ASA’s members through its ten committees and the Board of Directors. ASA’s committees are scheduled to meet throughout the day on Wednesday, October 5, with the Board meeting on Thursday morning, Oct. 6. The complete