The sportfishing industry trade show ICAST, scheduled for July 14-17 in Orlando, FL, has been canceled due to the spread of the coronavirus, the organization announced.
Here is the letter from Glenn Hughes, president of the American Sportfishing Association, which produces the annual International Convention of Allied Sportfishing Trades:
“For more than 80 years, the American Sportfishing Association has created a legacy of working hard to ensure our industry’s future. Nowhere is this more evident than at ICAST, our industry’s trade show, where lasting friendships and business partnerships have been forged and fostered.
“However, given the ongoing stay-at-home orders and the desire to keep the health and safety of everyone in our recreational fishing family first in the decision-making process, ASA’s board of directors made the decision to cancel the physical ICAST Show that was scheduled for July 14-17, 2020, at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando.
“Two weeks ago, we asked for your patience as we strived to make the best business decisions we could on behalf of our exhibitors, members, staff and all our show attendees. Canceling this year’s show was the only decision that could be made when considering everyone’s well-being and the impact the pandemic is having on the sportfishing industry and our economy.
“Despite canceling our in-person show, we are committed to keeping all of us connected as a global community this July. As the largest sportfishing industry trade show in the world, we look forward to producing ICAST 2020 Online, our version of a “virtual trade show,” that will provide a wide variety of tools and a wealth of information that you’ve come to expect from us. We will share more with you very soon!
“We ask for a little more patience as we shift gears. Please allow us to reach out to each of our exhibitors to discuss their options, including a full refund if desired.
“There is no doubt that we are in unchartered waters, but we are confident that we will get through this together and stronger than ever! As we always have.
“From all of us at the ASA, please stay safe and stay healthy.”
Photo courtesy ICAST
