All set for AFTA

The Australian fishing tackle industry is set to converge on Queensland’s Gold Coast in August for the 2024 AFTA Tackle Show.

The event, managed by the Australian Fishing Trade Association, will run from August 15-17 at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre.

This year, a record number of exhibitors will be on show, representing all aspects of Australia’s recreational fishing industry.

In 2019, a public day was introduced to the show’s program.

 

The event now consists of two trade-only days featuring business-to-business trade and one public day, where the general public is invited to see what’ll be hitting the shelves of their local tackle stores in following months.

AFTA president Michael Starkey said, “It is great having a mix of trade and public at this event.”

“It’s especially encouraging for the industry to see firsthand the enthusiasm and passion the next generation of anglers have for our sport.

“Sometimes, as wholesalers, we can be a little removed from dealing with the public, so this is a fantastic opportunity to engage with our end users.

 

“It’s always really interesting to see which new products get anglers most excited and to receive feedback and hear the stories of fishing adventures from existing products on the market,” Mr Starkey said.

Thanks to the support of the Queensland Government, the public day of the show will again be free of charge to visitors – register for free tickets through the AFTA website – afta.net.au/public-day

Many high-profile fishing social media influencers and TV stars will attend the AFTA Tackle Show on the public day.

Exhibitors are also making special plans for the public, with plenty of product demonstrations, competitions and giveaways throughout the event.

 

‘Best in Show’ voting will be open on Saturday August 17 for the People’s Choice Awards.

Visitors will be able to cast their votes across 20 categories, ranging from ‘Best Rod’ to ‘Best Sunglasses’ at the show.

For full event details and to enquire about attending, visit afta.net.au and follow the menu links.