The inaugural UK Angling Summit, scheduled for November 19th in Birmingham, is promising to bring together the entire industry, with something for everyone – manufacturers, brands, distributors, retailers, fisheries and angling providers.
It is an unprecedented opportunity for the whole tackle trade to come together, discuss issues and swap ideas, learn about the latest industry data and unpack how we can all encourage more participation and uncover more profitable opportunities as well as celebrating many of our success stories.
Organised by the Angling Trades Association, this free-to-attend event will take place at the Arden Hotel, Bickenhill, Birmingham and will include presentations and discussion panels on all aspects of the industry, networking, input to shape a key trade and angler survey plus the ever-popular Angling Times Awards.
The day will kick off with a welcome from the Angling Trades Association and an insight into future plans and benefits of membership. There will be an opportunity to connect with key fishing stakeholders like the Canal & River Trust, Environment Agency, European Fishing Tackle Trade Association and the Angling Trust, among others.
The EA will outline its licensing and fisheries investment structure and reveal the latest trends in participation, before panel discussions and Q&As on the retail landscape and the challenges to fisheries and the potential business opportunities.
During an extended networking lunch, the Angling Times will unveil its annual award winners in a string of categories while a guest speaker from outside angling will present some ideas to take our trade forward and grow the sport.
ATA chairman Andrew Race explained: “This summit is a massive opportunity for our industry, and not just for networking. Our aim is to provide attendees with a full and comprehensive breakdown of their industry and UK recreational angling.
“Armed with that knowledge, they will then have the opportunity to share their experiences and voice their opinions and concerns about the pressures faced by their businesses and angling itself – something that hasn’t happened since before Covid – open discussion of our industry and how we can collectively support and increase both our business opportunities and angling participation.
“We are currently finalising a packed day of speakers, panel and audience discussions, data and analysis, challenges and potential solutions, covering everything from manufacturing to retail to fisheries.
“All the major stakeholders will be available to discuss their role in our sport, their latest projects and simply connect with the wider industry who may not be aware of their aims.
“The summit, which we plan to run each year, going forward, is open to everyone connected to tackle trade from coaches and guides to retailers and fisheries and the biggest brands.
“ATA represents the whole industry, all sectors both fresh and saltwater, and we look forward to seeing representation from across that spectrum.”
- To find out more and to book your free ticket, CLICK HERE or visit anglingtradesassociation.com/uk-angling-summit-2026-registration/