The Outdoor Wire

OSCF Board Members to Attend 2026 ICAST

Outdoor Stewards of Conservation Foundation (OSCF) is proud to announce key members of its leadership team will be in attendance at the International Convention of Allied Sportfishing Trades (ICAST) Show in Orlando, July 14-17, 2026.

ICAST, the world's largest sportfishing trade show, features premier brands from across the outdoor industry.

OSCF's Executive Director Jim Curcuruto and Board Vice-Chair Tim Brandt will be at the show meeting with fishing industry professionals to discuss current market conditions and key insights gained from new OSCF research focused on growing participation in fishing.

"Conducting research and implementing findings are a primary focus at Outdoor Stewards," noted Brandt. "As we hear about lower participation in fishing, it is more important than ever to use research-proven methods that will help introduce the next generation to the joys of fishing."

This summer, OSCF is partnering with organizations such as Fishbrain to conduct a comprehensive nationwide research study that will provide valuable insights into four key fishing segments: fly fishing, surf fishing, ice fishing and charter boat fishing.

"With very little current data available on these fishing segments, we saw an important opportunity to provide the fishing industry with insights that can be used to help increase overall participation in all types of fishing," stated Curcuruto.

In addition to the current research project, OSCF has a variety of data available, at no charge, to help the fishing industry better understand fishing consumers' participation, perceptions and needs.

1) Increasing Volunteers to Help Grow Fishing Participation

2) Creating Avid Anglers with Youth Fishing Programs

3) Native Americans' Participation In, and Perceptions of, Fishing

Additional research from OSCF can be found here. If you would like to schedule a meeting with OSCF representatives during ICAST, reach out to Tim Brandt or Jim Curcuruto.

About OSCF: Outdoor Stewards of Conservation Foundation (OSCF) is a 501c3 nonprofit organization that works with all facets of the outdoor industry to improve cultural acceptance of gun ownership, hunting, fishing, trapping, and target shooting. We use research-based communications and engagement programs that help recruit the next generation of HATS (Hunters, Anglers, Trappers, and Shooters) and promote the positive contributions HATS make to society. To learn more about OSCF programs; "Fill A Bag While Filling Your Tag," "Come With!," "Connecting with Conservation," "Donate A Deer" and the "Outdoor Industry Communication Council," please visit www.OutdoorStewards.org, follow @OutdoorStewards on Instagram or contact Jim Curcuruto at (203) 450-7202, jim@stewardsofconservation.org. Keep up with the latest from OSCF on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube.