John Crews of Missile Baits has been attending ICAST since 2000 when he became a professional bass fisherman. To be a legitimate company in the fishing industry, you must be a member of ASA, Crews said. Many companies don’t realize the member benefits outside of the ICAST trade show.  

ASA works with members of U.S. congress to advocate for the best interests of the sportfishing community.  

“If that doesn’t happen, tackle sales will go down because we’re not going to have as much access and we’re going to have dirty waters,” Crews said.