Imagine transforming a tiny 24-square-inch space into a $30,000 revenue powerhouse—without the fishing industry background, just pure grit and brilliant product innovation. Tim Mossberg, founder of Fish Monkey Gloves, shares the remarkable story of how he built a retail category that didn’t exist before, turning a side project into a global success with distribution in over 3,000 stores across 23 countries.

Tim’s journey is anything but conventional. From selling uniforms and apparel to the blue-water fishing adventures that ignited his passion, he’s mastered the art of spotting gaps and creating products that resonate with serious anglers and retailers alike. When Mojo Sportswear folded after a lucrative run, most would see an end—Tim saw a new beginning. He approached glove manufacturing with fresh eyes, leveraging industry relationships and a relentless focus on quality, resulting in a category-defining product line that includes innovative gloves, moisture-wicking socks, and high-performance gear designed specifically for the hunt and fish market.

In this episode, you'll discover the secrets behind revolutionary technologies like thermoconductive liners that keep your hands warm in the coldest conditions, and the genius design of gloves that can be easily customized on the fly with cut fingers—perfect for bowfishing or jigging. Tim breaks down how merchandising strategies like eye-catching fixtures and strategic placement turned gloves from an impulse buy into a revenue-generating staple, with some stores now pulling in $80,000 annually from this small footprint.

We also dive into the global expansion of Fish Monkey, revealing how US-made quality effortlessly appeals to international markets, from Sweden to Dubai to Japan. Plus, get an inside look at the upcoming release of waterproof socks and the groundbreaking Whitewater collaboration—products born from genuine passion, extensive R&D, and a sharp eye for what serious outdoorsmen need.

Perfect for retail owners, entrepreneurs, and anglers eager to elevate their gear game, this episode shows how innovation, branding, and strategic merchandising can turn a simple idea into a category-defining brand. If you’re ready to understand how to spot market gaps and create products that truly resonate, don’t miss Tim’s insights.

Visit Tim at iCAST Booth 3633 or explore dealer opportunities at dealers.fishmonkeygloves.com. Whether you’re building, expanding, or redefining your retail offerings, this episode will give you the tools to think bigger—and sell smarter.

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Most fishing innovators are still operating under assumptions, but one breakthrough at ICAST could change everything.

Angie Thompson sits down with Toby Lapinski, editor of Fishing Tackle Retaler and Bobby Thompson, editor of The Fishing Wire, to talk about trends shaping the industry— from AI-driven marketing to game-changing new gear — and share the secret sauce behind the year's most surprising innovations.

This episode unpacks what’s new in fishing technology: the unexpected rise of anti-backlash reels that tap into reel energy, the mysterious success of urchin-shaped baits, and the future of AI transforming how retailers connect with anglers.

You’ll discover how regional tactics like Sputniks reveal overlooked growth opportunities and why some innovations are quietly yet exponentially shifting the market.

If you’re curious about what’s next for the fishing industry and how to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving landscape, this episode is your front-row seat. We dive into what we are looking out for at ICAST, exploring the surprises that could dominate the show—and your business. Whether you're a retailer craving insider intel or an angler eager for the latest tech, this conversation will leave you inspired and informed.

Plus, we discuss how small businesses can leverage new technologies—like AI—to amplify their reach and outsmart the giants. With insights from longtime industry insiders and perspectives on regional trends, you'll learn what to watch out for and how to capitalize on the coming waves of innovation.

Perfect for anyone looking to capitalize on the latest in fishing tech, retail strategies, or industry insights, this episode arms you with the knowledge to make smarter moves—before the next big thing hits the water. Don’t miss out on the secrets that could shape your year ahead.

#FishingTackle #ICAST2026 #FishingBusiness

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I got a chance to talk to Trevor McKinney at the G Loomis media event at the Bassmaster Classic in Ft Worth on the night before the tournament started. Trevor won the 2021 Carhartt Bassmaster College Series in November of 2020 which qualified him for a berth in the 2021 Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic.

Trevor is sponsored by G Loomis and Shimano and other A+ brands such as Rapala.

McKinney talks with us about how his business relationship with Shimano began and how he also developed a relationship with Rapala as a college student.

As a college angler, the Bassmaster Classic can be overwhelming and Trevor talks about his mindset going into the biggest fishing tournament in the world and about how to work with the cameraman who might be in the boat with him.

He also talks about how to learn from mistakes and how to make sure the time is right before you make the jump to the highest level of professional fishing.

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