604 | The Policy Behind Your Catch: The American Sportfishing Association with Connor Bevan

Wet Fly Swing Fly Fishing Podcast

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/604

Presented By: Yellowstone Teton Territory, Skwala, TroutRoutes

Today's episode focuses on an important organization helping to generate billions of dollars to protect our fish species. Join me as I chat with Connor Bevan, the Inland Fisheries Policy Manager at the American Sportfishing Association.

Hear how partnerships on Capitol Hill shape the future of fish species preservation. Today you will also find out how you can lend your voice to this cause and ensure our fish populations will thrive for generations.

Plus, we'll also take a thrilling ride to ICAST—the world's largest sportfishing event this July in Florida!

Show Notes with Connor Bevan on American Sportfishing Association.

2:00 - Connor's fishing adventures began in Northern California with his dad. Connor also enjoys fly fishing on the Bow River in Calgary and the Delaware River on the East Coast.

The American Sport Fishing Association (ASA)

The ASA is the leading trade association for the recreational fishing industry. They advocate for healthy fisheries and science-based policies. Their efforts contribute to the US economy, with an annual impact of $148 billion.

8:00 - ASA deals with a wide range of issues, but one of their major focuses is reauthorizing the America's Conservation Enhancement Act (ACE Act).

10:30 - ASA is a link between the sportfishing community and Capitol Hill. They leverage the community's voice to ensure they have a nationwide appeal.

13:00 - Connor says that while there is a common understanding of the need for healthy fisheries, ASA acknowledges that Congress needs to balance various priorities.

It is important to educate decision-makers on the impact of what they do on water quality, fishing, and overall environmental health.

What You Can Do to Help

15:27 - Connor suggests several ways:

Get involved with Keep America Fishing. This is their advocacy platform for anglers to weigh in on different issues both on national and regional levels. Share any local issues or concerns with ASA. Connor says they are always interested in hearing what's going on at the local level. Become an active member of the community. What is the ICAST?

17:00 - The ICAST is the world's largest sportfishing industry trade show. It's where you can see all the latest products, innovations, and trends in the industry. This year's ICAST 2024 will be in Orlando, Florida from July 16th to July 19th.

19:13 - Connor says that fly fishing's presence at ICAST is growing. Last year they introduced a dedicated floor space for fly companies, and they saw a lot of interest.

26:37 - One of the American Sportfishing Association's big focuses over the last several years has been taking a more preventative look at aquatic invasive species.

The fishing and boating industry launched a Blue Ribbon Commission to improve preventive and management strategies for these invasive species.

28:18 - The MAPLand Act requires federal agencies to standardize and digitize maps they hold within the agencies. ASA supports the MapWaters Act to similarly direct federal agencies to digitize and standardize that mapping information.

A Day in the Life at Capitol Hill

35:18 - Connor says that every day is different for him. He spends a lot of time in meetings with legislative staff.

Travel is a big part of the job. Connor attends trade shows and conducts site visits. He also coordinates regularly with their members to discuss issues affecting their businesses.

36:54 - Excise taxes are fees imposed on the sale of fishing gear like rods, reels, and even marine fuel. These funds are then distributed to state agencies based on a specific formula.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/604