ABOUT US
Our Mandate
The C.S.I.A. is Canada's fishing tackle industry association. Its mandate is to work to ensure the stability of the $6.7 Billion recreational fishing industry. Obviously, this cannot be achieved without healthy and sustainable fish populations in all areas of the country. As a consequence, the CSIA is actively involved in advocating sound fisheries management principles that address the root problems contributing to the decline of fish populations. While fishing opportunities are vital to the health of the industry, the CSIA recognizes the need for balance.
Members of the association include a network of retailer operations such as Canadian Tire and large and small independent retailers from coast to coast. The remainder of the membership is made up of distributors, and manufacturers such as Zebco, Shimano, Pure Fishing and Normark, as well as the largest outdoor media operations in Canada.
The CSIA enjoys network support from major organizations such as BC's Sport Fishing Institute and most outdoor conservation groups as well as the hunting industry in Ontario. Cooperation from these organizations enables the CSIA to deliver programs and messages that support strong national fisheries conservation principles.
Through its sister organization, the Canadian National Sportfishing Foundation (CNSF), recreational fishing and fisheries conservation and education projects are funded. National Fishing Week is a property of the CNSF and has become Canada's largest fishing promotion, combining the strengths of industry, government, media and major outdoor volunteer organizations.
Promoting Recreational Fishing
Fishing has been an integral part of Canadian family life for centuries. In recent years activities such as television, computers and electronic games have lured youngsters indoors. Many traditional sports, including fishing, have been abandoned by growing numbers of Canadians of all ages. The CSIA, through its sister organization, the Canadian National Sportsfishing Foundation, has embarked on an aggressive program to promote fishing as an inexpensive, easily accessible, heritage activity that fosters strong family and social relationships. The flagship program, National Fishing Week , is a coast-to-coast awareness program supported by over 1000 fishing related businesses as well as all provincial and territorial governments and Fisheries and Oceans Canada.
Government Advocacy
Revenues from the sale of fishing licenses provide the lion's share of the dollars required to manage fish populations in all provinces and territories in Canada. The CSIA works with fisheries managers and politicians to help guarantee that appropriate levels of funding are allocated to maintaining sport fish populations. Where adequate fish populations exist, the CSIA works hard to ensure that Canadians have reasonable access to fish for their favorite species.
Networking
The CSIA is not alone in its efforts to get Canadians fishing. The Association cooperates with a wide variety of fishing and other outdoor organizations as well as many government agencies to encourage existing anglers to introduce their family and friends to this magnificent pastime. It is common for the CSIA to openly support policies and efforts of such organizations as The Sport Fishing Institute of B.C., The Network of Canadian Wildlife Federation Affiliates, such as The Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters and the B.C. Wildlife Federation. In addition, the CSIA cooperates with such distinguished organizations as Ducks Unlimited, Trout Unlimited, The Atlantic Salmon Federation, and many others. The resulting strength of these combined forces goes a long way to ensuring that Canada's outdoor heritage remains healthy.
