show report
SIPAC Becomes France's Anchor Coarse Fishing Show — A Consolidating European Market for Chinese Exporters
SIPAC Fills the Void in French Coarse Fishing Shows
The cancellation of the GIFAP and Clermont-Ferrand shows has left a large gap in the French fishing exhibition scene — and the organiser of SIPAC (the International Show of Coarse Fishing), France’s national freshwater fishing show, believes its event is well positioned to fill it.
Now entering its fourth year, SIPAC has established itself as the only trade show in France dedicated exclusively to coarse fishing techniques. The event takes place on November 7-8 in Amiens — widely described as France’s capital of coarse fishing — and is renowned both as a sales-driven event and as a showcase for the latest innovations in the category.
Record Expectations
Nicolas Béroud, Editor in Chief of Info Pêche, organiser of SIPAC, told Angling International that the show has become a cornerstone for the industry since its inception in 2018. Organisers anticipate a landmark edition this year, with expectations for paid admissions to exceed 10,000 — a clear indicator of its growing influence.
The show has seen impressive exhibitor growth, with 72 registered participants for this edition, up from previous years. To accommodate the surge, SIPAC has moved into a larger exhibition hall.
Leading the roster are major French names such as Sensas, Garbolino and Maver, alongside international giants like Daiwa and Preston Innovations. Retailers including Decathlon and specialist craftsmen from across the continent round out the exhibitor mix, with tackle makers, bait suppliers and custom rod builders all represented.
Why It Matters for China’s Tackle Industry
Coarse fishing is one of the most volume-driven segments of the European tackle market — and one of the most China-dependent. Feeder rods, pole tackle, floats, feeder lines, groundbait and terminal tackle made by Chinese factories supply a large share of the European coarse fishing shelf, both under OEM contracts for European brands and through direct distribution.
For Chinese manufacturers, SIPAC’s consolidation matters on three levels:
-
A single, concentrated gateway: With GIFAP and Clermont-Ferrand gone, SIPAC is now the primary French meeting point between European coarse fishing brands, retailers and the supply chain. One well-timed visit reaches the buyers who previously split their time across multiple shows.
-
A sales-driven format: SIPAC is positioned as a commercial event where orders are written, not just a display forum — an important distinction for exporters measuring return on exhibition spend.
-
A youth-and-innovation platform: The show’s All Star Game live tournament, product launches and youth engagement activities are designed to modernise coarse fishing’s image. That innovation push is a signal to Chinese OEMs: European buyers are looking for fresh product design and packaging, not just lowest-cost production.
Show Highlights
Among the event’s unique features, the All Star Game competition — a live tournament bringing together top coarse anglers — draws crowds and media attention. Additional highlights include themed conferences, hands-on experiences and interactive workshops aimed at inspiring the next generation of anglers.
“This expansion reflects the increasing interest and investment in coarse fishing across France and Europe,” said Béroud. “SIPAC is challenging outdated views of coarse fishing as old-fashioned. By embracing innovation and promoting youth engagement, the show highlights the sport’s modern appeal.”
“As SIPAC prepares to welcome record numbers, it continues to evolve, offering fresh opportunities for exhibitors and visitors. With its expanded hall, diverse exhibitor line-up, and commitment to innovation, the show is redefining the landscape of coarse fishing in France and Europe.”
Sources: Angling International (July 22, 2026) — “French coarse fishing show fills cancellations void.”
Found a mistake? See our corrections policy. Have a tip? Contact the editor.