Shimano sees promising recovery in fishing sales in first quarter

Global fishing sales at Shimano – one of the world’s leading tackle suppliers – got off to a promising start in 2025 with a 4.95% increase on the corresponding period last year.

The group, which reported a 3.9% drop in tackle revenue for 2024, saw net sales in Q1 reach 25,468 million yen despite an operating income decrease of 44.7% to 1,636m yen.

Group revenue increased by 12.9% from the same period last year to 113,539m yen thanks largely to a 15.6% rise in revenue from its larger bicycle components division to 87,972m yen. During the quarter, Shimano reported the global economy maintained strong growth on the back of slowing inflation.

However, it added: “Uncertainty with regard to the outlook increased due to the prolonged unrest in the Ukraine and the Middle East, the sluggish Chinese economy and policy trends in various countries.”

On the fishing front Shimano said that while interest in tackle continued, sales remained weak, but adjustments of market inventories made progress.

Across the regions it reported:

JAPAN: Although adjustments of market inventories continued, sales were lacklustre due to cooling consumer confidence as a result of cold weather and price hikes;

NORTH AMERICA: Market inventories remained at an appropriate level, but sales stayed similar to last year due to unfavorable weather;

EUROPE: Sales remained strong and inventories at an appropriate level;

ASIA: Lacklustre sales due to sluggish personal consumption and adverse weather conditions. Inventory levels remained ‘somewhat’ high;

AUSTRALIA: Sales favourable and market inventories remained at an appropriate level thanks to favourable weather and stable fishing conditions.

Shimano also reported that sales of its new Twin Power XD spinning reels and Antares baitcasters have been well received, while order taking for its Poison Adrena rods were ‘brisk’.