If you're a fly fishing gear junkie, the biggest event of the year is just around the corner. July 9-12 is the International Fly Tackle Dealer (IFTD) exposition in Las Vegas, Nevada. Organized by the American Fly Fishing Trade Association (AFFTA), IFTD is the only trade show dedicated solely to fly fishing. IFTD is where the biggest names and brands in the industry get together to showcase new products, share industry news and network.

This year, IFTD and ICAST -- the world's largest sports fishing trade show (conventional tackle) -- are sharing dates and situating their expo space in adjoining halls. The combined event will dwarf all other fishing industry related gatherings.

As mentioned, with so many faces in the crowd, IFTD is where many fly fishing gear companies choose to debut new rods, reels, lines, packs, bags, accessories and more. Many companies, such as Sage, Redington, RIO, Airflo and more, have recently announced new products which the public will have the opportunity to see and test for the first time on the IFTD floor. Looking to cast Redington's new Vapen rod, which won best new fly rod at Europe's EFFTEX? Head to IFTD.

We'll be highlighting news on interesting new gear and products from IFTD as the conference progresses. Unfortunately, we'll have to pick and choose what to relay, since we'd be talking about gear from now until Christmas if we chose to cover it all.

Stay tuned.