The association is the industry trade association committed to looking out for the interests of the sport fishing community. Asa's mission is to guide, educate and assist its members, and sponsor and promote programs, activities, and legislation in the interest of sport fishing and improved fishery resources.

The association conducts an annual trade show, which promotes the benefits of and encourages participation in sportfishing and aquatic resource conservation. The association's members display and promote their products at the trade show. the association provides grants, contributions and other support to organizations that promote the benefits of sportfishing and aquatic resource conservation. the association disseminates information and quarterly publications concerning sportfishing to industry members and the public.