Get lucky, get hooked, and score with new digital channels

Marketers looking to connect with consumers through closer ties to editorial, have a number of fresh options with three new digital TV channels - CGTV, GolTV, and WFN -available on cable through providers such as Rogers. These niche channels aren't for everyone but each is expected to attract their own core of rabidly passionate viewers and take brands looking to reach these groups along for the ride.

WFN, the World Fishing Network, hopes to hook viewers when it launches December 1. Programming is segmented into five unique program blocks that marketers can wrap their brands around: Ultimate Fishing (tournament-based programming); Maple Leaf Fishing (fishing in Canada); School of Fish (instructional shows); International Waters (featuring destinations, lodges, and resorts); and American Angling (fishing content from the U.S.).
By Staff 
November 24, 2005

Marketers looking to connect with consumers through closer ties to editorial, have a number of fresh options with three new digital TV channels – CGTV, GolTV, and WFN -available on cable through providers such as Rogers. These niche channels aren’t for everyone but each is expected to attract their own core of rabidly passionate viewers and take brands looking to reach these groups along for the ride.

WFN, the World Fishing Network, hopes to hook viewers when it launches December 1. Programming is segmented into five unique program blocks that marketers can wrap their brands around: Ultimate Fishing (tournament-based programming); Maple Leaf Fishing (fishing in Canada); School of Fish (instructional shows); International Waters (featuring destinations, lodges, and resorts); and American Angling (fishing content from the U.S.).

Reggie Yan, VP of sales and strategic partnerships for Insight Sports Networks – the Toronto-based company representing the three channels – says he’s hoping to work with some clients open to unique and innovative ways of linking their brands to content. ‘We’re looking to engage strategic partners to develop sponsorship solutions covering everything from original production, product placement, and interactive communications through our Web sites and ultimately through the set top box. In 2006 we envision using the remote control to engage audiences with interactive application such as games – for fun only – through CGTV.’

CGTV Canada (Casino and Gaming Television), formerly called The Gaming Channel, launched early in October as a 24/7 channel with programming that covers casino games, tournament and gaming events, destinations and recreation, entertainment, and fantasy sports and gaming. GolTV, which went to air late last month, provides live and in-depth coverage of all the best soccer leagues and players in the world 24 hours a day. Programming includes Spain, Italy, Brazil, and all the South America leagues – and of course, World Cup play.

More about the new channels can be found at cgtvcanada.com, goltvcanada.com, and wfn.tv.