What’s new at ICAST 2020? The virtual booths are packed with new products for consumers to get excited about and retailers to plan on stocking. This month, FTR is breaking down some of the key players and bringing their products out of the booths for you to see. Today, we’re starting with rods and reels.
Abu Garcia Virtual Combos
The Abu Garcia Virtual rod is the world’s first integrated fishing rod to make it easier to digitally log your catches. Paired with the ANGLR app via Bluetooth from a smartphone, a simple click of the button records your catch with location, weather, and water data, and documents it in your personal and private logbook. The combo pairs this innovative new rod with a tried-and-true Abu Garcia reel that matches the rod cosmetics and takes your fishing to the next level. MSRP $179.95.
Abu Garcia: Zenon
A new level of super-premium spinning reels designed to be the lightest in the world at less than five ounces for the Size 20 is coming in 2021. The machined gear system is housed in a lightweight contour-formed, magnesium body and combined with an ultralight magnesium rotor and hybrid spool design. MSRP $499.95.
Blackfin Rods: Blackout Series
U.S. manufacturing is alive and well at Blackfin Rods. The Blackout Series was designed specifically to bring an affordable, American-made saltwater rod to market without sacrificing quality. This series has the same well-known Blackfin durability and strength and is built to last but won’t put a huge dent in your budget. The series offers a sleek, low-profile design that’s hand-crafted with Blackfin’s E-glass blanks that are sturdy and resilient for long battles with less fatigue.
Blackfin Rods: Fin Series Swordfish Rods
Daytime swordfishing is a hot trend. Specialized fishing requires a specialized rod, and Blackfin Rods is a pioneer in manufacturing deep drop rods. The Swordfish series is made from 100% handcrafted E-Glass blanks and the highest quality components. It’s designed to provide durability and flexibility. Its construction includes Winthrop Tackle custom roller guides that are precision-machined out of solid aluminum bars, leaving no welds, seams, or sharp edges and Fuji SIC Guides, which are the gold standard. Their Fin #153 is designed for areas with little to moderate current with the use of 4-8 pounds of lead, while the Fin #154-L is ideal for areas in the northeast with moderate to fast current and use of 8-12 pounds of lead. Both rods have the tip action and durability to land a trophy.
Blackfin Rods: Freshwater Series
Blackfin’s newest line is the Freshwater Series. It’s designed for ultimate casting distance and accuracy and built with just the right amount of stiffness to ensure durability and strength. Available in both spinning and casting models, these rods are made with a high-density carbon material preferred by professionals and a solid cork handle for a firm yet comfortable grip. Durable and flexible, this lightweight rod will fight the biggest fish and detect a nibble from the smallest fish. Most importantly, this series of rods is made in the USA.
Daiwa: TD SOL Inshore Rod Series
The new TD SOL Inshore Rod Series has a casual vibe, but it’s built for serious business. Designed with the input of southeastern guides and expert tackle shops and created for the inshore specialist, this line of 15 rods took years to perfect. Although they are ideal for southeast species like snook, tarpon, redfish, and speckled trout, the rods cross over well to other East Coast inshore fisheries. Manufactured using Daiwa’s state-of-the-art HVF Carbon Technology, the blanks are 50-percent lighter yet powerfully strong, lightening the load for inshore fishermen who hold the rod in-hand for longer periods of time. The rods are built with Cork and EVA grips according to angler preference depending on models. An innovative FUJI Backstop Reel Seat prevents premature loosening under regular use. The graphite-constructed GRC Butt Cap keeps the rod weight at a minimum while eliminating the discomfort of a hard butt-cap. The unique Fuji Tangle-Free K-Guides cast freely without hang-ups especially with pliant, braided lines. The Faz-Lite Rings are strong and durable. Both blank and components are built with quality and backed by a 5-Year Limited Warranty. MSRP $119.99 to $139.99.
Daiwa: Procyon Freshwater Rods
The Procyon Series is a new line of freshwater rods designed for a variety of techniques and species. The versatile 34-rod lineup incorporates blank designs tailored for a variety of species including bass, trout, stripers, walleye, and panfish. Two of the designs are handy, break-down travel rods. The complete line is crafted with legendary Daiwa quality. The foundation of the rod is a lightweight, carbon graphite blank that bends strong and true without sacrificing finesse and touch. The blank construction techniques ensure durability and performance. The titanium oxide guides pay out line freely, are strong and durable, yet minimally affect the bend of the blank. A natural cork handle provides proven performance and a traditional, firm grip. Rods are designed for spinning and casting reels. MSRP $79.99 to 89.99.
Daiwa: Harrier Slow Pitch Jigging Rod
The Harrier Slow Pitch Jigging Rod is designed for the more subtle technique of “slow pitch” jigging, where the jig is deployed much slower and more deliberately. It is a vertical jigging technique that has gained popularity in northeast, southeast, and Gulf fisheries. The thin profile blank, with a smaller diameter, delivers a sharp action and serves to better control the jig. The HVF Nanoplus Carbon Technology reinforces the blank through a micro-level arrangement of material in the plastic resin. This creates a smaller, lighter, more rigid blank. The blank is powerful with impressive fish-stopping power despite the size. The X-45 Bias Construction has greater strength and prevents twisting and ovalization. If the blank maintains hoop strength under load, it is much more powerful for its size. The innovative Fuji FazLite K-Guides are virtually tangle free and leave a minimal footprint on the bend of the rod. The four models are designed for braided line classes ranging from 30- to 65-pound test. MSRP starting at $199.99.
Daiwa: Dark Water Offshore Rods
Designed for seasoned East Coast anglers, the new Dark Water series of offshore fishing rods are manufactured at the Daiwa factory. Beautiful in look and feel, the 21 rods in the series perform even better. Local guides, tournament anglers, tackle shop employees and owners—all with years of regional knowledge—contributed to the design, execution, and performance. The species-specific blanks, created for use on kingfish, sailfish, and other East Coast species, are configured for conventional and spinning reels. Dark Water rods have species-specific lengths and actions for Tournament Sailfish as well as Tournament Kingfish models. The Tournament Kingfish models come with a revolutionary carbon fiber slick-butt for both weight reduction and strength. The DW70 Sailfish Prospect rod is a unique lightweight design specifically created for the tournament sailfish anglers with thin wall blank design and lightweight guide train to reduce fatigue at the rail holding the rod waiting for the blind strike or drop-back.
HVF rod-building technology results in a 50-percent lighter blank with a soft tip and a strong backbone. The slight, parabolic bend puts the stroke on gamefish of all sizes. State-of-the-art, X-45 Bias technology creates a powerful blank yet prevents twisting when the rod loads up. The EVA Grip is sure, comfortable, and equal to the rigors of everyday saltwater use. MSRP $179.99.
Daiwa: Evergreen Combat Stick Gizmo Special
Daiwa, in cooperation with Evergreen International, has a unique new fishing rod designed for dedicated finesse fishermen across the country: the Evergreen Combat Stick. The innovative, “Gizmo Special” rod is designed to fish the small Evergreen Gizmo topwater baits. The action is designed to cast the lighter baits and pull/vibrate them on top of the water with an extra-fast tip, ideal for ultralight bass angling but powerful enough to pull the fish away from structure. The lightweight carbon graphite blank with a solid Mega Top tip is extremely sensitive to the quick, topwater take. The carbon element is strong for its diminutive weight. Fuji Tangle Free K-Guides allow small jigs to cast long without frictional restraint. The small footprint of the guide does little to inhibit the bend of the blank. The Fuji Alconite Rings are slick yet durable, withstanding occasional rough handling. MSRP starts at $199.99.
Daiwa: Evergreen Combat Stick Showerblows Rod
Daiwa and Evergreen have collaborated to produce a state-of-the-art fishing rod built for the needs of the demanding freshwater angler: the Evergreen Combat Stick Showerblows Rod. It’s designed to fish the popular Evergreen Showerblows top water lures. It casts long and loads properly to optimize the bait. The tip action lights up the lure and the backbone is built for a positive consistent hook-set. The lightweight carbon graphite blank is sensitive and light in the hand yet powerful enough to move a trophy fish. The strength-to-weight ratio is greatly increased through the use of lightweight carbon. The unique rod is a rare combination of a medium-light action on a medium-heavy rod rated for 10- to 20-pound test. The Fuji Tangle Free K-Guides pass monofilament or braided line freely, making for long, accurate casts. MSRP starts at $199.99.
Daiwa: BG MQ Spinning Reels
Stunning looks, water resistant failure-free performance, and longevity round out the new Big Game (BG) Monocoque (MQ) spinning reel offerings. This next generation of BG spinning reels features a one-piece Monocoque aluminum body. Light and strong like a Formula One racing car, the reels are lighter and stronger through use of monocoque body technology.
In terms of application, the reels are designed for everything from inshore to heavy offshore fishing—with models like the BGMQ2500D-H perfect for speckled trout to models like the BGMQ20000 designed to withstand the pressures of fishing giant bluefin tuna.
With the Monocoque design, the reel body serves as a stiff and distortion-proof frame, which is handy and compact at the same time. If offers more rigidity, more stability, and bigger gears. The waterproofing is superb and the Monocoque body offers more power and torque as a result.
The reels also feature an all-aluminum frame and features Digigear technology. The gears also feature a larger tooth pattern, giving the gears a much longer gear life and durability than competitive reels. MSRP $199.99 to $279.99.
Daiwa: Harrier X
The Harrier X is a versatile jigging rod destined to be a part of your saltwater arsenal. It is a multi-purpose rod designed for the hottest new techniques in jigging with flutter- and knife-type jigs as well as traditional treble hook jigs. In southeast and northeast fisheries, it’s ideal for all types of bottom fish jigging. The HVF Carbon Technology-constructed blank is lighter and stronger than conventional materials, well-suited for the demands of coastal fishing. The blank is tough, durable, and light in the hand. The X-45 Bias blank material resists twisting, making the rod load up evenly, resulting in a more powerful bend. The Fuji Tangle-Free K-Guides with Alconite rings are durable and pay out line freely. The innovative guide design rarely hangs up the line, even tougher to manage, braid. The sturdy EVA Grip provides a sure, strong hold on the rod. The Fuji Backstop Reel Seat keeps the connection to the rod strong and won’t loosen during regular use. A convenient hook keeper provides a safe place to hook the jig. MSRP $129.99 to $149.99.
Daiwa: Kage LT MQ
Behold a new standard in freshwater to inshore spinning reel offerings, the Kage LT MQ (pronounced kah-gay) which translates from Japanese to English for “in the shadows.” For starters, the sales direction on the reel is unique—there are no Internet sales of the reels, and sales are limited to independent retailers. It’s designed to be a dealer-driven reel series with a protected price structure.
In terms of application, the Kage LT MQ is available in five sizes—all the way from a diminutive 1000 model for panfish and smaller freshwater fish to the KGTMQ4000D-CXH, which fits the bill nicely for inshore applications and larger freshwater fish pursuits.
The Kage LT MQ is rich in its feature set. First, the reel series features a one-piece Monocoque Zaion body that allows more space in the reel body for larger gears that necessitate more torque and power from the get-go at the same gear ratios of competitive reels.
The Kage family of reels is also Magsealed, features an air rotor and air bail, A7075 aircraft grade aluminum Digigear technology, Advanced Tournament Drag, Kage logoed premium cork handle knobs, and a machined aluminum screw-in handle. MSRP $339.99 to 369.99.
Daiwa: Fuego Bass Rod
The Fuego line of fishing rods is comprised of 14 specific bass actions designed for a variety of contemporary bass fishing techniques and applications. The beautifully-appointed rods with a modern look and feel reflect the high-end styling and craftsmanship found in Japanese Domestic Market products. The heart of the rod is a lightweight carbon graphite blank that is sensitive yet true in bend, tough and durable. Each blank action is specifically designed for a variety of bass fishing presentations. The aluminum oxide rings are tough yet deliver a smooth cast throughout the blank. The split EVA grip provides a firm handling of the rod without the unnecessary weight and bulk of a full grip. This keeps the rod light and well balanced. When you combine all these features of high-end Japanese rod building in a package that is affordably priced, you have a guaranteed winner. The rods pair well with the Fuego line of spinning and conventional bass fishing reels. MSRP starting at $79.99.
Daiwa: Procyon AL
Now redesigned for a higher level of performance, the Daiwa Procyon AL spinning reel family is back for the attack, whether that means freshwater or inshore applications. From speckled trout, redfish, and snook to bass, walleye, and trout, the Procyon AL offers anglers the perfect reel for the pursuit.
In terms of application, the Procyon AL is available in five sizes—from the PCNAL2000D model for freshwater fish to the PCNAL4000D-C, which fits the bill nicely for inshore applications and larger freshwater fish forays.
The Procyon AL is rich in its feature set. First, the reel series features an aluminum body that allows less body and frame flex, providing better support on the gears and bearings, allowing increased torque and power while also allowing longer life to the gears. Anglers will find that the aluminum body of the Procyon AL is incredibly lightweight when they pick it up and put it on their favorite rod. MSRP $179.99.
Daiwa: Proteus Winn Boat Rods
Daiwa is pleased to announce a partnership with Winn Corporation in creating a beautifully appointed series of saltwater rods, the Proteus Winn Boat Rods. The Daiwa exclusive new Winn Grip Wrap is both attractive and functional, providing a sure grip that is firm and rugged. The HVF Carbon Technology constructed blank is lighter and stronger than conventional materials, well suited for the demands of active, coastal fishing. X-45 Carbon Bias Technology resists twisting and distortion as the blank loads up, maintaining a bend accuracy whether casting or pulling on a fish. Fuji FazLite Tangle Free K-Guides cast long and straight and refuse to hang up while leaving a small footprint on the blank. The innovative Fuji Back Stop Lock Nut System firmly attaches the reel and never backs off. With 16 models to choose from in both spinning and casting designs, this series has a rod that is right for you. MSRP $229.99 to 279.99.
Daiwa: Procyon Inshore Rods
Daiwa is thrilled at the arrival of a new line of inshore saltwater rods packed with features and performance at a smart price: Procyon Inshore. The lineup of six casting rods and six spinning rods is ideal for the many inshore species of the Gulf and coasts of Florida. The rods are tailored for speckled trout, redfish, and snook in shallow inshore waters. The blank designs reflect a more parabolic bend sensibility, a recent trend in southeast saltwater rod design. The lightweight carbon blank is almost buoyant in the hand yet strong and rugged in performance. The bend is true without twist or distortion. The straight-cork handle is sure and preferred by veteran inshore fishermen. The full-grip is stout for taming larger fish and well suited for boat rod holders. The quality titanium oxide guides are up to the rigors of inshore saltwater fishing, built strong and durable yet delivering long, accurate casts. MSRP starting at $89.99.
Daiwa: Travel Combo
Don’t get stuck on your next trip without having your Daiwa rod and reel. The Daiwa Compact Travel kit comes with a high quality telescopic rod developed with Daiwa’s patented V-Joint technology that eliminates flat spots where the connection points are on multi-piece rods. The rod come both in a cork handle and EVA handle model for your personal preference. This rod and reel kit is married with a Daiwa Crossfire 2500 reel so you know you have quality and smoothness at your fingertips. A carrying case allows for convenient easy storage in your luggage or in the trunk of your car. MSRP $149.99.
Daiwa: Tatula CT
Daiwa has just launched another Tatula reel that promises anglers a wealth of performance and value. The reel was specifically designed and manufactured to bring anglers looking for an entry-level baitcaster an entirely new standard of performance and aesthetics. Perfect for everything from plastics to cranks to bladed jigs and more, the Tatula CT (compact) brings versatility to anglers of all walks. Extremely palmable and a mere 7.2 ounces, the reel feels great in the hand and on your favorite rod.
Daiwa: Tatula 300
Just when you thought the in-demand Tatula reel family couldn’t get any better, Daiwa unleashes the new Tatula 300, a true 300-size reel for throwing big bass baits. Daiwa’s progressive product development team redesigned the new Tatula to bring anglers a slightly larger option, perfect for a variety of applications including outsized deep-diving crankbaits, swimbaits, A-rigs, and more. In short, it’s the perfect option for anglers fishing large presentations for even larger fish.
What really makes the Daiwa Tatula 300 special is the inclusion of the T-Wing System level-wind. When you take the reel out of gear it allows for less resistance on the line, allowing the line to cast further. The new Tatula 300 also features Daiwa’s patented Magforce Z magnetic casting system which is located on the exterior of the reel, making adjustments easy to make depending on wind conditions, the rods you’re fishing, and overall aerodynamics of the baits you’re throwing.
Internally, the reel has much bigger gears for handling big baits and fish, necessitated by the aluminum frame which allows space for the larger gears in precise alignment, and subsequently, much more power and torque. MSRP $269.99.
Like the other higher priced reels in the Tatula family, what really makes the Daiwa Tatula CT so special is the inclusion of the T-Wing System level-wind. When you take the reel out of gear it allows for less resistance on the line, allowing the line to cast farther and less occurrence of backlashes.
The new Tatula CT also features Daiwa’s patented Magforce magnetic casting and braking system, which is located on the exterior of the reel, making adjustments easy to make depending on wind conditions, the rods you’re fishing, and overall aerodynamics of the baits you’re throwing. MSRP $129.99.
Daiwa: Saltiga Lever Drag
Step up to the big time. Daiwa’s completely redesigned Saltiga LD series features the smoothest, most powerful and dependable lever-drag reels available today. Six single-speed models, ten 2-speed models, plus two special-purpose tournament style sailfish designs cover all the bases for saltwater anglers from inshore and near shore to offshore and the canyons.
All Saltiga LD reels feature a one-piece machined aluminum frame and side plate to assure precise alignment of bearings and gears for amazingly smooth performance, less flex, more power, and reduced binding, even during the fiercest battles. Oversized, super-hard, polished, and meshed stainless steel main and pinion gears fit together perfectly to drive the kicking gear with extra strength and nearly silent precision while large spool bearings reduce side load so anglers can concentrate on fighting fish rather than the reel. Daiwa’s acclaimed Advanced Tournament Drag System (ATD) keeps each Saltiga LD cool during the heat of battle while providing consistent maximum pressure through the end game. A machined aluminum spool won’t bend under high drag pressure or outwardly expand as you tightly wind on line. A machined aluminum rod clamp always keeps your reel tightly secured.
All single and smaller two-speed models, along with the high-speed tournament sailfish reels, boast soft-touch rubber handles for fast, comfortable retrieves. The larger size 50, 55, and 60 2-speed models feature a long “T” style offset aluminum power handle to improve leverage and comfort without blistering your hand when the fight is on. The Saltiga LD series also incorporates all CRBB ball bearings for a longer reel life and more consistent performance. A substantial spool clicker is just loud enough to not be overbearing. Max drag ranges from 22 to 45 pounds for most models while line retrieve per handle turn runs from 39.9 to 47 inches. The tournament style sailfish models have a max drag setting of 22 pounds and line pickups of 54.3 to 56 inches. MSRP $419.99 to 699.99.
Daiwa: Saltiga Spinning Reel
For 2020, Daiwa’s Saltiga has been fully reimagined and redesigned. For starters, the new Saltiga’s single-piece high-strength aluminum body can house much larger internal gearing, meaning more power to tame saltwater beasts. Housed within the monocoque body is the new G1 Duralumin cut Digigear system, digitally developed gearing with bigger teeth and more touch points to yield gear strength and torque more than double its predecessors. Daiwa engineers also developed a new drag stack, growing the number of washers to yield ten times the drag durability of previous Saltigas.
ATD (Advanced Tournament Drag) implements changes that provide greater support of the spool across the entire length of the main shaft. Implementing a high-density woven carbon impregnated with specially formulated grease, the combination creates a remarkably smooth and fluid drag across all levels of pressure.
The extremely water-resistant Saltiga also utilizes Daiwa’s Magsealed patented technology that produces a low-friction seal that keeps water, dust, and grit from disrupting the internal components of the reel. MSRP $999.99 to $1,099.99.
Eagle Claw: EC2.5 Baitcasting Combo
The EC2.5 series of rods and reels has an exciting new addition—an all-new Baitcasting Combo. The new combo enhances the value and quality of the EC2.5 family, first introduced in 2019. Featuring EC2.5 6.4:1 gear ratio baitcasting reels and high performing rods built to stand up to long-term use, the new combo gives anglers an additional, convenient option. Unlike other combos on the market that cut quality on components to keep the price down, the EC2.5 baitcasting combo is the exact same rod and reel that can be purchased separately. With an MSRP of $89.99, this combo’s value and quality is hard to beat.
Eagle Claw: Inshore Spinning Rods
Eagle Claw Inshore Spinning Rods are designed with the strength and durability to stand up to all types of inshore saltwater species and techniques. Often anglers are forced to choose between durability and performance—not so with the Eagle Claw Inshore Spinning Rod. The lightweight and durable 30 ton graphite blanks offer strength while also enabling sensitivity, and each rod is constructed with tangle-free Sea Guides for long, accurate casts. The graphite reel seat and textured EVA handle offer all-day comfort for long days of casting. The inshore spinning rod is well rounded and a new standby for anglers looking for flexibility in their fishing gear.
G.Loomis IMX-PRO Bass Series
Relying on nearly 30-years of manufacturing for what many consider some of the best fishing rods anywhere, along with the input and field-testing from leading tournament bass pros, G. Loomis adds to its IMX-PRO lineup 10 new rods with models to specifically use with swimbaits, bladed jig baits, Ned rigs, lipless crankbaits, and when working ledges.
The new IMX-PRO bass rods include three extra-fast action swimbait models, the 862C SWBR 7’2” medium and 863C SWBR medium-heavy power casting rods, along with a ‘micro swimbait’ medium power 882S SWBR 7’4” spinning version for lighter ball-headed swim jigs. Bladed jigs are one of the hottest techniques these days for bass, and within the IMX-PRO series, G. Loomis offers the fast action 862C BJR 7’2” medium power and 883S BJR 7’4” medium-heavy power casting rods.
Ledge fishing at the right time of year can many times lead to personal bests, and G. Loomis is there to assist with the two IMX-PRO 7’7” casting rods. They include the 913C JWR in medium-heavy and 914C JWR heavy power to properly work hair jigs, football jigs and flutter spoons.
IMX-PRO Ned rig rods offered include two spinning models including the 831S FINR medium-light power 6’11” rod and the 882S FINR 7’4” medium power, both with extra-fast action.
Suggested retail: from $345 to $355.
Lew’s Pro SP Skipping and Pitching Reel
Combine the creativity of one of the most elite group of professional angling teams in the business with the capability of a manufacturer to produce some of the highest quality products in the business, and the result is bound to be innovation. From the mind of professional angler Andy Montgomery and the engineering team at Lew’s comes the new Team Lew’s Pro SP Skipping and Pitching reel.
Skipping a jig has become one of the most productive fish catching patterns in the sport of bass fishing. However, along with its potential for producing giant bites, it has its own unique perils. The most prominent is the potential for tremendous backlashes if the lure strikes a dock post or a wave that arises.
To solve that problem, Lew’s created a specialized spool that holds 40 yards of 20-pound-test Fluorocarbon with its recessed Knot Slot and included a special “Skipping Zone” in their externally adjustable QuietCast® centrifugal braking system. The result is a reel that has all the performance of a Lew’s reel, tuned to greatly minimize backlashes. The Team Lew’s Pro SP will retail at $199.99 and be available at fishing tackle retailers beginning in the fall of 2020.
Lew’s KVD Series Reels
Built with exacting specifications, the new KVD Series reels will give anglers the ability to make long casts, feel what the lure is doing with their smooth retrieves, have the power to handle the biggest bites, and durability to last for years.
The KVD Series features all aluminum frames, strong drags and will be priced so that every angler will be able to fish with the same product the most accomplished professional angler in the world uses every day. The rich burgundy and black styled reels will be on store shelves in baitcasting models for $139.99 and $89.99 for spinning models.
The baitcasting reels will be available in three gear ratios, in both right and left-hand models, to fit every angler’s technical needs. A 6.2:1, 7.5:1 and 8.3:1, all feature 20-pound drag systems. Spinning models will come in three models, 200, 300 and 400 sizes featuring a 6.2:1 gear ratio.
Spinning models will come with the following features: Premium 10-bearing system with 9 ball bearings and Zero Reverse® one-way clutch bearing, all aluminum body and sideplate, high strength and lightweight C40 Carbon skeletal speed rotor with aluminum bail wire and S-curve oscillation system, a double anodized braid ready knurled machined aluminum spool. Quality, solid brass pinion gear, durable stainless steel main shaft with external stainless steel screws, DuraMax™ drag system provides a smooth, powerful, and consistent drag for unmatched stopping power, right or left-hand adjustable aluminum handle with an EVA handle knob, Lew’s, Speed Lube® for exceptional smoothness and uninterrupted performance in all weather conditions, from extreme heat to freezing cold.
Lew’s KVD Series Rods
The new KVD rod series from Lew’s features premium IM8 graphite blanks, split-grip EVA handles, brand new Lew’s® proprietary Full Contact reel seats with increased blank contact, rear locking reel seat on spinning models for improved comfort, stainless steel guides with aluminum oxide inserts with strengthened stainless steel with zirconia insert tip top for optimal durability for use with braided lines and a patented “No Foul” hook keeper – each for a retail price of $99.99.
The new KVD series rods are constructed on a raw graphite blank with the rich midnight fire red finish through the handle and black guide wraps, matching the famous KVD color scheme.
Included in the KVD lineup are 10 Graphite Casting models for single hook techniques, 7 Graphite Spinning models for everything from finesse tactics to Great Lakes smallmouth techniques and 6 Composite Casting techniques for crankbaits and other moving baits.
Lew’s Super Duty Rods
The new Lew’s Super Duty series of rods will be full of features that Lew’s has become synonymous for. Super Duty is constructed on premium HM60 graphite blanks with raw graphite finish. The charcoal colored Winn® Dri-Tac handles on each rod; bass fishing models will feature a full handle, and the multi-species rods will feature spilt Winn® grips and full foregrips; all with Lew’s Soft Touch skeletal reel seats.
Along with the advanced grip and handles, Super Duty rods will feature the patented Lew’s No Foul hook keeper and stainless-steel guides with aluminum oxide inserts, with multi-species models adding a zirconia tip for durability with use of braided lines. Super Duty rods will be trimmed out with matching charcoal guide wraps to complete a stealthy look.
The new Lew’s Super Duty Rods consist of 11 models, five models will be specific to bass fishing, and six multi-species models that will range from $179.99 to $189.99 and will be available in the fall of 2020.
Lew’s TP1X Rods
Anytime an angler can get a high quality, performance fishing rod in the $100 range, they have accomplished something. When Lew’s first introduced the TP1 series, it fit all of those benchmarks; sensitive blanks, comfortable grips and durable guides, all for a retail price of $99.99.
Now, with the launch of the all new TP1X series, Lew’s has taken the original TP1 and stepped up the level even higher, while keeping the price point the same. Featuring a premium HM40 blank finished in a beautiful satin pearl finish, the TP1X now comes with Lew’s® exclusive skeletal reel seats in a matching pearlized finish. For comfort and performance, the rod is built with charcoal colored Winn® Dri-Tac split-grip handles, and stainless-steel guides with aluminum oxide inserts are anchored with matching charcoal colored guide wraps. Lew’s also includes the patented No Foul hook keeper for easy storage of lures.
The TP1X series will feature nine casting rods, five one-piece spinning rods and three two-piece models, all at an MSRP of $99.99
Shimano Symetre Spinning Combos
Constructed on a high-quality graphite rod blank with stainless-steel frame guides and Aluminum Oxide inserts, the new Symetre Combo is a great option for anglers looking to target a variety of freshwater and inshore saltwater species with PowerPro braided fishing line or monofilament. The reel included in the Symetre Combo incorporates a lightweight graphite G-Free Body for enhanced balance and the Propulsion Line Management System for trouble-free and enhanced casting performance.
The rods feature high-quality graphite blanks with durable Aluminum Oxide guides and comfortable split-grip EVA handles. Shimano offers 14 different rod/reels combination in the Symetre spinning combo line-up for everything from panfish, bass and walleye, to larger freshwater species action and also for inshore saltwater use. All the combos have a suggested retail price of $99.99.
Shimano Zodias Bass Rods
The new Zodias couples a hollow Carbon Monocoque Grip into a CI4+ reel seat to achieve up to 130% more sensitivity than conventionally constructed rods, ultimately transmitting vibration from underwater structure, lure action or bites into the palm of an angler’s hand. Shimano’s Hi-Power X lies at the heart of Zodias and benefits anglers by increasing the transfer of energy through the rod for enhanced accuracy and casting distance as well as reduced blank twist for better control when fighting fish. The technique specific series includes 9 casting and 8 spinning rods. Suggested retail from $199.99 to $219.99.
St. Croix Legend Xtreme Freshwater Series
Insanely sensitive and awash with St. Croix’s proprietary technologies, these rods are extreme in both design and on-the-water performance. New models include 6’3”, medium power, extra-fast action (XFS63MXF) and 7’6”, medium power, fast action (XFS76MF) spinning rods; and 6’8”, medium power, fast action (XFC68MF) and 6’8”, medium power, extra-fast action (XFC68MXF) casting rods. The expanded Legend Xtreme freshwater series now includes 11 rods – five spinning models and six casting models –supporting anglers in an even wider range of freshwater presentations and techniques with pinnacle St. Croix performance.
The new Legend Xtreme offers an unquestionably pure and dense carbon, to transmit the slightest vibration through a carbon fiber guide train and proprietary new handle, all while achieving a tensile strength never attained in any previous St. Croix fishing rod. Retail prices range from $630 to $650.
St. Croix Mojo Inshore Series
St. Croix’s popular Mojo Inshore Series is all-new for 2021 with a host of comprehensive upgrades, improvements and eight all-new models. Mojo Inshore’s transformation begins with lighter, upgraded one-piece SCIII carbon blanks, further enhanced via Integrated Poly Curve (IPC) mandrel technology. Split handles have been replaced by full cork on light, medium-light, and medium power models. Medium-heavy, heavy and extra-heavy power rods have been upgraded with full-length cork and EVA combination handles that afford additional protection to rods stowed in rod holders.
The hybrid handle design also allows anglers to enjoy the soft touch of the EVA in the upper part of the grip while retaining the familiar cork grip feel toward the bottom. Hybrid-handled Mojo Inshore rod models also feature an Alps non-marring rubber gimble which keeps rods – especially those carrying large reels – from banging around in rocket launchers and other rod holders during rough rides to and from the fishing grounds. Including 19 spinning and 8 casting rods, the new and expanded Mojo Inshore Series provides the flexibility to target virtually any species along every saltwater coast, while offering a staggering combination of technology, durability, performance and value. Retail prices range from $160 to $230.
Croix Custom Ice (CCI)
Continuing its promise to deliver technique-specific rods to ice anglers, St. Croix’s pinnacle CCI series of ice rods grows for 2020 with three exciting new extra-fast models. Requested by anglers, the new 38” medium, extra-fast EYE RAISER (CI38MXF), 32” light, extra-fast PAN DANCER (CI32LXF) and 30” medium, extra-fast HOUSE (CI30MXF) expand the 2021 made-in-the-USA CCI series to 16 models, and feature proprietary blank technologies for extreme performance unavailable in any other production ice rod.
St. Croix Triumph Freshwater Collection
The best-selling North American-made rod series in the world, St. Croix’s durable, sensitive and powerful Triumph rods are made for savvy anglers seeking the best in performance and value. For 2021, the entire Triumph collection has been fully reimagined with all-new, upgraded cosmetics and new Sea Guide components. Featuring 41 distinct freshwater spinning, casting, travel, musky, and salmon & steelhead models, the expansive Triumph family of rods blends technology with value to give anglers the precise tools they need to maintain the upper hand at an exceptional price. Retail prices range from $90 to $140.
St. Croix Mojo Bass Carbon Crankers
Featuring the dynamic combination of premium, high-modulus SCIII carbon and IPC® mandrel technology lauded by anglers for smooth, sensitive and lightweight performance, St. Croix’s new Mojo Bass Carbon Cranker casting rods hit the sweet spot for anglers who value the characteristics of carbon – including lightness, durability and sensitivity – in a moderate-action cranking rod with an equally moderate price. The new 7’1”, medium power (MJC71MM) Carbon Cranker and 7’1” medium-heavy power (MJC71MHM) Mid-Carbon Cranker casting rods bring sweet, moderate-action options to the angler-favorite Mojo Bass lineup for the first time ever… and at an equally sweet Mojo Bass retail price of just $150.
St. Croix 9’6” Mojo Musky Telescopic Casting Models
Musky anglers want longer rods for longer casts and deeper figure 8s farther from the boat, but length alone does not a happy musky angler make. St. Croix’s two new 9’6” telescopic Mojo Musky models afford all the advantages a 9’6” musky rod can deliver, with the added convenience of precision-engineered telescopic construction that allows them to collapse to under 8’ for more convenient transportation and storage. Specifically, a 9’6”, medium-heavy power, fast action telescopic model (MJM96MHFT) and a 9’6”, heavy power, fast action telescopic model (MJM96HFT) have been added to St. Croix’s expanded Mojo Musky series lineup for 2021. Like the rest of the recently upgraded Mojo Musky Series, these new 9’6” rods feature premium SCIII carbon, IPC® mandrel technology and custom Winn split-grip handles. Retail price is $330.
St. Croix Triumph Inshore Series
The all-new Triumph Inshore Series includes six versatile spinning rods with full, premium cork handles, plus seven unique casting models with a mix of full cork and split-grip handles. Ranging from 6’8” to 7’6” in length and medium-light to heavy power, all are one piece, crafted from trusted SCII carbon and feature the new Triumph-family cosmetics, premium Sea Guide components, and a special SeaSmoke color unique to Triumph Inshore. Designed with key input from regional coastal anglers, all models have fast or moderate-fast actions, with the exception of the 7’ medium-light casting model, which features a moderate, parabolic action. These exceptional handcrafted rods break new ground in St. Croix’s inshore rod retail pricing structure, with all models selling between $130 and $150.
St. Croix Legend Xtreme Inshore Series
The all-new Legend® Xtreme Inshore lineup for 2021 includes three spinning models and one casting model. All one-piece blanks feature super high-modulus SCVI carbon with St. Croix’s Fortified Resin System (FRS) in the lower section for maximum power and strength with reduced weight. Blanks also feature SCV carbon with externally overlaid Advanced Reinforcing Technology (ARTTM) to construct the highest level of carbon fiber density ever used by St. Croix. New manufacturing processes employ a resin that significantly increases strength in compression during the hookset and flexural strength as the rod is under load. A beautiful new Sandbar finish completes the upgrade to the new Legend Xtreme Inshore’s incredibly sensitive, high-performance blank. Sensitivity enhancing features continue with Lightweight Daiwa AGSTMcarbon fiber guides, which help channel vibrations down the rod and into the angler’s hand for extreme sensitivity. A raindrop-textured 2nd Generation Xtreme-Skin™ high-density handle affords improved grip in all conditions and further promotes overall feel and vibration transmission. Retail prices range from $660 to $670.
St. Croix Avid Trek Series
St. Croix Rod sets a new standard in the travel rod category with the introduction of its new Avid® Trek Series for 2021. Packed with power, exceptional sensitivity and a selection of models to cover virtually any fishing scenario, three-piece Avid Trek Travel rods give anglers the upper hand wherever they venture. Avid Trek travel rods combine St. Croix’s Integrated Poly Curve® (IPC®) mandrel technology with premium, high-modulus SCIII carbon fiber for smooth power, improved casting accuracy and increased sensitivity. Featuring slim-profile ferrules, they sport Sea Guide Hero Hi-Grade guides with slim zirconia rings and SS316 stainless gun smoke frames. The series’ six spinning models have Fuji® DPS reel seats with gun smoke hoods, while the casting model has a Fuji® ECS reel seat with gun smoke hood. All Avid Trek rods are designed and handcrafted in Park Falls, USA, and come with a Sea Guide hook-keeper, select-grade cork handle, and two coats of Flex Coat slow cure finish for a sharp, clean and polished appearance. Retail prices range from $260 to $290.
Temple Fork Outfitters: Professional Walleye Trolling Rods
The new Professional Walleye Trolling rods from TFO Rods are for the advanced troller looking for much more than just a flexible rod of fiberglass with guides—the walleye troller that understands that tip action is the key to understanding your bait regardless of application.
With two lengths—8-foot-6 (telescoping) and 10 foot (two-piece)—and multiple actions, the trolling additions offer you versatility whether you’re chasing walleyes in the Great Lakes, the Missouri River Valley of the Dakotas, or the open expanses of traditional northern freshwater lakes. By having a medium and medium-heavy action in the 8-foot-6 length you can bottom bounce, leadcore, dipsy dive, planer board, straight-line braid, or even monofilament troll to fulfill your needs. The 10-foot models are ideal for those conditions when planer boards are hard to operate, yet you still want to get away from the boat.
With an EVA foam grip on the main handle and a cork foregrip, the TFO Trolling rods will hold up to the rod holder, but still allow you to feel the familiar grip of cork. MSRP $119.95.
Temple Fork Outfitters: Tactical Glass
The new Tactical Glass Bass Rods are built and designed for all levels of crankbait and moving bait bass fishermen. Building off their successful Tactical Bass series, TFO is presenting the addition of three exciting Tactical Glass Bass Rods to the lineup. They’re a composite-blend of their proven carbon fiber blanks, currently used in the rest of their Tactical lineup, and the traditional fiberglass material sought after by crankbait gurus. These glass-blended rods use a unique blend of 60% carbon fiber and 40% fiberglass, which gives you the right mix of the lightweight crispness of carbon fiber and the dulling sensation and relaxed action of the fiberglass that moving bait fishermen seek. They are the perfect composite combination.
The Tactical Glass Bass Rods will come in three lengths that cover a wide range of crankbait and other moving bait needs. They feature cork handles and stainless-steel guides. MSRP $149.95 to $159.95.
Flying Fisherman: Passport Travel Rods
If you travel, you need a Passport. Made from the finest quality materials and components, Passport spinning and fly rods maximize angler performance in salt or fresh water. Blank taper design, high modulus/high strain graphite with nano resin, Fuji reel seat, and SIC guides and components. The spinning rods are seven feet long, three-piece, and come in three actions. The fly rods are nine feet long, four-piece, and come in 6-, 8- and 10-weight. The durable travel case fits inside most standard luggage or the overhead compartment, has a foam padded handle and carry strap and allows you to combine any two rods using the foam inserts, or up to 12 rods with the inserts removed. MSRP for spinning rods is $140 to $160; for fly rods it’s $230 to $250. MSRP on the travel case is $74.99.
PENN: Battle III
The PENN Battle III is now stronger, smoother, and more durable than ever before. By matching the proprietary CNC Gear Technology, HT-100 Carbon Fiber Drag System, and a Full Metal Body, the Battle III has the guts and drag to handle serious abuse. Ranging in size from 1000 to 10000 with select sizes available in high speed ratios, the Battle III series has a model for every angler at an incredible value. MSRP $99.95.