I’ve got to admit I’m kind of a random lone wolf when it comes to ICAST.  Rather than being restricted by the confines of a pre-established media paradigm its always much more enjoyable to just go check out the product I’m interested in personally.  After cruising the show floor for a couple of hours this morning I was certainly impressed by a number of items and disappointed with a few others. A lot of hype gets pushed behind some products whereas others fly under the radar and gain momentum at the show and once they land in the end users hands. None the less, this is shaping up to be a great show.

Here is a quick look at some of the action from the show floor this morning.

Quantum Exo:

While the Smoke spinning rod and reel, KVD Cranking Classic Baitcast reel, and Linder Signature series are cool the biggest buzz out of the Quantum camp was the “Exo” series of rods and reels. Pre-Show Hype was well executed by Quantum as they certainly kept their target audience guessing as to what was coming. Quantum is a brand that definitely aims to establish themselves as an innovative leader in the industry.  Once considered the young guns, they’re representation now includes the most seasoned  veterans of the sport.  With the launch of the new “Exo” series of rods and reels Quantum is certainly starting to establish themselves at the fore front of the industry.  The buzz phrase at the booth was “metal where it matters” echoing the design philosophy behind the reels.  This new series certainly takes a minimalist approach with the FEA optimized all aluminum skeletal frame. They also feature Quantum’s CSC drag system (carbon, stainless, and ceramic stack), “Exo Cast Control” (ironically enough must be accessed on the reels interior by removing the side plate).

The new baitcasters will be offered in 3 gear ratios 7.3:1, 6.6:1, and 5.3:1 (31″,28″,24″ IPT respectively) in right hand retrieve (no leftys at this time) and weigh in at a cool 5.9oz.  The spinning reels will come in two sizes 30 and a new 25 size frame (larger sizes already in the works). The matching rod series features Quantum’s own EX4 blank construction, Fuji micro guides and new SK2 reel seats.  (7 casting, 6 spinning models). Price points are $249 for the baitcasters, $199 for the spinning reels, and $179 for the matching rods.

After playing with the combos on the show floor all I know these bad boys will make it into my personal arsenal A.S.A.P.

Quantum Exo Baitcast Reel

Quantum Exo Baitcast Reel Aluminum Chassis

Quantum Exo Spinning Reel

KVD impressed with the new Quantum Exo Rods and Reels.

Daiwa brings some new toys and technology to the fold

Any avid Daiwa fan will be happy to see that the pixy has finally landed on US soil. The 5.3 oz PX type R is certainly a tight little enthusiast grade reel that will pair up nicely with the Steez SPX rods launched last year and the Z200 sized reels are certainly a sweet 200 sized low profile powerhouse.

I was most impressed with the debut of the T3 series of reels.  The much anticipated T-Wing system makes its debut on two separate series.  The T3 and T3 Ballistic both feature the T-Wing System as well as Magforce 3D and Zaion based frames.  Both series will be made available in left and right hand retrieve models in 6.3:1 and 7.1:1 gear ratios (26.3 and 29.5 IPT).  Form factor between the two series remains the same with noticeable design differences being bearing count, handle and spool implementation. The T3 will weigh in at 6.5oz and the ballistic at 7.8 oz. Retail price points are $429 for the T3 and $249 for the T3 Ballistic

Other new items brought by Daiwa were a slew of new spinning reels including the new Certate ($499) featuring a “zaion” based “air rotor” as well as a new “mag seal” design and “nano magnetic oil.  The other freshwater spinning models include the Zaion based Ballistic Spinning Reel ($199), Mid-level  Procyon Spinning Reel($149), Aird Spinning reel ($89) and entry level Legalis Spinning reel. A 7.3:1 Hyper speed Megaforce ($89) also made its debut as well as the budget Laguna ($59.95) baitcast reel.

No high end micro guide Steez rods made an appearance for the US market. However the budget oriented technique specific Ballistic Bass Rods (11 casting, 3 spinning ~$100-109 price point), Team Daiwa T (9 casting, 5 spinning ~$69.95-74.95), and Aird (7 casting, 5 spinning ~$49.95-54.94) rod series all seemed like great values.

New Pixy type R ($499…ouch!)

Daiwa Z 200 HS ($650…mega ouch!)

Daiwa T3 Ballistic Baitcasting Reel

Bryan Yamane and Steve Quinn discussing the design features of the T3 and T3 Ballistic Baitcast Reels.

Daiwa Aird

Daiwa Ballistic Spinning Rods and Reel

 Pure Fishing: Always working to improve their brands and lineups.

Dropping in at the Pure Fishing booth I was fortunate enough to meet up with a few knowledgeable product managers to learn about some cool new bass gear. As usual, I was particularly interested in what Abu Garcia had to offer.

The highly hyped MGX made its debut alongside the Villain series of rods.  This rod and reel combined make for one sweet combo that is a step above the Revo Premier and Verdict. The Orra SX and Orra S spinning reels, which utilize design elements from last years Revo Spinning reel, made their debut.  Also, a refresh on the “Max” lineup was certainly impressive for those who are looking for a sub $100 baitcast reel (pre-assembled combos with matching rods are also being released).

The Veritas lineup was expanded with two new cranking models(7′ and 7’6″ m), a 7’11 flipping stick, and a number of micro guide rods. The Vengeance rod series got a design refresh (from its awkward orange), and the new “Ike dude” youth combo seemed like a cool setup for youth anglers as well. New lines from Berkley included Nanofil, Armour coated Trilene XL, Pro Spec Salwater co-polymer, and blaze orange Fireline. There is also a new Fenwick smallmouth rod series, as well as, a made over lightning rod. The Supreme and President spinning reels from Pfleuger got a makeover as well. Lastly, with the acquisition of Sebile the hot new item is the single hook D&S Crank. In brief, the Purefishing team has been hard at work making lineup improvements as usual. Great Job Guys!

A floating Revo MGX

A passionate and knowledgeable guy.  Abu Garcia Product Manager Andrew Wheeler was definitely excited to release the MGX and Villain

Abu Garcia Blackmax, Silvermax, and Promax lineup (Sweet sub $100 price point reels)

Diggin the Villain Rod Butt Cap.

MGX and Villain combo pair great together

Abu Garcia Vengeance Rod Revamp

Trilene XL Armor Coated

Leathermanesque Berkley Multi-tool

Shimano: Bass Rod and Reel Refresh

Shimano is a major player that has a history of bringing great reels to ICAST and has continually evolved their lineup to meet the demands of diehard anglers around the world. This year their latest bass angler oriented releases include a new Sustain and Stradic.  There is also a slew of “new “baitcast reels. Namely the entry level Caius, Citica and Curado G, and Chronarch E.  Moreover, the Convergence, Clarus, Compre and Crucial Rod series all got a makeover as well.

Honestly, I was most interested in the Sustain FJ that I had previously seen in the New Product Showcase.  Offered in 5 sizes (1000,2500,3000, 4000,5000) this reel definitely feels smoother thanks to borrowing X Ship from the Stella.  The CI4 rotor helps cut down the weight and the removable kickstand seems like a plus to mitigate boat rash.

The baitcast line up had me perplexed as it seems that Shimano made a jump to focus on streamlining tooling and manufacturing rather than bringing a “game changing” reel to the fold. None the less, I’m sure many anglers will still be happy to procure a few of these new reels. The revamp to the low end rod line up was certainly needed and I like the technique specific butt cap detail. All being said, Shimano should be bringing the goods next year…

Shimano Sustain FG

Shimano Stradic FJ (Back to white)

New Entry Level Shimano Caius Baitcast Reel

Shimano Citica 200G

Shimano Curado 200G

New Shimano Chronarch 200E7 (…Curado 200E7?)

Update Aesthetics and performance features on the Convergence, Clarus, Compre, and Crucial Series.

Nice touch on the butt end detail.

G.C.

Had a great time checking out the latest gear on display at the ICAST 2011 New Product Showcase. There were a few items that made me real excited to test out on the water this fall and a few that frankly made me scratch my head and wonder “why?”
This should shape up to be a great show.

More to follow…

G.C.

With ICAST 2011 set to kickoff next week the hype continues to build and the sneak peaks continue to trickle around the net.

Here are a few random items that have recently piqued my interest.

Airrus Nano Fusion:
This rod offering comes with the return of multiple ICAST award winning Ken Whiting to the company. These rods, while similar in appearance to their own “puls-R” series touts bringing “Bucky paper” and a proprietary “carbon nano layering process” to the fold to create a rod that implements the next generation material of choice to be used in the rod industry. While “nano” resin systems permeated the rod scene last summer, this rod stands alone as being the first to use this cutting edge base material.  The “Nano Fusion” rod with its eclectic design and interesting micro guide implementation certainly deserves a good inspection on the showcase floor.

That “New” Shimano baitcast reel:
New Curado/Chronarch/Some new name that starts with “C”. Regardless of what its called, when Shimano debuts a new mid range baitcast reel anglers listen and obviously buy in droves. News of this new baitcast series set off a dash to procure the last batches of the Curado “E” series, which interestingly enough ALFC called the last of the “Japanese made” Curados? Only time will tell if these statement prove true. I don’t know about you guys but I’m getting tired of seeing Dave Mercer flashing this reel on Facebook. We want to fish with it too you know! How about a giveaway like Abu and the MGX reels? Tsk Tsk Shimano… way to drop the ball on your American social media oriented fan base.

(cell pic from the latest issue of BASS TIMES, form factor much like Caenan)

What does Quantum have up their sleeve?
We’ve see the teaser for the “Smoke” spinning reel and of course KVD grinning whilst sporting his “Tour KVD Cranking Classic” reel en route to another AOY title.

Yet, one cant help but notice the countdown for the quantum micro-site promising something special on the horizon…

(Yes I like and own many quantum reels)

Daiwa USDM Enthusiast Grade Reels Hit the Street

After much speculation and word of mouth rumor. Hi’s Tackle box has at least made it known that the US will have its own versions of the famous Pixy (Type R for US!) and recently popular Z2020 reels. These reels are definitely enthusiast grade currently listing for $499 and $650 respectively! If Daiwa plays their cards right I would certainly anticipate mid range offerings to accompany these two reels to balance out their line up.

(Images from Hi’s Tacklebox)

Well, next week should certainly prove exciting and prohibitively expensive.

Better start working some more overtime people!

G.C.

I’ve got to hand it to the marketing department over at Pure Fishing.  Those guys really know how to build hype for new product before ICAST.  It doesn’t hurt that they’re reps also seem to be quite knowledgeable of their respective product brands when you visit their mega booth at ICAST. With all of the tidbits of information that have started to leak out about the latest and greatest product they seem to be at the forefront of getting over enthusiastic anglers like myself excited. After hinting of a new rod series earlier today, this video surfaced detailing the new Villain rod series. This series will be the new high end “V” rod that is made to pair up perfectly with the upcoming Revo MGX.

Check it out!

You can find Abu Garcia Rods and Reels at TackleWarehouse.

G.C.

I’ve been fishing the 2011 Quantum smoke SL100HPT reel on a 6’6″ mh smoke rod a lot lately.  Namely to cross compare it to another combo I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the 2009 TE100HPT with a 6’6′mh Quantum Superlite rod. The general form factor between the two is the same but the lower weight of the reel and the crisper response of the smoke rod is definitively noticeable.

Whilst cruising the net today I came across the teaser image below.  Essentially it shows that Quantum has crossed over the “smoke” design mindset to their spinning reels as well. Obviously, these reels would best pair up with a smoke spinning rod (one would hope).   I have an earlier generation TE20PTi that I’ve put to good use over the last few years and as great of reel that it is it certainly would be nice to see it in a lighter package.  I can’t wait to check these out this summer.  As for now, the hype continues…

G.C.

Unless you have been living under a rock these past two weeks (or out bass fishing).  It should be apparent that Shimano is making way for some new gear with the clearance of numerous rods reels in anticipation of new releases next month at ICAST 2011.  Perhaps whats most interesting is a possible revamp to the fairly new Curado E Platform.  Word on the street is that there will be a sharing of chassis design between a new Curado and Chronarch much like earlier generations of the two platforms.  Looks like its shaping up to be a great show between the big guys next month!

Below are two preview shots of a new 2012 black and white Shimano baitcast reel (possibly the latest Chronarch?) courtesy of Dave Mercer’s Facebook page.

Take advantage of the great deals on Shimano gear going now at my favorite online retailer Tackle Warehouse.  I know I’m still kicking myself for not grabbing a few more NIB Chronarch 50mgs when I had the chance.

G.C.

This past week Abu Garcia leaked details pertaining to the USDM version of the Revo MGX that was first spotted at the Osaka 2011 fishing show.

This new Revo due to hit the market later this year will weigh in at 5.4 ounces placing it in direct competition with the much emulated Daiwa Steez and the lightweight Shimano Core 50mg7. A combination of a new frame material Abu Garcia calls “X-Mag”, carbon side plates, an aluminum main gear, carbon fiber handle and eva knob implementation help bring the weight down from the 6.7 ounce top of the line Revo Premier.  A new braking system dubbed IVCB-IV (Infinitely Variable Centrifugal Brake), supplants the dual cast control Infini Brake System found in the premier.

The compact form factor led to the creation of unique gear ratios for the MGX which include a 7.9:1 high speed model which delivers similar inches per turn as other 7.1:1 reels on the market(~31 ipt). The reel will also include Abu Garcia’s HPCR™ bearings(9+1), Infini II™ spool and Carbon Matrix™ drag system.

With an MSRP of $349.95 this will be Abu Garcia’s most expensive USDM Revo to date. It will be interesting to see how this reel stacks up against the other lightweight powerhouses currently on the market as well as Abu Garcia’s current high-end reel the 2010 Revo Premier. As a fan of lightweight high performance bait-casters I certainly can’t wait to get my hands on one.

G.C.

The USDM Revo MGX

IVCB-IV BRAKE SYSTEM

Close up view of the JDM Revo MGX (image from Purefishing Japan)

The JDM Revo LTX is the sister reel to the MGX and features a shallower spool for pitching lighter baits.

Organization remains an integral part to being successful out on the water. Many outings really begin at home; hours, days, sometimes even months before a big trip. Like most bass anglers I keep my tackle organized with Plano 3700 and Falcon FTO style boxes. Reels are easy as cases are relatively cheap and easy to acquire. Rods, however, in my experience have been more a of a challenge.  Trying to find that perfect rod rack that suits one particular needs can be challenging.  As my collection has grown so has my need for a large rack to manage multiple rods.  Down scaling and trading in certainly helps cut down this “problem”. However, its always nice to see whats available in my arsenal at a glance and get what I need quickly and efficiently.

I’ve owned Bass Pro Shop, Cabelas, and other various racks over the years. Pretty much all were overpriced, cheaply “made in china” assemblies that didn’t quite fit my needs. This is all changed last month as I was cruising eBay and located a seller dubbed “Rods @ Rest”. With multiple options abound Jeff Williams constructs various models of rod racks at an affordable price.

The model I was most interested in was his original freshwater rod rack made with cabinet grade plywood that held 34 rods without reels (18 combos).  I liked the design however I just wished it could have been a little bit bigger.  After a few quick emails Jeff had shipped me a newly created “extra large” model that has a capacity of 52 rods or 26 combos!

The rack arrived well packed and was very easy to put together with a Phillips head screwdriver.  One can tell that a lot of forethought was implemented in the design, from the mortise and tenon type joints and countersunk screws to the nicely sanded finish. I particularly like the implementation of the casters on both ends as they can be added/removed easily should the owner decide to keep the rack in one place.

My rack was constructed with unfinished cabinet grade plywood.  Which I’ll most likely choose to finish or paint at a later date.  Jeff, however can create a more elegant looking rack with higher quality wood, hand rubbed finishes, and custom logos should you so choose.

I’ve been enjoying my rack since the day I got it and appreciate that Jeff has combined his passion for fishing and woodworking to produce an American made product that many bass anglers can enjoy.  My quest for that perfect rack has ended! Keep up the good work Jeff!

Check out Rods @ Rest on eBay

G.C.

Jeff’s Original Freshwater Rack vs. the “XL” model

The XL model holds 26 combos!

Or up to 52 rods!

Daiwa is a company that always pushes the envelope when it comes to fishing reel design. Progressive aesthetics, performance, ergonomics and durability all come to mind when thinking of their top end product offerings.

The latest buzz by the company pertains to the new Daiwa T31016H TW. Debuting as a prototype at Osaka 2011, this reel features numerous design enhancements sure to please a number of enthusiast bass anglers.

The reel debuts a new feature from Daiwa known as the T-Wing System (TWS). An re-evolution of the traditional level wind system found on majority of baitcasters on the market today, this feature incorporates a “T” shaped line guide and specialized clutch system. Upon disengaging the reel, the reel hood opens and moves the line to the upper portion of the T shaped line guide allowing increased line flow. After the reel is re-engaged for retrieval the line is pushed back down into the lower portion of the T guide and wound onto the spool in a conventional manner.

Alongside this novel new casting system Daiwa also introduces an all “Zaion” chassis. Which is a first for the company as this carbon based composite material has only been utilized in its spinning reels until now. Touted as possessing the same desirable characteristics as magnesium, with a higher strength, and without the worry of corrosion. Daiwa has slowly been pushing this as the ideal material for future high performance fishing reel construction.

The stylistic cues of the T3 are a carry-over from the Z2020 albeit smaller profile. Magforce 3D is also incorporated into the design facilitating greater range of adjustment over Daiwa’s traditional implementation of Magforce V or Magforce Z. Much like the existing Daiwa braking systems Magforce 3D has a spring loaded inductor travel into a user varied magnetic field. However, unlike its predecessors Magforce 3D allows the user to change the baseline position of the side plate induction field further inbound or outbound depending on the casting application.

Other features include the much emulated swept handle and drag star implementation as well as an 8 bearing system and Daiwa’s “digigear” digital gear design optimization.

The pending worldwide release date for this reel is late 2011.

Hopefully, a USDM version will be released as well.

G.C.

There is always a lot of information to soak in at ICAST. Particularly if you’re trying to find out what is the “latest and greatest”. Wandering the floor I learned of a few items that will surely make their way into my arsenal in one form or another. Here’s a quick look at just a few of those “interesting” items I came across today.

G.C.

The G.Loomis NRX
The new “Top Dog” Loomis stick comes in 8 new casting models and 5 spinning models. Touted as the “Best Bass Rod Ever Built” and 15% lighter and 15% stronger than GLX. I couldn’t stop playing with these rods. Seeming like a conservative version of the Shimano Cumulus rods they feel great in hand and I can only imagine how they would handle out on the water. Im still not quite sure what to make of the “Hybrid Guide System” of Fuji SICs and Recoils. Retail is right at $475…ouch!

Shimano Curado 50E
Sharing the same body style as the Core50mg7, Aldebaran, and Scorpion 1000xt platform the new Curado 50 is America’s aluminum framed version. Two models are available CU50E and CU51E with 6.4:1 gear ratio, 7BB, 6.9oz, retailing at $199. A couple of these slick reels will sure surely compliment any die hard bass angler’s arsenal.

Daiwa Steez Megatop
The latest Steez offerings are two new finesse worm and jig rods with a flexible tip. This tip is created with an exclusive process that distributes graphite fiber evenly with precise resin control, creating a tip without a noticeable spine. This facilitates pinpoint casting with lightweight lutes. Two rods will be available, a casting and spinning model both 6’11” ML, XF actions. Retailing at a premium price point of $474.95

Abu Garcia Verdict and Veritas Rods
I’m a big fan of the black and red Vendetta rods. They are in my opinion one of the best “legitimate” bass fishing tools available for under $100. The Veritas and Verdict series of rods are just the next evolution of the same design principles. I for one am particularly fond of the less conspicuous and classic styling of the Verdict rods. In hand balance is fantastic with Abu Garcia’s Flagship Revo Premier. Moreover, the ability to adjust the handle length with the Extending Handle System (EHS) is definitely a plus. The Verdict rods will retail at 129.95 to 139.95 and the Veritas at $99.95.

Pfleuger Patriarch Spinning Reels.
I must say I’m rather impressed with this new reel from Pflueger, even more so than the new Revo Premier Spinning Reel. The magnesium body, aggressively ported aluminum/ carbon arbor spool, carbon handle and EVA knob make this one light and sexy reel. This reel feels impressive in hand and will surely be a hit with its $199 price point.

Quantum Smoke Series
Quantum pushes the design envelope once again this year with the introduction of the Smoke series of Rods and Reels. The new baitcast reels will be available in a 100 and 150 size that weigh in at 6.2oz and 6.8oz respectively! Predominant design features include aluminum side covers, seven PT bearings, ceramic drag, Micro ACS II (infinite ACS II on 150 size), and a new minimalist handle design. The 100 size is offered at 7.0:1 and 6.3:1 ratios whereas the 150 size will have 7.3:1, 6.6:1 and 5.3:1 ratio models available. Retail will be right at $199 (100 size) and $219 (150 size). The Smoke PT rods now replace the “superlight” series of rods. They feature HSX70 blanks, split EVA grips, soft touch Fuji ACS reel seat and Fuji micro concept guides with aluminum oxide inserts. Retail on these new rods is right at $129.

Gamakatsu Heavy Cover Worm Hook
Fishing heavy cover is a way of life in South Florida and its no secret that the Reaction Innovations BMF (now Paycheck Baits Punch hook) is a flipping and punching favorite. Gamakatsu took their already successful design and refined it a pre installed small wire keeper, eliminating the need to light up heat shrink tubing and pinch your own barb.