Each year, the American Sportfishing Association (ASA) hosts the fishing industry’s largest trade show. It’s called ICAST, and it attracts manufacturers, sales reps, buyers and dealers who have a common goal: bring new products and services to market.
This year’s event will be held at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Fla., where more than 100,000 square feet of showroom space will be packed to the rafters with everything imaginable related to fishing — rods, reels, lures, electronics, apparel, sunglasses and much more.
In addition to manufacturers, reps and buyers, a large contingency of pro anglers and media types will be on hand. It’s a hectic time, as attendance is usually strong and the time short. Every aisle will be busy with activity throughout the three-day event.
For all the regulars who attend, ICAST is not only a great place to catch up with old friends and industry contacts, it’s the place to see what’s new. And with that in mind, here’s a sneak peek at the products I think will make a big splash.
Stop, stop, don’t stop
Last year, Rapala introduced the RipStop minnow — a diminutive jerkbait designed to deliver a unique swimbait swagger on the retrieve, then stop on a dime when paused. Because the concept developed such a quick following, the world’s largest lure manufacturer decided to offer it in a 4 3/4-inch, three-hook size.
The new, larger RipStop comes in 12 attractive finishes — all accented with a brightly plated tail section, which is key to the lure’s unique breaking feature. They sport 3-D gel eyes and translucent scale-pattern finishes and are fitted with ultra-sharp VMC black-nickel trebles.
I’ve fished this lure under varying conditions, and it is a true performer. The action is aggressive with lots of flash, and it’s capable of reaching a depth of 4 to 5 feet. When paused, it comes to an abrupt stop with a slight shimmy, then rises very slowly. This, combined with its realistic appearance, allows the RipStop to excel under a variety of conditions, for all species of bass.
Digital control breaking
Each year, reel manufacturers bring new ideas to market. Some are truly innovative, others not so much. This year, however, Shimano is bringing the heat.
For the first time, they’ve expanded their proprietary DC (Digital Control) concept to include one of their most legendary models, the Curado DC — available in both left and right-hand retrieves.
I’ve fished these reels under extreme conditions, and they definitely perform as promised.
Whether I’m casting into a 15 mph wind or skipping small jigs beneath overhanging trees, the DC’s microcomputer monitors spool speed 1,000 times per second, then applies the exact amount of braking needed to eliminate backlashes without restricting distance.
Although the DC concept has been around for a while, the mechanics are now refined to perfection and fitted to the latest Curado frame, which is lighter and more ergonomic than previous generations. And at the Curado’s reasonable price point, there should now be a DC within the budget of every serious angler.
Clearly a better box
Expanding on their lineup of nearly indestructible utility boxes, Bass Mafia is introducing its new 3600 “Icebox.”
Not to be confused with coolers or refrigerators, this new utility box is meant for storing terminal tackle and lures, and it’s built with a proprietary plastic, which is just as tough as their popular opaque versions, but with the added advantage of transparency. Now an angler can clearly see what he’s reaching for, at a glance.
Measuring 11 inches x 7.25 inches x 1.75 inches, the Icebox features 44 dividers for defining up to 48 separate compartments. Each divider is dovetailed for a snug and secure fit and can only be removed vertically. Like the box’s rugged exterior, the dual latches and O-ring seal are designed to withstand years of abuse.
The 3600 model is just the first of many other styles and sizes the company plans to offer, and they will be my choice for future storage needs.
Fuji’s finest
For those of you who have never fished a rod with titanium components, it’s time to give it a try. The lightness, touch and feel will definitely up your game, and the technology just took another leap forward.
Fuji’s new “T2” is a 100 percent corrosion-proof guide built to withstand long-term use and abuse while delivering unmatched sensitivity. These new guides feature a highly polished ring material that drastically reduces line friction, yet delivers even the slightest signals from the lure. And they are perfectly suited for mono, fluoro and braided lines.
The new T2 Series guides come in a black satin finish and are available across Fuji’s entire K-Series lineup, including guides for the KR Concept rods. Watch for their availability through better rod manufactures or — if you build your own rods — find them at your favorite supplier of high-end rod components.