Ready to check out some cool new fishing gear for the 2026 season? Check out these awesome goodies:
Penn Slammer IV Spinning Reel
The Penn Slammer line has been long known for longevity in quality spinning reels, and the latest-generation slammer IV has now been out long enough to know that it lives up to the reputation. We’ve been casting and cranking with a 4500 in the briny Chesapeake while casting to the likes of trophy winter rockfish, and found it more than merely up to the task. The Slammer IV is sealed to IPX6 specs, has a full metal body and sideplate, a CNC brass main gear, nine ball bearings, and a sealed Dura-Drag drag system. We found the EVA handle particularly comfortable to use, and discovered that the drag is uber-potent with the ability to put out a whopping 30 pounds. Note that if you want a spinning reel capable of taking on monster pelagics, the 7500 and 8500 put out 50 pounds of drag and the 10500 has a shoulder-ripping 60-pound max drag rating. Price: $329.95 for the 4500; $309.95 to $469.95 for the rest of the Slammer IV line.
Engel Roll Top High Performance Backpack Cooler
If you enjoy hiking out to remote fishing hotspots and you like to enjoy a cool frosty beverage upon arrival, the Engel Roll Top High Performance Backpack Cooler will be of interest. This roll-top cooler is insulated with inch-thick foam and ensconced in 840-denier fibers and a laminated thermal plastic urethane (TPU) film for strength and puncture-resistance. It also boasts a foam-padded back support, chest strap, and ventilated mesh padded shoulder straps. What really sets it apart, however, is that all of its seams are welded rather than being sewn. We won one at a recent CCA Maryland event and discovered it’s not only ruggedly constructed, but also quite comfortable to wear. Cargo capacity is 25 quarts (36 cans), and Engel says it can hold ice for up to three days. Like other Engel backpack coolers, it has an integrated bottle opener, a water-resistant front pocket, D-rings and side straps, and a mesh pocket sized just right to hold an Engel tumbler. Price: $189.99.
Mustang Atlas DLX190 and Elite 190 and 120 inflatable PFDs
Many anglers wear Mustang inflatables when fishing, especially when fishing alone, and the HIT and Elite lines have been top picks for years. Now there’s a better way to gain buoyancy, with the Mustang Atlas DLX190 and Elite 190 and 120 inflatable PFDs. These redesigned inflatables have become more ergonomic to sit off the back of your neck, and the back panel improves breathability while reducing bulk. The pull handle is now stowable so it doesn’t get in the way, and the tether loop is now soft instead of a D-ring. The air bladder has been improved, too, keeping airways clear and reducing spray inhalation. The Atlas inflates via a hydrostatic or manual trigger, and Elite models are manual. Price: $399.99/$324.99/$299/99.