A few weeks ago we showed you some of the hot new fishing gear introduced this summer, in New Fishing Gear Introduced at ICAST: Garmin Panoptix Livescope Wins, but this included a mere fraction of the cool new goodies and award-winners on display. Tune in for three more fishing tackle items we spotted, which we're sure you'll want to hear about.
Minn Kota Humminbird MEGA Imaging Integration
You like the performance of a trolling motor transducer, but aren’t thrilled by the strap-on, add-on nature of how they mount? Minn Kota and Hummingird have worked together to solve this issue, with the Minn Kota/Humminbird MEGA Down Imaging transducer. For the Ulterra, Terrova, Ultrex, and Fortrex lines, Minn Kota now offers integrated transducers which are built right into the motor’s lower unit housing. That protects the transducer from damage, and at the same time, cleans up the rigging. Wiring runs up through the motor’s shaft, so there are no more loose wires to worry about, either. Price: varies by motor. Visit Minn Kota to find out more.
Shimano Curado DC Baitcaster Reel
The new Shimano Curado DC baitcaster reel is sure to put a smile on your face when you start casting, and don't have to suffer through "professional over-run." The DC is similar to the Shimano Curado K, but now it has the upgraded DC (digital control) brake system. This uses a microcomputer to monitor spool speed about 1,000 times a second. Then, the braking system can apply just the right amount of pressure on the spool to prevent backlashes while still maximizing casting distance. Curado DC models hold 150 yards of 20 pound Power Pro line, weigh in at 7.8 ounces, have six ball bearings, and can put out 11 pounds of drag pressure. Gear ratio varies by model, ranging from 6.2:1 to 8.5:1. Price: $249.99. Visit Shimano, to learn more.
Shimano Tekota 500 Levelwind Reel
It’s official: the Shimano Tekota 500 Levelwind is the winner of the Saltwater Reel category, for ICAST 2018. What makes this level-winding trolling wonder stand out? It’s smaller and lighter (14.5 ounces) than previous versions, and comes in multiple models to fit your exact needs: both lefties and righties, and regular or line-counter versions. The addition of Shimano’s Hagane body is another big change, intended to add rigidity and strength to the reel’s frame. All Tekota 500s have a cross-carbon drag, shielded anti-rust bearings, and a loud clicker. Line capacity is 240 yards of 50-pound PowerPro. And since max drag is 24 pounds, there isn’t a striper in the bay nor a bluefish along the coast that these reels can’t handle. Price: $209. Check ‘em out at Shimano.