Made with a 40-ton Japanese Toray graphite blank, the Muse II is taper designed with Zonal Action Technology and Fuji K Frame stainless steel guides with Alconite inserts, a premium Japanese EVA split-grip handle, an Evolve Custom Soft Touch reel seat and an Evolve Snaggle Tooth hook keeper. ($224.99-$264.99) 13fishing.com
Topping the ICAST 2023 Rod & Reel Combo category, the Zata Combo features a 24-ton graphite blank for optimal sensitivity and strength, with stainless steel guides for smooth line movement and maximum casting distance. The combo comes in two sizes — 7-foot medium-heavy and 7-3 heavy — and pairs with a reel holding 10 stainless steel ball bearings and one roller bearing. The Zata line also features a spinning combo that is available in two sizes — 6-10 medium-light and 7-foot medium. Baitcasting reels feature a Carbon Matrix drag system and Duragear brass gear, while spinning reels are built with the Rocket line management system and Rocket spool lip design. ($229.95) abugarcia.com
Made of tough ABS, plastic and steel, this sturdy container features pro latches and adjustable dividers treated with VCI rust inhibitor. Individual compartments hold hooks, weights and other terminal tackle. ($14.99) academy.com
Winning the ICAST 2023 Warm Weather Technical Apparel for Men category, this 100% recycled polyester shirt offers quick-dry and moisture-wicking properties, UPF 40 sun protection, thumb loops and SpeedVent active hood channels that prevent the hoodie from blowing off during windy conditions or high-speed runs. ($65) aftco.com
Made with REPREVE Our Ocean recycled polyester, which recycles plastic bottles into spun-polyester fabric, the Ocean Bound won the ICAST 2023 Lifestyle Apparel for Men award. Features include UPF 40 sun protection, thumb loops, an active hood that can tuck over a hat brim and quick-dry, moisture-wicking properties. ($59) aftco.com
Made of durable three-layer construction, with 20K waterproofing, 5K breathability and AFTCO’s SpeedVent hood, the Barricade won the ICAST 2023 Cold Weather Technical Apparel for Women category. Features include an elasticated hem cinch, Double Dry cuffs, YKK AquaGuard zippers on the chest pocket, a pliers pocket on the thigh, jacquard elastic adjustable shoulder straps, a slide waist side adjustment system and a dual-side zippered relief hatch. (jacket: $249; bib: $229) aftco.com
AFTCO won the ICAST 2023 Warm Weather Technical Apparel for Women category with this comfortable shirt that features Air-O Mesh ventilation fabric with UPF 50 sun protection, DWR stain release, quick-dry/moisture-wicking properties, a stealth zipper pocket and thumb loops. ($69) aftco.com
Earning the coveted ICAST 2023 Best of Show award, the Tsuka 2 features blow-molded forged carbon fiber construction for superior durability and performance, while the ergonomic trigger handle ensures comfort and control. With a lightweight 1-ounce single-piece construction, the Tsuka 2 maintains an extreme strength-to-weight ratio. The matte 3K carbon foregrip sleeve has aluminum trim for added style. americantackle.us
A one-piece, 5-foot, 6-inch IM7 blank with a tiny pro-grade reel that easily fits into a young angler’s hand, this combo offers the right blend of backbone with easy control for young anglers. It’s available in a baitcasting model with a 5.6:1 gear ratio and a 5.2:1 spinning model. ($179.99) profishiency.com
A full, eight-base wrap design eliminates light intrusion, while the nonslip rubber nose pads and rubber temple tips ensure a snug fit. These glasses are made from a plant-based material that biodegrades more easily, and proprietary LAPIS technology blocks blue light for optimal clarity. Seven lens colors are available in glass or polycarbonate. ($209-$259)
bajiosunglasses.com
The top Freshwater Soft Lure at ICAST 2023, this slow-sinking, soft-body glidebait is built with a mesh-reinforced joint for durability and maximum motion, stabilizing fins, a hook retention clip and Fusion19 treble hook. Ten colors are available, with 5-, 7- and 9-inch sizes. ($7.99-$12.99) berkley-fishing.com
Available in 3/8 and 1/2 ounce and 19 colors, this swim jig features a flat underside that helps navigate wood, rock and other potential entanglements with fewer hangups. The medium-wire Gamakatsu hook makes this jig a good fit with braid or fluorocarbon. ($5.49) bigbitebaits.com
A wider nose than the traditional Rat-L-Trap look gives this new bait a wider wobble and an even more intense vibration. The design includes a belly keel weight for an enticing fall, Mustad Triple Grip trebles and tri-tone sound chambers — heavy knocking slugs in the front and center, along with high-pitch rattles at the rear. ($8.99) rat-l-trap.com
Earning the ICAST 2023 Best of Show award in the Cold Weather Technical Apparel for Men category, the Blackfish Gale is a premium soft-shell pullover designed for ultimate warmth, comfort and weather protection. With a soft fleece lining, this hoodie is unlike any other outdoor garment. A long-nap, soft thermal fleece inside, a zippered hand-warming Kangaroo pouch and a weatherproof shell make the Gale Pullover a must-have hoodie for all seasons! ($130) blackfishgear.com
For those times when bass feed on tiny baits or when fishing pressure makes them ultra-picky, Booyah and Bassmaster Elite Series pro Jason Christie expanded the Covert Spinnerbait lineup with a finesse model. Crafty weight distribution yielded 3/8- and 1/2-ounce sizes with diminutive profiles that maintain effective castability. Made with a two-tiered skirt, the Covert Finesse Spinnerbait includes Hildebrandt blades in double willowleaf, double Colorado and Oklahoma/Colorado configurations. ($9.99) lurenet.com
Matzuo’s reverse-tied premium marabou process makes the feathers fold back tightly along the plastic body when pulled forward and then flare on the pause. This creates a subtle Ned rig look followed by slow expansion of the delicate feathers. It’s available in black, rust and olive colors and 1/16-, 1/8- and 1/4-ounce sizes. ($4.99) calcuttaoutdoors.com
Designed for hefty offerings like 7-inch glidebaits, 6- to 8-inch boot-tail swimbaits, 1-ounce spinnerbaits, oversized deep-diving crankbaits and umbrella rigs, this 7-10 moderate-fast medium-heavy rod is built on a CR6r carbon fiber blank that is rolled in-house. This rod features American Tackle MicroWave guides, Cashion’s signature hand-crafted carbon fiber/fiberglass grips and a blank-through reel seat. ($244.95) cashionrods.com
Winning the ICAST 2023 Eyewear category, Costa marked its 40th anniversary with its most technical frame. It’s available in six-base medium wrap and eight-base full wrap options, each with removable side shields, shark-inspired venting, sweat management channels and eye wire drains, as well as nonskid hooding. ($349) costadelmar.com
The newest addition to the Steez lineup blends cutting-edge design, performance and durability for a high-end, professional-grade reel that’s sure to impress. Built with an aluminum frame and sideplate, the reel’s key features include Daiwa’s Hyper Drive Design, G1 Duralumin MAG-Z BOOST spool, T-Wing system, Zero Adjuster, CRBB corrosion-resistant stainless steel bearings and 90mm swept handle. It’s available in 7.1:1 and 8.5:1 gear ratios. ($649.99) daiwa.us
This 6.5-inch rip bait named for the “Lake Erie Monster” comes in slow-sinking and fast-sinking models, both with a reverse prop on the nose for maximum commotion and vegetation chopping. Floating models come with a forward-facing prop, which creates enticing buzz. All include a stainless steel blade on the underside for added appeal. Six colors, with hand-carved scales and 3D eyes, are available. ($69.99) daiwa.us
Daiwa marks the 10th anniversary of its Tatula brand with a premium-level rod series comprising 16 models built with lightweight SVF Nanoplus blanks, which deliver crisp action. Preventing blank twist, Daiwa’s X45 Bias Wrap Construction maximizes strength, sensitivity and hook-setting power. Features include Daiwa’s exclusive Air Guide System (AGS) and Air Sensor reel seats. Ten casting models and six spinning models are available. ($299.99-$319.99) daiwa.us
The Dakota Lithium DL+ 12V 135Ah battery is a waterproof, high-performance marine powerhouse, compatible with Mercury motors and ABYC compliant. Offering 135Ah deep cycle performance, +1000 CCA starting power and heating technology, it integrates seamlessly into boat systems. It outperforms traditional batteries 5X, at 1/2 the weight, with an 11-year warranty. ($1,189) dakotalithium.com
Overhauling its jig hook selection, Eagle Claw has streamlined its parts numbering system to simplify selection across the Eagle Claw, Lazer Sharp and TroKar lines. eagleclaw.com
Embracing the latest in rod-building technology, Fenwick has completely redesigned its entire rod portfolio. Leading the pack, the World Class series comprises 62 technique-specific rods made with high-modulus graphite and Fenwick’s proprietary reinforcing resin. Heavy on efficiency and precision, the World Class Bass Rods feature a tailored foregrip, contoured rod butt, ergonomic main grip and a seamless handle. ($419.95-$504.95) fenwickfishing.com
Designed by Bassmaster Elite Series champion Bryan Schmitt, these rods are made with a proprietary high-modulus blank that is specially engineered for strength and sensitivity. Models include Swim Jig, Neko Rig and Carolina Rig rods. ($189.99)
fitzgeraldrods.com
Winning the ICAST 2023 Soft and Hard Coolers category, the Flop Box 10 is a live-bait cooler featuring a rotomolded shell, a chill plate insulated lid and pump airflow of 3.2 liters per minute. A lithium-ion battery-powered aerator provides 72 hours of constant run time and 180 hours of intermittent run time. ($225) flopindustries.com
The stylish, comfort-centered design features lightweight breathable fabric with antimicrobial treatment, FroggFoam cushioned insoles, nonmarking outsoles and a 360-degree neoprene collar for slip-on convenience and athletic fit. It’s available in three colors and in sizes 7 through 13. ($99.99) froggtoggs.com
Measuring 17.1 x 9.2 x 10.7 inches, this sturdy, spacious container’s design includes a hinged lid with a secure plastic flip latch, a large and comfortable handle that locks when it’s upright, top and bottom adjustable compartments, accessory slots on the side and a workspace table inside the lid. ($64.08) gamakatsu.com
Garmin has introduced expanded system integration that simplifies the use of shallow-water anchors with its fishfinders. This free software update integrates trolling motor and shallow-water anchor equipment to automate boat control. garmin.com
The newest addition to Hobie’s Floating Collection, the Everglades Float sunglasses feature Hobie’s Sightmaster Plus polarized, nylon lenses, which increase clarity and enhance contrast for technical sight fishing. With 100% UVA, UVB and UVC protection and hydro/oleophobic lens coatings, which repel and shed water, sunscreen, grime and dust, the Everglades Float’s thermoplastic frames remain above water if accidentally dropped. ($109.99) hobieeyewear.com
Designed with 50+ UPF sun protection, an adjustable hood, front zipper and bottom cinches, this comfortably fitting item won ICAST 2023’s Lifestyle Apparel for Women category. Soft antimicrobial fabric provides a flattering drape, while mesh sides ensure cooling airflow. ($60) hukgear.com
Streamlining and enhancing user convenience, Humminbird has launched the One-Boat Network app. Combining the full list of LakeMaster maps with the ability to control i-Pilot, i-Pilot Link and both Minn Kota Talon and Raptor applications, this app gives anglers unprecedented command of their boat. The app comes in both free and premium versions. (premium subscription: $24.99/year) humminbird.
johnsonoutdoors.com
Introducing smart technology to the fishing reel market, KastKing debuted its Bluetooth-equipped iReel. After pairing the iReel with a smartphone, anglers can use the KastKing app to input line specs. With each cast, highly accurate motion-capture sensors in the iReel’s spool assembly provide precise casting metrics, including the number of casts made, average distance, farthest cast and retrieve speed for analysis and adjustment. Available in digital-braking and mechanical-braking models, the iReel features the proprietary Axis Eye line guide, which enhances castability by reducing casting friction. ($299.99-$349.99) kastking.com
Built with HM85 graphite blanks for sensitivity and stainless steel guides with titanium oxide inserts for durability, the Custom Lite lineup includes spinning rods with a new Comfort Plus ergonomic reel seat (designed in partnership with Bassmaster LIVE host Mark Zona) and casting rods featuring a Full Contact reel seat for direct blank contact while fishing. Split-grip handles with Lew’s exclusive Winn Dri-Tac Ultra ProWeave Grips ensure comfort and control. ($149.99-$179.99) lews.com
The company’s latest software update provides the new feature of Ghost 360 for anglers using the Lowrance Ghost trolling motor with Active Imaging 3-in-1 Nosecone. This feature offers a high-resolution, 360-degree image around the boat. Featuring the Ghost’s automatic steering rotation, this new capability allows anglers to pinpoint structure and targets in a 360-degree view of the bottom. It’s available (and free) for users of all Ghost-compatible multifunction displays (MFD), including the Elite FS, HDS Carbon and HDS LIVE. lowrance.com
Designed by Bassmaster Elite Series veteran John Crews, this 3.5-inch thick-bodied craw worm resembles a crawfish minus the appendages. Made with a hook slot on the belly for easy hook sets, the Bomba comes in eight colors. ($5.69) missilebaits.store
With a resin-protected eye, this hook sports an exaggerated offset Z-bend that holds plastics in place, while the Tak-bend accommodates larger baits, allowing ample room for hook sets. Complementing a three-stage Opti-Angle sharpening technology, the AlphaPoint’s hook point length is 4.8 times the width of the 1X strong-wire diameter. ($4.99) mustad-fishing.com
When rivers, tidal areas or larger bodies of water require a little more propulsion, Old Town’s patented ePDL+ drive system (powered by a 36-volt lithium-ion battery) offers manual pedal propulsion, power-assisted pedal and fully motorized cruise control. Five levels of power assistance, intuitive keys and a polarized, sunglasses-friendly display are featured on the drive. ($5,999.99) oldtownwatercraft.johnsonoutdoors.com
Expanding Plano’s popular EDGE family, this 3700-size box holds up to 20 jerkbaits and includes the line’s popular features, such as an ultra-clear lid and EZ label system for quick tackle identification, a one-handed latch for easy access, Rustrictor technology to prevent rust and corrosion and a Dri-Loc O-ring seal to keep water out. ($49.99) planooutdoors.com
Made by Bassmaster Elite Series pro KJ Queen, this finesse marabou jig’s tungsten head makes it stand out boldly on forward-facing sonar. Hand-tied jigs are available in 1/16-, 1/8-, 1/4- and 3/8-ounce sizes. ($7.99) queentackle.com
This 4-inch craw-style bait made with hinged legs that are vertically oriented is designed for a realistic, undulating action that mimics fleeing prey. With 15 colors, the Bronco Bug employs Smart Injection technology for precise placement of color, flake, salt and scent. ($6.99) rapala.com
Seaguar has expanded its offering of this strong, abrasion-resistant 100% fluorocarbon by adding a 17-pound size. (200-yard spool: $17.99; 1,000-yard spool: $79.99) seaguar.com
With a name cleverly containing the Roman numeral for seven, this new brand leverages the tradition, tooling and track record inherent to St. Croix’s seven decades of design, manufacturing expertise and industry-leading customer service. Introduced at ICAST 2023, the SEVIIN lineup includes three freshwater reels — the GF Series baitcaster, the GS Series spinning reel and the GX Series spinning reel — along with the GSW Series saltwater spinning reel. ($120-$190) seviinreels.com
Named top new fishing line at ICAST 2023, this 100% fluorocarbon line stresses consistency and reliability through its strength, durability and smoothness. Additionally, Shimano’s NANOARMOR technology adds nano-size ridges across the outer surface of the line to enhance knot strength and toughness, prevent slippage and reduce breakage. It’s available in 4-, 5-, 6-, 8-, 10-, 12-, 14-, 16-, 18- and 20-pound tests. ($22.99-$30.99) fish.shimano.com
This incredibly light, sensitive spinning rod is one of Shimano’s top JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) offerings. Recently introduced in North America, the Poison Ultima’s design includes a hollow Carbon Shell Grip with flat sides for more contact points to transmit the slightest vibrations. It’s available in 7-foot medium and 7-foot medium-light models, which include Shimano’s proprietary X-Guide train (titanium guides with alloy rings). ($879.99) fish.shimano.com
Winner of the ICAST 2023 Freshwater Reel category, the newest addition to Shimano’s CoreSolid lineup of spinning reels adds InfinityXross technology for impressive gear durability and synergy by extending the gear tooth horizontally for more even load distribution. Built with Shimano’s cold-forged HAGANE gearing, the Stradic FM features InfinityDrive for light rotation and increased cranking power under load, along with the new Duracross Drag system, Shimano’s X-Protect water-repellent coating and specially designed, water-channeling labyrinth construction. It’s available with 6:1, 5.8:1, 6.4:1 and 6.2:1 gear ratios. ($199.99-$229.99) fish.shimano.com
When rainy days and/or big waves bring buckets of water into the boat and leave lagoon-like puddles in the boat ramp parking lot, the Challenger Boot’s vulcanized rubber outer and neoprene lining help prevent that miserable, wet-foot feeling. Along with Simms’ proprietary rugged deck outsole for grip and traction on all surfaces, the boot includes Simms’ Right-Angle Footbed and pull-on loops for easy on/off. ($129.95) simmsfishing.com
Made with bitterly cold days in mind, this suit combats the elements with PrimaLoft Rise insulation and two-layer waterproof/breathable Toray fabric. The jacket includes a three-point adjustable, fully insulated hood and a high collar for added warmth and weather protection. Articulated sleeves maximize mobility, while adjustable cuffs keep water out. The bib is designed with strategically placed overlays on the knees, seat and the back of the bottom cuff for abrasion resistance, features knee-high zips for easy on/off and interior gaiters to prevent rain and snow from getting inside your boots. (jacket: $349.95; bib: $349.95) simmsfishing.com
This 6-inch swimbait designed by Bassmaster Elite Series pro John Crews is made with a strong thumping action. Features include a soft bait magnet to hold the Gamakatsu treble hook in place, a swivel attached to the hook to keep the fish connected and a special soft-plastic blend for enticing action. Eight color options are available. ($14.49) spro.com
Focusing on power and precision, Spro fitted the Vortex E with oversized drag and handle knobs for torque and stability. Four sizes are available, with 5.2:1 (1,000) and 6.2:1 (2,000, 3,000 and 4,000) gear ratios. ($79.99) spro.com
Winning the ICAST 2023 Freshwater Rod category, the TRIGON uses anthropometric data to maximize angler comfort and control. Built with an ergonomic handle and Dynamix reel seat, this rod comes in 25 casting and nine spinning models to address anything from finesse to hefty swimbaits. ($170-$270) stcroixrods.com
Designed for a wide wobble with a modest 1.5 profile, this bottom-grinding, medium-diving crankbait brings several new craw patterns to complement some of Strike King’s most popular colors. ($9.99) strikeking.com
Expanding its offerings, Sufix now offers this small-diameter braid in the high-visibility sunrise color. Sufix 832 is made with eight fibers (seven HMPE and one GORE Performance Fiber). ($18.99) rapala.com
Using a proprietary tapered design, Sunline combines two pound tests into a single 10-foot length of 100% fluorocarbon. This allows anglers to use an upsized pound test on either end when a larger or smaller leader is needed. Eight tapered options are available. ($9.99) sunlineamerica.com
Made of durable, weather-resistant nylon, this easily installed accessory helps manage the various electronics wires running down a trolling motor shaft. With no drilling or modifications necessary, you simply line up the Wire Tamer’s mouth with the relevant wiring and pop it onto the shaft where it maintains an orderly, low-profile grip that minimizes entanglements. Multiple sizes are available to fit many popular trolling motors. ($24.99) thmarinesupplies.com
Winner of the ICAST 2023 Terminal Tackle category, this articulated design allows the hook to move independently of the jighead, so the bait moves across the bottom with a natural crawling action and stands upright, regardless of the jig weight. Available in 1/16-, 1/8-, 3/16-, 1/4- and 3/8-ounce sizes, the design allows for bait threading or Texas rigging. ($5.49) rapala.com
This 10-inch ribbontail worm is made with Yamamoto’s Mega Floater Formula and features a bulky body with rings that displace water and create air bubbles. It’s offered in 16 colors. ($7.49) baits.com
The largest of Yeti’s GoBox family, this rugged waterproof and dust-proof gear case is made with removable cargo trays, dividers and a PackAttic gear compartment. Complementing the Wildproof design, the GoBox 60 includes the NeverFail Hinge System, LipGrip handles, Lockdown Latches and AnchorPoint Tie-Down Slots. ($300) yeti.com
Addressing the challenges of high fishing pressure or adverse weather patterns, the 3DR-X jerkbait measures 3 1/8 inches and weighs 3/8 ounce. Featuring Yo-Zuri’s internationally patented 3D internal prism scale finishes and black nickel hooks, the 3DR-X comes in eight colors. (This line also includes a top-water pencil, popper, lipless vibe bait, floating minnow, suspending shad and flat-sided, coffin-bill crankbait, along with shallow-, medium- and deep-diving crankbaits.) ($7.99) yo-zuri.com
This innovative tool was developed as a way to insert rattles into Z-Man’s ultra-durable proprietary ElaZtech material, which famously self-heals after bites and hook insertions. Comprising a surgical-steel-grade needle protected by a silicone needle guard, the tool includes 10 glass rattles. ($12.99) zmanfishing.com
Z-Man won ICAST 2023’s Best Freshwater Hard Lure award for this bladed jig featuring a stainless steel blade, hybrid molded split-grip and wire trailer keepers, a 5/0 custom heavy-duty needlepoint black nickel hook, wire-tied 100% silicone skirt and 3D eyes. It’s available in 3/8- and 1/2-ounce sizes and 12 colors. ($9.99) zmanfishing.com
