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Have a fisherman/woman on your Christmas shopping list? Let’s be honest: Anything from SCHEELS would be great. 😎 But this special issue is jammed FULL of new ice baits and other stuff that ice-fishing fanatics absolutely “need” lol!
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Of course I can’t fit every cool new thing in a single email, so I'll be sprinkling more fishy goodness into upcoming Target Walleyes. Hope you enjoy, fish-heads!
PS: There's a TON of images in this TW, so 👇
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If your email program cuts off the bottom of the email click "View this email in your browser" up top to see the whole thing. Sorry about that – email programs keep changing stuff.
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We can never have enough baits!!! 💥
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Can catch ’em lots of different ways early-ice while oxygen levels are high and the fish are active. Spoons, rattlebaits, jigs, plastics...we’ve got you covered!
Lots of brand new schtuff for the 25/26 ice season below, plus a few other must-haves it’s about dang time you tried!
VMC Tungsten Torpedo Spoon
For getting down to ‘em FAST! 💨
> Tungsten construction provides the best return on electronics. Ultra fast sinking to target fish before they pass by. Small attractor blade adds flash and vibration. VMC Ultra Glow colors last up to 15 minutes. UV polished metal finishes and double sided 3D holographic eyes.
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LOVE the 10 color patterns. Comes in 1/8, 3/16, 1/4 and 5/16 oz sizes.
Clam Rattlin’ PT Spoon
If hardwater walleyes ever figured out how to use Instagram 🤳 to post a pic of their meal before they ate it, I think it’d look something like this:
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> The same slicing, fluttering action and loud rattles of the famous Rattlin’ Blade Spoon but taken to the next level! The Rattlin’ PT Spoon has two stainless steel bearings that click and clack inside their pyrex-glass housing. Lifelike features and a vibrant, strong, painted treble hook lures fish in and entices them to be your next catch!
Even if you’re not quite mentally prepared to switch gears over to ice yet (getting there lol) how magical does this look right about now?! A gorgeous “greenback” walleye that ice-head Tony Mariotti fooled on Lake Winnipeg, Manitoba with a 1/4-oz Clam Rattlin' PT Spoon in the fish-sexxy “glow white/chart koi” color. 🔥
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Northland Tungsten Buck-Shot Rattle Spoon
> The #1 ice spoon just got better. The new Tungsten Buck-Shot Rattle Spoon features a new material with a classic sound. All the ticking, thumping and clicking that attracts fish built on a tungsten frame which is 70% more dense than lead. Light reflecting fish scale patterns in combination with an array of finishes makes it perfect for any situation.
Some must-have colors imo:
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And if you’re more of the strong, silent type 🤫 they’ve also got a new Tungsten Forage Minnow Spoon, which can be the deal when those fussy buggers are spooking from rattles.
VMC Tungsten BugBite Jig
> Small larva-like realism for strike inducing attraction. Lead free Tungsten construction provides the best sensitivity and return on traditional fish-finders and forward-facing sonar Premium VMC treble hook increases hook-up percentages. Available in polished metal or Ultra Glow pigments that last up to 15 minutes.
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That larvae-lookin' deal looks like it’s gonna be killer when things freeze over. Comes in 1/32- and 1/16-oz sizes. Feel like it could be a cheat code for those Mille Lacs jumbo perch if they're in a funky mood....
Eurotackle Gamma Fly
> The Gamma Fly is an ultra-realistic Scud weighted by a 1/16-oz tungsten head. The professional tying work paired with the UV epoxy coating on the top of this micro jig offers action, appeal, and durability.
Things look filthy!
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Northland Tackle Tungsten Bobber Jig
It’s made of 95% pure tungsten and has flat, faceted sides so it shows up better on live sonar. Has a wider gap for tipping with a variety of live bait options, including larger minnows.
BUT it's not just for under bobbers...I know you ice-heads are eyeing this up for setlines (deadsticks, tip-ups, rattle reels, etc) too!
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Rapala Nano Rap
Check out Rapala's tiniest lure ever, which is a 3/4" finesse bait built for panfish. It has a tungsten weight, rattles and has a rocking jigging action – sinks fast and dances on the fall. Available in 14 colors.
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Lindy Rattl'N Flyer Spoon
No ice-head’s box would be complete without this hardwater OG.
Darts and flies outside the hole to cover a ton of real estate, yet fishes heavy enough for the control you skilled spooners are lookin’ for. Super-loud brass rattles make a different kind of “ting” on its alloy innards. Tie on the “techni-glo red” color in dirty water and don’t look back:
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Northland Twitchin' Puppet
> ...a bite-sized profile in comparison to the other members of the glide bait family. When twitched and ripped the tail fin and wide profile allows this bait to dart and glide imitating a dying baitfish. Constructed using over-molded resin [durable!] the Twitchin' Puppet features a lifelike "Glass" finish that looks like a translucent baitfish.
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Lunkerhunt Big Eye Tail Spin
> Glow-in-the-dark patterns, an enticingly bladed tail, sharp heavy-weighted short shank hooks, and a pair of thunderstruck eyes that bring everything together.
Work the column!
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> On top of being a flutter spoon, rattle spoon and bladed spoon, this new Spade Blade version is jointed which gives it unique movements in the water. While jigging up: the joint generates an undulating raise. Once falling down: a unique twisting flutter action will activate.
I really wanna see that thing’s movement underwater:
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I mean, we wouldn't want all those new lures to get lonely....
StrikeMaster Maven 40V ice auger
I believe this is now the lightest, fastest, and most powerful 40V ice auger in its class. Won best of category for 'Ice Fishing’ at ICAST. The 8" unit smoothly cuts at 3.6" of ice per second and can drill thru 2,000" of ice on a single charge.
Weighs just 14.5 lbs, has a brushless motor, variable speed 'throttle', reverse, built-in LED light and bubble level, is more compact for getting those corner holes in the wheelhouse, the list goes on. 😮💨 I can’t wait to take mine out for a rip!
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There will also be a 10” version that weighs just 15.5 lbs, cuts at 2.5" of ice per second and can drill thru 1,440" of ice on a single charge.
Heads up: Scheels has ‘em in stock (for now!) and is running a killer promotion where you get a second battery AND a limited-edition 13 Fishing in-line reel for FREE when you buy the new Maven.
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> ...utilizes state-of-the-art thermoelectric generation technology. It captures the heat naturally produced by the heater and efficiently converts it directly into electricity to power the built-in air circulation fan. This means the Power Fan operates entirely without the need for batteries or an external power source, making it both incredibly convenient and environmentally friendly.
> Once attached, it quietly begins circulating warm air, ensuring better heat distribution whether you are camping, working in the garage, or dealing with an emergency.
> Specifically made for all Mr. Heater Portable Buddy Heaters (MH9BX/F232000) from 2009 to present....
FYI that last blip ^ was confusing to many (me too) but it means that it only fits that specific 9,000 BTU size of Portable Buddy Heaters, which I believe is this one right here. So it will NOT work with the "Big Buddy."
And gotta give it bonus points for resembling Gonzo from the Muppets:
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FishMore T3 Pro Jigging Spoon Boxes
If you haven’t heard of FishMore yet, they make some incredible bait-specific boxes.
But they also have these killer jigging spoon boxes that keep the hooks from tangling, and more importantly keep your jigging spoons from banging around = so they don't chip the paint or break the rattle!
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If you’re going to the St Paul Ice Show (MN) Dec 5-7, swing by booth 656 to see their stuff in person. They’ve got some other AWESOME jigging spoon inserts coming you just might get to see first.... 🤫
Otter Sonar Sled
One of my favorite new items this season. 💯
> With the trend of forward-facing sonar and bigger screens, the Otter Sonar Sled gets your sonar unit and the rest of your gear from hole to hole with ease.
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Few more details:
- Designed for Sonar Units: Features a designated, protective cavity to securely transport larger sonar units and shuttles.
- Transducer Pole Cavity: Designated cavity for an adjustable ice pole with a mounted transducer, simplifying transport and setup.
- Roto-Molded Construction: Ultra-strong, single-piece roto-molded polyethylene construction for superior durability and cold-weather toughness.
- Front storage area with a magnetic lid closure for quick, secure access to gear.
- Multiple Compartments: Includes dedicated slots for a bucket, tackle, tools, and bait pucks.
- Built-in rod holders and a convenient cup holder.
This little unit can hold a pile of (organized) gear when hole-hopping:
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HD Innovations HDI Ice Shuttle
Lots of pros to this shuttle and can’t currently think of any cons.... Gotta say, of all the ice shuttles I’ve used (probably 5 or 6 different brands so far) this is by far the easiest to rig up or “put together.” You do NOT need to be an electrician to assemble it and get on the ice 🤷♂️ IYKYK hahaha!
Comes professionally wired (harnesses with ALL connections included) and has a hinge-down, toolless front panel so you can easily access the battery and connections. I’m telling you, that’s worth its weight in gold!
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Clam Rechargeable Hand Warmer 2.0
> Featuring four heat settings and up to 18 hours of warmth, this slim, heavy-duty warmer slips easily into your pocket and doubles as a power bank to charge your phone or other devices. With waterproof construction, a built-in flashlight, and quick recharge capability, it’s ready for your coldest days on the ice.
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Whitewater Wool Fingerless Gloves
Something every fisher-person needs to own. They’re cheap, comfortable and dry out extremely quickly. I rock ‘bum gloves’ any chance I get:
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Amped Outdoors 32Ah Bluetooth Lithium Battery
> The most popular ice fishing battery for forward-facing sonar power. At only 4 lbs, it keeps you on the ice longer than any other battery in its class. Compatible with all major shuttles, and with built-in Bluetooth, you can be confident it will stand the test of time.
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Aqua-Vu AV822 HD
I've heard from a few buddies that this bad boy is the bee's knees! Full 1080p HD camera with an 8” LCD display...Aqua-Vu’s patented revolution cable management system...built-in DVR for recording...HDMI out for connecting to the big screen or to your sonar screen...also gets 9 hours of runtime thx to its rechargeable internal lithium-ion battery!
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Really love that it’s got a big HD screen yet is overall a slim, compact unit. I need to ask Santa for one this year so I can add some HD underwater footage to the Target Walleye vids! 🔥
Kahtoola MICROspikes
I had basically tried every pair of ice cleats, springs, screws, razor blade, mousetrap style/make/brand of ice traction on the market...before a buddy of mine FINALLY hipped me to Kahtoola MICROspikes. Spendy, yes. But nothing else compares! I’ve been using ‘em for 12+ years now.
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Folks literally climb mountains with ‘em, so they can for sure handle that run to the tip-up lol. Do yourself a favor and check them out, you won't be disappointed.
Clam X-600 Hub Shelter
> ...a premium, extra-large ice fishing shelter built for anglers who demand maximum space and comfort. Constructed with rugged 900-denier fabric and a full thermal skin, it delivers superior heat retention while minimizing condensation. Boasting 94 sq. ft. of fishable area, heavy-duty poles, and oversized doors, the X-600 combines durability with quick, hassle-free setup. Whether you’re fishing with friends, enjoying family time, or planning an overnight on the ice, this hub keeps you warm, protected, and ready for action all day long.
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Sufix Rattle Reel V-Coat line
This stuff should literally be required to be on every single rattle reel – once you use it, you’ll never go back.
Basically a neutrally-buoyant fly line that lasts forever-and-a-half. Best part = WAY less tangles! Has a vinyl coating that’s waterproof so it doesn’t freeze and won’t cut your hands when that slimy pike makes a big ol’ run.
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Works great on tip-ups, too.
Clam Watchtower Tip Up
> ...spot your bites faster – day or night – with the Clam Watchtower. When the flag tower pops and the LED lights start flashing, you’ll know the action has begun. This fully insulated tip-up keeps your hole ice-free, while smooth-operating components ensure fish never feel resistance. With 360° visibility and bright, color-changeable lights [can be set to blue, red, or green], the Watchtower is impossible to miss – even from 100+ yards away.
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STOCK Fishing Gear
The brand is called "STOCK" and for every item purchased, they “fund the stocking of 3 walleye or trout into your local waters. It’s [their] way of giving back to the sport that has given us so much joy.”
How cool is that? Great idea! Here's a few of their awesome designs, but they’re constantly adding more:
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I had the chance to meet them and chat a bit earlier this summer – great guys! And I’ll for sure be swinging by their booth (#1410) to say hey during the St Paul Ice Show happening Dec 5-7. Word on the street ice is they’ll be dropping some new gear....
Spoiler alert: It's slimey!!! 🐉 #burbot #eelpout
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Keep doing your thing fellas 🙌 and thank you for making the future of our fisheries part of the game plan.
Beaver Dam Scheels Exclusive Firetiger Tip-Up
> Custom colors for Scheels customers! Beaver Dam Tip-Ups are Still the Original, Still the Smoothest, and Still Proudly Made by Hand in the U.S.A. This tip-up features legendary Beaver Dam Smooth-Spool Technology and Freezeproof Grease to ensure that even the most finicky fish won't drop the bait, helping you put more fish on the ice. Try one today and see why this legend is still number one, even after 50 yrs.
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Heads up! Our friends over at Catch Cover only have a sale once a year and it's happening RIGHT NOW thru Dec 7. Everything on their site is 20% off (no offer code needed) + free shipping on purchases over $150.
Btw check their amazing warranty:
> “Ice fishing is hard on equipment. Sh## happens...when it does, we're here to help. All Catch Cover products are manufactured in Minnesota and guaranteed for life. Simple as that!”
Love it! 🙌
ClamLock Vertical Rattle Reel
> Stay on top of every bite with the ClamLock Vertical Rattle Reel – engineered for serious ice anglers who spend long hours on the ice. Designed to mount from the ceiling or beneath hole covers in permanent fish houses, it keeps lines tangle-free and out of the way. A precision tensioning system lets you fine-tune resistance for any bait size, while the upgraded bearing system ensures ultra-smooth operation, so fish never feel a thing. And when the action starts, the loud rattling chamber makes sure you’ll hear it from anywhere in the shack.
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- Features dual IPX8-rated waterproof USB ports (USB-A & USB-C)
- Connect to your smartphone with the FREE Norsk Guardian App via Bluetooth
- Features Deep Sleep Advanced Storage Technology
- One Touch Power Management Button with built-in state of charge meter with 4 bright LEDs.
I was scrolling thru their IG and came across some really interesting vids. One of those addressing a question they get asked all of the time: “Why don't I just go buy a battery on Amazon for half the price?” Here’s one difference in “Cheap lithium vs Norsk Lithium.”
Grundens Dispatch Flannel
Big flannel guy here. 🙋♂️ And Grundens recently added some awesome new colors to their Dispatch Flannel shirt 🔥 that I NEED in my life:
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Or maybe you need something that's built for even colder climates, like the Bankside Lined Shacket that’s “outfitted with fleece-lined hand pockets, a reinforced zippered chest pocket, and easy release snaps.”
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RLVNT Chameleon lenses
This is super cool. 😎 RLVNT’s Chameleon lenses have “Adaptive Light Technology” that changes color based on the amount of available light. In low sunlight: the lens lets more light through. As sunlight increases: the lens absorbs more light. So your vision stays consistent even as lighting conditions change.
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These shades also have a shatter-proof lens material with ScreenVu technology which cuts glare on sonar screens, phones, smartwatches, etc. No need to adjust your position to see/read the screen.
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Vexilar FLX-18
> The FLX-18 is the NEW and improved version of the legendary FL-18. Featuring low power mode, high power mode, and two zoom zones, the FLX-18 is a step up from its predecessor! The FLX-18 ranges down to 300 feet and the zoom zones allow you to focus on the bottom 6 feet or 12 feet depending on your preference. Night mode and the three-color pallet selection make customizing the display quick and easy.
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Summit Tallboy Shuttle
Transporting big, forward-facing sonar units on the ice can be a mess. If you've got one – or been fishing with someone who has one – you know you basically have to plan your entire on-ice transportation system around how you're going to safely get that spendy unit from spot to spot.
But Summit just dropped a new Tallboy Shuttle that might solve that problem for some folks' ice-fishing needs...
> Built to sit 18” off the ground, it’s the tallest shuttle on the market. Also conveniently made to fit in a 5-gallon bucket or milk crate.
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We’ve come a long way from those wooden jiggle sticks your grandpappy used to use in the darkhouse...hand-lining in panfish next to a wood-burning stove. Nothing wrong with that [!] unless you’re looking to up your game....
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JT Outdoors 38" Gold Digger – ML X-Fast Ice Rod
> We don’t take shortcuts, while others cut down blanks, every one of our proprietary blanks is purpose-built, engineered with a specific length and load curve in mind that define the exact action and power we strive for.
> The result, a medium-light, extra-fast rod with the perfect backbone to absorb every head shake giving you total control without sacrificing feel.
A longer version of their tried and true, walleye catchin' machine. 🔥
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> Proudly built in Farmington, MN, and crafted for anglers who appreciate the details.
Tuned Up Custom Rods Bullwhip
They don’t need an introduction, but I’m gonna give ’em one anyway! Tuned Up Custom Rods are hand built from the ground up in Coon Rapids, MN. 🇺🇸
They have a ton of great rods in their lineup, but the one I’m gonna specifically call out right now is the Bullwhip because it literally set the bar for hardwater panfish sticks. And I know numerous diehard ice-heads who say that out of all the ice rods they have ever owned, the Bullwhip is their absolute favorite:
> The most versatile Noodle rod around. The Bullwhip features a solid fiberglass blank with an extra-long Hi-Viz yellow tip, perfect for visual bite detection, yet strong enough to fish larger tungsten jigs and small spoons while still having control of the bait. The quick, noodle tip transitions into a very strong backbone [incredible action!] that makes fighting slab crappies a breeze and has been known to land 40″ surprise pike.
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And yup ^^^ you can customize them (if you want) to make it your own. Not just the Bullwhip, but any TUCR:
> Customers can specify exactly how long they want their rods to be, down to the fraction of an inch. We then custom fit the handle of your choice, and add the highest quality titanium Recoil guides to the rod. Each guide is hand wrapped in the color or colors of your choosing and then finished with slow curing epoxy to ensure a clear, clean finish for the life of your rod. Any rod can also be custom written on with a meaningful name or phrase of your choosing.
Btw 👀 TUCR added to their 25/26 hardwater lineup
First is the all-new Custom GTA:
> ...redefines walleye ice rod design. Crafted on a sleek, glossy root beer colored carbon fiber blank with Gold REC Recoil Ice guides, the GTA combines stunning looks with top-tier performance. Designed for spoon anglers, the GTA excels with 1/8- to 3/8-oz spoons, featuring a medium-light, fast-action tip that seamlessly transitions into a powerful backbone.
Action-wise, it’s going to fall between the Power Precision and the Precision.
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Next up is the QT2, which is built from the legacy of the QuickTip:
> The ALL NEW QT2 takes panfish rod design to the next level. Built on a solid carbon fiber blank, the QT2 features a sensitive, quick tip that transitions into a strong backbone. Feel even the lightest bites and have the power to haul in whatever’s on the other end.
Okuma Ceymar “A” Spinning Reels
> Ceymar “A” spinning reels deliver smooth, reliable power with a multi-disc oiled felt drag, Okuma’s Flite Shaft system, and a 7BB+1RB bearing setup with precision-cut brass pinion gear. I- and T-shaped TPE knobs provide a secure grip in cold conditions, while Quick-Set anti-reverse locks in solid hooksets. Precision Elliptical Gearing keeps everything efficient.
The 500 size [left] is super compact and light for panfish setups or finesse walleye applications. If you walleye-chasers prefer larger ice reels [like I do] then bump up to the 2000-size on the right:
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They also have a Ceymar “A” Baitfeeder version. If you’ve never seen a “baitfeeder” spinning reel, they are THE DEAL for set-lines or deadsticks. Lets you disengage the spool so the fish can run – then just flip the switch or start reeling and your normal drag is automatically engaged again = never miss a beat on the hookset.
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Those things have changed the way we ice fish – for the better! 👏
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St Croix - Croix Custom Ice
I’m a big fan of technique-specific rods whether we’re talking open-water or ice. Proven actions, powers, lengths and blank materials that are all geared towards a specific situation to maximize your execution. St. Croix has nailed it with the few CCI models I’ve personally been able to try, which makes me want to get my hands on more.
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> The pinnacle of St. Croix ice-rod performance, the elite-level CCI Series consists of 16 models ranging from the CI20LXF SIGHT BITE to the CI42HM APEX PREDATOR for all techniques and species. Technique-optimized blanks are handcrafted in the USA from solid carbon, solid glass, tubular carbon, tubular carbon+glass, or tubular carbon + tubular glass and are finished with super-grade cork handles and titanium guides. Retail $140-$170.
Can check the different model options here.
St Croix Premier Ice Combos
'Cuz quality ice combos don't need to break the bank!
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> Consisting of five precision-matched ready-to-fish models ranging from the PIC24ML to the PIC36MH St. Croix Premier Ice Combos deliver upper-hand performance in hardwater pursuits from panfish to pike. Featuring sensitive and durable solid carbon blanks, stainless-steel guides, and smooth and strong composite and aluminum 2+1 bearing reels with folding handles, affordable and premium Premier Ice Combos are designed to deliver elevated ice fishing experiences over multiple seasons. Retail $75-$85.
13 Fishing Baitstriker Ice Reel
> When engaged, the BaitStriker Switch allows the spool to have a controlled "free-spool" function. This means the line can be pulled off the spool with very little resistance, which is essential for a subtle bite when the rod is set in a holder (aka deadstick).
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> When a fish bites and runs, it pulls line off the reel. Since the drag is essentially bypassed in this mode, the fish feels almost no resistance, which can encourage it to fully commit to the bait.
> The system will instantly re-engage the reel's main drive and drag system when the angler picks up the rod and turns the handle. This allows the angler to immediately set the hook and fight the fish using the full power of the reel and its set drag.
Fenwick launches new ice lineup 🥶🕳️
From their Eagle to World Class series the whole Fenwick Ice series got a full redesign – built for top-end sensitivity, balance, and feel no matter what you’re chasing through the ice. MSRP varies by model.
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I've been loving their revamped open-water lineup, so looking forward to playing with some of these.
Ugly Stik has new ice rods and combos
> At the core of the GX2 Ice series is the signature Ugly Stik blank, ensuring maximum sensitivity and the legendary toughness anglers have trusted for generations.
> Each rod features Ugly Tuff one-piece stainless-steel guides with a proprietary PVD coating that reduces line fray – eliminating insert pop-outs even in frigid, rugged conditions.
> The GX2 Ice combo pairs this durable rod with a size 20 spinning reel featuring a ported aluminum spool, creating a lightweight, balanced setup ready to perform on the ice.
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> Ergonomic EVA handles and an upgraded reel seat deliver comfort and control during long days on the frozen lake, backed by Ugly Stik’s industry-leading 10-year rod warranty.
MSRPs are rods $36.95 and combos $46.95.
> For those seeking ultimate sensitivity and refinement, the new Ugly Stik Carbon Ice series takes performance to another level with 100% 24-ton graphite construction and a solid graphite tip for crisp action and dependable strength.
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Carbons are $59.95 and $79.95.
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Of course can’t fit every cool new thing in a single email...so we’ll keep sprinkling ’em in upcoming Target Walleyes going forward. Thank YOU for reading – back atcha next week. 👊
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Sign up another fish-head!
If you're forwarding Target Walleye to a friend who loves to walleye fish or want your fishing buddies to get these emails, just send us their email addresses and we'll take care of it! (We won't sell the addresses, use them for spam, etc.)
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FRIENDS OF TARGET WALLEYE
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Target Walleye – walleye during open water and all species during hardwater – is brought to you by Al Lindner, Jay Kumar, Chris Philen, Brett McComas and other diehard fish-heads like you!
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Brett McComas is the main man for Target Walleye He was discovered in Brainerd, MN after years of wondering how in the heck people break into the fishing biz. He's in it now, but still can't answer that question.... Brett is one of those guys who majored in marketing, only because there was no such thing as a "fishing degree" at the time.... Get him at brett@targetwalleye.com
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