We just got in the door from ICAST (fishing biz trade show in Orlando) where we got a sneak peek at all the new gear for 2017. It’s a bass-heavy event but there’s more and more walleye doodads released each year. Here’s just some of the cool new stuff that caught our eye.
Rapala
Slab Rap
With quick rod snaps the Slab Rap searches in wide, erratic directions, circling back to center after pause. Lift-drop motion creates subtle vibration on rise, followed by evasive side-to-side motion on the fall. Weight forward design creates a rocking action for triggering negative fish.
Flat Jig
At 80% heavier than a similar length Jigging Rap, the Flat Jig performs well in heavy current and deep water. The wide, flat minnow body profile has a responsive, long-gliding searching action.
Shad Dancer
This multi-species balsa bait brings the excitement of the Rapala Tail Dancer to a shad profile. Swimming with a silent, aggressive, hard-thumping sweeping tail action. Designed to dive deep whether cast or trolled.
Scatter Rap Deep Husky Jerk
Baitfish skitter and scatter when they’re pursued by predators, and this erratic and evasive action triggers the strike. Made with a custom Scatter Lip, the Scatter Rap Deep Husky Jerk swims with that erratic and evasive sweeping action, mimicking vulnerable baitfish.
Frabill
I-Float Suit
This is the only flotation-assisting ice fishing suit on the market to be recognized by the U.S. Coast Guard as a USCG Certified Personal Flotation Device. The ergonomic design and durable construction has security features like mesh self-drainage openings for emergency water evacuation, and high-visibility USCG orange lining.
Weigh Bag System
Frabill’s three-part Weigh Bag System consists of an insulated and reinforced freestanding weigh bag, a removable inner mesh bag, and a compact portable aerator.
Matzuo
Zanda Shad
Word is it dives 15-24′, and comes in 16 colors and 2 different sizes. They also beefed up the trebles and added a dorsal fin on the back for a tighter wobble.
Humminbird
Helix 10 SI GPS
In case you haven’t seen the new HELIX 10 yet, know that it was voted ICAST 2016 Electronics Best of Show by dealers and outdoor media. That’s Humminbird’s 6th consecutive ICAST win — well deserved. A great unit.
Onyx Outdoor Gear
Impulse A-33 In-Sight Automatic Inflatable Life Jacket
Automatic-inflating with a burst-away zipper [instead of Velcro] to reveal a super high-vis inflation chamber. Big-boy approved – extended sizing up to a 65” chest and a wider neckline. A life jacket you’ll actually want to wear.
Kayak Fishing Vest
Has pockets specifically designed for essential gear for when you’ve got a little bit of room and a lot of stuff. The one-button fold-down tray pocket creates a good work station while also securing a small tackle box with the 2” elastic strap.
DuraSafe
E-LOCKS
The Durasafe universal electronics lock replaces the factory knob from either side of an electronics unit to offer peace of mind that your electronics will still be there. No need to reconsider docking your boat to grab a bite to eat or rushing around inside a gas station.
South Bend
Fiber Optic Balsa Float
Has a lithium ion battery and fiber optic stem for the night bite. The new slide lock system means you can use it as a fixed or slip float.