The fishing industry gathers in Orlando, Florida, each summer for ICAST, the world’s largest sportfishing trade show. This is where new fishing tackle and equipment is unveiled before it hits the market in the fall or the following year.
Photo credit: Orange County Convention Center
Although ICAST, the massive international tackle trade show, is not open to the general public, covering it as a fishing enthusiast journalist allowed me to spend two to three days marveling at the latest fishing innovations. The July event featured an array of intriguing and advanced gear. From the multitude of products on display, I’ve selected 12 to highlight here. While some items won’t be available for several weeks, they certainly appear worth the wait.
### Columbia PFG Pro Sport Deck Boot
Columbia PFG Pro Sport deck boot
Photo credit: Shawn Bean
Florida Keys fly fishing guide and Columbia PFG ambassador Capt. Bear Holeman welcomed us with enthusiastic greetings, high fives, and even lifted one petite attendee into the air. The conversation swiftly led to Holeman showing off photos from his recent fly-fishing adventure in Ireland. Andy Nordhoff, a Columbia representative, then provided us with a sneak peek at their 2025 Spring line, including their entry into the competitive deck boot market: the PFG Pro Sport. Notable features include heel notches for easy removal and an Omni-MAX sole. Unlike other flat deck boots, these contoured soles offer adaptive cushioning, improved stability, and high comfort levels. Think of it as a comparison between classic basketball shoes and modern designs like Air Jordans. Retail price: $100. Visit www.columbia.com — Shawn Bean
### Daiwa Saltiga Light Jigging Rod
Daiwa Saltiga Light Jigging Rod
Photo credit: Courtesy Daiwa
The new Saltiga light jigging rods from Daiwa showcase the industry’s trend towards lighter and stronger jigging gear. This was observable at the ICAST show, where fishermen attempted—unsuccessfully—to break the rods while firmly anchored with robust braid. The strength is attributed to solid carbon construction, with Daiwa’s X45 carbon-fiber weave throughout the rod blank. Fuji K guides with SIC (silicon carbide) rings allow for smooth braid passage with reduced resistance and heat. The 6-foot, 2-inch conventional models can handle jigs weighing between 160 grams (5.5 ounces) and 200 grams (7 ounces), designed for up to 20-pound braid. The retail price is set at $449.99. Check out daiwa.us
### Fish Arrow Riser Jack Jointed Swimbait
Fish Arrow Riser Jack Jointed Swimbait
Photo credit: Doug Olander
The marketing team for this 8 ¾-inch Japanese swimbait boasts its remarkably lifelike swimming action. Observing it underwater during a moderate retrieve, it’s difficult to dispute that claim. Named the Riser Jack for its head-up rising motion when paused, it’s a collaboration between two top Japanese lure manufacturers. The lip can be detached for a distinct movement style, like a topwater wakebait. The hard-plastic jointed lure weighs 2 ½ ounces and comes in 11 colors. Manufacturer’s price is $74.07, with spare lips and v-tails in various colors also available. Visit kkjapanlure.com
### Halco Laser Pro 210
Halco Laser Pro 210
Photo credit: Doug Olander
Halco’s well-known Laser Pro series is lauded as one of the top trolling hard lures available. The Australian lure maker has finally responded to consumer demand by releasing its largest Laser Pro yet, the 210 model. This 8 ¼-inch Laser Pro maintains the strength and durability of its predecessors and features Halco’s reputable Triple-Turn split rings, providing 70 percent more strength than typical rings due to the extra turn. Additionally, it incorporates durable polycarbonate lips (“bibs” as referred to in Australia). The 210 is fitted with ultra-strong inline single hooks. For more information, visit halcotackle.com
### Isle Flywater Micro-Skiff Hybrid
Isle Flywater Micro-Skiff Hybrid
Photo credit: Doug Olander
Isle claims its new skiff-kayak hybrid is “300 percent more rigid than conventional inflatables.” While it’s challenging to verify that, hands-on testing provides significant evidence. The Flywater is constructed from patented Infinity Fiber composite, lending it both sturdiness and rigidity. At 12 ½ feet long, its shallow draft allows for stealthy navigation in various waters. Weighing just 49 pounds (hull only), it offers speed whether paddled or fitted with a small electric or gas trolling motor. An “Isle-Link” system is available to add accessories, including one or two “Cloud Kayak Seats” (included). List price: $1,695. Find out more at islesurfandsup.com
### Nocqua 20-Ah Lithium Battery
Nocqua 20-Ah Lithium Battery
Photo credit: Doug Olander
From personal experience, this compact 12-volt rechargeable lithium battery proves invaluable for kayak anglers using electronics. Though it fits comfortably in your hand, it readily powers a 7-inch color sounder/GPS throughout a long day, with power to spare. A water-resistant silicone skin encases the battery, which is also protected by a durable nylon sleeve. A sealed connection ensures electrical integrity. It includes a Nocqua Pro Battery Charger with circuit-board protection, overcharge safety, and battery-level indicator, along with a 12-month limited warranty. The 3-pound battery measures 8 by 8 by 4 inches. MSRP: $169.99. Check out nocqua.com
### Ocean’s Legacy Roven Jigs
Ocean’s Legacy Roven Jigs
Photo credit: Doug Olander
Among the more striking lures showcased at the 2024 ICAST event, if these jigs perform as well as they look, they may be exceptional. The Roven series is specifically designed for slow-pitch fishing, exhibiting a gentle side-to-side rocking motion as it descends nearly horizontally, providing attractive action even in low current. Its luminous pattern and ultra-high UV shimmer enhance reflection. The Roven jigs are available in 9 colors and weights ranging from 40 grams to 260 grams, priced from $11.95 (40 grams) to $22.95 (260 grams). Discover more at oceanslegacy.com
### Penn Fathom Electric Reel
Penn Fathom Electric Reel
Photo credit: Sam Hudson
The new electric reel from Penn drew everyone’s attention at the show. The Fathom Electric reel features an integrated lithium battery, user-friendly LED display, and customizable options. This electric deep-dropper operates entirely cordless, but Penn offers optional corded batteries with pigtail or Hubbell plug connections if desired. The reel has a maximum winding capacity of 35 lbs. and can reach speeds of up to 750 feet per minute, according to the company. Models are available in sizes 30, 50, and 80. MSRP is expected to be between $799.95 and $899.95, with extra batteries costing about $100 and chargers ranging from $100 to $200. The reels are anticipated to launch in September 2024. Visit pennfishing.com — Sam Hudson
### Quantum Benchmark Spinning Reels
Quantum Benchmark Spinning Reels
Photo credit: Courtesy Quantum
Quantum’s reputable Cabo and Boca reels have gained a dedicated following due to their reliability at a reasonable price. The manufacturer now presents its Benchmark series, which features rigid aluminum frames sealed with its proprietary Sealoq 6, designed to protect internal components and five stainless-steel ball bearings from water, salt, and sand. The aluminum and brass gears are precision-cut for smooth operation. The carbon-fiber drag system is claimed to deliver impressive max-drag levels with consistent performance. Available in six sizes from 2500 to 8000, accommodating braids between 10 to 65 pounds. Prices range from $149.95 to $189.95. Visit quantumfishing.com
### Salta MagRunner 220 Deep-Diving Lure
Salta MagRunner 220 Deep-Diving Lure
Photo credit: Doug Olander
Salta Lures claims it has created the ultimate deep-diving lure capable of trolling to depths over 100 feet with the MagRunner 220. It features two attachment points, one for deep trolling and another for ultra-deep use — achieving speeds of up to 10 knots. The lure is through-wired and crafted from aircraft-grade polycarbonate, noted to be twice as strong as ABS. It includes two stainless-steel big-game hooks integrated into a four-magnet HookMag system that holds the belly hook in the downward position until a strike occurs. The lure measures 8 ¾ inches and comes with 555-pound stainless ball-bearing swivels and 470-pound stainless split rings. It is expected to be available by November 2024, priced between $75.95 and $79.95. Find more at saltalures.com
### Stafu Tasman Hooded Tech Shirt
Stafu Tasman Hooded Tech Shirt
Photo credit: Doug Olander
Think you’ve seen all fishing shirts? Think again: Stafu, a Turkish apparel maker, offers the Tasman Rash-Guard hoodie lightweight fishing shirts for men that stand out with unique graphics and colors. Beneath their innovative designs, these lightweight shirts are packed with features for anglers, including moisture-wicking properties, bi-stretch fabrics, antibacterial qualities, 40+ UPF protection, and water- and stain-repellent characteristics. Composed of 85 percent polyester and 15 percent elastane (a flexible polyurethane), the shirts are available in multiple colors as well as an eye-catching octopus pattern, in sizes from small to 3X large. The retail price is approximately $95. More information can be found at stafupro.com
### Strike King Rage Hawk Soft Bait
Strike King Rage Hawk Soft Bait
Photo credit: Doug Olander
Amid numerous soft-lure designs, the Rage Hawk captured the attention of many anglers at the ICAST show. Strike King cites a bass pro who utilizes this bait “when you want to show the fish something different.” A fitting description, the unique shape of the Rage Hawk enables it to be rigged weedless and dragged through cover or sight-cast during spring. Its body perfectly accommodates a 5/0 hook, according to Strike King. The lure measures 3 ¼ inches and is available in 13 colors, with a package of nine baits priced at $6.99. For further details, visit strikeking.com