Back in July, I made my annual pilgrimage to ICAST - the world's largest fishing trade show - once again held at Orange County Convention Center in Orlando. With nearly 700 exhibitors, the show includes everything of interest to the angler.
From 2014 to 2018, ICAST (hosted by the American Sportfishing Association) was cojoined with the International Fly Tackle Dealer (IFTD) hosted by the American Fly Fishing Tackle Association (AFFTA). Then in 2021, IFTD was dissolved.
Since then, ICAST has made efforts to expand their fly fishing area of the show. This year saw more fly fishing exhibitors than ever. My job as your fearless field reporter is to review as many different products of interest to both fly fishers and kayak anglers. I tested out a few kayaks this year at the Demo Day, and over two dozen fly rods during the show itself - and even a few conventional rods. I also examined several dozen non-tackle items that we are likely to use in our fishing experience.
Every year prior to ICAST we hear the word "gamechanger" thrown about so much it's probably lost its meaning. In my experiences over many years, only about one - maybe two - new products each year are worthy of this moniker. For 2024, I can say there's one definite gamechanger, and we start our list with it.
To see a larger image of any of these products, simply click on the image and "View Image".
Lowrance Eagle Eye 9 fish finder
Whatever you call it - Forward Facing Sonar, Live Imaging Sonar, or by the brand name LiveScope - there's no denying the monumental impact it has had on deepwater fishing. I can tell you from crappie fishing experience, it's the bomb! Problem is that (1) it's very cumbersome for kayaks and (2) it's expensive.
The EE9 is the kayak angler's wish come true! It has live sonar with CHIRP and downscan imaging and detailed C-MAP on a bright, clear IPS display. It draws only 2.9 amps so a small lithium battery can be used. And it comes with a transducer small enough to fit most kayak poles. In other words, it's the total package in one unit. And here's the kicker - it's under $1,000 (MSRP $999).
So what gives at this price? Surprisingly, it uses the same FFS technology as their higher priced units, but only at 35 degrees instead of 130 degrees scan width. Given that kayak anglers aren't going to troll at 6 to 8 mph in search of brush piles, that's not a big sacrifice. In fact, it's a small one for this amazing price.
Newport Vessels NK180 Pro trolling motor and LoPro battery
While on kayak fishing, we all know that motorized kayak angling has exploded in the last few years. Now that most kayak bass tournaments and many saltwater tourneys allow motors, what was a fad among non-tournament folks is now becoming common to all.
I've always been a big fan of Newport Vessels motors, but they required a third-party battery. For 2024, NV has not only upgraded their popular NK180 motor (60 lbs max thrust). They've also created a propriety lithium battery pack that can fit under kayak seats in high position and allows plug-and-play functionality. It also has Bluetooth connectivity to monitor via a Smartphone.
I tested the setup on a Bonafide SK117 at the Demo Day. It was fast and responsive, and the new foot-pedal steering system made it a breeze. What I found out later is that this new motor has 25 percent more range than the previous model for the same speed settings. The 24 volt / 50 amphour LoPro battery is so light compared to my AGM model, and with the NK180 Pro gives a 20 mile range at 60% throttle!
The NK180 Pro sells for $999. The LoPro battery price hasn't been set, but was told it'll be in the same price range as most lithiums.
Premium Rod category - Hardy Marksman Z
When it comes to premium fly rods, the competition is fierce and so very close. When you spend over $1,000 on a rod, it better be the best you've ever cast and the Hardy Marksman Z is certainly that rod. While it came out last year, I hadn't had a chance to test it before. All I can say is that tarpon legend Andy Mill and I got into a casting contest with the 8-weight model and it was obvious any fish out 100 feet wouldn't stand a chance with the Z! It's simply remarkable that you can get this distance with amazing accuracy, cast after cast.
As I tell folks, the best value for most of us is mid-priced rods simply because we don't fish for very spooky fish at very long ranges. At least 99 percent of the time. I can suffice with a couple mid-priced rods over one premium rod. But if you're the person who wants that one great rod, you can't go wrong with the Z.
Premium Rod category - Douglas Sky G
The Sky G came out in 2020, but I've not tested until this year. If you ever follow the rod reviews on Yellowstone Angler, you know that Douglas rods are always near the top. I've been equally impressed, although I've found them to always be the bridesmaid, never the bride. I think they've fixed that with the Sky G.
The dampening and recovery was on par with the Marksman Z. It was just a joy to cast with its low swing weight and slightly moderate side of fast action. The best part is the price. At $895, it's one of the few premium rods below the four-digit price barrier. Douglas has a no-fault warranty for the original owner, where you can purchase a replacement section online for a discounted cost.
Mid-priced Rod category - TFO Solution
Over the past decade, I've been slightly critical of TFO fly rods. There's been some hits - and some misses. But last year, TFO hit a home run.. no, a grand slam.. with it's fast-action Blitz rod. At $430, it is probably one of the best buys in a fast action fly rod, at any price.
Being a moderate kind of guy, I was hoping they'd put this same level of technology into a moderate-fast rod. Well they did - the Solution was as impressive in my casting tests as any rod I tried out at ICAST. It's slightly more expensive, but at $499 still a bargain in the mid-priced rod category. It's described as a freshwater rod, and most of the rods in the series are light to midweight. But the 8-weight was so much fun to cast it could easily be a great marsh rod. My only gripe is the grip - like all new TFO rods it's a bit short for my tastes.
Mid-priced Rod category - Douglas DXF2
The Douglas DXF rod is one I have cast before - and was not overly impressed. Well according to Douglas, they've incorporated the latest technology and materials in their upgrade of the DXF, and even upgraded the hardware.
To say they hit the mark would be the understatement of the new millineum. The moderate-fast action DXF2 outperformed any mid-priced rod I tested at ICAST with exception of the TFO Solution, which was pretty even battle. What I did like about the DXF2 over the Solution was the longer grip, which on a long fishing day - a few hundred casts - would be noticeable. MSRP is $499 to $549 depending on model.
At that price point, the DXF2 rivals the TFO Blitz and Solution, Lamson Velocity, Sage Maverick and Orvis Recon for the best mid-priced fly rods.
Value Rod Category - Maxxon Aurelius
I first saw the Aurelius from Maxxon Outfitters last year at ICAST, but didn't get a solid pool test done because it was almost time to leave. This time, I put the Aurelius through several tests, and had a couple of other anglers try it out and give me their impressions.
At under $300, this rod provides performance normally seen in the mid-priced range. I tested out a 5-weight and a 7-weight. I'd describe the action as a tad faster than moderate-fast. It's light in the hand (low swing weight). What stood out for me was the olive green blank and the yellow wraps... colors of my high school. Geaux Bulldogs!
The testing was done using the lovely Maxxon Max fly reel. For $149, this machined reel has a smooth drag and a smaller width than most reels of this price range. As experts can tell you, a spool width of 1 inch or less provides a smoother outflow of line and better pickup. A great beginner saltwater reel!
About the only negative I can say is that the cork grip is probably AA quality. But its a longer grip than it's main competitor, the TFO Blue Ribbon, so a long day fishing won't strain the hand. Like most rods in the Value Category, it has a no-fault lifetime warranty. But I must say that after talking extensively with Justin and the rest of the Maxxon folks, this seems like a great company. I believe they'll have you back on the water in no time!
Budget Rod Category - Douglas ERA
It's getting near impossible to find a fast action rod under $200 these days. Douglas to the rescue. I test casted their new ERA in an 8-weight setup and was very much impressed in how it performed for a budget rod. From the looks, you'd be hard pressed to consider it as such, the reel seat and grip were better than expected.
The ERA casted nice tight loops out to 80 feet with no problem. At slightly longer distances, it caved just a little. But again how often are you casting out to 80 feet or more for redfish and speckled trout? If you're a beginner looking for your first marsh or general freshwater rod, or even an looking for an inexpensive backup rod, for only $149 this is it!
Hobie Mojo Floating Sunglasses
Hobie didn't bring their kayaks, but their sunglass division showed up and I'm glad they did. At the Demo Day, I got to try on their Mojo in Rose/Amber color. Yes, a combination of the two best colors for contrast and depth perception whether you're on the river or early morning fishing the marsh.
The Mojos have an extra-large frame to block out side glare, and give coverage from eyebrows to cheek. I could also tell you that the lenses feature their HydroClean 360 coating, but nearly all have some special coating. So here's the part that will get your attention: they're only $109 and can come in prescriptions!
Saber Products
Saber Products had a booth, and the couple that owns the company were the nicest people at the show. I've been tying on Saber hooks for some time. Some folks claim the quality isn't as consistent as Gamakatsu or Diachi, but for the price and the hell I put my hooks through, they've won my vote. They also have many series in black nickel finish and barbless, so double that vote.
Co-owner Micheal Bokan showed me many new products they'll soon be offering, from tying tools to carbon fiber "safe release" nets. Their short net was priced at $99, which would make it one of the best buys in this category.
Tsunami SaltX waterproof backpack
Typically when you see waterproof backpacks for under $200, they have a foldable top that latches down. Not this one - it's completely zippers. It even has a removable laptop storage pocket. There's also a latch ring and side straps. I was impressed by the ruggedness of the pack as well.
And what does this backpack sell for? The MSRP is $99. It still needs to be field tested to see if it can hold up to the more expensive packs of this type. But if can deliver on half - at half the price - it still is worth investing in for those needing an easy-to-use waterproof pack.
Marabou Brothers
There was something at ICAST for fly tiers as well. Renzetti had a couple of new items, and I've mentioned Saber. There were several others as well. But the most impressive of the "tying centric" booths was Marabou Brothers.
Some of you know I'm a huge fan of fur and feathers for lifelike action to flies - particularly marabou, rabbit and brahma hen feathers. These guys have really nice product and can dye it in any color you wish. Although their offerings certainly cover anything I can imagine. They not only do marabou, but just about all feathers and are getting into dying saddle hackle also. Can't wait to get some purple saddle feathers to tie up a Purple Boudreaux!
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Now there were several products that almost made this list. The new Cheeky Burst fly reel which will replace their Launch series. I'm a big fan of Cheeky and this reel seems like a notch up - and at nearly the same price $269.
Then there was the Grundens full premium waders. At $649, it rivals the best on the market with all waterproof pockets. Those who, like me, often fish with waist waders will really like the Paramount Guide Pant with 6 ply knee reinforcement for $219. I've been a big fan of Paramount since they first hit the market and they just keep coming out with great stuff at a value price.
I mentioned testing a few conventional rods. None impressed me more than the new St. Croix Physyx, a new line of finesse spinning rods (which I've an affinity for). It looks like no other St. Croix rod before. Was testing the 7'1" medium fast action with braided line and a bream hit my plastic jig and could almost feel it's breath! Really, this is begging for my money. $370 to be exact.
Finally, ICAST is more than an opportunity to see products. There are various seminars from industry reports to conservation topics. There's the Industry Breakfast with a Keynote Speaker and the "State of the Sport" presentation.
In the past I attended as either Industry or Media badge. But the last couple of years I've gone under the organizational badge representing Fly Fishers International. It's been an opportunity to connect with other conservation groups and wildlife agencies and learn and share. Already looking forward to 2025.
