Best New Products of iCAST 2017: Day 1

Berkley Fireline Ultra 8

Berkley takes fishing line innovation to the next level with its new Fireline Ultra 8. Thermally-fusing an eight-carrier Dyneema fiber braid makes this Fireline the toughest yet, with four times more abrasion resistance than the original. Casting distance is also said to be improved. Available in smoke and crystal finishes, Berkley Fireline Ultra 8 comes in 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 17, 20 and 30 pound test. MSRP is $19.99 for a filler spool.

Ardent Tackle Apex Denny Brauer Flippin Reel

Designed by elite angler Denny Brauer, the Apex Denny Brauer Flippin Reel is specifically designed for “flippin and pitchin” to fish buried deep in heavy cover. The narrow spool design and ceramic insert nose piece allow for direct line release. Major features include 10+1 ball bearings, an all-aluminum frame, and a carbon fiber handle. But don’t look for a level wind, because it doesn’t have one. Available in left-hand or right-hand retrieve, in either 6.5:1 and 7.3:1 retrieve ratios. MSRP is $149.99.

SPRO BBZ-1 Rat 25

SPRO is adding to its acclaimed BBZ-1 Rat family with the all-new BBZ-1 Rat 25. This downsized topwater bait produces a deep thumping sound when fished on a steady retrieve, or an erratic side-to-side action when fished in a stop-and-go. The Rat 25 measures 2.5 inches in length and weighs 5/16 ounce, making it usable with light baitcasting gear. It comes in all five BBZ-2 Rat colors, and includes a replacement tail section. MSRP is $19.95

Garmin Quatrix 5 Sapphire Marine Smartwatch

Garmin’s Quatrix 5 sapphire marine smartwatch provides comprehensive connectivity with compatible Garmin chartplotters and other devices. Capabilities include autopilot control, remote waypoint marking and data streaming, such as speed, depth, temperature and wind. Built-in Wi-Fi plus connected features for smart notifications, automatic uploads and more add to its utility. It even includes a wristband heart rate monitor, and a built-in GPS. MSRP is $849.99

Evergreen Noisy Dachs ND-90

Evergreen is known for making high-end tackle, and the Noisy Dachs ND-90 is about as high-end as fishing lures get. The new hybrid wake bait/swim bait pushes a small wall of water like most billed wake boats, but also has a distinctive shad tail – constructed of a unique hardwood said to produce a deeper, more marked sound – that thumps loudly on the surface. In fact, the entire bait is constructed of hardwood for natural action and buoyancy, and comes rigged with Decoy big game treble hooks. Consider it the Mercedes-Benz of fishing lures, and with an MSRP to match at $89.99.

Okuma Coronado CDX

The new Coronado CDX baitfeeder reel from Okuma utilizes a trip bait-feeding system that allows anglers to disengage the spool and allow the bait to run freely. Cyclonic flow rotor technology and heavy duty brass DFD and spool shaft stabilizer work with five bearing construction for silky smooth operation. A corrosion-resistant body, slow oscillation and a one year warranty make the Coronado CDX a top pick for freshwater or saltwater use. MSRP is $99.99 to $119.99 depending on size.

Yo-Zuri Crystal Minnow Deep Diver Walleye 5.25

Yo-Zuri showed a new addition to its popular Crystal Minnow Deep Diver Walleye series of crankbaits. The new 5-1/4 inch model dives to depths of up to 20 feet and comes in 14 painted and translucent finishes, including all-clear and all-white models for anglers who wish to apply their own unique color patterns. Black nickel round bend hooks, black nickel split rings and Yo-Zuri’s proven Crystal Minnow action give this bait plenty of appeal. MSRP is $9.99.

Clee-Seven Bass Design Explorer

V-shaped and light weight, the Explorer hybrid kick boat from Clee-Seven Bass Design is the ideal watercraft for anglers who like to get way back into ultra-remote lakes. It features the company’s patented Clipline system to secure cargo side bags and anchor loose fishing tackle, while the built-in seat has holders for a security flag and two fishing rods. A pocket apron keeps essential gear within easy reach, while padded backpack straps allow easy portability. It even comes with a trolling motor mount for longer expeditions. MSRP is $559.00

Wiley X Omega Kryptek Neptune

Wiley X has partnered with Kryptek to create what the company calls the ultimate in polarized fishing glasses. Filter 8 polarized lenses provide premium protection while meeting or exceeding ANSI Z87.1-2010 and EN.166 safety standards for optical clarity as well as high velocity impact protection. Offered in sizes medium and large, each comes with a case strap, cleaning cloth and a limited lifetime warranty. MSRP is $140.00.