Humminbird’s MEGA Live Imaging TargetLock has created a buzz at ICAST 2022 in Orlando. (Photo courtesy of Humminbird)
Note: Check back for updates from ICAST 2022, scheduled July 20-22 in Orlando.
The annual ICAST Show in Orlando is a coming-out party for the best new fishing accessories each year, from gaffs and coolers to sunglasses and apparel.
Some are truly new, some may be a “new” update of a previous model. Whatever the case for the products introduced each year, anglers and industry folks love seeing them. You’ll see these cool new products on store shelves and websites now or in the coming months.
Mr. Crappie Slab Slanger Gloves
Cleaning fish is a chore, whether it’s a mess of catfish and crappie or offshore saltwater bigs such as cobia and snapper. Good gloves help the task. The new Mr. Crappie Slab Slanger Cut-Resistant gloves from Smith’s and Wally Marshall have been designed to handle any fish and processing work. The non-slip gloves are manufactured from food-grade high-performance polyethylene, which is four times stronger than leather and provides Cut Level 5 protection. The gloves are machine and hand-washable, shrink-resistant and breathable. Info: smithsproducts.com
Smith’s Regal River Ice Fishing Tool Kit
Ice fishing anglers need tough tools such as the seven essentials in the Smith’s Regal River Ice Fishing Tool Kit. When you’re going after pike and walleye on hardwater, you can’t afford to have mistakes. The new Smith’s tool kit includes a 9-inch jaw spreader, 6.5-inch stainless steel pliers and line scissor combo (with sheath and belt hook), line clipper, 4-inch folding flex fillet knife and a marine grade mesh tool bag. Info: smithsproducts.com
Bubba Multi-Flex Interchangeable Set
Bubba’s new Multi-Flex Interchangeable knife set features 9-inch serrated and stiff full-tang blades for whatever fish you need to process. The “squeeze and slide” mechanism allows for switching blades easily and also allows for better cleanup. The Flex-Change locking system keeps the blade safe and secure, and a non-slip grip handle offers a consistent feel. With versions for freshwater and saltwater, the set comes in a premium hard-sided carry case with a watertight seal, quick access handle and blade storage, and a flexible organizer for added storage. Info: bubba.com
Humminbird Mega Live Imaging TargetLock
No doubt, anglers have wondered if it would be possible to combine Live Imaging with TargetLock, giving them the ability fish more easily. capability? Humminbird has done that with the new Mega Live Imaging TargetLock. This new live sonar accessory provides anglers with the ability to control a Mega Live transducer independently of their Ultrex trolling motor’s steering. This gives anglers the power of Spot-Lock and boat control with their Ultrex motor, while introducing live sonar innovations exclusive to Mega Live TargetLock and Minn Kota Ultrex users. With the push of a button, the TargetLock feature locks the Mega Live onto structure and keeps it in clear view by automatically adjusting the Mega Live transducer as the boat moves position and changes direction. Whether the boat is moving, drifting, or Spot Lock is engaged, TargetLock does all the work to stay focused on structure and fish. Info: humminbird.com
Frogg Toggs Coastal Wading Packs
Frogg Toggs is introducing a series of coastal wading tackle packs that will work for inshore anglers as well as those wading freshwater streams for bass and panfish. The Coastal Wading Tackle Pack series is designed with high quality, functionality and portability in mind. Items in the series include the Tidal Sling with Waterproof Utility Box, Pursuit Wade Belt, Hightide Chest Pouch, Catchall Chest Pack, and Flats Sling Pack. Info: froggtoggs.com
Plano Edge Frog Box
Storing frogs always has been tricky for anglers. The baits get smooshed, rubber legs twisted, other additions such as blades maybe tangled. The new Plano Edge Frog Box eliminates that problem thanks to a cool design that vertically stores 50 baits by the line tie. Each bait has a hook; no more snags or tangles. The box also includes a WaterWick divider with a reusable moisture-wicking packet, a Dri-Loc O-ring seal and Rustrictor technology. An EZ Label system allows for quick identification of contents, and the DuraView crystal-clear polycarbonate lid shows what is inside. Info: planomolding.com
Frabill ReCharge Deluxe Aerator
The Frabill ReCharge Deluxe Aerator is a mobile livewell aeration system with an induction motor that provides long use to keep bait lively. Outfitted with a rechargeable lithium battery, the ReCharge Deluxe Aerator can be conveniently recharged with the included 10V adaptor or through a USB cable. A water-resistant gasket designed with an anti-back flow check valve keeps water out and bait alive longer. The universal hang-on clip with stability posts allows anglers to bring it on fly-in trips, shore fishing, or on any boat. Now a bucket or nearly any waterproof container can become a viable minnow bucket. Info: frabill.com
Magma Crossover Series
Cook pizza, hibachi or whatever you’re craving on your next adventure with Magma’s new Crossover Series. This portable cooking system quickly transforms from stove into a grill, pizza oven and griddle via interchangeable tops. The Magma is made with high-end stainless steel for ultimate durability. The Magma versatile cooker is perfect for RVing, tailgating, car camping and overlanding. It also is available in marine versions with corrosion-free stainless steel. Info: magmaproducts.com
Bajio Roca Sunglasses
For the last few months I’ve been wearing the new Bajio Roca sunglasses in a variety of situations: on the lake fishing, at the golf course, around town. They’re lightweight, thanks to the bio-based nylon construction. Frames are comfortable but tight; I’ve experienced no nose-slipping even in sweaty conditions. One thing I love about them is the oversized frame that protects my eyes while preventing peripheral light and glare intrusion. Polarized lenses are crisp and clear; I’ve easily spotted bass and bluegill on beds in shady conditions or bright light shallow and deep. Smallmouth bass were easy to spot on beds on the Niagara River. The lenses also have Bajio’s blue light-blocking tech to minimize eye fatigue and strain. Bajio hit the scene with a splash in 2020 and continues to grow its mission-based company each year. The new Roca, which is named for the Roca Flat near Campeche, Mexico, is a great addition to the lineup. Info: bajiosunglasses.com
Hobie Monarch Float Sunglasses
Hobie’s new Monarch Float sunglasses have two interesting features: they’re lightweight, which is a good thing for anyone wearing them, and they float. That’s also a good thing for anglers who sometimes, well, slip up and let their glasses fly off a deck, gunwale or their head. Hey, things happen. Quality lenses in four shades allow you to peer through water to find cover and fish; removable side shields and an adjustable neoprene retainer offer more comfort while blocking peripheral light and glare. Info: hobieeyewear.com
Ocean Waves Greenhorn Illuminator
Ocean Waves Luminator lenses excel when fishing in low light or murky water. The glasses have two layers of Japanese Crown Glass, mirror-between-the-glass technology that prevents the mirror from getting scratched, polarization that blocks 100% of UV-A and UV-B radiation, and a resilient anti-reflective coating that absorbs glare and bounce-back of UV light. Luminator lenses give anglers additional advantages by brightening the entire visual field – perfect when fishing early or late in the day, under a cloudy sky or shady trees – while eliminating halos and unnatural light refraction. The Greenhorn frame combines a classic look with excellent eye coverage and a comfortable, secure fit. Available in either black or tortoise for men and women. Info: oceanwaves.com
Yeti Roadie 48, 60 Wheeled Coolers
Two new coolers from Yeti — the Roadie 48 Wheeled Cooler and Roadie 60 Wheeled Cooler — are maneuverable and durable. They’re built for your favorite trips: fishing, tailgating, hunting or wherever you need a solid cooler to keep things cold. Wheels and handles are built to last, and the coolers are designed to keep ice frozen and items cold for days. Info: yeti.com
Smith’s 60-Inch Insulated Cooler Bag
Bait? Check. Fish after the day is over? Check. Sodas and brews for on the water, at the dock or around the campfire? Check. Smith’s new 60-inch Insulated Cooler Bag is designed for long-lasting hard use. I got to see this bag in action back in May at Kentucky Lake and it’s a champ. The bag has a non-corrosive zipper with pulls. It’s made from marine-grade tarpaulin inside and out, with a half-inch of dense, closed-cell insulation between. An adjustable, padded shoulder strap makes loading and carrying a breeze. Four heavy-duty grab handles – including two center padded handles and two large end handles – allow for a four-person carry when the bag is fully loaded. One uber-cool feature is the integrated drain port. Another is the sit-flat bottom that keeps the bag upright, even when loaded. It has a capacity of 205 quarts. Info: smithsproducts.com
Frogg Toggs FTX Elite Lite
Frogg Toggs is following its successful launch last year of its FTX Armor line with the new FTX Elite jacket and bibs, and the FTX Lite jacket and pants. The FTX Elite jacket and bibs feature the highest water hold-out in the Frogg Toggs line, along with an innovative wrist gasket and closure system, fully sealed and reinforced seams, two-way zipper with storm flap, vented hood and more. It’s available in sizes SM-3X. The FTX Lite jacket and pant combo is light, packable, portable and comfortable. It has similar features of the Elite line, but is more affordable. Info: froggtoggs.com
AFTCO Cocoboardies
Recycling is vogue. Coconut fibers seem to be the rage this year and Aftco is on board with its new Cocoboardie boardshorts. They’re made with Cocotex fabric, a polyester that “is infused with activated charcoal from repurposed coconuts.” The shorts repel water, resist odor and dry quickly, thanks to the lightweight and moisture-wicking 4-way stretch material. They also have a reinforced pliers pocket for keeping tools or other items easily at hand. Info: aftco.com
Huk Waypoint Jacket
The new Huk Waypoint jacket is perfect for cool mornings aboard the boat or brisk evenings around the beach fire, when more than a hoodie is needed. The Waypoint Eco-Smart collection is made from recycled bottles; the Waypoint is at least 60 percent recycled consumer content. The Waypoint jacket adds warmth without weight thanks to its Primaloft ECO black 80-gram insulation. It is packable into its own pocket for storage and convenience. The Waypoint jacket’s shell is water-resistant and features a stretch binding at the cuffs and the hem to provide the right fit and block out cold air. It comes in sizes SM-3XL in five colors. Info: hukgear.com
Huk Women’s Rogue Wave Boots
Huk’s new Rogue Wave boots for women are designed for wet weather, slimy decks, sand, rocks and more. The slip-on boots are constructed of durable neoprene rubber. For positive traction in wet conditions, Huk developed the Grip-X Slice outsole traction pattern that grabs in all directions. Additionally, micro channel openings allow water to escape. The boots have heel and toe reinforced grab loops, breathable mesh liners, a rounded toe and a non-marking outer sole. They’re available in sizes 5-11 (full sizes only) in two colors. Info: hukgear.com
