The Shimano brand is one of the most well-known and respected in the fishing industry, and they are always one to watch when ICAST rolls around. Their rods, reels, and accessories are top-quality and consistently win awards at the biggest show in fishing.
The Shimano family also includes G. Loomis rods, PowerPro line, and Jackall lures. Each of them had something new that will excite bass anglers everywhere. This year they won two ICAST awards for a unique baitcasting reel and innovative braided line.
Here’s a rundown of what is new with the Shimano brands:
SLX DC and XT Baitcast Reels
The SLX line of rods and reels has been a favorite of anglers since they were released last year. They are budget priced without sacrificing quality. This year, they brought the Digital Control (DC) braking system to the reel and won an ICAST Best in Show for Freshwater Reels award in the process.
The DC technology had previously only been available in high-end reels, and the new SLX DC includes the same casting control and comes in at under $200. Retail cost is $189.99.
It comes in both left and right-handed retrieves and three gear ratios: 6.3:1, 7.4:1 and 8.3:1 to cover most bass fishing situations. Beyond the casting abilities and controls from the DC braking, it also has an all aluminum body and sharp looks.
The SLX XT is another new option, and it includes Shimano’s SVS Infinity Braking that was previously only available in more expensive reels.
Stradic FL Spinning Reel
The Stradic is to spinning reels what the iconic Curado is to baitcasting reels. It is a name that bass anglers recognize for quality and durability. Now, the Stradic has an updated version that retails starting at $199.
It comes in five sizes and includes MicroModule gearing to keep it smooth. The reel is also ready for both fresh and saltwater because of what Shimano calls the X-Protect design to protect it against brackish and saltwater.
Shimano Intenza Rods
This Intenza series of rods have a unique and comfortable grip they are calling the G-Alpha Grip. This grip feels great in hand, and the rod itself does, too. It is available in fifteen models, 11 casting and five spinning to cover most every bass fishing technique out there.
The blanks are a 30-ton carbon and feature quality guides and a custom Shimano reel seat. The rod retails for $129 and should be a hit for bass anglers looking for a new rod.
“Classic Action” G. Loomis IMX-PRO Rods
The IMX is another well-known commodity, and they have added 17 new models to this line. Famous names like Mag Bass, Spin Jig, and Classic Casting have been added, and there are now an incredible 64 different models available. They have a host of technique-specific and proven all-around rod models for anything you can think of.
“Classic Action” refers to light tips and magnum tapers. These are said to help make longer casts and get better hooksets in deep-water.
PowerPro Moon Shine Braid
Their Moon Shine Braid was another ICAST award winner for the best new line, and it is a unique product. It is a slick braid that also glows in the dark when used with a blacklight. This will be a hit for those who like to go bass fishing after the sun goes down. During the day, it doubles as a high-vis braid for those who want to watch their line to detect bites while they fish.
It comes in 150 and 300-yard spools and everything from 8 to 80-pound test. Retail cost starts at $20.99.
Jackall iSHAD
The iSHAD is a unique soft-plastic that was released several years ago and is seen by many as the “original spybait” as this soft bait is designed to be fished and swam through the water with minimal action from the lure. With the popularity of the spybait technique, it is back in the spotlight after being requested by many anglers.
The bait has a bottom section that is heavier salted while the top has less salt. This gives it a stable swimming action. It can also be fished on a drop-shot and comes in both a 2.8 and 3.8-inch size.
Jackall Keeburn Blade Bait
Blade baits are one of the go-to lures for bass anglers when the water gets cold. They are excellent baits during the winter months, but they truly work any time and anywhere.
Jackall’s take on this bait design is a circuit board body to increase movement and vibration. The bait can be fished vertically or horizontally, depending on the situation. It comes in a 3/8- and ½-ounce size and will retail for $9.99.
The team at Shimano, Loomis, PowerPro, and Jackall have been busy. These new products appeal to bass anglers across the country, and the two new ICAST Best in Show awards prove that they have already caught the attention of the fishing world.
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