Stepping onto the sprawling ICAST convention floor, Wired2fish team members were met with equal parts innovation and industry buzz. From the many display booths highlighting new fishing gear to the New Product Showcase — and don’t forget the live demos drawing crowds at the bass tank — the sheer scale and energy of the ICAST trade show is always formidable.
We navigated aisles packed with exhibitors eager to unveil their latest product offerings, all the while chatting with company reps and capturing the pulse of a thriving industry. Many of the exhibitors we spoke with represent some of your favorite fishing companies. Many of our favorites too. The air hummed with excitement, offering a snapshot of current fishing trends and a glimpse into the future. Below, we highlight some of the gear that stood out to us.
Bait Pop Gamefish Ghost Scent
Scent attraction mixed with live sonar fishing. The newest Bait Pop Ghost scent is white in the tube, but goes on your lure clear, not affecting the appearance of your bait. Different scents, such as Gamefish or Garlic, are all part of the Original Fish Formula line. What really sets Bait Pop apart from other scents is its proprietary, biodegradable material that shows more clearly and brighter on forward-facing sonar units. So imagine the heat of the day has slowed the bite. You can see the fish on the screen but they’re just not biting. Adding Bait Pop to your preferred artificial could activate the bite in real time as scout your sonar for those stubborn fish. www.theoriginalfishformula.com
Cashion ELEMENT z2 Casting Rods
Cashion’s new ELEMENT z2 Series features fresh- and saltwater options. With its new CRzm carbon matte rod blank—proudly made in the USA— Cashion set out to produce a rod that could endure the rigors of everyday fishing while delivering plenty of performance to anglers. The CRzm is a rod blank that features Raw Finish Protection (RFP). The tech incorporates an epoxy matrix (EM) to protect and encapsulate the carbon fibers, making the CRzm more impact-resistant. You can store this rod in the bed of your truck without worry. The bass focused freshwater lineup of ELEMENT z2 rods include technique-specific sticks for BFS (Bait Finesse Systems), frog, drop shot, jigging, cranking, and even a multi-purpose option. www.cashionrods.com
Daiwa Ballistic MQ LT Spinner
The 2025 Daiwa Ballistic MQ LT spinning reel oozes performance, building on the “Light Tough” (LT) concept for both freshwater and saltwater fishingg. Its innovative AIRDRIVE Design—featuring a redesigned Rotor, ABS Long-Cast Spool, Bail, and Shaft—optimizes balance and significantly reduces weight, ensuring effortless rotation and extended casting. The single-piece Monocoque (MQ) Body, crafted from Zaion V carbon fiber, enhances rigidity and allows for a larger, 40 percent thicker MQ Tough Digigear, delivering exceptional strength and buttery-smooth operation. MAGSEAL Technology protects internal components from water and debris, boosting longevity. This exceptionally light reel also includes an improved Advanced Tournament Drag (ATD) TYPE-L for smooth initial response, an ergonomic power handle, and a fresh metallic blue and red aesthetic, making it a top-tier choice for diverse fishing applications. www.daiwa.us
Fitzgerald Fishing Stunner Series V2
At ICAST, Fitzgerald Fishing announced its redesigned Stunner HD Series of rods. Consider it Version 2. The new series will comprise 27 different models and be available Spring 2026. That’s 8 spinning and 19 casting rods of the newest Stunners. The company incorporated its Xreme blank technology into the butt of the rod for more torque and balance. Carbon hood, gloss finish on reel seat, cork handle, and 316 stainless rod guides offer a great finish. www.fitzgeraldrods.com
Garmin Force Current Trolling Motor
Garmin’s new brushless Force Current trolling motor mounts at the stern. We tried the motor on the water, propelling two people in a Bonafide XTR130. Max thrust is 50 pounds at 24V or 30 pounds at 12V. The motor pushed us quickly, and steering was immediate with the versatile foot pedals. Our rig was set up with the left pedal forward turning us right, and right pedal forward turning us left. Forward and reverse are also standard. Besides hands-free steering, the motor communicates with Garmin fishfinders and watches. For example, that means you can program anchor locking positions, different routes, heading hold, and cruise control. Of course the motor comes with an engine cut off switch if you were to fall from your rig. We’re truly surprised this new trolling motor did not win the Best in Show award this year. www.garmin.com/en-US/c/marine
Hobie Float Sunglasses
Such a resourceful idea, we’re glad Hobie thought of it! Hobie Float sunglasses are engineered for watemen, uniquely designed to float if dropped, thanks to lightweight frame materials like Hobie TPX and upcycled kayak plastic. Beyond buoyancy, they feature polarized nylon or polycarbonate lenses with HydroClean 360 degree coating to eliminate glare, enhance clarity, and repel water and grime. These lenses also provide 100% UV protection and come in various tints—including Grey, Copper, Blue Mirror, and Sightmaster Plus—optimized for different light conditions. www.hobieeyewear.com
HUK Camp Shirt
HUK won the Lifestyle Apparel for Men category award at ICAST 2025 with its HUK Camp Shirt. It’s the type of buttoned, collared shirt you can wear to your favorite fish restaurant or even a church service (if they offer casual worship). Enjoy both comfort and utility with the HUK Camp. This shirt marries laid-back coastal style with technical performance, crafted from a lightweight 71% polyester, 21% cotton, and 8% spandex blend. It provides essential UPF 30+ sun protection, 4-way stretch for freedom of movement, and quick-drying fabric. A clever sewn-down center front facing adds to its look, and the built-in microfiber wipe is perfect for keeping your shades clean. www.huk.com
Lews Accel RX Baitcaster
They’ve done it again! Highlights of the new Lews Accel RX baitcaster include a Paramag RX braking system, six bearings 5 + 1 stainless steel, and high strength solid brass Speed Gears. About those components: The brass Speed Gears are crafted using advanced Hamai CNC machines to provide powerful cranking with reduced wear, ensuring smooth retrieves. While the Paramag RX braking system is fully magnetic with no friction and very quiet operation to help with casting distance and backlashes. Paramag RX is now available in Lews Custom, Accel RX and Speed Spool RX baitcasters. www.lews.com
Minn Kota Kayak Terrova Trolling Motor
The recently released Minn Kota Kayak Terrova is a game-changer for kayak anglers, bringing advanced boat control features previously found only on larger vessels. This trolling motor comes standard with Minn Kota’s trusted Advanced GPS Trolling System, including Spot-Lock to electronically anchor your kayak, plus Autopilot and Drift Mode. Control is seamless via the included Micro Remote, One-Boat Network App, or compatible Humminbird fish finders. Designed for effortless use, it features a convenient Stow/Deploy Lever and Auto Park. Delivering 55 pounds of thrust on a 12V system, its Digital Maximizer technology ensures extended battery life, while the Weedless Wedge 2 Prop handles dense vegetation. Built with an Indestructible Composite Shaft and backed by a lifetime warranty, the compact 36-inch, bow-mount design is tailored for freshwater kayak fishing. https://minnkota.johnsonoutdoors.com
Okuma Pulse Wave Rod Series
Okuma’s Pulse Wave Rod Series incorporate freshwater all-purpose and inshore models featuring two striking vibrant color choices. Constructed from lightweight, sensitive 24-ton carbon blanks, Pulse Wave rods offer excellent strength and weight balance. The all-purpose rods are two-piece with a spigot ferrule for a one-piece feel, equipped with durable stainless-steel guides and a comfortable EVA split grip. Inshore models are one-piece, featuring full cork grips and SeaGuide guides, ideal for braided lines. All rods include a stainless-steel hook keeper and are backed by a 1-year limited warranty. www.okumafishingusa.com
Pro-Guide Lithium Batteries Dual Purpose
Picking the right battery to handle the job is tough these days with so many options available to anglers. Here’s one battery that gets the job done! The Pro-Guide (PGL31M235) dual-purpose battery is ready to go with 235 Amp Hours (3008 Watt Hours), powerful 200A Battery Management System (BMS), IP67 water protection, Bluetooth connectivity, and a Pro-Boost 20 percent capacity reserve. I was not familiar with the verbiage, but a 200A BMS refers to its continuous discharge current capacity, meaning it can safely handle a continuous current of 200 amps. This battery is optimized for powerful starting and dependable deep-cycle use in the marine space. Backed by a 36-month free replacement warranty. www.proguidebatteries.com
Shimano Exsence B Spinner
This one is worth holding onto. The Exsence B incorporates Shimano’s cutting-edge spinning reel technologies for enhanced casting accuracy, responsive control, and powerful retrieval. A new 2500-size option is available with lightweight construction and XG (6.4:1) gearing. At its core, the MGL Rotor, crafted from CI4+ carbon, provides an asymmetrical design that reduces rotational inertia. This translates to instant startup, easier bait manipulation, and effortless, precise retrieves, crucial for detecting subtle strikes. This spinner could quickly become your favorite freshwater option. https://fish.shimano.com/en-US
T-H Marine’s ATLAS EDGE Jack Plate
T-H Marine Supplies launched the new ATLAS EDGE Jack Plate lifted by Power-Pole, an advanced jack plate system designed to enhance boat performance and user experience. This market innovator features One-Touch Height Control with three customizable presets for takeoff, running, and fishing/trailering, as well as Adjustable Speed Settings (Slow, Medium, Fast) and an Auto Height Mode for effortless operation. Developed in collaboration with Power-Pole, the ATLAS EDGE boasts a high-performance brushless motor for quiet, fast, and reliable operation, along with Auto Display Brightness for optimal visibility in any light. Expect improved hole shot, better fuel economy, and more confident handling for boaters. www.thmarinesupplies.com
Trika Predator Rods
The new casting Trika Predator rods for big baits definitely impress when you hold them. The company based out of Wisconsin wants its Predator rods in anglers hands when targeting big fish with heavy line — think pike, trophy bass or red drum. When casting bucktails, giant glide baits or swimbaits these rods excel, with moderate fast parabolic action to keep fish hooked and enough backbone to dominate the fight. Components include premium carbon/s-glass blanks, Trika custom nylon reel seat, AAA cork grips, and Alps rod guides. Currently available in 7’8”, 7’9” and 7’10” lengths, ranging 12- to 30-pound line classes. www.trika.com
YETI Cayo Backpack
Need a backpack that can fend off a downpour or rogue wave, but offers better access and organization than a dry bag? YETI has you covered with their new Cayo line. These weather-resistant packs are at home on the water as well as your commute, so it can easily pull double-duty. The Cayo offers internal organization in the form of stretch-woven pockets and a sleeve that can hold up to a 2-liter hydration reservoir. Comfortable shoulder straps keeps loads manageable for a full day on the water, and YETI’s ComfortComb mesh back panel keeps perspiration away. Available in three sizes; 15, 25, and 35 liters. www.yeti.com
Yo-Zuri Pro Series Glide Bait
Looking for a high-performance glide bait that won’t break the bank? The Yo-Zuri Pro Series Glide Bait is a 7-inch, 2-⅝-oz, single-jointed lure from Japan, crafted in collaboration with top BASS and MLF pro anglers. Its unique “chopping style” action and realistic hologram finish — protected by Yo-Zuri’s durable triple coat — make it incredibly effective. Choose from seven proven colors: Bluegill, Bone, Ghost Sexy Shad, Gizzard Shad, Matte Ghost Pearl Shad, Matte Shad, and Rainbow Trout. Hold this bait in your hand, and right away you know it’ll cast a football field. www.yo-zuri.com
Z-Man Swag LT Swimbait
Z-Man created its SWAG LT swimbait, aiming to replicate the “five-tool player” concept from baseball, where an athlete excels in all key aspects. This new lure builds on the success of Z-Man’s previous line-through swimbaits, the Mulletron LT and Shadtron LT, both award winners. This year, the Swag LT won Best Freshwater Soft Lure at ICAST. The new bait, available in 5- and 6-inch sizes, boasts remarkable realism and a unique tail designed for a wide range of retrieve speeds, from slow crawls to rapid burns. This innovative tail, a hybrid of wedge and T-tail designs, ensures wide-swinging action without rolling out of tune. Features include a keeled tail, internal rattle, and twin clip keeper. Available in 8 colors. www.zmanfishing.com
