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Sunday, July 28, 2002
Copyright © Las Vegas Review-Journal OUTDOORS: John Kimak Fishing tackle manufacturers show their wares at annual trade show
The recent fishing tackle trade show held at the Las Vegas Convention Center brought together manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers and the media in an effort to promote fishing in America and elsewhere. This nation's 50 million anglers can take special pleasure in knowing the sport of fishing is sound, and that there seems to be no end in the effort to improve equipment or to come up with new ideas. Products displayed at the annual International Convention of Allied Sportfishing Trades included countless items familiar to anglers, such as traditional rods, reels, lures, tackle boxes and assorted products. But also on display were hundreds of new products. They included tackle and related items featuring improved metals, more efficient and reliable moving parts, lighter weights, more durable finishes and similar upgrades. It would be impossible to identify and provide details on each piece of equipment, but it is worth commenting on a few items. They include reels and lures that have the potential to be used on Lake Mead and Lake Mohave. The primary target by anglers on these waters, of course, is striped bass. But other species being pursued include largemouth bass, rainbow trout, assorted panfish and catfish. Trout are available also on many other waters throughout the Silver State. Some of the nation's leading reel manufacturers showed why they have attained their lofty positions. Penn Fishing Tackle Manufacturing, for example, has come up with its 260 and 360 series of light spinning reels (available Sept. 1) that are built to last despite taking punishment from hard-fighting fish. Labeled as Slammers, these reels contain six ball bearings and other outstanding features. And they're built to hold line tests ranging from 8 to 15 pounds, respectively. Obviously, the smaller 260 model is quite suitable for trout and similar fish, while the 360 is ideal for stripers. Pflueger, another well-known name to anglers, is touting its series of Solara spinning reels. Three of the four models are especially suited to the needs of trout anglers, as the manufacturer recommends the use of line testing from 4 to 8 pounds. Model 5740, however, is suitable for typical Lake Mead stripers because it's built to use 10-pound test line. Additionally, each reel contains six ball bearings. Shakespeare is also one of the nation's oldest tackle manufacturers, and its new series of Catera spinning reels demonstrates why it still commands respect. The drag system contains six discs, and each model comes with a large-diameter titanium line roller. Also, each model is equipped with four ball bearings. Hundreds of fishing lures were also shown to prospective buyers at the trade show, and a great many appeared to be suitable to Lake Mead and Lake Mohave fishing. An item most striper anglers would very likely want to try is Yo-Zuri's floating Tobimaru minnow. The lure looks especially good with its holographic finish, three-dimensional eyes and special VMC treble hooks. It measures 5 1/4 inches and weighs 1 ounce, a perfect combination for the larger stripers. Bill Lewis Lures, a company known to striper anglers because of the Rat-L-Trap, has come out with a new series of rattling lures known as the Bleeding Shad. The manufacturer claims the new blood-red hooks and red blotches on the side of the lure "closely imitate injured baitfish." The lure is also designed to swim erratically and give off natural sound vibrations that the manufacturer believes are sure to attract predatory fish. For 2003, MegaBaits offers a special-model 3-inch top-water lure called the Pop-J. It's especially designed for saltwater or big fish because the combination hook and split ring can hold a fish weighing as much as 30 pounds. And it comes in a variety of color patterns. From Down Under comes a rather unique lure that most likely no one has ever seen or tried in local waters. The Australian innovation is called the Tasmanian Devil and is described as "a unique Australian product designed for trolling, casting or jigging in (freshwater) and saltwater. The lure action is due to a revolutionary winged technology simulating a wounded fish." Sizes range from 1 1/2 to 3 inches and from 1/4 to 1 ounce. Ambush Lures, a Missouri company, is especially proud of its Ambush Stealth Diver. Officials report that "this lure has a specially patented internal passageway that allows water to flow through it, resulting in natural vibrations." And it has the ability to get through heavy brush because of its special and unique construction. It might be suitable for both largemouth bass and stripers. Plus, it weighs just 1/2 ounce. Because all of these products are so new, they may not be available currently at local tackle outlets. Check with dealers and retailers for more information. John Kimak's Outdoors column appears Sundays. He can be reached at jkimak@reviewjournal.com.
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