The Next REVOlution?

March 10th, 2010 by JIP

Prior to 2006 Abu Garcia had no say in the low profile reel market and I have to say, what they were offering before really sucked, and I bet the Abu reel team agrees. Then all of the sudden out of no where they introduced the Revo reels at the 2006 ICAST. It was Abu’s REVOlution, making a huge dent in the freshwater low profile reel market and even had the guys at Shimano running scared.

So when is Abu Garcia’s Next REVOlution and where are they headed?

Here are my thoughts on where they are going…

1) Abu Garcia rods – They started out with the low cost yet attractive and decent performing Vengeance and Vendetta rods. And recently the Veritas white bass rod that we previewed and also seen on our TackleTour Forum. Just last ICAST we also gave a sneak peek at the new lightweight rod but haven’t seen much of it lately except that it’s in the works. It will be called Verdict and will be super-lightweight and well-balanced. It’s time they introduce higher end rods in the Abu Garcia brand, though Jim at Abu did tell us at ICAST they want to introduce high-performing, JDM looking rods at affordable prices, and of course widely available and easy to buy, with a warranty.

2) The REVO lowprofile baitcast reels, they already have a great product here and only minor changes can be made if any. Nothing will probably happen here for this year’s ICAST unless they are making new reels out of new materials to make it super-lightweight. If it ain’t broken don’t change it.

3) So what’s left for the Next REVOlution? I have a feeling that it’ll be in the freshwater spinning reels and perhaps a high-end line of spinning reels under the REVO name. I was about to review the Pflueger Supreme XT spinning reel which I tested for trout fishing and it performed well but was then told it will be replaced by a newer and better model that will be introduced at ICAST 2010. Someone at Abu also leaked some word of a feather-lightweight spinning reel similar to what we’ve seen in the Revo Premier baitcaster.  This would match with the high-end lightweight rod, Verdict, that’s currently in development. Aside from that they can probably introduce a whole new line of REVO spinning reels here.

That’s where I’m seeing Abu Garcia headed for next year with prototypes being introduced this year at ICAST.

What would you like to see in the NEXT REVOlution?!?

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Posted in Bass Fishing, Fishing, Reels, Rods | 1 Comment »

Berkley 2010 Classic Baits

December 15th, 2009 by JIP

Every year before the Classic, Berkley will introduce new baits to the public. Some of these baits might have been used by pros prior to the Classic and some are brand spanking new. I just got word that for the 2010 Bassmaster Classic, Berkley will be introducing these new baits and they will be available in January as they are being trucked to retailers as we speak.

I’ll give you a brief list of baits that will be released and a more detailed article later on TT with specs and all.

1) There will be a 3 inch Crazy Legs Chigger Craw. A lot of anglers have had success with the larger version and now there will be a smaller size for more finesse application. It will be made from PowerBait and will have the same action as the larger.

2) 3 inch and 4 inch Minnow bait made from PowerBait instead of Gulp!. Why the PowerBait scent instead of the Gulp!? It seems like bass anglers never got into the Gulp! stuff, so that’s why Berkley is coming out with the same bait but with PowerBait.

There will be more baits being introduced mid-year which we’ll give you the scoop on later on.

More details on the Classic baits coming after the New Year on TT.

Posted in Bass Fishing, Fishing, Lures | No Comments »

Abu Garcia Vendetta Rod – First Impressions on the Water

August 21st, 2009 by JIP

Last weekend I hosted a kids fishing day with all my nephews, niece, and my 2 year old son, a total of 5 of them.  The goal was to put them on some schoolie striped bass so they would have some fun playing with them, and that I did. Zander was also out with his son and they got into the fun as well. I can’t believe Zander has his 8 year old son casting a jerkbait and RIPPIN’!!!!!

All the parents including my father came along. The kids ended the day early after each and everyone of them caught some fish, so the rest of the day was just my dad and myself, and no single fishing trip can go without testing some sort of new tackle. The test subject this time was the new Abu Garcia Vendetta bass rod.

ICAST preview here: http://www.tackletour.com/reviewicast09rodsabugarcia.html

- The rod felt really nice with the Revo Winch. Pretty balanced and lightweight.

- Components are outstanding for the price range

- Sensitive. Was able to feel when I hit vegetation when ripping for stripers

- Appearance wise, the rod looks premium!

- Here’s one negative I’ve noticed. The EVA grips aren’t as solid as the “Hypalon” thicker material. Only time will tell if it’ll hold him. I’ve seen indentations from it being pressed up against something for a period of time. But then again, you have to remember the rod costs only $79-90!!!!!

So far my impressions are very good for this under $100 rod that looks like it costs $250+. I can’t wait to take it on the water again.

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Posted in Bass Fishing, Fishing, Rods | 2 Comments »

ICAST Day 2 – Highlights

July 16th, 2009 by JIP

We are back in the hotel rooms and pounding out more articles but here’s a quick highlight of what we thought stood out the most in Day 2 of ICAST.

St Croix – Avid Pearl – Rods for lady anglers. Great rods!

Abu Garcia – Those Vendetta rods by Abu aren’t just a great value but man, they are pretty sweet

Kistler Rods – They did not have a booth this year but we got an exclusive on new rods and components being used. Cal’s pounding that article out right now and should be posted in a few hours from now

We ran into a new Italian company… they are bringing European rods to the US! They are JDM quality but with a non-JDM price point. Company is called Colmic. The rods that stood out are called Herackles. Not only do they have rods but they have nice looking lures too.

Fishouflage – This new company is trying to build an identity for anglers. Instead of anglers wearing hunting camo, they have “fishing camo”. A few companies already licensed their patterns for apparel, boat wraps, tackle bags, etc

Ahi USA – They have a new jig head, for bass and saltwater guys, that’s encased in acrylic. Almost like the River2Sea spinnerbait that I reviewed.

Oh yeah, FROGS, like value rods and reels, tons of pros are coming out with their own frogs. Some have really neat and functional features.

Back to writing in-depth articles. Signing out.

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Posted in Events, Fishing | 3 Comments »

ICAST Day 2 Coverage

July 16th, 2009 by JIP

Day 2 begins with more ICAST coverage with more introductions to new tackle and interviews with pros like Ike, Byron, and more…

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Posted in Events, Fishing | 4 Comments »

ICAST Coverage

July 14th, 2009 by JIP

We’re off to ICAST at Orlando, Florida. Articles will be pouring in immediately after we have dinner on Wednesday evening so check out TackleTour. Reel coverages  first.

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Posted in Events, Fishing | 1 Comment »

Knotless Hooks – easy2HookUSA

July 8th, 2009 by JIP

Every few years someone always invents a knotless hook. They appear to be a great concept but after a short period of time we always see those companies fade away. Have you ever tried a knotless hook and what do you think of them?

(In 2004: Preston knotless hooks that we covered at a local show  http://www.tackletour.com/reviewfh2004.html )

New for 2010 is easy2HookUSA knotless hook. Here’s what they have to say about their product.

Outdoor Specialty Innovations, Inc., (OSI) a manufacturer and marketer of unique, high quality fishing accessory products launches the new, internationally patented easy2HookUSA “knotless” line of fishing hooks at the 2009 ICAST show in Orlando, FLA.

According to Ron Baskett, the company’s founder and CEO, the new fishing hooks do not require anglers to utilize a “knot” when tying their lines to a hook, but rather,  employ a “loop” “wrap” and “pull” tight process that totally eliminates the need for tying a knot ever again!!

“Our new hooks eliminate the time consuming necessity of tying knots and do so without sacrificing the integrity of the line itself,” Baskett said, “this is a revolutionary approach to an age-old-angler frustration. With easy2Hook you can attach your lines in seconds and thereby increase your chances for a successful fishing trip simply because your line is in the water a greater proportion of the time”!!!

Baskett believes the easy, convenient and hassle-free “knotless” feature of easy2Hooks will change the future purchasing habits of many anglers around the country and will also attract new participants to the sport who in the past found traditional hooks frustrating to use.

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Posted in Bass Fishing, Fishing, Lures | 3 Comments »

Ardent Denny Brauer Signature F-700 Flip-N-Pitch Reel – New Product

July 8th, 2009 by JIP

Ardent will be introducing their new flipping and pitching technique specific reel, the Denny Brauer Signature F-700 Flip-N-Pitch.

It takes on the form of the F-500 with addiotional features we’ll cover at ICAST.

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Posted in Bass Fishing, Fishing, Reels, Technique | 3 Comments »

Abu Garcia Revos – Sorry, no mods, just redesigned

July 7th, 2009 by JIP

A few weeks ago I blogged about a rumor that Abu Garcia might be coming out with some components for people to mod their Revos. Well, as ICAST nears those rumors doesn’t seem to be true. What’s 100% true is that the Revo series will be redesigned for 2010 with new looks and features. Here’s the 2010 Revo Premier.

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Posted in Bass Fishing, Fishing, Reels | 1 Comment »

Abu Garcia Vendetta Rod – New Product

July 7th, 2009 by JIP

Abu Garcia is going to introduce two new rods this year that’s designed to match their reels perfectly in terms of balance. These rods look premium, even with some JDM appearance, but only costs $79-89! More info coming next week. But what do you think?

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Posted in Bass Fishing, Fishing, Rods | 10 Comments »

Pflueger Patriarch XT – Photo and Additional Details

July 7th, 2009 by JIP

MSRP: $249.95

Frame: Aluminum

Gear Ratio: 6.4:1

Brake: Ultimate Brake System

Drag: Carbon Fiber washers

Bearings: 9+1

Line Capacity: 12lb/100yds

Weight: 6.8 oz

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Posted in Bass Fishing, Fishing, Reels | 3 Comments »

SkippyFiSH – New Softbody Swimbait

July 6th, 2009 by JIP

SkippyFiSH lures trigger the genetic response in all game fish to attack! They can’t resist, They must FEED! This is the most realistic LIFE LIKE TECHNOLOGY ever used to catch fish. All SkippyFiSH lures are injected with the perfect blend of SCENT to give you the maximum advantage. The life like texture of our lures force fish to hold on longer allowing you to set the hook and catch more fish. SkippyFiSH can be used to skip under docks, trees and other hard to reach areas where bass and other game fish like to hide. Grass beds and Lilly pads are no match for SkippyFiSH. Our lures are completely weedless allowing you to catch fish in areas were other lures would never think of going. SkippyFiSH are great for drop shot rigs & carolina rigs. Try them on jig heads as a swim bait at various depths for suspended fish. Multiple skips across the water simulate bait fish scattering and running for their lives as predator fish begin to feed and FEED they will, plant your feet, hold onto your rod and Enjoy the Ride, for you are …SkippyFiSH!

Available in 8 colors and two sizes: 4 and 6 inches

A pack of 10 runs for $4.19 (6 in) and $3.79 (4 in)

Rigging Methods: http://www.skippyfish.com/rigs.html

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZiZsGRr0DC4

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Posted in Bass Fishing, Fishing, Lures | No Comments »

Dragonfly Elec-Trek Kayak

July 6th, 2009 by JIP

Kayak anglers, here’s something new and innovative that can make your days on the water more pleasurable, especially after many long battles and long paddles, this Elec-Trek fishing kayak by Dragonfly Boatworks can be a lifesaver. This new fishing kayak will be introduced at ICAST in two weeks.

“Elec-Trek:  Too pooped to paddle?  You’ll love this kayak!  A wireless hand-held control gives you instant relief and speed at a click of a button.  What a concept…molded, under-kayak tunnel stores an electric motor affording quiet, snagless access to where you want to be.  Includes padded back rest, four integral rod holders, foot controlled rudder amd fore/aft dry storage (rear sized for five-gallon bucket).”

Elec-Trek:
Length: 14′
Weight: 100 Lbs.
12-V Lithium battery.
12-V 53-lb thrust trolling motor head.
12-V charger.

Color options available.

Price: $3200.00 :O

Youtube video on the Elec-Trek:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c4decMUsPBU

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Posted in Bass Fishing, Electronics, Fishing, Saltwater Fishing, Trout Fishing, Watercraft | No Comments »

Waterproof Camera Shootout

July 1st, 2009 by JIP

DPREVIEW.com has completed their waterproof camera shootout! Canon PowerShot D10 WINS!!!!

Source: dpreview.com

Source: dpreview.com

Test cameras:

  • Canon PowerShot D10
  • Fuji FinePix Z33WP
  • Olympus Stylus Tough 8000 (mju Tough 8000 in Europe)
  • Olympus Stylus Tough 6000 (mju Tough 6000 in Europe)
  • Pentax Optio W60

Results:

Image quality: outdoors / daylight

In good light the Canon and Pentax models are a cut above the rest. While the D10 beats the W60 by way of its higher level of in-camera sharpening, the W60 comes back with a wider zoom range. Despite the D10 having a higher resolution sensor than the W60 the actual detail resolved is fairly close. So here we have judged them equal best of the bunch.

The Olympus Tough 6000 is slightly better the the Tough 8000 and Fuji Z33, and manages to resolve better detail than its bigger brother despite the 8000 having more megapixels. In good light all of these cameras should be able to produce an image that is good enough for a nice print at 8×10 or under, or for web viewing resolutions, but taking a closer look reveals that the D10 and W60 are clearly better than the other cameras in this group.

  • Best of the bunch: Canon Powershot D10, Pentax Optio W60
  • Middle of the road: Olympus Tough 6000
  • Bottom of the class: Olympus Tough 8000, FujiFilm Z33 WP

Image quality: Low light / High ISO

High ISO image quality is more difficult to judge as the Canon and Pentax take a different approach to noise reduction. The D10 is more heavy handed, and while there is less visible noise, there is also less detail left behind and the high amount of chroma noise reduction makes the image seem desaturated. The W60 on the other hand leaves behind more noise and noise reduction artifacts, but also manages to retain more detail. Which is better is matter of personal preference, so we have judged them joint winners in this section of the test.

Of the other three cameras the Tough 6000 manages to retain just enough detail to be better than the Tough 8000 and Z33 – which both reduce the details in the image to not much more than watercolor-like smudges.

  • Best of the bunch: Canon Powershot D10, Pentax Optio W60
  • Middle of the road: Olympus Tough 6000
  • Bottom of the class: Olympus Tough 8000, FujiFilm Z33 WP

Image quality / performance: Flash

Here the winner is clear. The D10 managed to get the balance between ambient light and flash illumination just right to produce the most pleasing image of the whole group.

  • Best of the bunch: Canon Powershot D10
  • Middle of the road: Pentax Optio W60, Olympus Tough 6000
  • Bottom of the class: Olympus Tough 8000, FujiFilm Z33 WP

Image quality / performance: Underwater

The purpose of this group test was to test waterproof cameras, and underwater they all seemed to work pretty well, but the D10 (which seems to have been designed first and foremost to work well underwater) was both the best performer and the easiest to use, with a clear interface and big buttons. The W60 slips behind here because the interface was not as easy to use, and sharpness and detail was just not as good as the D10.

  • Best of the bunch: Canon Powershot D10, Pentax Optio W60
  • Bottom of the class: Olympus Tough 6000, Olympus Tough 8000, FujiFilm Z33 WP

Full article and results on dpreview.com: http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/Q209waterproofgroup/

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Posted in Electronics, Fishing | 3 Comments »

Quantum Tour KVD PT

June 30th, 2009 by JIP

The Quantum preview article didn’t provide TT quality photos of the reels. (We’ll get those in two weeks at ICAST)

Preview article on TT: http://www.tackletour.com/reviewquantumpre2010.html

Here’s a larger higher quality photo of the new Quantum Tour KVD PT casting reel.

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Posted in Bass Fishing, Fishing, Reels | 2 Comments »

Pflueger Patriarch XT – only 6.8 ounces

June 27th, 2009 by JIP

Pflueger will be introducing perhaps their lightest reel ever. The Patriarch XT will be only 6.8 ounces. The new lightweight reel will also feature a Carbon Fiber Handle with EVA knobs. More details to come on the first day of ICAST , July 15th.

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Posted in Bass Fishing, Fishing, Reels | No Comments »

Abu Garcia Revo Mods

June 25th, 2009 by JIP

Rumor has it that Abu Garcia is going to introduce new upgrades or mods to their Revo reels.  We aren’t 100% sure what it is yet but sources tell us it’s coming and we’ll see it at ICAST. It has been really hush hush on this even we couldn’t dig up more dirty on the new products.

Perhaps what some of you saw on PureFishing’s Japanese and Australian website will be brought to the USA?

What’s your guess?

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Posted in Bass Fishing, Fishing, Reels | 2 Comments »

Penn Torque and Conquer Spinning Reels

June 23rd, 2009 by JIP

As promised, you will see a sneak peak of the Penn Torque and Conquer spinning reels on TackleTour.  http://www.tackletour.com/reviewpennpre09.html

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Posted in Fishing, Reels, Saltwater Fishing | No Comments »

Daiwa Saltiga DOGFIGHT Spinning Reel

June 23rd, 2009 by JIP

Have you guys seen this reel? The new Daiwa Saltiga DOGFIGHT spinning reel, available in July 2009, has 66 pounds of drag! That’s killer for a spinning reel. Oh, and a price tag of just $1099, that’s all.

Some more details: The Daiwa Saltiga Dogfight SA-Z6500HDF Spinning Reel is the ultimate Saltiga spinning reel. With a drag max of 66 lbs., it’s built to handle the heaviest of braided lines and control large, strong-pulling predators like Tuna, Amberjack, and Marlin. Features include: 14 bearing and 1 roller bearing, 66 lbs. max drag pressure, 6.2:1 gear ratio, Machined aluminum alloy body, sideplate, and rotor, Digigear digital designed stainless and bronze alloy gears, Dual full time infinite anti-reverse, Touch air bail tubular stainless bail, Water resistant hi-performance graphite drag, Forged aluminum spool with titanium ring, Double supported pinion system “zero friction main shaft”, Manual return bail closure system, Bail and rotor lock – during cast, Custom, machined aluminum ball-shape grip and handle, Drilled round power knob, and Saltiga Z 6500 HDF.

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Posted in Fishing, Reels, Saltwater Fishing | No Comments »

Daiwa Saltist Saltwater Spinning Reels – New Product

June 22nd, 2009 by JIP

Matching the Saltist Conventional is a new Saltist spinning reel by Daiwa.

As the Saltist name implies, these reels were designed for all-out serious saltwater fishing, and that means simple, straight forward mechanisms that can withstand the punishment and still work flawlessly, time after time. Like a manual bail trip for fewer moving parts – greater strength and reliability. Even a dual, full-time anti-reverse you can depend on, with no lever to accidentally turn off or snag line. Reliability and performance…that’s Saltist. Features include: Rugged, all-metal construction, Aluminum alloy body, sideplate, and rotor, 6.2:1 high speed gear ratio retrieves up to 53 inches of line with every crank, Digigear digital designed stainless and bronze alloy gears, 6 bearing (5 CRBB + 1 RB), Manual return bail closure system, Bail lock – during cast, Airbail tubular stainless bail, Machined aluminum handle, Waterproof drag and body construction, Forged aluminum spool with blue titanium nitride ring, Zero friction main shaft for added power, Dual full time anti-reverse, 22 – 33 lbs. of max drag pressure, Twist Buster 2 line twist reduction, STT 4000H, 4500H, 5000H, 6000H, and 6500H sizes.

More info on TackleTour.com: http://www.tackletour.com/reviewdaiwazillionsaltistpreview2010.html

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Posted in Fishing, Reels, Saltwater Fishing | No Comments »

Daiwa Saltist Lever Drag Conventional Reel – New Product

June 22nd, 2009 by JIP

Pre-ICAST sneak peak of the new Daiwa Saltist Lever Drag conventional reel. Pretty cool color combination huh?

Saltist Lever Drag Conventional Single and Two Speed Casting Reels combines a compact, lever drag design with the free-spool ability to easily toss live baits and hardware. Saltist LD features include: Choice of single or two speed models, Fast, One Touch gear shift, Six CRBB corrosion resistant ball bearings, Precision stainless steel gears, helical-cut for smooth, powerful winding, Ultimate Tournament carbon drag (UTD), Offset power handle with round speed knob, Aluminum frame and left sideplate are one solid piece for unmatched strength, Dual system Infinite Anti-Reverse (single speed models), Precision ratchet Anti-Reverse (two speed models), and Machined aluminum spool.

More info on TackleTour.com: http://www.tackletour.com/reviewdaiwazillionsaltistpreview2010.html

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Posted in Fishing, Reels, Saltwater Fishing | No Comments »

Fin-Nor Marquesa Conventional Reel – New Product

June 22nd, 2009 by JIP

ICAST is getting REALLY close and you’ll see more new product sneak peaks coming on TackleTour and TackleTog.

Here’s one of Fin-Nor’s new conventional reels, Fin-Nor Marquesa. Designed and built to compete with the Shimano Torsa.

The Marquesa will be available in 4 sizes and 6 different models. 4 topless and 2 with a top bar and adjustable tension clicker. It’s constructed from a true one-piece forged aluminum frame and gear side cover and spool. Six ball bearings and roller clutch bearings give the reel it’s smoothness. Drag system consists of a stack of carbon fiber washers providing strong and smooth operation when the fish are fighting like mad. Fast 6.1:1 gear ratio and the Marquesa uses a 4 brake weight casting control system.

The reels will be available at the end of 2009 and will retail from $259 to $319.

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Posted in Fishing, Reels, Saltwater Fishing | No Comments »

Penn Inshore and Nearshore Spinning Reels – Sneak Peak

June 22nd, 2009 by JIP

Penn is debutting their new Inshore and Nearshore spinning reels at ICAST next month. We’ll be the first to provide you with a sneak peak of the new products pre-ICAST. Look for the preview article on TackleTour.com in the next day or two.

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Posted in Fishing, Saltwater Fishing | No Comments »

New Product Rumors: Shimano, Ardent

May 21st, 2009 by JIP

Shimano: There have been some rumors flying around regarding some new products that Shimano is going to unleash at ICAST this July. One that interests most anglers is a new Mg reel, perhaps one that’s very similar to Shimano Japan’s Aldebaran. Then there’s the rumor about a new Cumara series. Just rumors or that’s real? Both of these are true! There will be a new Mg reel and a new Cumara series but what exactly… we’ll let you know once we find out more.

Ardent Reels: I got word from reliable Ardent sources that they will be introducing a new reel in July with some innovative designs. More info to come shortly.

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Posted in Bass Fishing, Fishing, Reels, Rods | 1 Comment »

New Abu Garcia Morrum in the USA?

May 6th, 2009 by JIP

In February 2009 Pure Fishing Japan announced the new Abu Garcia Morrum ZX1600 and ZX1601 reels.

Since ICAST 2009 is nearing we have heard various things but nothing for sure if they are going to bring the new Morrum ZX to the United States. It sells in Japan for about $477 USD.

If Pure Fishing USA brought the reel over to the States, are we willing to pay about $500 for the reel?

And if they diluted the reel a little to decrease the cost, would you buy one?

Pictures of the Japanese Abu Garcia Morrum ZX

Abu Garcia ZX 1600 IVCB-4 and ZX 1601 IVCB-4

Abu Garcia ZX 1600 BJ IVCB-4 and ZX 1601 BJ IVCB-4

Abu Garcia ZX 3600 LJ ICVB and ZX 3600 LJ ICVB

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Posted in Bass Fishing, Collectibles, Fishing, Reels | 2 Comments »

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