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Shimano Report
Shimano North America Fishing announces the debut of its Exsence B spinning reel lineup with a new 2500-size option, tailored for light-tackle anglers targeting freshwater species with techniques. As the flagship model in Shimano’s MagnumLite series, the Exsence B sets the standard for performance in finesse applications.
“When we talk about finesse, we’re talking about control — and that’s where this Exsence B dominates,” says Kade Gewanter, Freshwater Product Marketing Manager at Shimano North America Fishing. “The new size offering within the redesigned Exsence series — the Exsence 2500XGB — expands access to Shimano’s premium technologies for finesse bass fishing, allowing more anglers to fine-tune their gear for specific techniques using a premium reel equipped with Shimano’s MGL Rotor. Whether shaking a dropshot, or strolling a minnow, the Exsence B delivers the performance edge.”
Exsence B is engineered with Shimano’s most advanced reel technologies, empowering anglers with longer, more accurate casts, ultra-responsive control, and smooth, powerful retrieves. The lightweight frame is now available in a 2500-size option with ultra-fast XG gearing (6.4:1), making it the perfect spinning reel for targeting bass with finesse tactics.
At the heart of the Exsence B lies the MGL Rotor, constructed from a lightweight carbon-infused CI4+ material. The rotor’s asymmetrical design slashes rotational inertia to give anglers instant startup and agile bait control with every handle turn. For those who rely on precision presentations, this means subtle bites and executing fluid retrieves with ease.
Exsense B is built to perform under pressure with proprietary Shimano technologies. InfinityLoop enhances spool oscillation and line lay to deliver longer, more fluid casts. Infinity Drive provides effortless reeling under load and InfinityXross gear design for improved durability. Exsence B also features Rapid Fire Drag to enable fast and precise drag adjustments in the heat of the fight, while the DuraCross drag system provides silky-smooth resistance with added durability. The Anti-Twist Fin further enhances line management by maintaining consistent tension and reducing slack.
From the backcountry to the sweet water, Shimano built the all-new Exsence B series for anglers who want to cast further, feel more, and fight smarter. For more information about this new offering and Shimano's complete range of innovative fishing tackle, visit fish.shimano.com. To find a retailer near you, visit Shimano’s dealer locator. For more information on Shimano and the latest product releases, please contact Gordon Brown at gordon@darbycommunications.com.
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St. Croix Report
American manufacturing resonates today more than ever. But it’s something we’ve been doing at St. Croix Rod since 1948. Why do we still make rods in the USA? Control. You need it as an angler, because YOUR pride is on the end of your line. We need it as a company, because OUR pride is in your hands.
PREMIER has consistently been the best-selling American-made fishing rod series since it first appeared in the St. Croix Rod catalog in 1957. Possessing a hallmark combination of quality, performance, value, and American craftsmanship, the PREMIER Series exemplifies everything anglers expect in a St. Croix rod.
St. Croix’s Premier Rod Series has been improved many times over the past 68 years, and now – for 2026 – the American classic delivers even better performance via additional technologies, enhanced ergonomics, and angler-driven lengths, powers, and actions, including two-piece models that are both on-trend and in demand.
Anglers will notice smoother actions and improved sensitivity in 2026 PREMIER multispecies and musky models, which are also stronger and lighter due to the addition of St. Croix’s Taper Enhancement Technology (TET). Utilized with St. Croix’s popular SCII carbon material for the first time ever in the 2026 PREMIER Series, TET incorporates precise laser-cut, curved blank patterns that fit together and lay up more precisely on the mandrels. Frequently employed in the designs of St. Croix’s top-tier rod series, TET results in noticeably elevated feel and performance. In the case of the all-new PREMIER for 2026, TET also results in a remarkable 10% weight savings over previous-generation PREMIERS.
Additional series upgrades include refined handle design on all new PREMIER spinning rods. Premium, full-cork handles remain, but tapers and foregrips have been redesigned for improved control and balance. Light and ultra-light models also receive their own distinct reel seats.
Guide trains have also been modernized for 2026. Angler-preferred stainless-steel tangle-free K-style guides with aluminum oxide rings are laser-aligned and now adorn all PREMIER models.
St. Croix PREMIER Series Features
- 37 spinning models and 8 casting models for high-performance multi-species presentations
- 10 casting models and 3 spinning models for high-performance musky presentations
- Premium SCII carbon fiber blanks with FRS (Fortified Resin System) for increased flexural strength with reduced weight
- Taper Enhancement Technology (TET) blank design for smoother, stronger, and more sensitive actions
- Lightweight stainless-steel tangle-free K-style guides with aluminum-oxide rings
- Premium-grade full-cork handles with cork-composite accents
- Nylon reel seat with nylon locking nut and stainless-steel hood
- 5-year warranty backed by St. Croix Superstar Service
- Designed and handcrafted in Park Falls, Wisconsin, U.S.A. for multispecies anglers worldwide
- PREMIER Multispecies retail price $145-$205
- PREMIER Musky retail price $235-$275
St. Croix PREMIER Series Multispecies Casting Models
- SCPC66MF – 6’6”, medium power, fast action, casting / Retail $175
- SCPC66MF2 – 6’6”, medium power, fast action, 2-piece casting / Retail $195
- SCPC66MHF – 6’6”, medium-heavy power, fast action, casting / Retail $175
- SCPC66MHF2 – 6’6”, medium-heavy power, fast action, 2-piece casting / Retail $195
- SCPC70MF – 7’0”, medium power, fast action, casting / Retail $175
- SCPC70MF2 – 7’0”, medium power, fast action, 2-piece casting / Retail $195
- SCPC70MHF – 7’0”, medium-heavy power, fast action, casting / Retail $185
- SCPC70MHF2 – 7’0”, medium-heavy power, fast action, 2-piece casting / Retail $205
St. Croix PREMIER Series Multispecies Spinning Models
- SCPS46ULM – 4’6”, ultra-light power, moderate action, spinning / Retail $145
- SCPS50ULM – 5’0”, ultra-light power, moderate action, spinning / Retail $145
- SCPS56LF – 5’6”, light power, fast action, spinning / Retail $155
- SCPS56ULF2 – 5’6”, ultra-light power, fast action, 2-piece spinning / Retail $175
- SCPS56MF – 5’6”, medium power, fast action, spinning / Retail $155
- SCPS60ULF – 6’0”, ultra-light power, fast action, spinning / Retail $155
- SCPS60ULF2 – 6’0”, ultra-light power, fast action, 2-piece spinning / Retail $175
- SCPS60LF – 6’0”, light power, fast action, spinning / Retail $155
- SCPS60MLF – 6’0”, medium-light power, fast action, spinning / Retail $155
- SCPS60MLF2 – 6’0”, medium-light power, fast action, 2-piece spinning / Retail $175
- SCPS60MF – 6’0”, medium power, fast action, spinning / Retail $165
- CPS60MF2 – 6’0”, medium power, fast action, 2-piece spinning / Retail $185
- CPS60MHF – 6’0”, medium-heavy power, fast action, spinning / Retail $165
- SCPS66ULF – 6’6”, ultra-light power, fast action, spinning / Retail $155
- SCPS66ULF2 – 6’6”, ultra-light power, fast action, 2-piece spinning / Retail $175
- SCPS66LF – 6’6”, light power, fast action, spinning / Retail $155
- SCPS66LF2 – 6’6”, light power, fast action, 2-piece spinning / Retail $175
- SCPS66MLF – 6’6”, medium-light power, fast action, spinning / Retail $165
- SCPS66MLF2 – 6’6”, medium-light power, fast action, 2-piece spinning / Retail $185
- SCPS66MF – 6’6”, medium power, fast action, spinning / Retail $165
- SCPS66MF2 – 6’6”, medium power, fast action, 2-piece spinning / Retail $185
- SCPS66MHF – 6’6”, medium-heavy power, fast action, spinning / Retail $175
- SCPS66MHF2 – 6’6”, medium-heavy power, fast action, 2-piece spinning / Retail $195
- SCPS70ULF – 7’0”, ultra-light power, fast action, spinning / Retail $155
- SCPS70ULF2 – 7’0”, ultra-light power, fast action, 2-piece spinning / Retail $175
- SCPS70MLF – 7’0”, medium-light power, fast action, spinning / Retail $165
- SCPS70MLF2 – 7’0”, medium-light power, fast action, 2-piece spinning / Retail $185
- SCPS70MF – 7’0”, medium power, fast action, spinning / Retail $175
- SCPS70MF2 – 7’0”, medium power, fast action, 2-piece spinning / Retail $195
- SCPS70MHF – 7’0”, medium-heavy power, fast action, spinning / Retail $175
- SCPS70MHF2 – 7’0”, medium-heavy power, fast action, 2-piece spinning / Retail $195
- SCPS70HF – 7’0”, heavy power, fast action, spinning / Retail $195
- SCPS70HF2 – 7’0”, heavy power, fast action, 2-piece spinning / Retail $215
- SCPS76MLF – 7’6”, medium-light power, fast action, spinning / Retail $175
- SCPS76MLF2 – 7’6”, medium-light power, fast action, 2-piece spinning / Retail $195
- SCPS76MF – 7’6”, medium power, fast action, spinning / Retail $185
- SCPS76MF2 – 7’6”, medium power, fast action, 2-piece spinning / Retail $205
St. Croix PREMIER Series Musky Casting Models
- SCPC76MHF – 7’6”, medium-heavy power, fast action, casting / Retail $240
- SCPC76HF – 7’6”, heavy power, fast action, casting / Retail $240
- SCPC710MHF2 – 7’10”, medium-heavy power, fast action, 2-piece casting / Retail $275
- SCPC80MHF – 8’0”, medium-heavy power, fast action, casting / Retail $240
- SCPC80HF – 8’0”, heavy power, fast action, casting / Retail $240
- SCPC80HM – 8’0”, heavy power, moderate action, casting / Retail $250
- SCPC86MHF – 8’6”, medium-heavy power, fast action, casting / Retail $250
- SCPC86MHF2 – 8’6”, medium-heavy power, fast action, 2-piece casting / Retail $275
- SCPC86HF – 8’6”, heavy power, fast action, casting / Retail $250
- SCPC86XHF – 8’6”, extra-heavy power, fast action, casting / Retail $250
St. Croix PREMIER Series Musky Spinning Models
- SCPS76MHF – 7’6”, medium-heavy power, fast action, spinning / Retail $235
- SCPS80MHF – 8’0”, medium-heavy power, fast action, spinning / Retail $240
- SCPS80HF – 8’0”, heavy power, fast action, spinning / Retail $240
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Lew’s Report
The latest advancements in fishing technology have arrived with the KVD Elite Series’ innovative new lineup of gear, designed for anglers seeking superior performance on the water.
This series includes the upgraded KVD Elite Casting Reel, Spinning Reel, and Rods, offering anglers precision, reliability, and durability for any fishing scenario.
The KVD Elite Casting Reel now boasts the PARAMAG® RX Braking System, which applies even force across the braking surface, ensuring balanced spool rotation while dramatically minimizing backlashes. With a friction-free operation and no electronic components, the system combines simplicity with cutting-edge technology. The reel’s Speed Gears®, cut on the finest Hamai CNC machines, provide smooth, effortless cranking with reduced weight and wear. Built for endurance, the one-piece aluminum frame delivers exceptional sturdiness and eliminates flex, enabling anglers to rely on its performance regardless of conditions.
The KVD Elite Spinning Reel revolutionizes lightweight design with its C40 carbon frame and rotor, cutting an ounce of weight for enhanced sensitivity and comfort. This model also introduces a shallow anodized spool option in the 300 size, an exclusive feature catering to finesse anglers who value longer, smoother casts without the need for backing. Along with a premium stainless steel 7-bearing system and a hybrid carbon drag system, the reel ensures smooth line retrieval and consistent drag power.
The KVD Elite Rods, built with premium IM8 graphite blanks and FOCAS® technology, deliver exceptional tip strength while maintaining high sensitivity for detecting light bites. Designed with stainless steel guide frames and durable zirconia inserts, these rods reduce wear, enhance line performance, and are available in casting and spinning models. Anglers can enjoy ergonomic high-density EVA split grip handles across the series, while specialized reel seats provide enhanced comfort and control for both casting and spinning setups.
With products that blend expert craftsmanship and ingenuity without compromising simplicity and durability, the KVD Elite Series levels up every angler’s game. Whether it’s the balanced braking of the PARAMAG® RX, the weightless feel of the C40 frame, or the premium design of the IM8 blanks, every feature reflects a commitment to precision and performance.
“My new KVD Elite series rods and reels have the performance and features that take it to a whole new level. No matter the technique or lure, I’ve got the perfect combination to maximize my performance on the water, and all at an unmatched value.”
-Kevin VanDam
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Lowrance Report
Lowrance has introduced ActiveTarget® 2 XL, the brand’s most advanced live sonar system to date. Featuring surface-to-surface 180-degree views, this technology delivers unmatched clarity and coverage, giving anglers a complete picture of what’s happening beneath the water in real time.
Building on the award-winning ActiveTarget 2 platform, the new XL transducer sets a new standard for live sonar performance. With ultra-clear resolution and a sweeping 180-degree field of vision – spanning Forward, Down, and Scout modes from a single transducer – ActiveTarget 2 XL ensures no fish or bait goes unseen. The full-screen display captures every detail, from the moment the lure drops to the strike itself, offering anglers unparalleled situational awareness and precision.
Switching views is now easier than ever. The redesigned XL transducer allows anglers to instantly toggle between Forward XL and Down XL views directly from the display, no manual adjustments required. The new bracket, compatible with both shaft and motor mounts*, enables seamless transitions into Scout Mode. Once activated, built-in reference markers guide anglers to the optimal angle for both deep and shallow water, ensuring pinpoint accuracy with every cast.
ActiveTarget 2 XL is a one-time upgrade that unlocks all sonar views from a single transducer, no additional gear needed. Anglers can simply mount the XL transducer and start fishing, using their existing ActiveTarget 2 sonar module to minimize setup and maximize time on the water.
For those seeking total situational awareness, combining two XL systems** introduces an industry-first: 360-degree Scout XL live view around the entire boat. This revolutionary capability allows anglers to identify the perfect casting spot without repositioning. Running multiple transducers also enables simultaneous viewing of Forward XL/Down XL and Scout XL views, eliminating the need to lift the trolling motor at all.
Lowrance ActiveTarget 2 XL transducer upgrade starts at $1,399 USD and is now available.
Key Features
- Best-in-class resolution
- Surface-to-surface 180° live view
- 360° Scout XL live view (requires dual systems and HDS PRO)
- 180 XL Views in Forward, Down and Scout modes from a single transducer
- Switch between Forward XL & Down XL views on your Display
- Improved switching to Scout Mode
- Quick-reference markers for deep and shallow water (Scout Mode)
- Shaft mount or Motor-mount* (*exclusive to Recon™)
- Compatible with existing ActiveTarget 2 sonar module
- Compatible with HDS PRO®, HDS Live®, HDS Carbon® and Elite FS™
*Motor mount exclusive to Recon Trolling Motors
**Dual sonar modules and transducers required, HDS PRO only
For more information on Lowrance, visit www.lowrance.com.