Berkley Report
The Berkley Krej redefined freshwater hard baits when it earned the prestigious Best of Category award at ICAST 2024. After listening to angler feedback, the Berkley team has upgraded the Krej, now officially available in five new colors and two new sizes, giving anglers even more options to adapt to any fishing scenario.
Designed to excel with forward-facing sonar, the Berkley Krej features an innovative upturned bill that mimics the natural upward fleeing motion of a baitfish. Unlike traditional jerkbaits, it moves upwards in the water column before falling back toward pursuing fish, creating a unique action that triggers reaction strikes. It can be worked just below the surface as described or fished as a topwater on a straight retrieve, adding even more versatility. Perfectly crafted in Berkley Labs, the Krej delivers unmatched performance, innovation, and variety for anglers ready to dominate their next fishing trip.
KEY FEATURES
New Sizes: 85mm • 128mm
New Colors: Smog • Perch • Olive Bone • Purple Slime • Vapor Herring
Suggested retail: $14.99
Spro Report
SPRO has launched the fish-attracting scent powder previously used exclusively by Bassmaster Elite Series champion Takumi Ito.
The advanced scent powder is infused with Ebi (shrimp) flavor, a proven attractant for a wide variety of freshwater and saltwater species. Engineered to outperform traditional oil-based scents, the formula offers a superior solution for maximizing lure effectiveness and keeping fish biting longer.
The scent powder, developed with Takumi Ito’s secret formula, is now available to all anglers seeking a competitive edge on the water. The innovative powder absorbs into lures, creating a durable shell that retains and releases scent over an extended period, significantly increasing its effectiveness.
“The secret is out! Takumi Ito’s success on the water has always been fueled by innovation and attention to detail,” said SPRO National Sales Manager Syd Rives. “This revolutionary scent powder is a testament to that philosophy and gives everyday anglers the same advantage that has been Taku’s closely guarded secret for years.”
Unlike oil-based scents, the formula disperses rapidly in the water, attracting fish from a greater distance. Anglers will appreciate its versatile application, as it can be easily added to plastic bags or tackle boxes containing plastic lures. Packaged in a convenient 2.5-ounce bottle, it’s perfect for any fishing trip and fits neatly into tackle boxes.
Suggested retail is $12.99.
Newport Report
Newport has announced a compact lithium battery designed specifically for small boat and kayak anglers.
The LoPRO Lithium Battery’s innovative design addresses the unique challenges faced by anglers operating in tight spaces, offering a rugged, easy-to-transport, and versatile power source suited for any condition imaginable.
LoPRO features advanced LiFePO4 chemistry, which ensures 90% usable power in harsh climates, while its rugged, impact-resistant technology and GORE-TEX vent deliver IP67 waterproof rating and unmatched durability.
Built-in Bluetooth connectivity and tool-free compression lugs allow for seamless expansion of power with Newport’s plug-and-play series and parallel wiring kits. The result is a battery designed to thrive where others don’t, providing anglers with more power, flexibility, and convenience.
“The LoPRO batteries are a game changer for the entire fishing community,” said Howie Strech, Brand Marketing Manager at Newport. “We designed this battery to empower anglers who need a lightweight, compact, and reliable power source that can withstand any adventure imaginable.
Whether you're on a kayak or small boat, the LoPRO's rugged construction, enhanced connectivity, and go-anywhere capabilities make it the ideal choice for serious anglers.”
Prices range from $599 for 12 volt, $799 for 24 volt and $999 for 36 volt. It weighs about 23 pounds.
Key Features:
The LoPRO Lithium Battery is available in 12V, 24V, and 36V models, providing various capacity and voltage options to suit different needs.
“Newport’s LoPRO Lithium Battery is more than just a power source,” continued Strech. “It’s an essential tool that enhances the overall fishing experience. From its slim, easy-to-handle design to its rugged durability, the LoPRO is built for those who demand the pinnacle of performance in a battery system.”
For more information, visit: https://newportvessels.com/collections/lopro-lithium-batteries.
Hobie Report
Hobie Eyewear proudly introduces its latest innovation, the Hull Float sunglasses, designed for eco-conscious anglers and water adventurers who value sustainability, performance, and durability.
The Hull Float sunglasses are crafted with frames made from 100% upcycled scrap plastic, a byproduct of the Hobie Kayak product process. Unlike traditional recycled materials, broken down into raw components, upcycled materials repurpose discarded resources directly into new products. This innovative approach minimizes waste while maximizing functionality. The bio-based polarized lenses incorporate castor oil-derived materials, further reducing environmental impact.
A standout feature of the Hull Float sunglasses is their ability to float in water, ensuring easy retrieval if dropped—a practical solution for fishermen and aquatic adventurers alike. The polarized lenses provide superior visual clarity, reduce glare, and enhance comfort in diverse aquatic environments.
Hobie® Eyewear is also partnering with the American Sportfishing Association to donate a portion of the proceeds from all Hull Float sunglasses sales to the FishAmerica Foundation, ASA’s conservation and research foundation. Since 1983, the FishAmerica Foundation has awarded $12.1 million to 1,007 projects in all fifty states and Canada to enhance fish populations, restore fishery habitats, improve water quality, and advance fishery research to improve sportfishing opportunities and help ensure recreational fishing’s future.
The Hull Float sunglasses retail for $119.
Specifications:
Dimensions:
Discover how Hobie® Eyewear is redefining its vision on the water by visiting hobieeyewear.com.
Shimano Report
Shimano North America Fishing has introduced the all-new Zumverno 115SP MR, to its lineup of freshwater lures. Meeting the demands of serious anglers, the Zumverno 115SP MR is powered by Shimano's cutting-edge BOOST CONCEPT technologies to offer unmatched performance for targeting bass in various fishing conditions.
“With the integration of our BOOST CONCEPT technologies, this lure offers anglers a tool for targeting suspended bass,” says Bob Mahoney, Shimano Freshwater Marketing Manager. “Whether you’re fishing tight to cover or in open water, the Zumverno 115SP MR delivers the action and realism needed to provoke aggressive strikes.”
Tailored for anglers who rely on forward-facing sonar to locate and catch fish, the Zumverno 115SP MR displays a unique nose-down posture that enhances live sonar returns, allowing for precise tracking of the lure's movement. The new bill design offers several benefits. It creates an erratic side-to-side darting action, mimicking fleeing baitfish and effectively triggering strikes from predators. It also helps to deflect off structures, reducing snags and enhancing durability.
The Zumverno 115SP MR incorporates a range of patented Shimano technologies. FLASH BOOST emits an alluring flash during the retrieve, mimicking the irresistible appearance of a wounded baitfish, even during pauses. JET BOOST technology significantly increases casting range which enables anglers to cover more water and reach distant fish. Additionally, the Zumverno 115SP MR uses SCALE BOOST technology, composite-pitch holograms that replicate lifelike baitfish patterns, increasing its effectiveness in fooling wary predators.
The Zumverno 115SP MR is available in six vibrant colors, allowing anglers to precisely match the forage in any body of water. Its mid-range diving capability makes it perfect for targeting bass at various depths, offering versatility and effectiveness across different conditions.
For more information about the Zumverno 115SP MR and Shimano's complete range of innovative fishing tackle, visit fish.shimano.com. To find a retailer near you, visit Shimano’s dealer locator.