Tournament News Powered By Lake Drive Marine
Wednesday, July 16, 2025
Tuesday, July 15, 2025
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Seaguar Report
One of the most significant breakthroughs in fishing over the past few decades has been the substantial improvement of fishing lines.
Specialized lines like ultra-strong and micro-thin braided lines and virtually invisible fluorocarbon lines have allowed all anglers to experience better performance and get more fish to bite. Combining braid with a fluorocarbon leader has become the standard in fresh and saltwater environments, blending the strength from braid with a host of benefits from fluorocarbon.
It is possible to use any line as a leader, whether fluorocarbon or monofilament. Still, a dedicated leader line possesses characteristics that help anglers get the best performance from their bait or lure. The proper leader allows anglers to get more bites and land more fish.
So, what makes a leader a leader?
Put simply, specialized leader materials are designed to withstand shock in short pieces while maintaining strength and abrasion resistance. Longer lengths of fluorocarbon line were developed as mainlines - to be spooled onto a reel to make casts which requires a softer feel for better manageability. Also, unique formulations of different resins allow Seaguar to develop fluorocarbon lines with characteristics that work well in short pieces, according to Seaguar General Manager Gerry Benedicto.
"In general, fluorocarbon lines, made for use as a leader, have a stiffer body and are less supple than mainline fluorocarbon lines," he said. “These characteristics translate into better overall knot strength and better sensitivity. This has been true since 1971 when we introduced the first fluorocarbon leader for saltwater anglers.”
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Rapala Report
Let’s face it, to fish like a pro, there are some days when you must face the elements head-on – that includes cold, windy and damp weather.
But no more. Rapala has a solution that will keep you warm and toasty regardless of whatever Mother Nature throws at you.
The new Rapala R12 Heated jacket and Vest is fueled and ready for action. Powered by Rapala’s exclusive R12 Lithium series battery system, the R12 Heated Jacket and Vest consistently deliver strength, durability, and reliability day after day, year after year, to keep you on the water longer.
Both the jacket and the vest feature a tri-zone heating system – heating coils are embedded in the chest, the shoulders and the neck to provide hours of warmth. A push-button temperature control with an LED indicator allows for high, medium and low heating settings.
The Rapala R12 battery 2Ah (included) provides up to 4 hours of warmth at the low setting, 3 hours at medium, and 2 hours at high. A removable R12 power bank connects through the side/back pocket to allow for the easy changing of batteries. A USB-C cord allows for battery charging with the power bank.
The R12 jacket and vest both are made with high quality, machine washable (hang to dry), windproof and water-resistant fabric. Both the jacket and vest include a zippered chest pocket and traditional hand pockets at the waist. The jacket includes a hood cinch.
The R12 Heated Jacket has a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of US $199.99, and the R12 Heated Vest has a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of US $169.99.
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Blocker Outdoors Report
The original ghillie suit was worn by Scottish gamekeepers to blend into their environment. Scottish and British military then adopted its use for sniper concealment in World Wars I and II. Today, the leafy outerwear is used by everyone from hunters to birders and paintballers worldwide.
Now, Blocker Outdoors has taken the foliage-themed camouflage to the turkey hunting woods with the new Finisher Leafy Jacket.
The dynamic design breaks up the human silhouette even more than traditional camouflage material, sporting 3D leaves that move like the real thing, flickering with the wind.
Its fit is exceptional as well. “You can put it right over your regular hunting apparel,” said Blocker’s Steve Allie. Moreover, the Finisher Leafy Jacket is considered medium-weight with a poly backing for some thermal integrity yet is able to breathe. Most ghillie tops are mesh-only, which can be uncomfortable and offer no warmth. The poly backing makes the Finisher Leafy Jacket more comfortable to wear.
Beyond its supreme camouflaging capabilities, the Finisher Leafy Jacket also offers Blocker stylings and features. For starters, the three-panel hood fits well and doesn’t slide around while turning your head. Elastic cuffs afford a secure fit, while an adjustable waist lets you customize fit at the midsection. Two front pockets keep essentials at a moment’s notice.
Finisher Leafy Jacket FEATURES:
- Lightweight, breathable polyester mesh
- 3D leaf patterning mimics the turkey woods for ultimate concealment
- Adjustable waist and elastic cuffs for a secure fit
- Two pocket design
- SIZES: SM – 3XL
- PATTERNS: Mossy Oak Original Bottomland and Mossy Oak Greenleaf
Suggested retail is $129.99.
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Shimano Report
Shimano introduces a revolutionary tackle system that brings together three precision-engineered tools for big swimbait anglers who demand unmatched performance. Comprised of the all-new Shimano Tranx 300 B low-profile reel, Outlier technical swimbait rod, and the Gravitator 220SS glide bait form an integrated system built for the angler who seeks trophy bass.
"For anglers chasing the biggest fish in the area, this tackle system offers unparalleled precision and performance," said Bob Mahoney, Shimano Freshwater Marketing Manager. "The Tranx 300 B, Outlier swimbait rods, and Gravitator 220SS were designed with one goal in mind: Helping anglers catch the fish of a lifetime."
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Shimano Report
Shimano has introduced the Compre Trolling rod series, a versatile and finely tuned lineup of trolling rods crafted for anglers targeting freshwater species in the Great Lakes and beyond. Built for precision and durability, the Compre Trolling series is the ideal companion for traditional trolling techniques like Dipsy Diver, Planerboard, and Leadcore applications, while offering versatility for additional trolling styles.
“The Compre Trolling D series is designed for anglers who demand quality and reliability while employing classic trolling techniques,” said Bob Mahoney, Shimano Freshwater Marketing Manager. “These rods provide the perfect blend of action and durability to meet the needs of dedicated anglers chasing everything from walleye to salmon.”
The Compre Trolling D series blends lightweight construction with rugged durability to endure countless hours on the water. Their classic action profiles are tuned for precise bait presentation and optimal fish-fighting power, making them the ultimate tool for trolling enthusiasts.
SeaGuide Zirconia guides offer superior hardness and durability to handle the demands of trolling while maintaining smooth line flow during intense battles. The Fuji reel seat ensures a secure fit and reliable performance under heavy loads, while a full-cork handle delivers both comfort in hand and added protection when secured in rod holders.
For more information about the new Compre Trolling D rod series and Shimano's complete range of innovative fishing tackle, visit fish.shimano.com. To find a retailer near you, visit Shimano’s dealer locator.