Humminbird Report
New Humminbird App Gives Users Access to LakeMaster Maps and Software Updates
More than ever, anglers rely on their smartphones for communications on and off the water.
The new Humminbird FishSmart app puts the power of LakeMaster mapping in anglers' hands and delivers a more convenient path to important software updates for Humminbird fishfinders.
Operating through a clean, intuitive interface and working with a device's GPS, FishSmart allows users to view their precise location. But the true power of FishSmart is revealed when it's used in conjunction with a high definition LakeMaster. Within the app, users can purchase and download any of the 1,500+ high definition LakeMaster maps. From there, they can highlight depth contours and shallow water, offset the water depth based on seasonal changes, or even mark waypoints or routes.
High definition LakeMaster lake maps are easy to search, buy, and download within the FishSmart app, or through Humminbird's digital cartography store. Once purchased within the app, maps can wirelessly transfer to Bluetooth-enabled HELIX and SOLIX Series fishfinders. And unlike some lake maps that require annual subscription fees, once you buy a LakeMaster map, you own it with no additional fees.
"Our goal at Humminbird is to help people make the most out of their limited time on the water," said Ray Schaffart, Humminbird brand manager. "Whether navigating a lake or river in a canoe, kayak or boat, or walking or driving on the ice in the winter, we want to give anglers a solution that utilizes the power of our LakeMaster maps and leverages the GPS capabilities of their smartphones. The FishSmart app delivers that and more with the connectivity to Humminbird units."
The app is helpful while on the water and it serves as a resource while preparing for fishing trips or tournaments. Anglers can use the app to access any LakeMaster map purchased from ChartSelect and create a game plan for future excursions without having to be in the boat looking at their Humminbird fishfinder.
Another valuable feature of the FishSmart app is that it allows existing Humminbird owners to make valuable software updates wirelessly. Customers with Bluetooth-enabled HELIX and SOLIX fishfinders can now sync each unit with their phone using the app, search for any available software updates, and send the files wirelessly to the fishfinder's internal storage.
"Consumers want simplicity and convenience from their electronics, whether it be a smartphone or a fish finder. The FishSmart app lets us improve the angler's experience with the Humminbird brand, making it easier to stay on top of the latest product enhancements," said Schaffart.
FishSmart is available as a free download in the app store for Apple and Android users.
Quantum Report
Smooth Quantum Vapor Spinning Reel at a Fair Price
Born from the same great cosmetic features that became so popular with the launch of a Vapor baitcasting reel in 2016, Quantum’s spinning version of Vapor is backed by a 3-year warranty, and built with an all aluminum uni-body construction called Reel Engine Design™ that keeps all the gears and key components in precise alignment for a smoother more durable reel, versus more typical 2-part reels.
Fans of the Vapor baitcaster will be quick to recognize and appreciate the durable, comfortable, and tactile cork rubber handle as they turn nine Performance Tuned bearings in anticipation of bites backed by rock solid hooksets, thanks to a brand new DuraLock™ clutch that has more rollers than previous clutches.
Following the hookset, anglers can be confident in Vapor’s patented CSC™ drag system that combines ceramic and carbon fiber to provide superior smoothness and heat resistance. Plus a newly designed adjustment system makes Vapor’s drag nearly linear.
Available in sizes 15, 25, 30 and 40, Vapor’s Performance Tuned nickel titanium bail wire is exclusive to Quantum and it won’t bend like the bail wires on competitive spinning reels are prone to. And at a price of just $139, it won’t break you.
Lew’s Unveils Their Lightest, Toughest Reel at Bassmaster Classic
Team Lew’s new ProTi SLP baitcast reel was introduced at the recent Bassmaster Classic.
Combining a one-piece aluminum frame and aluminum side plates with Titanium composition, the reel is the lightest, toughest ever produced by Lew’s. Hard aluminum alloy “Speed Gears” provide precision gear mesh that maximizes smoothness and durability. A premium 11 bearing system with double-shielded Stainless Steel ball bearings and a Zero Reverse one-way clutch bearing add to the smoothness and durability of this reel.
Not only is the Pro-Ti SLP light and tough, but it’s also extremely user friendly to make the angler’s day on the water a success. The proprietary brake shoe geometry of the externally adjustable 6-pin, 27-position QuietCast Adjustable Centrifugal Braking System (ACB) means a quieter and smoother braking system. The exclusive and patented Speed Dial® line indicator means no more forgetting what type of line is spooled on each reel, and the patented Speed Keeper® hook keeper provides a convenient place to keep baits at the ready when not in use.
The new Team Lew’s Pro-Ti SLP is offered in both left and right-handed models with a 7.5:1 gear ratio. It will sell at suggested retail price of $349.99.
Provided by Loomis
Classic Introduction: Loomis Reduces Weight, Adds Durability in New E6X Rod Design
G. Loomis introduced a redesign to its popular E6X Series at this week’s GEICO Bassmaster Classic to make the popular rods more durable and even lighter.
The E6X series will sell from $189.99 to $199.99 while a new 8-foot swimbait rod will retail for $249.99.
Available for the 2018 fishing season, the new E6X bass rods includes 33 models offered in both technique specific, along with G. Loomis’ universal ‘Mag Bass’ (MBR) casting and ‘Spin Jig’ (SJR) spinning actions.
Provided by Shimano
Classic Introduction: Shimano Brings Back Bantam 150 with Modern Day Features
Shimano introduced anglers to Bantam - its first low-profile baitcasting reel some 40 years ago and they’re bringing it back in a new, refined model that was introduced at the GEICO Bassmaster Classic this week.
The Bantam 150 MGL will be offered in six models - the Bantam MGL150, 151, 150HG, 151HG, 150XG and 151XG. It will retail for $349.99.
“With the new Bantam MGL reels, we went back to the legacy we built with the original metal construction reels, and took advantage of 40 years of ever-expanding technology,” said Trey Epich with Shimano’s product development staff. “Anglers will discover the entire concept behind the Bantam MGL reel is all about rigid, solid, and sensitive. We incorporate specific design elements and technology to focus on that concept.”