Tournament News Powered By Lake Drive Marine
Friday, October 10, 2025
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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.
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Shimano Report
Shimano elevates the standard for versatile, high-performance spinning reels with the launch of the all-new Ultegra FD. Designed to meet the needs of anglers across both freshwater and saltwater environments, the Ultegra FD blends cutting-edge technology, lasting CoreSolid construction, and exceptional value into one sleek package.
“The Ultegra FD is built for anglers who demand reliable performance and advanced features without breaking the bank,” said Bob Mahoney, Shimano Freshwater Marketing Manager. “It’s a reel designed to handle diverse conditions, from bass and walleye to leading inshore species, with the durability and smoothness that anglers can count on.”
At the core of the Ultegra FD is Shimano’s InfinityXross technology, which extends the surface of the cold-forged HAGANE Gear to evenly distribute force and enhance gear durability. For seamless cranking power, Infinity Drive technology reduces friction between the spool shaft and pinion gear, delivering effortless winding even under heavy loads.
The reel also features Shimano’s Anti-Twist Fin, a flexible polymer design that ensures even line lay and minimizes the occurrence of wind knots for optimal casting performance. Shimano’s X-Protect technology safeguards the reel from water intrusion, making it a dependable choice for saltwater and freshwater anglers alike.
The Ultegra FD empowers anglers to tackle any challenge on the water, offering performance traditionally reserved for higher-priced reels at an accessible price point. Suggested retail is $159.99-$179.99.
For more information about the new Ultegra FD and Shimano's complete range of innovative fishing tackle, visit fish.shimano.com. To find a retailer near you, visit Shimano’s dealer locator.
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Chest packs have been with us for a good long time. They first made a mark in fly fishing, and then onto general wade fishing and eventually hunting. But until now, there hasn’t been a svelte and utilitarian chest back designed specifically for turkey hunting. Thunderchickens beware, because Blocker Outdoors built the mobile toolbox and calls it the Finisher Chest Pack.
More guys and gals are stalking, settling-in, and moving along to the next field-scape until filling that precious tag. This versus hunkering in a fortified and fully outfitted single position, hoping and praying.
According to Blocker Outdoors Marketing Director Steve Allie, “Agile, lone wolf hunting necessitates a minimalist approach.” That means operating fully self-contained, and the Finisher Chest Pack fits perfectly into that program.
Externally, a generous selection of stretch woven exterior pockets accommodates mouth calls, pot calls, and strikers. Added side pockets accommodate even more on-the-go gear. Finally, there’s a dedicated box call pocket with shock cord closure system to keep the call in place.
The Finisher Chest Pack’s universal, zippered top-loader pocket is large enough to accommodate most binoculars. And once inside, you’ll find an easy access stretch mesh pocket and shot shell slots.
Finisher Chest Pack FEATURES:
- Universal top-loader pocket large enough for most binoculars
- Easy access stretch mesh pocket, 3 shell slots, and a zippered mesh pocket on the sides
- Stretch woven exterior pockets for mouth calls, pot calls, strikers, and side pockets for extra gear
- Zip closure stretch mesh pocket on the back
- Adjustable shoulder and chest straps for a secure fit
- Dedicated box call pocket with a shock cord closure system
- COLORS: Realtree Original, Mossy Oak Original Bottomland, Mossy Oak Greenleaf, and Flint (solid)
Suggested retail is $89.99.
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Shimano Report
Shimano has unveiled the latest addition to its SLX series, the revamped SLX XT A low-profile reel. Building on the stellar reputation of its predecessor, the SLX XT A incorporates trickle-down technologies to deliver a superior angling experience. Ideal for targeting trophy fish with a variety of techniques, this reel promises unparalleled performance and versatility on the water.
The SLX XT A delivers precision and adaptability, meeting the demands of serious anglers. Featuring Shimano’s innovative SilentTune technology, the SLX XT A offers a near-noiseless, incredibly smooth reeling experience. The SVS Infinity Braking System provides an easy-to-access external dial for quick on-water adjustments, ensuring optimal performance whether casting heavy or light lures.
The lightweight, rigid-metal aluminum HAGANE Body of the SLX XT A offers an ultra-rigid platform that enhances hooksets and ensures uniform reeling power. This robust construction provides the strength needed to handle the fight with trophy fish.
Suggested retail is $129.99.
For more information about the SLX XT A and Shimano's complete range of innovative fishing tackle, visit fish.shimano.com. To find a retailer near you, visit Shimano’s dealer locator.
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Z-Man Report
Z-man has delivered a new, specialized lure designed for forward-facing sonar (FFS) enthusiasts.
The new 3.8-inch Z-man Graph ShadZ was created to reflect a vibrant sonar signal, leading with stunning realism and an array of high-performance underwater motions that appeal to the most challenging bass, walleye and other species.
“All elements of the Graph ShadZ exist to reflect a solid sonar return signal and to move and react in ways that coerce strikes from today’s toughest bass—suspended and cover-oriented fish that see tons of lures and constantly surround themselves with clouds of bait,” suggests Z-Man pro Luke Clausen, an FFS fan since day-one.
Radical Line-Through Design
The sculpted Graph ShadZ head has a line-through design. “Among the biggest obstacles anglers face with interactive sonar presentations—moping, Damiki or hover rigging— is having to reposition the knot on the eyelet after every cast to maintain a natural lure angle,” explains Director of Product Development Jose Chavez. “Our objective was to give anglers a perfectly balanced lure that hovers horizontally, rather than unnaturally nose- or tail-down.