Tournament News Powered By Lake Drive Marine
Friday, October 10, 2025
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Abu Garcia Report
Abu Garcia Zenon X Spinning Reel
Abu Garcia has added a new model to the Zenon spinning selection with the Zenon X.
This new model fills the gap by offering the flexibility to fish lightweight finesse style baits while also providing the power to handle heavier baits when needed.
Building upon the success of the original Zenon spinning reel, the Zenon X features the same efficient asymmetric aluminum frame, combined with an oversized AMG2 machined aluminum gear system that delivers the perfect balance of weight, performance and durability.
“This new addition to the Zenon spinning reel lineup is a game-changer for freshwater anglers,” said Andrew Wheeler, Director of Freshwater at Abu Garcia. “The Zenon X combines lightweight design, durable construction and precision engineering to deliver a reel that excels in finesse fishing techniques while offering the versatility to handle heavier baits with ease. It’s the ultimate tool for passionate anglers seeking exceptional performance on the water.”
KEY FEATURES
• Asymmetric one piece aluminum gear box design delivers a compact reel design that is ultra-lightweight
• Air fin spool design helps reduce weight
• V-Rotor design reduces start up inertia
• Carbon handle and co-molded handle knob
• AMG2 fully machined aluminum main gear gives unparalleled smoothness and durability
• 9+1 HPCR bearing system
• Rocket line management system
• Mid-arbor spool design
• 6.2:1 gear ratio
• Weight: 2000 – 6.0-ounces • 2500MS – 6.5-ounces • 3000MS – 6.6-ounces • 3500MS – 6.8-ounces
Suggested retail is $299.95.
To learn more about Abu Garcia, click.
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Lew’s Report
Lew's Custom Lite SS Spinning Reel
Lew’s introduced the Custom Lite SS at the 2024 Bassmaster Classic in Tulsa, Ok.
The 200 size Custom Lite SS Spinning Reel fits in perfectly with the lightweight design and smooth drag offered in the rest of the series, but specifically excels in situations where one would normally use backing tied to a braided main line.
Tailored for finesse applications, the innovative shallow spool design of the Custom Lite SS Spinning Reel strategically reduces line capacity to eliminate line waste and the need for backing, especially when using braided line. The Custom Lite SS is engineered with a feather light Tanso Tech frame and skeletal rotor, weighing only 6.7 oz. for lightweight strength and increased sensitivity. Within the reel lies a precision-machined aluminum gear and a hybrid carbon drag system for steady power and ultra-smooth operation.
“With braided line being such a must in finesse fishing, the Custom Lite SS is so perfect! It's just unnecessary to have that much line on a spool plus it makes it lighter – combine that with the all-around smoothness! You just can't go wrong with it,” says Mark Zona.
The reel will sell at retail level for $159.99.
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Gamakatsu Report
Gamakatsu Nano Alpha Hook
Gamakatsu has announced a proprietary new finish for their most popular hook styles.
In the ever-evolving world of fishing tackle, Gamakatsu has once again raised the bar with their latest innovation: the Nano Alpha finish. Representing a paradigm shift in hook performance, these hooks are a testament to Gamakatsu's commitment to excellence. The Nano Alpha Hooks offer anglers a plethora of advantages, including slicker performance and enhanced corrosion resistance.
Key Features of the New Nano Alpha Hook Technology:
2X Better Hook Penetration: The Nano Alpha Hooks boast an exceptionally smooth surface which increases penetration by two times over standard plated hooks. That allows these hooks to penetrate quicker and farther than standard finishes, delivering higher landing ratios for fish of all species.
4X Better Corrosion Resistance: The Nano Alpha coating technology provides superior corrosion resistance over standard hook plating. This coating not only prolongs the life of the hooks but also ensures they maintain their peak performance in both freshwater and saltwater environments. It prevents rust and corrosion four times better from developing on hooks particularly on the points which quickly dulls hooks.
For more information, please visit WWW.GAMAKATSU.COM
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Skeet Reese Report
Reese Fishing NEXT 1 Rods
Skeet Reese, who has compiled 11 Tour Level victories, 82 top 10 finishes, a Bassmaster Angler of the Year crown in 2007 and a Bassmaster Classic title in 2009, is building a new company, Reese Fishing, which will offer products that will provide self-designed products to fishing consumers.
Beginning with new lines of fishing rods, Reese announces a new website http://reesefishing.com, and the launch of two new fishing rod lines that are a culmination of his experience and commitment to excellence. “I’ve been fortunate to work with some great companies and to be a part of some great products in the past,” said Reese. “But with Reese Fishing, I have an opportunity to do things exactly the way I want and produce products that meet the standards I expect.”
Reese Fishing rods will initially consist of two series, NEXT 1 and NEXT 2, with the NEXT 1 series being the first to be available in the store. NEXT 1 is based off of the Skeet Reese Rods of the past but engineered to a higher degree. “This series is based on the top sellers from my previous projects, but we have taken steps to make sure they are better in every way,” said. Reese. “Every component of the NEXT 1 series has been carefully selected for feel and performance, and if we couldn’t find what I wanted, I worked to design and build them myself.”
NEXT 1 is available in eight models that will give anglers a rod for each core technique they may encounter on the water, and many of the specialized techniques as well. NEXT 1 will be available in the now famous Reese Yellow blank finish, and for those who said they would prefer something less visible. “Each NEXT 1 model has its own name and personality based on the techniques they are designed for,” said Reese. “We wanted to carry on the tradition of the yellow blank that so many customers loved, but others told us they would prefer them to be black, so each model is available in two colors to give everyone a choice.”
Soon to be released on the website will be NEXT 2, a series which Reese called the most advanced fishing rods he has experienced to date in his career. “NEXT 2 is my masterpiece to this point. I’ve designed exclusive reel seats and engineered our exclusive carbon fiber handles to integrate with them,” he said. “I’ve worked to combine the latest in technology and the best graphite and resins we could get to build this series. I’m confident that when you fish NEXT 2, you’re going to LOVE them.”
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EGO Report
EGO Soft Sided Bait Cooler
Fresh live bait is sometimes the only path to fishing success . As much as we like throwing the latest and greatest soft plastics and hardbaits, there are instances when live bait will outproduce 10 to 1.
EGO Fishing puts their pledge to protect your capital live bait expenditure with the exceptional and tactical Soft Sided Bait Cooler.
EGO’s smart Soft Sided Bait Cooler is founded on the principle of maintaining water temperature, which subsequently cuts down on oxygen loss. Internally, the cylindrical wall of the Soft Side Bait Cooler offers generous insulation covered by a soft but durable TPU fabric. The bilayer membrane is waterproof and has a high tear strength as well.