Gear Check: New Spin Combo, Chartplotter, Angling Pants

Gear updates featured in recent issues of Florida Sportsman magazine. Click to subscribe.

Quantum Merit Combos

The new Quantum Merit spin combos match precision engineering and IPX6 water-sealing technology with rub-your-eyes, “can’t believe the price” value. The reels are graphite body and rotor but frankly feel as rigid as metal. Drags are CFX200 carbon fiber, field tested extensively. The rods feature single-piece HD304 stainless steel guides. The combos are available in lengths and capacities to suit just about any coastal saltwater application in Florida, from a 7-foot light combo suitable for 1⁄16-ounce lures ($109.95) to a 10-foot, heavy action two-piece surfcasting rod ($159.95). Quantum has been busy developing saltwater spinning tackle for wide users, from the pros to the joes. The Merit combos, as backups or primary weapons, will probably generate excitement among both camps.

Get Whale Alerts on Your Garmin Plotter

Though recreational boat collisions with whales are vanishingly rare, graphic updates on a chartplotter of the presence of whales and other protected mammals in vessel traffic zones would nonetheless be a welcome, mind-at-ease conservation tool. With a recent software update for select offshore-grade chartplotters, Garmin has opened the door to this kind of technology. The updated Garmin plotters networked with Automatic Identification System (AIS) devices can post collision-avoidance broadcasts from third-party licensed AIS broadcasters that will appear onscreen to alert boaters within range of potential safety hazards, including certain floating objects, as well as when nearing or entering North Atlantic right whale seasonal and dynamic management areas. Visit Garmin’s marine device software update page for details. See also the website for the Whale and Vessel Safety Taskforce (WAVS), a nonprofit coalition of marine industry leaders, scientists, and technology developers dedicated to reducing the risk of vessel strikes to marine mammals.

Magellan Jacob Wheeler Jogger

Magellan Outdoors has partnered with professional bass angler Jacob Wheeler to produce a line of pro grade, on-the-water attire for anglers, including a new Jogger pant. It’s made of a four-way stretch nylon-spandex blend, with a water-repellant finish and UPF protection. A key feature of the jogger, the ankle cuff allows for full leg protection while keeping the bottom of the pant off of the ground and away from any water on the deck of the boat. A perfect match when wearing flip flops. MSRP is $44.99.

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