Garmin’s new Force Current kayak trolling motor. (Photo by Scott Bernarde)
July 16, 2025
By Florida Sportsman
Check back to this article for updates as new gear is released during and after ICAST 2025. Quantum Cabo Reel The Quantum Cabo Reel is back and better than ever, redefining saltwater performance with cutting-edge innovation. Originally debuted in 2003, the Cabo family has built a reputation for delivering reliable, high-performing reels, and this latest iteration continues that tradition while introducing significant upgrades. The Cabo is sealed to IPX8 standards with the advanced Sealoq 8 system, offering unparalleled protection from water, salt and sand. It features GEARTEQ machined gearing, delivering a smooth and precise gear feel, exceptional cranking power and extended gear life, surpassing traditional gear designs. The CFX200 Carbon Fiber Extreme Drag System provides best-in-class max drags and an unmatched drag curve. The CASTEQ slow oscillation design enhances line management and allows for improved casting distance, particularly with braided lines, giving anglers greater control and efficiency with every cast. $249.95 and up | Learn more
Quantum Cabo reel Garmin Force Current Kayak Trolling Motor Garmin's new Force Current trolling moto. (Photo by Scott Bernarde) Garmin’s new Force Current kayak trolling motor allows anglers to wirelessly fish and maneuver at the same time. Power steer pedals allow the user to steer without hands, as well as access key features like anchor lock and heading hold. Wireless throttle and steering can be accomplished with the foot pedals, handheld remote or compatible smartwatch. The motor runs in both freshwater and saltwater. $3,599.99 with foot pedals, $2,999.99 without | Learn more
Shimano Ocea Plugger Limited Rod Shimano Ocea Plugger Limited fishing rod, The Ocea Plugger Limited is the newest addition to Shimano’s flagship saltwater rod lineup. Designed for serious offshore anglers, the series includes four spinning models engineered for better casting performance, durability and overall angler confidence on the water. Offering offshore precision, the new Ocea is remarkably light, tough and purpose-built. $899.99 | Learn More
Talica 4011 A and 5011 A Reels Shimano Talica 4011 A fishing reel Shimano expands its legacy of saltwater angling innovation with the introduction of the Talica 40II A and Talica 50II A , the latest sizes in its flagship lever-drag conventional reel series. The new 40-size Talica 40II A addresses market demand for a reel that bridges the gap between the 25 and 50 sizes. Infinity Drive, Shimano’s premier technology for lever-drag reels, features a new drag design that increases drag force while reducing side-load pressure, allowing for significantly lighter handle rotation under load. This results in more cranking power with less effort. X-Protect, Shimano’s advanced water-resistance technology, delivers high-level protection to the drive gear shaft bearing using waterproof construction for durability and corrosion resistance. The heavier Talica 50II A (55.7 ounces) will hold more line than the 40II A (54.7 ounces), but the 40-size boasts the same retrieval rate of 46 Inches per crank, and max drag of 66 pounds as its 50-size sibling. Compact enough for stand-up harness fishing, yet powerful enough to handle the demands of trolling under high drag pressure. $599.99-$719.99 | Learn More
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Okuma Tesoro Lever Drag Jigging Reel Okuma Tesoro LDJ reel The Okuma Tesoro LDJ is a mid-gear lever drag jigging reel engineered for serious saltwater anglers who demand power, control, and long-term durability. Built on a rigid one-piece 6061-T6 machined aluminum frame with forged side plates, the reel delivers the structural integrity needed for high-drag jigging applications. It’s perfectly suited for vertical and slow-pitch jigging, combining strength and smooth operation to perform under extreme pressure. The cold-forged, Type-II anodized spool ensures consistent performance, while Okuma’s Carbonite Dual Force Drag system delivers up to 46 pounds of max drag with smooth, controlled power. $449.99 | Learn More
Inspira ISX Spinning St. Croix Legend Elite Fly Rods Legend Elite fly-fishing rod. (Photo courtesy of St. Croix) The Legend Elite and Legend Elite Salt fly-rod series, introduced at ICAST, are based on the original angler-favorite LE and LE Salt mandrels, but have been completely updated with new materials, technologies and components. The Legend Elite includes #3 through #8 all-water rods (12 models in all) that deliver power, control and lightweight performance. Medium-fast with loads of feel, refined and responsive tapers are distinct across all models for technique-specific performance. The Legend Elite Salt (six models in #7 through #12 weights) is designed for all saltwater anglers with powerful and accurate fast-action tapers. The rods begin with an all-new matrix of premium SCIV and SCIII carbon materials, resulting in lighter and more responsive blanks with reduced swing weights and improved balance without sacrifice to strength or power. The Legend Elite will be available Sept. 1; the Elite Salt Nov. 1. $595-$650 | Learn More
Fitzgerald Fishing Flats Class Rod Series Fitzgerald's Flats Class Series fishing rod. (Photo courtesy of Fitzgerald Fishing) The new Flats Class Series of inshore rods is a collaboration of pro saltwater angler, Capt. C.A. Richardson and award-winning rod builder Trevor Fitzgerald. That has resulted in a collection of inshore rods that offer strength, sensitivity and lightweight performance, and is tailored for the most sought-after inshore species from trophy speckled trout to tarpon. Optimized for precision casting, lure control and effective fish-fighting in shallow water. $229.99-$239.99 | Learn More
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Temple Fork Outfitters Moment Saltwater Fly Rods Temple Fork’s Moment Series fly rods. (Photo courtesy of Temple Fork Outfitters) Temple Fork’s Moment Series is built for those experienced fly anglers who need to make a quick accurate shot. The extra-fast action stands out, allowing high line speed, tight loops and pinpoint control. It's perfect for long leaders, heavy lines or windy conditions. TFO’s patented Kevlar weave prevents ovaling and keeps the blank tracking true, with graphene reinforcement for faster recovery and dampening. Available in 6–12 weights; every model is fitted with premium full-wells grips, fighting butts and corrosion-resistant hardware built for the salt. $649.95 | Learn More