As we quickly exit June and enter the beginning of July, it means were are barreling in on the ICAST show. ICAST is the world’s largest sport fishing trade show and is the cornerstone of the fishing industry, helping to drive outdoor companies’ product sales year round. From buyers to media to exhibitors, ICAST annually attracts more than 7,000 members to conduct business, network with other members of the industry and see all the latest innovations in gear and accessories. This year the show is being held at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, FL, July 15–17th.

ICAST is where you will find almost all the releases of new hot baits, rods, reels and other gear for fishing. Many companies work all year to make a big splash with their new offerings at this show. Another recent trend is for some companies to start pre-releasing some of their new baits to media outlets and outdoor writers to create a bit of a pre-show buzz. Here are a few baits that I am aware of this year.

Mad Maxx frog

Tru-Tungsten is proud to announce the release of the Mad Maxx Hollow body frog. Designed by Mike Iaconelli, Marty Stone and Greg Hackney. Mad Maxx features the MiHatchii super sharp, super strong custom hook; 3D eyes, tungsten rattles, a unique pro drain hole that is scientifically designed that allows accumulated water to escape. Also, design into the body is a unique keel that allows it to glide along the surface like the real thing. This design makes walking the dog almost effortless.

Tru-Tungsten Flea Flicker

A great technique from Japan called "drop and shake" has the industry buzzing and Tru-Tungsten has jumped right in the middle of the fray with a new Flea Flicker Wacky Jig Head. The Flea Flicker has a concave opening on the business side of the hook that catches air and makes the bait glide and jerk. You can cast it or fish it vertically over structure. The tungsten headed jig makes a straight tailed worm hop, flutter and jump. Fish cannot stand it and when fishing is tough this is a go-to bait.

Berkley PowerBaits

Berkley also sent out some new products that include a new Swimbait called a Ripple Shad, a ribbed shad imitator with a boot tail, a new hand poured Finesse Worm, new Ribbon Tail Power Grubs, a hand poured Curtail Worm, and a 7" Power Worm.
Keep an eye out for these baits and many more from your favorite retailers in the coming months!