Anger Management
Between the solid cold-cast acrylic bodies and one-piece stainless-steel center inserts that connect to the hooks, Angry Poppers from Frenzy Tackle are practically indestructible. This design means no more chipped paint and no more ripped-out hooks. Whether you chug the poppers quickly across the surface, twitch them just below or slow-troll them, their highly reflective prism core and oversize eyes draw strikes from inshore and offshore species. They are available in six colors and sell for $10. Frenzy Tackle; (985) 951-8116; www.frenzytackle.com
Twin Turbo
As technology pushes ahead, spinning gear is finding its way farther offshore, and the TwinSpin 30 reel from Accurate is the latest innovation that really goes the distance. With a dual drag that applies equal pressure to both sides of the reel, it’s not hard to believe the TwinSpin has bested Pacific blue marlin up to 325 pounds. The frame and spool are machined from solid blocks of T-6 aircraft-grade aluminum, and the bail and drag plates are pure titanium. Offering more than 20 pounds of drag pressure, the reel has a retrieve ratio of 6:1. The Accurate TwinSpin 30 sells for $900. Accurate; (888) 222-8372; www.accuratefishing.com
Bull Roping
SWS Editor at Large Dave Lear is a true redfish nut. So when we heard about Mastery Series Redfish Fly Line from Scientific Anglers, we knew just who to have test it. While casting to bulls in Florida, Lear found that the line had very low memory and loaded the rod quickly. The braided monofilament Tropi-Core helped prevent tangles and maintained the stiffness needed in a warm salt water environment. The line is available in weights six through nine and starts at $60. Scientific Anglers; (989) 496-3401; www.scientificanglers.com
Cold Storage
Whether you’re storing fish for the table or bait for the trip, freshness is always important. Ultra-Cool iceboxes from Engel are available in gelcoated fiberglass or roto-molded plastic and will keep contents cold for up to 11 days, as both types are insulated with high-grade polyurethane foam. The boxes don’t absorb odors and can be used with dry ice when bait needs to be fully frozen for long offshore adventures. Ultra-Cool boxes are available in 13- through 1,270-quart capacity. Suggested retail prices start at $30. Engel; (561) 743-7419; www.ultra-cool.us
