ICAST Coverage (Innovations) - Everything from clever new storage to transforming watercrafts 
 

Introduction: This is our final bout of ICAST coverage, and an opportunity to take a look at an assortment of exciting new tackle offerings ranging from storage, to optics, to new watercraft solutions. This year manufacturers really got "innovative" in an effort to set themselves apart. We saw Tier 1 manufacturers branching into new segments, niche companies delving into new specialized solutions, and it was invigorating to see a handful of new companies jumping into the ring too.

Easy Navigation: Because this is live coverage and we adding to article every minute we have provided quick-link navigation to the individual featured sections:

Ted Sakai, Manager of Accessories, shows the Bristol Bay Kayak bag to Zander and Cal

Shimano: Shimano surprised us with a quality sampling of new gear offerings outside the arena of reels and rods. Ted Sakai, Accessory Product Manager was on hand to walk us through all the new gear solutions.

Ted showcases the various Bristol Bay bags 

Bristol Bay Bags: Most of exiting for kayak anglers is the new Bristol Bay Dry Tackle and Cooler bags. These are designed for open boats that offer little protection from the elements. These bags are constructed from a water resistant heavy duty tarpaulin material. When the zipper is closed these bags will float up to 40lbs of weight should they fall into the water.

A close up of the Cooler Bag

The inner insulated compartment is separated from the outer shell, which ensures your gear will remain dry and safe and the high contrast yellow and black styling improves visibility.

The bottom of the bag is a non-skid, non-slip PVC bottom

Another interesting feature is the ability to transform the bag into a livewell when a battery operated pump is set through a hole in the backside of the bag.

Ted and John show the press the Evair boots at the Shimano press event

Evair Boots: These are the boots that Shimano took home top prize with in the clothing category. Constructed from one-piece molded EVA to absorb heel shock and reduce foot fatigue from a day on the water, Shimano's new Evair boots feature a non-skid, non marking outer sole with a water channel design to provide a no-slip grip on the boat deck.

The Evair boots are light, comfortable, and easy to maintain

These boots felt extremely light and only weighed about 10oz per boot. The inside of the boot features a ergonomic arch and air channel system to keep your feet comfortable and dry. They are designed to be cleaned very easily and can be hosed down and the inside can be dried fast with a single swipe with a towel. They are available in sizes from 8 through 13 and will retail for $69.99 a pair. Shimano showed they were serious about more than just reels and rods with these quality gear offerings, and from the looks of things the company is dead serious about being at the top of the accessory game too.