Shimano: Shimano won the ICAST Best of Show Award with a souped-up Calcutta. Tackle fans will recognize the Calcutta TE DC as the same reel recently introduced in Japan under the Calcutta Conquest DC name. This reel uses a digital cast control system which achieves optimal brake performance by relaying reel conditions back to the processor at the speed of 1/1000 sec. The computer can then make minute adjustments allowing the spool to have higher initial speeds then any conventional brake system, and helps boost overall casting distance. While Shimano was giving quite impressive cast demonstrations at the show we still had many unanswered questions, like how does the cast control apply force to the spool? How is the system powered? How durable is the system, and can it really resist the elements? This reel is slated for introduction into the U.S. sometime this summer, and we will continue to report on any details we learn. From what we saw this may be the most innovative reel we have ever seen, at the very least it certainly is the most advanced.

Key Update: (7/22/03): Shimano media contact John Mazurkiewicz was very supportive in answering all our questions regarding this exciting new reel. We learned that the Calcutta TE DC stores its own power generated by spool rotation to operate the spool braking system. The digital braking system uses eight pre-programmed braking patterns applied via an electromagnetic system. The digital circuit board is indeed sealed to prevent any moisture from penetrating the heart of the system, so corrosion of these advanced components is not a concern.

Being that this system allows the spool to continue to accelerate throughout the cast — up to 30,000 RPM — before any braking action is engaged, “these reels will provide anglers with hard-to-believe casting distance,” states Jeremy Sweet with Shimano’s product development staff. “As the circuit board activates the electromagnetic brakes, they respond by applying the ideal amount of force needed updated every 1/1000^th of a second to keep the line tension as close to zero as possible to minimize any backlashes. Achieving long distance casts that keep your lures in the water longer, little worry about backlashes, and other proven features including our exclusive A-RB anti-rust bearings, all take reel technology to a next level,” Sweet said. “The new Calcutta TE DC reels showcase what Shimano is all about – innovation so anglers can enjoy their fishing experience even more.”

The Calcutta TE DC reels are simply the most advanced reels we have seen this year. The suggested retail price is 499.99, and judging from the information we have thus far been fortunate enough to learn, we expect many anglers, including us, will be more then happy to shell out five bills for this contemporary reel!

Zebco: Zebco has been very busy this year with the introduction of some major redesigns and fresh products. At the show we were shown an engineering sample a smaller version of the popular Omega. In addition Zebco highlighted the newly redesigned Zebco 33. The 33 has been among the most popular, and most trusted, reels since it's introduction in 1954. This reel has taught many generations of anglers how to fish, and the redesigned version ushers in a new level of ergonomics and performance. But with all the new products Zebco took home the big prize with it's clever new kids combo, featuring Spongebob Squarepants. This combo comes complete with a casting plug so that the next generation of anglers can begin practicing that perfect cast right at home.