HOT New Products for 2013!

[Joel DeBoer]

ST. CROIX’S REDESIGNED LEGEND® XTREME RODS ARE BUILT WITH NEW HIGH-PERFORMANCE TECHNOLOGIES AND MANUFACTURING PROTOCOLS.

Park Falls,WI – St. Croix has completely redesigned their competition-grade Legend® Xtreme spinning and
casting rods to take maximum advantage of cutting-edge new technologies and manufacturing protocols. Big news
for 2013 is their Fortified Resin System (FRS), which combines a proprietary fortified super resin with new
computer operated curing ovens that provide improved temperature and time management through all stages of
the curing cycle. FRS prevents microbuckling by keeping carbon fibers in proper alignment. Blanks built with FRS
are 33% stronger than those built with standard resins and curing methods.

Next, St. Croix introduces an innovative new Taper Enhancement Technology (TET) that begins with precision-cut,
curved blank patterns made possible by a state-of-the-art computerized pattern cutting machine.When combined
with Integrated Poly Curve® (IPC®) mandrels, these unique patterns create blanks with better actions and
improved sensitivity.This pattern design and cutting technology is a dramatic departure from traditional straight-line
patterns cut by hand.

All Legend Xtreme blanks are built from high-modulus/high-strain SCV graphite with carbon-matte scrim for unparalleled
strength, durability and sensitivity, plus super high-modulus SCVI graphite in the lower section for maximum power
and reduced weight. Rod action is further enhanced by St. Croix’s proprietary Integrated Poly Curve (IPC) tooling
technology which produces continuous-curve tapers. Finally,Advanced Reinforcing Technology™ (ART™) provides
additional “hidden strength” at key stress points including the ferrule area on 2-piece models.

The Legend Xtreme rods are fitted with Fuji® K-R Concept Tangle Free guides with SiC rings and exclusive
E-color finish frames that are ideal for super braid, mono and fluorocarbon lines because their sloped frames and
rings “shed” tangles before they become a problem. Fuji® SK2™ split reel seats deliver the ultimate in light weight
and sensitivity, and the all new Xtreme-Skin handles provide outstanding angler comfort, casting efficiency and
sensitivity. Designed and manufactured by St. Croix, Xtreme-Skin handles offer the added advantages of repelling
water, dirt and fish slime while cleaning up quickly and easily.The rods also feature slim-profile ferrules – and
machined-aluminum wind checks, handle trim pieces and butt caps with a St. Croix logo badge. All thread wraps
are protected by two coats of Flex Coat® slow-cure finish, and the rods come with protective rod sacks.The series
includes 17 spinning and 12 casting models and retails between $340 - $420.

All Legend Xtreme rods are designed and handcrafted in Park Falls,WI and protected by a lifetime limited warranty
backed by St. Croix Superstar Service.

[Joel DeBoer]

ST. CROIX’S INTRODUCES THREE NEW 2-PIECE LEGEND ELITE® SPINNING RODS

Park Falls,WI – St. Croix’s top-of-the-line Legend Elite® series of premium-performance spinning and casting rods has grown with the addition of three new two-piece spinning rods. New Legend Elite Spinning Models for 2013:
7-foot light power, fast action (LES70LF2)
7-foot medium-heavy power, fast action (LES70MHF2)
7 1⁄2 foot medium power, fast action (LES76MF2)

All Legend Elite rods are now built using St. Croix’s innovative Fortified Resin System (FRS), which combines a
proprietary fortified super resin with computer-operated curing ovens that provide improved temperature and
time management through all stages of the curing cycle. FRS prevents microbuckling by keeping the carbon fibers
in proper alignment. Blanks manufactured using this advanced manufacturing protocol test out to be 33% stronger
than those built with standard resins and curing methods.

Built from high-modulus/high-strain SCV graphite with carbon-matte scrim for unparalleled strength, durability
and sensitivity, the Legend Elite's blank actions are further enhanced by St. Croix’s proprietary Integrated Poly
Curve® (IPC®) tooling technology which produces continuous-curve tapers. Finally,Advanced Reinforcing
Technology™ (ART™) provides additional “hidden strength” at key stress points.Two piece rods feature slim-profile
ferrules. Legend Elite rods retail between $230 - $370.

All Legend Elite rods are designed and handcrafted in Park Falls,WI and protected by a lifetime limited warranty
backed by St. Croix Superstar Service.

[Joel DeBoer]

ST. CROIX’S INTRODUCES FOUR NEW LEGEND ELITE® SALMON & STEELHEAD CASTING RODS

Park Falls,WI – St. Croix’s top-of-the-line Legend Elite® series of premium-performance salmon & steelhead
casting rods has grown with the addition of four new two-piece models. New Salmon & Steelhead Casting Models for 2013:
9-foot medium-light power, fast action (LEC90MLF2)
9-foot medium power, fast action (LEC90MF2)
9 1⁄2 foot medium-light power, fast action (LEC96MLF2)
9 1⁄2 foot medium power, fast action (LEC96MF2)

All Legend Elite rods are now built using St. Croix’s innovative Fortified Resin System (FRS), which combines a
proprietary fortified super resin with computer-operated curing ovens that provide improved temperature and time
management through all stages of the curing cycle. FRS prevents microbuckling by keeping the carbon fibers in
proper alignment. Blanks manufactured using this advanced manufacturing protocol test out to be 33% stronger
than those built with standard resins and curing methods.

Built from high-modulus/high-strain SCV graphite with carbon-matte scrim for unparalleled strength, durability and
sensitivity, the Legend Elite's blank actions are further enhanced by St. Croix’s proprietary Integrated Poly Curve®
(IPC®) tooling technology which produces continuous-curve tapers. Finally,Advanced Reinforcing Technology™
(ART™) provides additional “hidden strength” at key stress points.Two piece rods feature slim-profile ferrules.
Legend Elite salmon and steelhead rods retail between $390 - $430.

All Legend Elite rods are designed and handcrafted in Park Falls,WI and protected by a lifetime limited warranty
backed by St. Croix Superstar Service.

[Joel DeBoer]

ST. CROIX’S OFFERS A NEW FIBERGLASS CRANKBAIT ROD IN THEIR BEST-SELLING MOJO BASS SERIES

Park Falls,WI – St. Croix is adding a 6-foot, 10-inch fiberglass “MBGC610MM / Target Cranker” crankbait rod
with their popular Mojo Bass moniker that has been specifically designed for hard-core crankbait anglers.
“This 6' 10' Mojo Bass cranking rod is ideally suited for shorter, precision-type casting,” explained Jeff Schluter,V.P.
of Sales & Marketing at St. Croix. “It’s got an amazing action that only fiberglass can provide – and it’s very light in
weight, too.”

The new Mojo Bass Target Cranker is built from premium-quality, linear S-glass to deliver a moderate action that is
so effective for fishing crankbaits. It features a split-grip cork handle and a Fuji® ECS reel seat. Retail is $110.

All Mojo Bass rods are designed in Park Falls and handcrafted in Fresnillo, Mexico, and protected by a 5-year
warranty backed by St. Croix Superstar Service.

[Joel DeBoer]

ST. CROIX REDESIGNS THE WILD RIVER® SERIES WITH NEW BLANKS AND HIGH-PERFORMANCE COMPONENTS.

Park Falls,WI – St. Croix’s popular Wild River® series of salmon and steelhead rods has been completely
redesigned for 2013 – and expanded to include 35 spinning and casting models, with a rod designed specifically for
almost every popular salmon and steelhead technique – including new downrigging and Kokanee rods.
Wild River rods are built from premium-quality SCII graphite with an attractive gold dust green metallic finish.
They’re fitted with Kigan Master Hand 3D guides with premium, thin aluminum-oxide rings and black frames.
Fuji® DPS reel seats with black hoods come on spinning and downrigging models, and Fuji® ECS or TCS reel seat
with black hood are found on casting models. Premium-grade cork is used for the handles on most spinning and
casting models. Spinning models WRS90LM2 and WRS106ULS2 feature durable neoprene skin handles to provide
additional comfort and warmth in cold-weather fishing conditions. Premium EVA handles are provided on
downrigging rods. Finally, all thread wraps are protected by two coats of Flex Coat® slow-cure finish.The series
retail range is $130 - $220.

All Wild River rods are designed and handcrafted in Park Falls,WI and protected by a 5-year warranty backed by
St. Croix Superstar Service.

[Joel DeBoer]

ST. CROIX ADDS FOUR NEW TRIUMPH® SPINNING RODS

Park Falls,WI – St. Croix’s extensive line of Triumph® series spinning and casting rods grows to 39 models with
the addition of four new spinning rods: a 7-foot medium-heavy power, fast action (TRS70MHF), a 7 1⁄2 foot
medium-light power, fast action (TRS76MLF) a 7 1⁄2 foot medium power, fast action (TRS76MF) and a 7 1⁄2 foot
medium heavy power, fast action (TRS76MHF). All four models retail between $90 and $100.

[Joel DeBoer]

SURPRISE! ST. CROIX’S BEST-SELLING IMPERIAL® FLY RODS ARE STILL MADE IN PARK FALLS, WISCONSIN

Park Falls,WI – In a reverse twist to most global manufacturing sagas, St. Croix announced that their best-selling
line of Imperial® fly rods never made the planned transition from U.S. to Mexican manufacturing.
“We launched the new Imperial series and opened our Fresnillo facility in Mexico around the same time,”
explained Jeff Schluter,Vice President of Sales and Marketing at St. Croix. “Our original plan was to begin
Imperial production in Park Falls and transfer it to Fresnillo after the new factory was up and running. However,
we decided that because the Imperials feature very technical blank designs, our Park Falls facility is the best place
to manufacture them. Plus, it gives St. Croix a unique identity by offering a U.S.-built fly rod starting at $190.”
So, the Imperial, which began as one of St. Croix’s first Made-in-Mexico products will remain a “Handcrafted in Park Falls” rod series for the foreseeable future.

With 34 models, from a dainty 6-foot, 2-weight to a powerful 9-foot 10-weight, the award-winning Imperials have
been acclaimed by editors and consumers alike for their smooth, crisp casting action, quality components and
attractive cosmetics – all offered at an affordable price.

So, for 2013, nothing will change on the popular Imperial rods – except adding “Made in U.S.A.” on the label.

[Joel DeBoer]

ST. CROIX ADDS FOUR NEW MODELS TO THEIR POPULAR LEGEND® ICE ROD SERIES

Park Falls,WI – St. Croix expanded their offering of premium-performance Legend® Ice rods with the addition of
four new models: a 30-inch light power (LIR30L), a 30-inch medium-light power (LIR30ML), a 30-inch medium
power (LIR30M), and a 48-inch medium power (LIR48M). Designed for ice anglers who seek longer rods for
stand-up fishing and mobility, the new Legend Ice rods have all the great features that make this series the standard
by which all others are judged.

Built on solid carbon blanks for extreme sensitivity and rugged durability, the Legend Ice rods feature a patented,
adjustable spring bobber for super-finesse performance, premium stainless steel guides and a secure locking reel seat.
The growing series now includes ten high-performance rods, from a light power 17-inch model to a new medium
power 48-inch stick.

[Joel DeBoer]

Mepps Double Blade Aglia

Serious fishermen who spend a lot of time on the water will truly appreciate the Mepps Double Blade Aglia. It's perfect for smallmouth and largemouth bass, trophy northern pike and early-season musky. Why two blades? Dual blades create additional flash. This, in turn increases the intensity of the blade colors as they spin, whether the blades are the same color or contrasting colors. In addition, the sound and vibration they make is noticeably different than a spinner with a single blade. Two blades also product more loft so they are easier to fish over weeds and other structure. Gold blades are polished brass. Copper blades are copper plated, while silver blades are plated with genuine silver so they produce a bright white flash that's easily seen underwater. Platium blades are coated with a tough acrylic finish for added durability. Other painted blades feature a rugged vinyl finish. Solid brass bodies, a durable stainless steel shaft, a pair of rugged folded solid brass clevises, and a bronze plated extra sharp carbon steel hooks means this lure will hold up under the toughest fishing conditions. All tails are hand-tied with genuine bucktail and dyed in brilliant fish-attracting colors.

[Joel DeBoer]

Mister Twister VIE Shiner

Designed by crappie guides in three states, the Mister Twister VIE Shiner is both tournament and guide tested. Its vertical twin paddle tails displace more water, This, in turn, creates additional fish-attracting vibration. The paddle tails also provide an extreme swimming action. Small (1-3/4") shiner profile with an enhanced scale pattern. Every VIE Shiner is either laminated or tri-colored for added visibility. Use any presentation... jigging, trolling, side trolling, or tight line rigs, including drop shot rigging. The only small-profile crappie lure with twin shiner tails. Also perfect for perch.

[Joel DeBoer]

Mister Twister Poc'it Craw

Sight and vibration are essential for catching bass. Mister Twister's Poc'it Craw traps air in pockets. Bubbles are released during the retrieve increasing, both action and vibration. With a natural crawfish profile, it all adds up to aggressive strikes and a great day on the water.

[Joel DeBoer]

Mister Twister Poc'it Phenom

The Mister Twister 5" Poc'it Phenom features a sleek body profile with air pockets. Mister Twister Poc'it lures… Catching More Fish, More Often.

[Joel DeBoer]

Mister Twister Poc'it Paddle Tail

Like all Mister Twister Poc'it lures, the Poc'it Paddle Tail features pockets along with a slim body profile to maximize the natural presentation process. Air is trapped in the small cavities built into the Poc'it lure's body. As it's drawn through the water, the bubbles are released. Not only does this increase both action and vibration, it triggers more aggressive strikes.

[Joel DeBoer]

Mister Twister FAT Curly Tail

Mister Twister's 5" FAT Curly Tail provides maximum action at ultra low retrieval speeds making it an excellent choice for casting, flipping, split shot fishing, Carolina rigs & Texas rigs. It also makes a great trailer for spinner baits and in-line spinners.

[Joel DeBoer]

Mister Twister 2" Tri-Alive Hot Curly Tail

Mister Twister's Tri-Alive 2" Hot Curly Tail produces natural baitfish profile with great tail action. In addition, the Tri-Alive color patterns provide a natural baitfish contrast by offering three distinct color laminations. Color contrast needed by pros and guides in the crappie circuit. And who better at three color laminations than Mister Twister the original Tri-Alive custom color originator. Color contrast for sight stimuls, and extreme tail action to enhance vibration, a deadly combination for panfishing.

[Joel DeBoer]

Mister Twister G-Grub - Now with Spots!

Since the introduction of the Curly Tail lure by Mister Twister, the Curly Tail grub has become a tackle box staple. Mister Twister G-Grub takes the Curly Tail concept to the next level. It's a Curly Tail with a leech design, and the results offer a very unique swimming action. Rather than restricting the swimming action to the tail, the G-Grub incorporates fins from tip to the tail. These fins produce a realistic full-scale swimming profile, making the G-Grub the perfect imitator of a swimming leech, or active shiner. "I was so impressed with how the G-Grub worked on walleyes, that I could hardly wait for the chance to fish bass with it. The action and unique shape it forms in the water are really different than anything else I've seen." - Mike Sheldon, Mepps President


There are several reasons you should be fishing the G-Grub…
•The G-Grub is the perfect combination of two excellent live baits… leech and shiner
•Innovative fins provide tip to tail swimming action
•Extreme vibration and rattle chamber at tail
•Top or bottom rigging… same great action with minimal speed
•Versatile for stop and go, vertical jigging, or normal retrieve
•The first “twin fin” design using the combination of a grub body and a leech profile

Rigging the G-Grub

For largemouth and smallmouth bass or walleye, rig a 3-inch G-Grub with a 1/8 or 1/4 oz. jighead. It can be rigged with hook point coming out in the middle of the fins or on the opposite side, either way, it produces the same fabulous fish-attracting action. The 4-inch G-Grub can be rigged with a 1/4 or 3/8 oz. jighead. Again, there is no wrong way to rig the G-Grub… fins up or down, either way it produces great action. G-Grubs can also be used as either floating or sinking harness rigs while trolling or back-trolling for walleyes. Walking sinkers make perfect back-trolling rigs. Both the 3-inch and 4-inch G-Grub make an ideal spinner bait trailer for big bass and trophy walleye.

Want sound? Sight and sound are essential for attracting and catching fish. The G-Grub's tail has a built in rattle chamber in its tail to accept rattle beads. These are available at almost any tackle store. The bead also adds weight to the tail. Most of the time adding weight to a soft plastic lure will impair hurt its action, but not the G-Grub. In fact, adding rattle actually enhances the performance of this grub.

[Joel DeBoer]

Mister Twister Hawg Frawg - Now with a Pattern!


Fishing the Mister Twister Hawg Frawg - Mister Twister's Hawg Frawg is "No Ordinary Toad." It's loaded with features. Oversized legs break the surface tension creating added water movement that significantly enhances the top water bite. In addition, all Hawg Frawgs feature real 3D eyes. Hawg Frawgs come in a wide variety of colors proven to catch big bass. They can be rigged weedless on a Mister Twister Keeper Hook, or fished on a jig. This lure has been a staple with fishermen for over 30 years. Hawg Frawgs cast easily with or without weight. Two sizes… 3" & 4".

[Joel DeBoer]

Mister Twister Super Lizard 6" - Now with Spots!

Fishing the Mister Twister Super Lizard with Salt - The Mister Twister Super Lizard with Salt is so feature rich, you have to fish it to appreciate it. Rig it with a Mister Twister Keeper Weighted Worm Hook… the Super Lizard's head and neck are sized for perfect rigging every time. Twitch it just off the bottom or fish over the top of weeds. Work heavy structure. This weedless rig will slip over logs, stumps, rocks and rip-rap. Big bass will suck it in and won't let go!

[Joel DeBoer]

Tyrant Tackle Mini Crusader

Tyrant is now offering a new top water lure called the Mini Crusader. The Mini Crusader is 5” long weighs 1.3 oz. It's perfect for musky, pike and bass and easy to use - simply cast and retrieve! Available in 8 colors, this prop style lure will be made of a high impact poly material and features thru wire construction with an internal balance weight molded to it; with this added feature the Crusader will not roll. With the new designed tail section, the Mini Crusader will produce more vibration and plopping noise than most other top water lures available today!

[Joel DeBoer]

Frabill Rainsuit: Tropical Storm Tough; Spring Shower Price

If you plan to reel in bragging rights during the next Katrina, consider the award-winning FXE Stormsuit. For everything else, the new Frabill Rainsuit is the gear to own. Engineered with the standing King of Rain Gear in mind, the new Frabill Rainsuit blends FXE Stormsuit’s astonishing performance features with a cool, breathable core and a lighter build. Whether spooling line in the springtime sun or spin-casting in a downpour, you’ll stay dry and comfortable - meaning you spend more time fishing, and less time worrying about sweaty, soggy britches.

Frabill Rainsuit jacket and bibs are built using bulletproof 330 denier nylon. Waterproof, windproof, and DuPont Teflon® treated to be tough as nails, this suit of armor still breathes thanks to its innovative mesh lining that draws air through faster than a striper snaps at an alewife on a cool, spring day. Chris Leonard, Frabill’s apparel alpha geek, explains: “The internal mesh lining promotes convective heat transfer from the body making this an ideal suit for warmer, humid conditions,” and adds “the generous patterning allows room for layers on those cooler days.”

Improving on already unmatched weather reflection, this maelstrom-mashing kit graciously includes a 2-way, rigidbrimmed adjustable hood to keep sun and storm off your smiling mug, water banishing cuffs, and a bungee-sealable waist to keep you snug and dry. Frabill Rainsuit’s waterproofed, oversized outer pockets mean you won’t be fishing your phone from a chest-mounted livewell mid-day, and the suit’s zippers (commonly back alleys for water to skulk through) are all 100% weather buffered to boot. The rig’s primary YKK® zippers guard your main entrances with dual external storm flaps and a rain gutter, keeping your valuables safe and dry even when Mother Nature is kicking in the door. And while comfort and function are certainly top concerns, let’s not overlook fashion. The breathtaking build isn’t this suit’s only special quality. Colored as cool as the suit’s mesh and breeze-weight build keep you, the smoky gray style evokes images of ninja-like stealth. Fitting, since the suit’s ergonomic curved joints, low-rise bib cut, and highly advanced lightweight structure allow you to move like the wind.

Add in top shelf extras like articulated, 500 denier nylon knees with removable pads, cam-buckle elastic shoulder straps, side-seam D-ring kill switch tethers and a flash of 3M™ Scotchlite™, all for less than you spent on your last fish finder, and you’ve found something truly mind-blowing. Mr. Leonard profoundly sums up this amazing new fishing tech with a simple statement: “This suit will exceed expectations.” He hasn’t been wrong yet. The Frabill Rainsuit jacket and bibs are separately available in sizes ranging from Small to 4XL.

[Joel DeBoer]

FRABILL CALIBRATOR LINE COUNTER TIP-UP: FRABILL ENGINEERS THE FIRST “INTELLIGENT” TIP-UP

A wise man once said, “Knowledge is power and enthusiasm pulls the switch.” Surely such a prophetic individual must have been an ice angler, and very likely, a keen follower of tripping tip-up flags. For when the ‘ice trap’ artists at Frabill set out to fashion a whole new level of tip-up technology, this very precept imbued the Calibrator Line Counter Tip-Up with both knowledge-giving traits and extraordinary performance. Say goodbye to your old school clip-on “depth
finders.” The Calibrator sports a spiffy digital LCD, revealing the depth of your bait at all times. Plunk a hooked rig and bait into the hole and watch the digital dial roll the depth: 3.2, 6.8, 11.7 . . . Bingo, you’re on the money, tasty morsel set precisely on the sweet spot. When a toothy maw snaps shut, the hallowed Frabill
flag flies high, immediately alerting all adjacent foot soldiers of the attack. Arriving on the scene, the first trooper glances at the “tell all” display, quickly discovering the time at which the strike occurred. Inquiring anglers also learn precisely how much line the predator has peeled from the spool—another critical nugget of knowledge.

All-star ice fisher Pat Kalmerton knows a thing or two about tip-ups, and this one, he says, raises the flag to new levels. “Frabill has long understood that tip-up fishing isn’t just a simple wait-and-see affair. It’s an art that done with precision and attention to the details becomes one of the deadliest methods on ice. The
Calibrator is an engineering marvel—a model of precision and simplicity that has forever elevated the game of setting traps on ice. Welcome to the new era of tip-up fishing.” More than a pretty face with a brain, the Calibrator has been built on Frabill’s tough tip-up foundation. A heavyduty base is armed with an Ultra Glide spool shaft system that provides smooth, frictionless performance. Exclusive Sub-Zero® winter lubricant assures seamless free-spinning at all times and temperatures. The spool shaft is also removable for easy cleaning and lubricating. Dual trip settings play to light biting walleye or big baits for whopper pike and other predators. When the flag trips, its extended 17.5-inch shaft flashes the strike signal far and wide, while its large 200-foot line capacity spool lets striking fish roam free.

Merging function with critical fish catching data, the Calibrator’s LCD unit provides multiple statistical elements, including: depth of bait, time of bite, time since last bite and length of line taken by biting fish. Display module is removable for storage and features a powerful backlight for low light use. Classic ice fishing tactic
meets the information age, and its name is Calibrator.

[Joel DeBoer]

FRABILL JIGGLER LONG ROD: QUIRKY NAME, DEADLY STRIKE

There’s a back-to-the-future movement afoot in ice fishing. For over a decade, there’s been a virtual space-race to see who could develop the most sensitive, petite-length ice fishing rod. So sensitivity’s been perfected, but at the sacrifice of length –that sort of rod length needed for soft, sweeping hooksets and
dabbling at distances out on the open ice.

So here comes Frabill riding in on the white wintry horse. For 2012-13, the technical tinkerers offer up the Jiggler Long Rod series. Kept, is that “feel,” while bringing aboard length for technique and species-specific performance. But the Jiggler’s credentials don’t end there. Now factor in that the line actually runs through the blank. Yes, indeed, the fishing line tautly tunnels through the rod. By doing so, wind is negated – no more blowing of the line in a stiff breeze. Moreover, the line-through feature keeps continuous contact between the fishing line and blank, maximizing feel.

Further bettering the Jiggler’s capacity to telegraph strikes, the wondrous wand sports a spring bobber at its tip. Watch for strikes. Feel for them. Either way, the fish is about to have a bad day. Innovation doesn’t end there, either. To finely feed line through the blank, Frabill has incorporated a built-in composite reel on the user end. Perfectly balanced with the rod, the reel feeds line straight off the spool, no spinning, to eliminate line-twist and uncontrolled lure spins. The finishing touch is an internal dollop of Frabill’s freeze-fighting Sub- Zero® lubrication.

The “long-rodding” technique, as it’s widely known, is a staple amongst tournament enthusiasts, anglers fishing shallow southern Ice Belt waters, as well as crafty Europeans who have imported the style. One of those ice fishing immigrants is Polish hardwater phenom Jacek Gawlinski. He has this to say about the Jiggler Long
Rods: “Finally, a rod that fished like I do - That’s actively moving from hole to hole. I have complete control in shallow water, watching the line and spring bobber for any signs of a bite. “Makes me feel right at home, Europe or North America.” The Jiggler Long Rod is available in four lengths and actions: 48-inch Ultra-light, 48-inch Light, 54-inch Ultra-light and 54-inch Light.

[Joel DeBoer]

FRABILL STRAIGHT LINE 101 COMBO: BASIC AND BEAUTIFUL; INTRODUCE YOURSELF TO THIS CHARMER

Most ice-heads and retailers will agree, 2011 was the year of the Straight Line combo. While that’s fine and dandy, Frabill has never been the kind of company to rest on its laurels. Once again, Frabill turned to ice samurai Brian “Bro” Brosdahl to see how far they could push the envelope. The result? The Straight Line 241 Bro Series Combo—available as a perfectly matched and balanced rod and reel system—or just the 241 reel, ala carte. Plus, knowing they needed to make this technology available to even more anglers, Frabill offers the ideal entrance into the family—the Straight Line 101.

Hands down, one of the biggest on-ice advancements in recent years has been the tactical advantage gained by Straight Line technology. While there’s definitely a place for spinning reels in the ice arsenal, there are times when prima donna pans won’t think of touching a jig with even the slightest spin. Years ago, brainy ice-heads discovered that using a fly reel solved this problem, as line flows off the arbor straight and smooth like any good winch.

While many anglers made the leap into the Straight Line last season, others have been less quick to adopt. That’s about to change. With the Straight Line 101 Combo anglers can experience breakthrough bites where previously there were none. Drop your underwater camera and watch your jig dance without any rotation—drives even the most tight-lipped pans crazy.

Plus the virtual elimination of line twist means far fewer tangles and less hassle. The reel is also ergonomic, which is just a fancy way of saying its form-fitted to become an extension of your hand—the way a pitcher and ball become one. And this means increased sensitivity, which translates to more fish on the ice. While it bears the name 101, don’t think it’s a beginner’s combo. Frabill R&D designed the 101 with a feature set and lifespan to ensure seasons of abuse, for ice newbies and pros alike. It’s lightweight, durable and Frabilltough.

Like its big brother the Bro-designed 241, the 101 features an all-new composite design that allows easy gloveless reel cupping without the icy palms and fingers. A balanced spool, super smooth drag and oversized reel handle round out just a few of its many features. Plus, the inner workings of the 101 are coated with Frabill’s Sub-Zero® for seamless performance even when the mercury is at a near standstill.

The Straight Line 101 Combo is available in three lengths and applications, from 24- to 32-inches. Got your own favorite ice sticks? No problem, the Straight Line 101 is also available reel-only.

[Joel DeBoer]

FRABILL STRAIGHT LINE 101 REEL: FRABILL’S RE-DESIGNED STRAIGHT LINE 101 REEL AUGMENTS THE CATEGORY IT DEFINED

In Hollywood, facelifts are for the sake of vanity. Most often realized as the contorted, sometimes gruesome fabrication of a face that was likely aging with beauty and grace. In fishing, facelifts, or cosmetic changes often rework the products look for freshening and hopes of increased sales. In the case of Frabill’s Straight Line 101 Reel, however, the alterations not only made it sexier, but also improved on-the-ice performance.

Now born of composite materials, the Straight Line 101 Reel offers improved strength while amazingly getting lighter at the same time. Moreover, the composite reel actually feels warmer in your paws than a conventional metal reel. A 1-plus-1 ball-bearing system manages out a smooth 1:1 ratio retrieve. Line flows off the balanced spool like a milky waterfall in Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory. And the oversized reel handle is easily clutched with gloved hands. That same handle is also ambidextrous for both left and right handed anglers.

Finally, the Straight Line 101 Reel features Frabill’s exclusive Sub-Zero® lube to ensure flawless operation in the coldest temperatures. “It’s a classic system [think vintage fly reel] restructured to perfection,” says Frabill pro staffer Scott Glorvigen. “The line flows off the spool without as much as a twirl and rolls back on in the same manner, which is the reason this style reel was a go-to years ago.” Although spinning reels will never fade away, the line twist they create often causes jigs to spin with unnatural aquatic bug behavior, which deters weary fish from nipping.

The new Straight Line 101 Reel makes jigs dance, dart and flutter—all without suffering from the spins.” Unlike other reels and the Hollywood scene, the reconstructive surgery on Frabill’s Straight Line 101 Reel was not in vain. Instead, it lightened the weight and enhanced feel—all while naturalizing the angler’s below-the-ice presentation.

[Joel DeBoer]

FRABILL STRAIGHT LINE 241 BRO SERIES COMBO: FRABILL FABRICATES A FASTER, FINGER-FRIENDLY ICE TOOL

Only one season ago Frabill hit the reset button on ice fishing reels. Spinning reels still reign, and are core to the sport, but the radically different Straight Line yielded an advantage that simply couldn’t be spun out previously: line twist. The friendly-flow off the Straight Line reel keeps line in its original, off-the-shelf, untwisted condition.

Now, the ice-heads at Frabill have taken the same principles and amped up the technology, divining the Straight Line 241 Bro Series Combo.
Commencing at the reel, the lightweight composite techno-tool is built to provide strength and durability – and all the while remaining lightweight. The unique composite design offers the additional benefit of not feeling cold to the skin in frigid temperatures.

Line waterfalls gracefully from its balanced spool, while an amazing 2.4:1 ratio retrieves line at a rate never seen before in a fly-fishing styled ice reel. Its oversized handle eliminates fumble-fingers, even for guys with oversized paws. Lastly, like all of Frabill’s premium reels, the 241 is infused with Sub-Zero® lubricant to keep parts moving fluidly regardless of the air temp.

“It’s like holding the future in my hands,” says combo collaborator Brian “Bro” Brosdahl. “I thought Frabill put itself clearly out in front of the pack with the original Straight Line reel. Now, we’ve entered hyperspace at lightspeed. The 241 is so advanced, so fishable, so ahead of its time...” The matched rods are similarly special. All Straight Line 241 Bro Series Combo blanks are technique and species specific – bluegills to crappies to perch to walleyes. Line flows effortlessly through durable and dynamic aluminum oxide guides.

Each model also features a unique aluminum reel seat to securely fasten the 241 reel to the rod. The Straightline 241 Bro Series Combo is available in six technique-types: 24” Ultra-light (panfish jigging applications), 24” Quick Tip (panfish), 30” Quick Tip (panfish), 30” Light (finesse walleye/larger panfish), 36” Quick Tip (panfish) and 36” Light (finesse walleyes/larger panfish).

[Joel DeBoer]

FRABILL STRAIGHT LINE 241 REEL: ADVANCED ICE REEL RECEIVES HOT-HANDED OVATION

Last year Frabill rocked the ice with the introduction of the Straight Line Series. Extracted from the panfish-addled brain of Brian “Bro” Brosdahl and Frabill R&D, at first the combo’s design left quite a few ice anglers scratching their heads. But, for the ice intelligentsia it was only a refinement of what they had cobbled together over the years to remedy tight-lipped and picky-eating panfish bites (and non-bites).

It’s no secret that diehards across the ice belt were already hip to the many benefits of fishing fly reels on ice sticks—the virtual elimination of line twist, no unnatural lure spinning, less hassle and a form-fit in the cupped palm that increases sensitivity. But in-the-know ice-heads hadn’t done it with the precision, balance and performance that Frabill delivered to the ice everyman in the Straight Line series . . . and anglers took notice in a big way. Retailers had a hard time keeping the combos in stock.

Now hold on to your bibs, ‘cause Bro and Frabill are back for the attack. From a bar napkin sketch to baitshop shelves, enter the Straight Line 241 Reel, available as part of the Straight Line 241 Bro Series Combo or by itself, allowing anglers customization on their favorite sticks. It’s like the stealth fighter of ice set to an AC/DC soundtrack. Back in black, this lightweight winch will take a pounding and still perform, slab after slab. And while it’s rock ‘n’ roll (Bro wouldn’t have it any other way), it’s definitely not metal.

An all-new composite design allows easy glove-less reel cupping without the icy palms and fingers. Line falls dead straight off the spool like a good winch, and the 2.4:1 reel ratio and super smooth drag ensure quickly putting that bait back in front of fish-faces—and once hooked they stay hooked. An oversized reel handle allows anglers with meathook fingers (or gloves) easy operation. Got cold? No worries— the 241 is suffused with Frabill’s Sub-Zero® for Swiss watch performance even in the coldest conditions.

“This reel is gonna put on the crush,” says co-designer Brian “Bro” Brosdahl. “Frabill and I challenged each other to re-think the Straight Line and we went into hyperdrive. It’s definitely a glimpse into the future of ice fishing!”

[Joel DeBoer]

FRABILL THERMAL HUB SHELTERS: If you thought Hubs were a hot item before, check this out...

Early mankind, perched on rapidly freezing northern grounds, quickly figured out a way to stay warm: they made fire. Folks a bit later figured out that doors and windows stopped a bit of draft. Then the pyramid-builders evolved, and they developed an even better way to deal with the cold: insulation. Ice fishing is undergoing the same evolution. We’ve had smoke-belching heaters and sealed shelter doors for decades. We’ve have weatherproof wind flaps and windows for years. Some have even tinkered with a few strips of low cost padding on their roofs. That’s all fine and well, but if you’re serious about staying warm in the blistering cold, you’ll know nothing beats the five-wall insulation of a Frabill Thermal Flip-over Ice Shelter.

Avid polar anglers know each of Frabill’s proven premium shelters, from the competition-mauling Predator to the covert Commando, has a bluster-busting thermal option to keep you and yours on the ice and in front of the fish, no matter how low the mercury drops. But that’s last year’s flint spear tip. Welcome to the next evolution. The blizzard wizards at Frabill have conjured up a new paradigm: Ultra-portable; Ultra-spacious; Ultrarevolutionary: Frabill Thermal Hub Shelters.

Just like the stunning selection of Frabill Flip-over shelters, the complete line of Frabill Hub shelters now come in Thermal configurations. Whether you prefer a quick set and spool with a buddy or need a great hall for an impromptu popper party, Frabill has you covered; covered in Caribbean warm, tough-as-nails 3-ply insulated fabric that eliminates condensation and cuts the snap and crackle of thinner, wind-whipped sidewall fabrics, keeping your extremities warm and your sanity intact. Amazingly, Frabill accomplished this feat without sacrificing the features or quality of the original lightweight Hub design. Spacious interiors, dual zippered doors, multiple clear view removable windows, MaxVent Air exchange, and Frabill’s quick set frame are all incredibly intact. Folks, it’s time to leave the cave.

Frabill Thermal Hub Shelters are available in comfortable 2-angler Frontier (25 ft2 of fishable space), ample 3-angler Outpost (34 ft2 of fishable space), and mammoth 6-angler Headquarters (68 ft2 of fishable space) configurations.

[Joel DeBoer]

FRABILL TITANIUM SPRING BOBBER: FRABILL’S STETHOSCOPE-SENSITIVE TITANIUM SPRING BOBBER TICKLES JIGS, TRANSMITS ‘TICKS’

As you’re reading this sentence, 17,482 sunfish have inhaled the lures of countless, clueless anglers without being detected. While you’re balking at that last statement, another 11,247 fishermen employing inferior spring bobbers on their ice rods missed fish. Stings a bit, don’t it? Fact is, all those probe-like strike indicators you see dangling from the tips of ice rods offer inadequate bite transmitting tendencies. Some are overly rigid jobbers that yield little more sensitivity than the tip of your average rod. Other spring bobbers flip and flop all around your rod tip, creating tangled line and more hassle than the two-bits they’re worth.

Enter Frabill’s high-performance Titanium Spring Bobber. Examine the properties of this precious metal and you’ll immediately realize that it’s spontaneously the finest spring bobber on the market, offering unmatched durability; beautiful flexibility with total kink and bend elimination; virtual weightlessness; and superior transmission of everything from bluegill kisses to the cough of a crappie. Plus, everyone knows that ‘titanium’ is really cool, and has improved fishing gear across the board, freshwater and saltwater.

Professional ice guide and Frabill Pro Staff Jeff “Gussy” Gustafson interjected this nugget: “Any old spring bobber can show ‘down’ bites. A good angler can usually feel these on his rod tip anyway. But few wire indicators can transmit those ultra-subtle ‘rise’ bites. Frabill’s Titanium Spring Bobber does this better than any indicator I’ve seen—perceptibly rising and straightening when panfish inhale and swim slightly up. I’d bet that ‘up’ bites outnumber ‘down’ bites at least 3 to 1, which means you better have a Titanium Spring Bobber on the end of your rod.” Not only is Frabill’s fine wire “bite-probe” constructed with hi-tech titanium, its no-bend/nokink qualities allow for worry-free storage of ice rods; they emerge from the rod locker arrow straight and as nerve-ending sensitive as before.

The Titanium Spring Bobber fits any combo in your arsenal, too—no goofy glue, tape or instructions required. And to prove that Frabill designers really listened to their pros, they even built in the ability to instantly fine-tune sensitivity. With heavier jigs, simply increase tension; while micro baits pulse best on a lighter setting. Also related to ‘breathe-on-the-lure’ sensitivity is the action factor. The smooth, fluid movementsof the Titanium Spring Bobber yield glossy, natural lure locomotion. Fish-head Gussy summarized, “The best openwater anglers are line-watchers. Likewise, the craftiest ice anglers are spring-bobber watchers—and these guys are going to drool over Frabill’s new Titanium Spring Bobber.”

[Joel DeBoer]

Rapala BX Minnow

The BX™ Minnow, like the BX™ Swimmer, now give anglers the option to fish a balsa style action in the most extreme, rugged conditions. Truly one-of-a-kind pieces, the actions and the durability are unmatched by any other bait on the market. Plus the finishes are the most life-like yet. Designed with the clear intention that it would embody the traditional attributes Rapala balsa baits are known for with the heavy-duty toughness that fighting large, toothy fish demands, the BX™ Minnow is sure to be an instant Rapala Classic.

Features
•Balsa Body Inside
•Durable Copolymer Shell
•Molded 3D Head, Gills and Scales
•Internal X-Foil
•Flat-Sided with Strong Flash on Roll
•Black Nickel VMC® Hooks
•Floating
•Incredible Life-Like Finishes
•3D Holographic Eyes
•Hand Tuned and Tank Tested
•Technique: Casting and Trolling

[Joel DeBoer]

Rapala BX Swimmer

The BX™ series from Rapala lets anglers have lively, responsive action a balsa wood lure offers, with the option to fish them in the most extreme, rugged conditions. Truly one-of-a-kind pieces, they're the liveliest, yet toughest balsa based baits ever. What make the BX™ Series so versatile is the fact that we have balsa on the inside with a tough, durable copolymer shell for unbeatable toughness. Plus, the outer shell allows life-like finishes unlike anything seen on a balsa-based lure before.

Features
•Balsa Body Inside
•Durable Copolymer Shell
•Molded 3D Head, Gills and Scales
•Internal X-Foil
•Articulated Body with Durable Pivot System
•Black Nickel VMC® Hooks
•Slow Sinking
•Incredible Life-Like Finishes
•3D Holographic Eyes
•Hand Tuned and Tank Tested
•Technique: Casting and Trolling

[Joel DeBoer]

Rapala Clackin' Magnum

Big Fish eat little fish that swim like a Rapala. A loud Rapala in this case. The Clackin' series extends to the saltwater market with the Clackin' Magnum. Troll slow or fast for unmatched action and sound. Deep-diving lip quickly reaches 20 foot depth, clackin' all the way with the Signature Clackin' Cadence Rattle.

Features
•Signature Clackin' Cadence Rattle
•Diving Lip Design
•Rapala Wounded Minnow Action
•Fresh & Saltwater Patterns
•3D Holographic Eye
•Perma Steel® VMC® Hooks
•Hand-Tuned & Tank-Tested
•Technique: Trolling

[Joel DeBoer]

Rapala DT® (Dives-To) Series Custom Ink Colors by Mike Iaconelli

Artisan bass angler Mike “Ike” Iaconelli has offered his unique talents to assist in the development of this masterpiece series of lures. “I’m used to giving baits my own personal touch, tweaking them.” Now those oh-so-special modifications come right out-of-the-box from Rapala. There are three key traits: first, it’s their purposefully muted colors. Ike used to “bake them in the sun” on his trucks dashboard to get that life-like, muted skin tone. The subtler colors can be unbelievably effective when bass aren’t attacking conventional patterns. Next, Ike had Rapala polish the finishes like the translucent candy apple red on a ’57 Chevy for a natural, pearly finish. For the third pivotal ingredient, Ike went super sparkly … with glitter. Not just any glitter, but super fine sprinkles that actually add depth to the appearance of the lure. One of Ike's secrets is all about “using something different, something unique to catch more fish.” Ike's Custom Ink DT’s are all that and more.

Features
•Classic DT® Lure Actions
•Muted Body Colors
•Translucent Pearly Finish
•Super Fine Glitter
•Preset Diving Depths
•Black Nickel VMC® Hooks
• Hand Tuned & Tank Tested

[Joel DeBoer]

Rapala DT® Fat Custom Ink Colors by Mike Iaconelli

This baits husky profile, internal rattles and “Fat Body” wide-rolling action is perfect when a slow retrieve with plenty of wobble is the preferred method. Slow to fast retrieves, the DT Fat®: is designed for working heavy cover without hangups. Square lip design deflects off structure with fish triggering action. The perfect choice when fishing shallow water over weed beds where large bass like to hide. Original Rapala® foil or painted patterns with 3D holographic eyes. Equipped with a rear VMC® SureSet® tail hook to convert short strikes and black nickel belly hook. Hand-tuned and tank-tested to swim perfectly right out of the box.

Features
•Balsa Wood Construction
•Fat Body Profile
•Shallow Running
•Wide Rolling Action
•Square Lip Design
•3D Holographic Eyes
•VMC® SureSet® Tail Hook
•VMC® Black Nickel Belly Hook
• Hand-Tuned & Tank-Tested

[Joel DeBoer]

Rapala DT® Flat Custom Ink Colors by Mike Iaconelli

A much tighter, brighter shimmering action than the original DT's, this highly visible profile is the perfect way to pull bass off ambush points and from deep points. High contrast patterns enhance the flat sided hard-flashing action. The enhanced coffin lip deflects off underwater obstacles in a darting, escape-style blast fish find hard to resist. Long-casting, each possess DT preset depth control, diving to strike zone and staying there. Internal rattle chamber adds baritone sound attraction. VMC® SureSet® tail hook and black nickel belly hook. Hand-tuned and tank-tested to swim perfectly right out of the box.

Features
•Balsa Wood Construction
•Flat-Sided Body
•Hard Vibration Action
•Coffin Style Lip Design
•Baritone Internal Rattle Chamber
•Long-Casting
•VMC® SureSet® Tail Hook
•VMC® Black Nickel Belly Hook
• Hand-Tuned & Tank-Tested

[Joel DeBoer]

Rapala DT® Metal 20 Custom Ink Colors by Mike Iaconelli

The DT® (Dives-To) series of crankbaits, dive fast to a preset depth and stay in the “strike zone” longer than any than other crankbait on the market. Made from balsa wood combined with carefully placed internal weights, tapered fuselage and thin tail design creates the ultimate crankbait action, found only in the DT family. Ultra-thin polycarbonate lip digs the bait down quickly to desired depth with aid of small metal disc permanently embedded in lip. Swimming with a side-to-side action only balsa crankbaits can achieve, the DT cranks deep, yet pulls with ease. Perfectly weighted to rest in a “quick-dive” nose down position allowing for immediate descent to desired depth, the DT® can be easily cast 150 feet. Simply put, the farther the cast, the longer the bait stays in the strike zone. It's the most effective way to cover more water and catch more fish. Internal baritone rattle is tuned for best sound performance. Premiere finishes in all the right color patterns, finished with 3D holographic or painted eyes. All come with premium VMC® SureSet® tail hook and black nickel belly hook. Each lure is hand-tuned and tank-tested to swim perfectly right out of the box.

Features
•Features Deep Diving Metal Disk to dive to 20 ft
•Quick-Dive Resting Position
•Extra Thin Polycarbonate Lip
•Perfect Balance
•Long-Casting up to 150 ft.
•Thin Tail Design
• Internal Rattle Chamber
•VMC® SureSet® Tail Hook
•VMC® Black Nickel Belly Hook
•Balsa Wood Construction
•3D Holographic Eyes
•Hand-Tuned & Tank-Tested