This is the first in a series of articles
highlighting interesting products for 1999 for fishermen
and women. I have used all of the products listed in this series during my pleasure
fishing and/or tournament fishing. My goal is to introduce you to new or improved
products, to help you catch more fish and increase the enjoyment of your outdoor
experience.
Part One: 1999 Product Review
Abu Garcia
I distinctly remember the first baitcasting reel I ever bought. I was fifteen years old when I purchased an Ambassadeur 5000. I still carry that reel in my boat, and use it often. Over the past 21 years, I have acquired several other Ambassadeur reels. They remain my favorites. I recently began using two of the newest reels by Abu Garcia. As good as the 5000's and other Abu Garcia reels are, I am amazed at the new technology they continue to find and incorporate into their products. The finest reel I have ever had the privilege to fish with, is my Morrum 3600C. I chose the 3600C because it is the smallest of the Morrum series and fits nicely in the palm of my hand. Despite its small size, it has the capacity to hold 120 yards of 12# line, enough for any fishing I will be doing. It also makes replacing line less expensive, which is especially important in my tournament fishing, since I change line frequently.
The smoothness of the Morrum reels is unparalleled. The frame and spool are machined from individual blocks of aluminum to exact specifications. The gears are machined to .0003 inch, creating the finest feel of any fishing reel on the market. It also comes equipped with 5 stainless steel ball bearings, titanium plated line guide and a 5.1:1 gear ratio. The castability, smoothness and durable construction of the five models of Morrum reels, make them the benchmark for fine quality fishing reels.
Now available are Abu Garcia's new Tournament Pro series of reels. These reels have been designed to meet the challenge of today's professional tournament anglers. They come in 3 models equipped with 4 stainless steel ball bearings that provide liquid smooth operation. The well-balanced one-piece spool provides long castability with less backlashing. The low profile, TP3000C, which I have, has a 6.3:1 gear ratio. It fits nicely in the palm of my hand allowing me to "finger the line" while fishing in order to detect the subtlest of bites. I really like this reel.
Since its introduction of the world-renowned Ambassadeur reel in 1952, Abu Garcia has set the standard for producing top-quality baitcast reels. All Abu Garcia reels feature Made in Sweden craftsmanship, unparalleled durability and "built-for-life" quality.
For more information on Abu Garica's new Tournament Pro series, Morrum series or other Abu Garcia products, contact your local fishing tackle dealer or call Abu Garcia at 1-800-ABU GARCIA. You may also visit the Abu Garcia web site at www.abu-garcia.com
Bill Lewis Lures
There is one lure that most every bass fisherman has used, the world renown, Rat-L-Trap. The Rat-L-Trap is a standard in any serious angler's tackle selection. It has everything you need to catch fish; bait-like appearance, sound and color. This year, we Rat-L-Trap buffs, have a new weapon in our arsenal, the Red Zone Rat-L-Trap. The Red Zone combines proven action, sound, scent and sight to create the most effective suspending lure ever produced. That's right, suspending. This new bait doesn't sink or float, instead it stays suspended in the strike zone when you stop reeling allowing the more non-aggressive fish time to strike it. Having this type of action, will prove to be deadly on fish found suspending above or below a school of bait fish.
Also, new for 1999 is the 1 oz. size Rat-L-Trap called, the Magnum Force. Now, Rat-L-Traps come in sizes ranging from 1/8 oz. to 11/2oz. The Magnum Force will be a great big bass, striper or hybrid bass bait. Both the Magnum Force and the Red Zone baits come in a variety of colors to match any water conditions.
Bill Lewis has not forgotten the tournament angler is his lure designs. The Rat-L-Trap Tour Premium line of baits was developed for the rigors of tournament fishing. It features new Featherlite Teflon coated hooks, which are razor sharp and deluxe chrome plating giving these baits a brighter, more durable finish. For those anglers wanting the highest quality available in their Rat-L-Traps, pay close attention to the Tour Premium series of baits.
These are just a few of the new items Bill Lewis Lures has come out with for 1999. They also have a complete line of other high quality baits such as the Pro Trap and the Divin-Trap. Topwater baits and even specially designed rods are also available from Bill Lewis Lures. For more information about the new Rat-L-Traps and other products, see your local tackle dealer or contact Bill Lewis Lures at 1-800-633-4861.
Until next time, enjoy the Texas Outdoors. Email: lester01@airmail.net
