Rapala ClapTail 110

WHAT SETS IT APART?

The 7/8-ounce ClapTail 110 includes two No. 3 VMC Hybrid Trebles. Intentionally built heavy, the bait sits tail-down in the water. When you start the retrieve, that weight creates additional resistance, which makes the prop turn faster and causes the clapping sound created by the blade and prop to emanate at a quicker pace. The ClapTail 110’s color choices are Broken Bone, Black Back Shad, Green Gizzard Shad, Matte Shad, Night Aurora, Okie Bone, Pure Chrome and True Gill.  

HOW DO I USE IT?

If you’re looking for subtle, this is not the bait for you. However, if you want something that’s guaranteed to attract attention and very likely irritate a bass into biting, you might want to give the Rapala ClapTail 110 a look. This topwater bait with a metal prop sports a back blade that hits the prop during a retrieve. The resulting two-tone sound rings the dinner bell for hungry fish. Built with a durable body and balanced for long casts, the ClapTail 110 includes a built-in belly swivel that reduces the chances of a hooked fish finding enough leverage to escape. 

HOW MUCH?

$18.99

MORE INFORMATION:

Rapala.com

ANGLER’S INSIGHT: 

Taking nothing away from Rapala’s R&D process, but at first glance, the Rapala Clap Tail 110 looks like the kooky love child of a plopper-style bait and a clacking buzzbait. But think about it: Do both of those styles catch fish? Well, there ya go. Seriously, this bait’s creative design checks off several key boxes: castability, durability (stainless steel prop), hook-up efficiency and — perhaps most important — that elusive “something different.”

The EDGE 3 camera comes with Moultrie A.I., which gives users more control over their cameras and helps extend battery life. With Moultrie A.I., you can schedule your camera to upload images once or twice a day, but if a buck walks in front of the camera, you can also set it to upload an image/video thumbnail immediately to the app. That way, you always know right when a buck is at your camera. You can also tell the camera only to send you deer pictures or turkey or whatever you choose, and you’ll never receive the annoying raccoon, squirrel and wind-blown images of nothing. This saves battery power and makes your image gallery more manageable. 

The EDGE 3 cellular camera is now Bluetooth-enabled, unlocking handy new features such as offline mode. Now, when an Edge 3 user is within 100 yards of their camera, they can connect via Bluetooth to use Live Aim, which sends real-time video to the Moultrie App for perfect camera setup every time — even when there is no cell signal.

Like earlier EDGE series cameras, the EDGE 3 is built to be highly reliable and easy to use. If you want a photo right then a there, you can trigger a new photo with On Demand — anytime. With auto-connect technology, EDGE 3 cameras automatically connect to the strongest signal nearby, no matter the provider. Plus, with internal storage, you don’t have to rely on an unreliable SD card to save your valuable images and videos.

Moultrie EDGE 3 – MSRP $99.99 Purchase Now.

Hideup Coike Fullcast

WHAT SETS IT APART?

In terms of physical form, the Coike Fullcast sports a round body, as opposed to the mostly square, multisided offerings from various dice makers. Also, this bait comprises a solid elastomer body with attached legs, which contrasts the common PVC dice form with injected silicone legs. The solid elastomer form makes the Coike Fullcast more durable, increases its action and creates a full sphere of fish-tempting motion.

HOW DO I USE IT?

If it looks like just another entry in the “dice bait” category, look again. Significant differences set the Hideup Coike Fullcast apart. For starters, history. I recently spent some time with Japanese bass guide Soichiro Nagano, who said this bait precedes the recent dice bait craze catching fire in the U.S. market. According to Nagano, the Coike Fullcast has held a prominent role in the Japanese Domestic Market for a couple decades. SPRO recently began importing this bait for U.S. distribution.

HOW MUCH? 

$18.49

MORE INFORMATION: 

Spro.com

ANGLER’S INSIGHT: 

Nagano, who frequently uses the Coike Fullcast on the highly pressured Lake Biwa, commonly fishes this bait in a drop-shot configuration, but he’ll also fish it on a Neko rig with a small nail weight and an octopus style hook. The latter’s a popular bed fishing technique that’s likely to gain traction in the U.S. market. The buoyancy factor also offers the option of fishing the Coike Fullcast as a topwater, while wobble head, Carolina rig and Jika rig options also exist.

Daiwa Ballistic MQ LT Reel

WHAT SETS IT APART?

Dressed in metallic blue and red and fitted with a compressed EVA handle for grip comfort, this reel features a single piece Zion V monocoque (MQ) body, made of carbon fiber. The result is a reel that’s light in the hand, but rigid, durable and corrosion resistant. The MQ form provides 360 degrees of stability and improved waterproofing, as compared to reels with conventional, screw-in side plates. Available in 1000, 2000, 2500, 3000 and 4000 sizes, Daiwa’s Ballistic MQ LT offers options for bass and other freshwater species, along with coastal favorites.

HOW DO I USE IT?

Daiwa played off the scientific study of projectile motion when naming this freshwater/saltwater crossover reel, as the Ballistic MQ LT was designed to help launch baits significant distances. Impressively, Daiwa has packed premium features into a reel with a mid-range price point. At the core of this reel’s design is the AIRDRIVE system comprising the AIRDRIVE Rotor, Shaft, Spool and Bail, which eliminate friction and yield lightweight, efficient performance.

HOW MUCH?

$239.99

MORE INFORMATION: 

Daiwa.us

ANGLER’S INSIGHT: 

From the St. Johns River to the Sabine River and all throughout the Mississippi Delta marshes, bass anglers know just about any cast could connect them with marine species ranging from the soft-body speckled trout to hard-charging brutes like redfish and jack crevalle. Preparing anglers for such encounters, intentional or incidental, Daiwa stands behind the “LT” (Light Tough) part of the Ballistic MQ LT name, as the minimalist technology allows the company to engineer a smaller reel with enhanced strength. A key component here is Daiwa’s Tough Digigear — aircraft grade aluminum forged into larger gears with larger tooth patterns meshed between an ultra-tough drive gear and pinion gears for optimized speed, torque, precision, smoothness and durability.

AFTCO Coastal Layer Hoodie 

WHAT SETS IT APART?

Ultra-soft polyester (90% poly, 10% spandex) that is lightweight and buttery soft, stretchy and durable. Zippered kangaroo-style pocket with reinforced tacking in the top seam prevents sagging when items are stored inside. Hood with neck coverage provides perfect ergonomic fit when wearing a hat. Quick dry, moisture wicking and DWR repellent. Sizes: S-2X. Colors: Air Force Blue Heather, Rubber Heather, Steel Heather. 

HOW DO I USE IT?

Call the Coastal Layer lineup the perfect seasonal transition wear when it’s not quite cool enough to wear a jacket, or when a full-coverage AFTCO Reaper is too hot. Wear it under a lightweight puffer jacket for a new layering option. There’s also a Coastal Layer 1/4-zip pullover and women’s Funnel Neck Sweater. Layer up or down as needed during late spring or early fall. 

HOW MUCH?

$55

MORE INFORMATION:

AFTCO.com

ANGLER’S INSIGHT: 

I admit it. I’m a hoodie junky. From late winter into early fall I spend considerable time on the water flying our drone for Bassmaster.com. Hoodies are part of the daily uniform, and AFTCO delivers with all-season coverage. 

This tournament season I found myself wearing the Coastal Layer Hoodie more often than my other favorites. I found it the perfect solution when trying to decide between a jacket or Reaper, neither being ideal for the swing in temperatures during late spring and early fall. 

The Coastal Layer is the perfect go-between. It was (and is) my choice on chilly spring mornings with quickly moderating temperatures. The reverse holds true on fall afternoons when warm days give way to late afternoon chill. I even wore my Coastal Layer when I wouldn’t normally pack a hoodie at all. 

Technical features you’d expect from an AFTCO garment are there, along with downright soft and stretchy fabric that make it really stand out for casual or homey wear. 

Halo BB Series Jerkbait, Jig and Minnow Fishing Rods

WHAT SETS IT APART?

Inspired by the techniques 2024 Bassmaster Classic champion Justin Hamner enjoys the most, Halo released the BB Series of rods during the 2025 Bassmaster Classic, and Hamner has showcased them in every Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series tournament since. The series includes five models catering to four techniques: jerkbaits, jigs, jighead minnows and frogs. Each of these rods is built with light but durable material, and the reel seat will keep any reel locked down during a day out on the water. 

HOW DO I USE IT?

The BB Series is built with High Modulus Graphite, which creates the perfect stiffness and reduces blank weight, making the blanks incredibly responsive. Higher modulus means the rod is more consistent and can store and release energy faster. This allows you to make more accurate casts and get even the lightest bait where you want it. The blank construction of the BB Series maximizes strength and sensitivity, which allows anglers to feel any bite, and the backbone to land the biggest fish.

HOW MUCH?

$179.99

MORE INFORMATION:

AmericanBaitworks.com

ANGLER’S INSIGHT: 

You won’t have any problem using the Halo BB Series during a full day of fishing. The rods are the perfect blend of light and sturdy, which is particularly noticeable in the 6-foot-11 jerkbait rods. You don’t want a rod that is going to wear you out while fishing a jerkbait, and this rod will keep wrists in the game all day long. The medium-heavy rod has plenty of tip to work the jerkbait as needed while having the backbone to battle lunker-class bass. It is not your grandpa’s flimsy jerkbait rod.  

The 7-foot-1 spinning rod casts like a dream, whether you are throwing a 3-inch minnow on an 1/8-ounce head or a 7-inch minnow on a 3/8-ounce head. It also has the sensitivity and control to keep the bait exactly where it needs to be in the water column, a super fast tip and enough strength to manage those better-than-average sized bass, whether they are largemouth, smallmouth or spotted bass. 

The extra-medium heavy jig rod provides plenty of power with the same blend of sensitivity and control, whether you want to skip docks or fish offshore brushpiles.  

Sunline Big Bait FC

WHAT SETS IT APART?

A 100% fluorocarbon line made with dynamic shock to avoid break offs when casting heavy (and expensive) glidebaits and swimbaits. Dynamic shock also prevents break offs from aggressive strikes of trophy fish. High tensile strength and abrasion resistances for tackling big bass in heavy cover. High surface thickness for improved casting. 

HOW DO I USE IT?

Until now, with fluorocarbon line you wouldn’t think of sending that expensive glidebait into the hunt for a big bass hiding in gnarly cover. Now you can without fear. Sunline designed Big Bait FC as a fluorocarbon option to braid when the scenario is right. 

HOW MUCH?

$26.50

MORE INFORMATION:

TBA

ANGLER’S INSIGHT: 

You just set the hook on a personal best largemouth and now have the satisfaction that spending a fortune on a glidebait was worth it, right? Not yet. Now comes the most stressful part, and that is getting that beast out of the flooded timber or gnarly brush without a break off. Sunline Big Bait FC removes the stress, and now you can focus on making a lasting memory out of the catch. Think of Big Bait FC as the go-to fluorocarbon line for heavy combat. 

Daiwa D-VEC Reel Bag

WHAT SETS IT APART?

This bag is a heavy-duty nylon forcefield wrapped around up to eight small to midsize casting or spinning reels. Individualized protection for the shape and size of each one, using semi-firm and padded dividers secured with Velcro tabs. Inside, double zippers open and close a mesh storage pouch built into the lid. Externally, a beefy zipper with easy-open, oversized pull tabs works with a comfortable quick-grab handle and an adjustable and removable shoulder strap. 

HOW DO I USE IT?

That’s the best part. The case’s innerworkings are intuitive and utilitarian for uses beyond building a fortress around your expense reels. You can do the same thing with a camera and lenses, binoculars or even a small drone and batteries. The case provides the needed rigidity and durability you get from a hard case, with much less weight. 

HOW MUCH?

$44.99

MORE INFORMATION:

Daiwa.us

ANGLER’S INSIGHT: 

This could be the smartest 45 bucks you spend on fishing gear this year. Tally up the cost of your high-end reels, and the return on investment with the D-VEC bag becomes a no-brainer. And, you get a two-for-one travel/storage solution for other gear (during hunting season) for scopes, binoculars and the like. You’ll probably end up getting more than one of these bags as the list of uses grows. 

Mustang Survival Elite 120

WHAT SETS IT APART?

The Mustang Elite 120’s shell is made of PFAS-free urethane coated Nylon, while the bladder is made of TPU laminated Nylon. Created for five years of maintenance-free operation, this PFD is available in red, admiral grey and Everglade green. With a design intended to improve neck comfort during high-speed runs, the Elite 120’s low-profile and lightweight chassis, along with mesh back ensures breathability. Also, with a shorter chassis, you won’t be bothered with uncomfortable ride-up.

HOW DO I USE IT?

Expanding on the popular Elite 28 design, the Elite 120 provides 28-pounds (120N) of buoyancy, for confidence wherever the day takes you. Boasting Mustang’s Hammar MA1 automatic inflator with Hydrostatic Technology, which requires the vest to submerge before inflating (prevents accidental inflation), the Elite 120 includes Mustang’s exclusive ADAPT Technology (ADvanced Airway Protection & Turning). This includes a spray barrier near the chin to block waves and improve airway protection, optimal head support and dual bladders positioned to help roll the wearer into a face-up position.

HOW MUCH?

$299.99

MORE INFORMAITON:

MustangSurvival.com

ANGLER’S INSIGHT:

St. Croix Bassmaster Open pro Hunter Bland, who catapulted to national recognition following the 2017 boating accident that threw him and his tournament partner from their boat, assisted in the R&D process. Now serving as Skeeter/ Yamaha’s National Boating Safety Advocate, Bland summarized the drive to create a superior product: “I recommend taking safety as a very, very high priority. We love spending time on the water, but you can’t put a price tag on your life.”

Knog Scout Travel Tag

WHAT SETS IT APART?

Scout Travel’s tamper-proof security cable attachment uses a braided stainless-steel cable coated with nonabrasive nylon. Compatible with Apple’s “Find My” app, this smart luggage tag allows you to check your property’s location 24/7 with no subscription required. Weighing 35 grams (about 1 1/4 ounces), the USB-C rechargeable Scout Travel runs on a high-performance 155 mAh LiPo battery and complies with FAA checked luggage regulations. Available in pitch black, tangerine dream, mellow mint, sunflower yellow and deep blue color ways.

HOW DO I USE IT?

Knog, cycling and outdoor accessories brand, based in Melbourne, Australia, presents a smart luggage tag that combines the user’s digital contact information with a highly accurate luggage finder and an 85-decibel motion-sensitive alarm. If thieves attempt to steal your stuff, the whole neighborhood’s going to know it. In the event of lost or misplaced items, scanning the unique QR code printed on the device accesses whatever contact information you’ve added through Knog’s iOS app and prompts the finder to send you a “Found your stuff” message. 

HOW MUCH?

$59.95

MORE INFORMATION:

Us.knog.com

ANGLER’S INSIGHT:

Nothing wrong with being a zip code fisherman, but for those who like to test their skills in regional or national competition, or those drawn by the allure of distant bucket-list destinations, the dream requires travel. Whether that means flying with rod tubes, reel cases and tackle bags, or boats and trucks loaded with a small fortune in gear left in hotel or rental house parking lots, securing the tools of your passion is paramount. With the Knog App capable of managing up to 10 Scout Travel devices, you can protect a lot of tackle.