In today’s newsletter: The first day of ICAST sportfishing trade show was fast paced and full of cool stuff. The Kayak Angler staff covered the show floor looking for new tackle, gear and kayaks that take fishing to the next level. As a sign of the times, we found digitally controlled reels, high-tech clothes, motor-ready kayaks and kayak motors ready for fishing. The theme for this year’s show is accessibility, as fishing and kayaking are easier than ever.

Jumping into the multi-motor kayak game, Old Town released the new Sportsman Pro 120 with space and rigging for a bow-mount trolling motor and an electric outboard in the stern. Bringing Sportsman’s proven quality and versatility, the new Pro 120 will satisfy anglers looking for full rigging potential. Below deck, Old Town included pre-rigged steering control cables. A larger bow hatch provides more space for below-deck storage with an extra large tankwell to accommodate gear crate, tackle boxes and batteries. The Sportsman Pro gives anglers the flexibility to motorized their kayak with an outboard, trolling motor or both. The Sportsman Pro has 140 inches of gear tracks, through-hull wiring ports and transducer mount to easily install electronics.

I remember the first time I cast a baitcasting reel. Despite my attempts to adjust the brakes and control the spool with my thumb, the reel exploded into a giant backlash tangle with line spilling out of the spool like an atomic mushroom cloud. I also remember the first time I cast a Curado DC reel. Without almost any input from my thumb, the reel cast flawlessly time after time. Shimano’s Curado DC uses a micro computer that measures spool speed 1000 times per second to apply ultimate brake pressure for a long, accurate cast.

Kayak Angler editors tested and reviewed the Tactical Pro 128 in the Summer 2026 issue of Kayak Angler magazine. We rigged the full-size TP128 with a Garmin Force Current kayak motor and Ultra 2 fish finder with LiveScope transducer. The big boat has plenty of space for gear, tackle and accessories with capacity and rigging for electric outboard and trolling motor.

Newport’s new Stance 180 is a trolling motor built from the water up for kayak anglers. With precision GPS control, and a powerful brushless motor, the Stance 180 performs all the functions of a modern trolling motor. Since it is designed for kayaks, the motor uses a smaller foot print to save deck space.

Bonafide released the XTR130 as a motor-focused kayak with rock-solid stability and tons of space and capacity for gear, tackle and electronics. This year, they’ve added the XTR140P as a pedal-and-motor boat that is sportier and more versatile. Starting with the single-keel hull and broad stern, the XTR140P moves through the water more efficiently and confidently rolls over waves. The streamlined hull design also makes the XTR140P easier to propel with the X-Range Pedal Drive.

One of the biggest challenges to owning a motorized kayak with full electronics is rigging the kayak and running wires. Vibe takes the work out of motor kayak ownership with the new Sea Ghost 105 WRD. To accommodate motors, the 105 WRD is pre-routed with 6 AWG cable to connect motors and batteries. The pre-rigged wires run to the bow, stern and midship and can handle up to 36 volts for any kayak motor.

Great rain gear effectively and comfortably protects an angler from the elements so she can focus on fishing and still have fun, even in the rain, wind and spray. For 2027, Mustang introduces the new Women’s Waterproof Tidal Bib with cut, size and fit designed for women. The bib is built on a three-layer waterproof, windproof and breathable fabric with Cordura patches in high-wear areas.

There’s nothing like flipping through a print issue with a coffee in hand and your next fishing trip on your mind. Upgrade to a print subscription to read in-depth gear and kayak reviews, learn new tips and tactics and be inspired to try new kayak fishing adventures.

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