ICast 2021 shows off latest innovations in fishing

The annual ICast show returned last week to Orlando, Fla., for the first time since the pandemic, and it came about in a time of increased participation and interest in the sport of fishing.

ICast, which stands for the International Convention of Allied Sportfishing Trades, serves as the main trade show for the greater international sportfishing industry.

It also serves as a showcase for what is to become in the fishing scene, and after a year away, there was a lot to share.

Given the amount of technological innovation the sport has witnessed the last decade, taking a peek at the winners of "Best in Show" across various product categories is a real treat for those who fish, so let's take a look at some of the winners that are most relevant to suburban anglers.

Best in Show and Best Freshwater Soft Bait: Berkley Powerbait Gilly Swimbait

The Berkley Powerbait Gilly Swimbait was the talk of the show as both the best new product in the showcase and the best soft bait for freshwater fishing. Swimbaits have been all the rage in the fishing world as of late, and the Gilly Swimbait has been buzzed about for its versatility and affordability.

Best Freshwater Hard Lure: Strike King Chick Magnet Flat-Sided Crankbait

Strike King has long been in the business of creating top-of-the-line baits across many different product categories, and it was rewarded for it this year. The Chick Magnet is a great crankbait for lake or river fishing. The sleek build of the bait's body gives it a unique wobbling action, and the "circuit board" style lip allows the bait to careen off structure with the best of them.

Best Freshwater Rod: Abu Garcia Zenon Rod

The design principles of modern rod-building have been predicated on strength and sensitivity, and Abu Garcia's new Zenon rods follow that to a T. Billed as one of the lightest rods ever released to market, the Zenon series focuses on providing anglers the sensitivity needed to feel everything going on at the end of their line.

Best Freshwater Reel: Daiwa Zillion SV TW

Anyone with a familiarity in the world of fishing reels knows Daiwa is one of the titans in the market, and the Daiwa Zillion SV TW is another in a long line of Daiwa reels to garner critical acclaim. The Zillion features a new SV Booster System that allows for maximum braking control and improved casting distance.