Toronto Sportsmen’s Show Tackle Porn: Shimano Stradic CI4

Throughout the entire Toronto Sportsmen’s Show I’ve snapped up hundreds of shots of different gear. I wanted to put them together into a few posts of “Tackle Porn”. As in shots of fishing gear that’s sure to get you excited! Get your bibs ready for some drool!

Shimano Stradic CI4

CI4 stands for Carbon Interfusion with the 4 referring to the number of electrons in the Carbon atom. Ultimately, this means CI4 is reinforced Carbon Fiber.

It is over one and a half times stronger than our normal XT-7 graphite and is over 20% lighter. Because it does not contain metal, it is impervious to rust.

So, as a result of its strength and weight, we can create an extremely lightweight reel with very precise tolerances.

Price: about $200

Abu Garcia is Out For Young Blood

It was pretty clear to me before watching the video below that Abu Garcia is looking to attract a much younger crowd than before. Their magazine ads are beautiful, I could easily imagine a Mercedes or BMW ad with the same flare and design. It’s a mix of luxury and prestige with an aggressive attitude undertone. Personally, I think it’s working- at least on me! These two new 2010 rods are nothing to laugh at, they might slap you across the face if you try.

Vendetta

The Vendetta promises to be a perfectly balanced and aggressively designed rod built for performance. The counterbalance system built into the handle is designed to the weight and specifications of Abu’s own Revo and Soron reels, but should prove almost perfect for any aggressively styled low profile baitcasters. Abu spared no expense in the details combining a Fuji Soft-Touch Reel seat with 30-Ton graphite blank, stocked with Pac Ba zirconium frame guides, and even the little details like the anodized aluminum reel screw and the laser etched Abu Garcia crest on the butt cap. The Vendetta should set you back about $70-80 bucks.

Vengeance

The Vengeance is designed on the same platform as the Vendetta, with just as much attention to detail, value, and performance, but at a better price point in todays market. Many of the parts are down grades from the Vendetta, but are still quality parts. Even at the lower price point of $50-60 bucks you’ll still enjoy the laser etched Abu Garcia crest on the butt cap.