Day 1 at ICAST in Orlando, Fl was a scorcher, but not just for the 3 digit temps. There were some hot new products on display. The first day at the largest sport fishing tradeshow in the world is comprised of an On the Water Demo followed my the New Product Showcase. The New Product Showcase gives Buyers and Media a chance to see all the newest, newness and vote on what they think should win Best In Show. So I've included some of my initial thoughts and sights from Day 1. There will be much more to see today and I'll try to lay out a little more detail in the coming posts. .

First big thing, kayak fishing made the front and center signage at ICAST (above). That's good for paddle sports and fishing.

After arriving in Orlando I made my way to the On The Water demo and set my sights on the new Bonafide Kayaks SS127.

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The SS127 is 12'7" long, with 33.5" width and weighs 75lbs. It's a fairly compact vessel in the kayak fishing scope of things, but man does it pack a punch. And the stability is amazing!

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The also reimagined the hull design a bit and the front end changed since the last time I got to paddle a prototype. This thing tracks true.

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I also visited with the Jackson Kayak guys and gals to try out the Coosa FD again. I'd pedaled it at our Appomattox Demo Day and was impressed. It's still a super nice machine and they continue to refine the layout, etc. This is a unique pedal drive system with it's adjustable prop.

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Later in the New Product Showcase, more goodies were revealed.

The new Ocean Kayak Malibu Pedal is a welcome addition to the market as it provides a fun, colorful intro to the pedal style for recreational paddlers  and anglers.

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The new Pelican Catch 100, a ten foot version of their wildly popular 12' model. This is a great price point kayak for those looking to get into kayak angling and test the waters for under $700

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Feelfree Kayaks debuted their Lure II, the tandem. It is a big, comfortable kayak that will allow you to integrate their new pedal/ motor drive. The Lure II still has the Wheel in the Keel, so rolling it around will be easier than carrying.

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But I'd be remiss if I didn't mention the Bugslinger that kept drawing my attention. Now I would have very limited use for this machine, but man it looked fun, the Bote Board Rover with the motor. This thing looks like a pile of fun!

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There were also a pile of cool gadgets and lures, etc. I'll post more on those today and tomorrow. But for now here is your teaser. I've got to rally and head back to the show for the first full day. Shout at me if there is something specific you want to see or hear about and I'll try to get it done.

Thanks!

Oh, and I got to meet the legend...Bill Dance int he house!