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Fall Fishing with Shimano's Armajoint Swimbait

 

Fall is in the air, the days are getting shorter, the temperature is slowly changing, and fish are on the move. Fall is a great time to be on the water and enjoy the scenery, but it's also a very productive time of year to catch some fish. As each day in the fall brings us one day close to winter, bass must feed up and prepare for the year's colder months. When they need to feed, bass will target shad, bluegill, and other baitfish as this bait begins to migrate shallow in search of oxygen and cooling water temps. With that in mind, a large swimbait is a great way to target feeding bass, specifically the Shimano Armajoint Swimbait.

Design

The Shimano Armajoint Swimbait Slow Sink features a slender, compact profile measuring 7 1/2" long and weighing around 2 oz. The Armajoint imitates a shad with its realistic shape and design, featuring three sections with two joints. The main joint utilizes Armaboost technology, which forces the body to fold in half when casting by disconnecting the internal magnet. One challenge with large swimbaits is castability; the Armajoint counteracts this by collapsing in flight, increasing your casting distance, and reducing the possibility of your bait fowling up as it lands. When the Armajoint lands, the internal magnet reengages, allowing this main joint to provide its natural swimming action.

This bait swims in an S-pattern, providing natural drawing power when retrieved slow and steady or on fast and erratic retrieves. But what makes the Armajoint so unique? The Armajoint shines in the water like you've never seen before. Utilizing Shimano's proprietary Flash Boost technology, this bait emits a flash to mimic the behavior of an injured or scurrying baitfish. This flash is a suspended piece of reflective foil inside the bait held up by micro springs. This design ensures flash throughout your retrieve, even as the bait is stationary on the pause. This flash translates exceptionally well throughout each color pattern, omitting flash and color change as it comes through the bait's body, known as Scale Boost.

One overlooked feature of the Shimano Armajoint Swimbait is the hook keeper. When dealing with large swimbaits, you want to increase your efficiency when fishing around cover and ensure the bait is not hindering your fish-landing ability when you get a bite. The Armajoint features a small wire keeper underneath each treble hook you snap into, keeping the treble hooks tight to the body and ensuring you don't have free-swinging hooks when fishing around cover. With a little pressure or when you get a bite, the hooks snap back out and flow freely. When these hooks are flowing freely, a bass cannot use the weight of the bait as leverage, which helps increase your landing percentage.

Shimano ARMAJOINT 190SS FLASH BOOST: Top 3 Features

Where and How

The Armajoint swims in a naturally flowing S-pattern that can be retrieved erratically to get fish to react or fished slowly for more drawing power. The sink rate of the Slow Sink model is around a foot per second, allowing you to count down this bait to the desired depth. Your retrieve will depend on factors like the color and temperature of the water. The clearer the water, the more drawing power a bait will have because of the clarity; the dirtier the water, the less drawing power, but bass are more likely to react with lower visibility.

Earlier and in the middle of fall, the Armajoint will excel when fished erratically, utilizing the Flashboost technology to trigger those feeding fish that target baitfish in the backs of pockets and along shallow shoals and flats. A steady retrieve with sudden starts and stops will trigger more bites and allow you to adapt your retrieve slower and slower as the seasons change.

As you get later in the fall, those bass and baitfish begin migrating into their winter haunts. When retrieved in a slow, methodical S-pattern, this bait mimics the action of a traditional single-jointed glide bait; the slender profile and erratic flash and V-tail design articulately mimic a dying baitfish.

Often, we talk about matching the hatch and the size and profile of the baitfish you encounter on your favorite lakes. While this is true, fall tends to provide a target-rich environment with often many large groups of smaller baitfish. During this time of year, bass can key onto the bait they're feeding on, making getting a bite tough without perfectly matching the hatch or triggering bites. Large swimbaits such as the 7 1/2" Armajoint are a great way to trigger these fish to bite by offering a more extensive profile with more action and flash, allowing fish to key into your bait when surrounded by a vast amount of baitfish throughout the fall.'

Rod and Reel

The setup for fishing the Shimano Armajoint Swimbait is less complex than it may seem for a swimbait of this size. Due to the action from the bait's joints, having a rod with enough tip to articulately work the bait while having the backbone to handle the weight of the bait is critical.

One of the more popular all-around swimbait rods is the Dobyns Champion XP 7'9" Medium Heavy-Fast Swimbait Rod. This five-power rod features the proper handle length for maximum castability and control, but the action doesn't overpower the bait, hindering the bait action. However, if you don't own a swimbait-specific rod, the Armajoint pairs nicely with many common flippin' sticks, such as the Shimano Zodias 7'5" Heavy-Fast. The key to a successful rod for this bait is fast action, allowing you to work the bait with a stout enough rod to ensure the large treble hooks penetrate the fish's mouth.

Pairing these rods with the right reel and line combo brings the whole setup together. When dealing with baits of this size, like the Armajoint, a 200-size reel, such as the Shimano Curado M, houses the features you'll need for the smooth operation of a 2 oz bait. A 7.4:1 reel gives you the speed to work a bait with action and retrieve your line quickly when fighting fish. Your line size can depend on various factors and what you're trying to achieve. Our recommendation for this fall season would be 20 lb Seaguar InvizX Fluorocarbon for its soft casting ability and durable resistance. The 20 lb. size may be large, but the larger line size will withstand the size of this bait cast after cast while ensuring abrasion resistance while fishing this bait in and around the cover.

Conclusion

The Shimano Armajoint Swimbait is unlike any other swimbait on the market. Using Shimano's latest bait technology, bass have never seen Flash Boost technology like this. Arma Boost provides drawing power and exceptional user ability, increasing your casting abilities. With the design and technology put into the Armajoint, you're not just fishing any old swimbait but an innovative and versatile design not found in other jointed swimbaits. When you're on the water this fall, let the Armajoint make its presence known to those bass eagerly awaiting their next fall meal.

A Closer Look At The G. Loomis GLX BASS Rods

Few brands command the respect and admiration that G. Loomis does in high-end fishing gear. Handcrafted in Woodland, WA, G. Loomis is known for creating some of the most advanced and high-performance fishing rods on the market; the company continues to push the boundaries of innovation. With the launch of the new evolution of G. Loomis GLX BASS Rods, they have once again raised the bar for what anglers can expect from their equipment. Let's divulge what makes the new GLX series a game-changer for professional and recreational anglers alike.

 

 

A Legacy of Innovation

Before diving into the specific features of the new GLX rods, it's worth taking a moment to appreciate the history and legacy of the GLX series. The original GLX rods, introduced over 25 years ago, were among the first to use high-modulus graphite, setting a new standard for lightweight, sensitivity, and strength. These rods quickly became a favorite among serious anglers looking for high performance, and the GLX name has since been synonymous with top-tier quality.

The new GLX BASS rods build upon this legacy, incorporating the latest materials and design technology to deliver a rod that feels like a natural extension of the angler's hand—customized with a "modern throwback" design that pays tribute to the long and storied history of rods past. The GLX BASS rods have the look and feel every G. Loomis enthusiast will appreciate.

Materials and Build Quality

At the heart of the new GLX rods is the advanced, high-modulus graphite that gives the rod its signature combination of lightness and strength. While previous iterations of the GLX were already known for their feather-light feel, the new series takes this to a new level. Using state-of-the-art construction techniques, G. Loomis has shaved off even more weight without compromising durability or performance.

The reduced weight is not just a luxury; it has a tangible impact on how long an angler can cast and fish without fatigue. Whether fishing for hours or battling a large fish, the rod's lightweight construction reduces strain on your arm and shoulder, allowing you to focus on technique rather than endurance.

The real magic, however, lies in the sensitivity of these rods. Using a high-modulus blank construction and rod blanks with a boosted strength-to-weight ratio, G. Loomis created a rod that accurately transmits every bump, nibble, and strike. It is also equipped with the finest Fuji K SiC Guide Train, ensuring your line efficiently flows along the blank for smooth casting and extreme sensitivity. This level of sensitivity is crucial for finesse and bottom contact techniques, where detecting subtle changes can mean the difference between a successful day on the water and going home empty-handed.

Enhanced Sensitivity

The new GLX rods' sensitivity is unmatched, directly connecting the angler and the lure, making detecting even the most delicate bites easier. G. Loomis has achieved this by using its Multi-Taper Design technology, which allows for more precise control over the action and strength of the rod by isolating and reinforcing specific points along the rod, allowing the rod to flex in just the right places for incredible response and durability. Whether you're flipping grass in Florida for trophy largemouth or shakin' a minnow on the Great Lakes for smallmouth, each rod's ability to handle different weights and loads makes them highly dependable.

Comfort and Ergonomics

In addition to being lightweight and sensitive, the new GLX rods provide anglers with the comfort needed for all-day use. G. Loomis has paid close attention to the ergonomics of the handle and grip, using high-quality materials that provide comfort and control. The Ci4+ reel seat is a staple in high-end Shimano and G. Loomis rods, ensuring a secure fit and improved balance, giving anglers more control over their cast.

The new GLX series also features custom cork grips that feel great and provide superior grip even when wet. This attention to detail in ergonomics means that anglers can focus on their technique, knowing their equipment will perform under all conditions while also providing that classic look and feel.

Versatility and Range

G. Loomis offers the GLX BASS rods in all of the most popular G. Loomis models, from the 843c MBR and 894c JWR to the 853s JWR and 822s DSR, including eleven models only found in the GLX BASS lineup! With rods available in virtually every length, action, and power, G. Loomis has you covered for every technique. This versatility is a significant selling point, as it means you can trust the same rod series across different bodies of water for various techniques.

Do you want to learn even more about the nitty-gritty details of the technology and construction of the G. Loomis GLX BASS Rods? You'll want to check out this video here on YouTube: 2024 NEWLY REDESIGNED G. LOOMIS GLX BASS SERIES.

Conclusion

The new G. Loomis GLX BASS Rods represent a significant leap forward in rod design and technology. By focusing on reducing weight, enhancing sensitivity, and improving ergonomics, G. Loomis has created a rod that is both highly functional and a joy to use. Whether you're a professional angler or want the best out of their tools, the new GLX series will give you the edge you want.

With this latest redesign, G. Loomis continues to prove why it is a leader in the fishing industry. The GLX BASS series remains one of the finest examples of innovation and craftsmanship in fishing gear.

Is the Power-Pole MOVE ZR the BEST Trolling Motor?

The Power-Pole MOVE ZR Trolling Motor is considered one of the best trolling motors on the market due to its innovative design, reliability, cutting-edge technology, and performance. It stands out for various reasons, making it a top choice for professional anglers and recreational fishermen, with models available in 45", 52", and 60". Winning both the 2023 Anglers' Choice Award and Best of Category: "Motorized Boating Accessories" during its release at ICAST 2023.

Here are the key factors that make the Power-Pole MOVE ZR exceptional:

1. Precision and Control

The MOVE ZR provides unmatched precision and control in various water conditions with multiple navigation modes. Equipped with advanced GPS integration, Anchor Mode allows for spot-locking on specific locations with pinpoint accuracy. This feature is essential for anglers who must remain in a particular spot to cast without constantly adjusting their position. Vector Mode continues the boat in a straight line heading; Compass Heading travels toward a selected heading; and Follow-A-Route traverses a route you choose using the Power-Pole App. The integration of GPS enables precise navigation in complex environments like rocky shores, swift currents, or open water, where stability is critical. Despite wind or currents, this motor's ability to anchor and navigate a boat gives the angler total control.

2. Quiet Operation

One of the critical challenges in fishing is minimizing noise to avoid scaring away fish, and quite frankly, no one enjoys a creaking and squeaking trolling motor. The Power-Pole MOVE ZR is a scissor lift trolling motor; motors of this design commonly experience noisy operation because of the many moving parts. The MOVE ZR excels in this area by being incredibly quiet and utilizing high-end components such as the 3-to-1 pulley system and nitrogen-filled cylinder to deploy and stow your trolling motor quietly and efficiently, ensuring that anglers don't disrupt the underwater environment. This silent operation is primarily thanks to advanced brushless motor technology, which reduces the noise and vibration often associated with traditional trolling motors, making it easier to approach fish stealthily and improving catch rates, especially in shallow waters.

3. Brushless Motor Technology

The MOVE ZR features cutting-edge brushless motor technology, which offers a range of benefits over traditional brushed motors. First, brushless motors are more efficient, consume less power, and extend battery life, making the MOVE ZR perfect for long days on the water. Second, brushless motors provide more torque, allowing the MOVE ZR to deliver more thrust while remaining compact and lightweight. This combination of power and efficiency makes it a versatile choice, whether navigating shallow waters or handling rougher conditions in deeper areas. The MOVE ZR optimizes performance to provide the most power at lower RPMs and can operate on a 24v or 36v system and produce a maximum thrust of 78lbs at 24v and 100lbs at 36v.

4. Durability and Build Quality

Power-Pole products are known for their durability, and the MOVE ZR is no exception. Designed with an unbreakable aerospace-grade titanium shaft with compound fails-safes, including corrosion-resistant metals and high-quality polymers, the MOVE ZR will withstand harsh marine environments. The MOVE ZR utilizes the strongest pull cord on the market, a Dyneema Super Cord. Saltwater anglers, in particular, benefit from its corrosion-resistant properties, which ensure the motor's longevity even when exposed to saltwater for extended periods. Its robust design also means it can handle heavy use without suffering from wear and tear, making it a reliable long-term investment.

5. Ease of Use and Installation

Despite its advanced features, the Power-Pole MOVE ZR is remarkably user-friendly. It provides easy installation, with clear instructions and minimal setup time required. Additionally, the intuitive controls allow users to operate the motor effortlessly, even if they are new to trolling motors. The interface is simple yet functional, providing just the right amount of control without overwhelming the user with unnecessary complexity. Power-Pole has also made available additional accessories, such as pulpit extensions, quick-release brackets, and even replacement remotes, foot pedals, and foot controls to ensure you have the parts to stay on the water. The MOVE ZR is an excellent option for anglers looking for a high-performance motor that doesn't require a steep learning curve.

6. Innovative Steering System

One standout feature of the Power-Pole MOVE ZR is its advanced steering system. The system offers enhanced maneuverability, enabling anglers to turn tight and navigate challenging environments such as weed beds or rocky structures. This precise steering system improves the fishing experience, allowing for smoother, more responsive control along the RealFeel Foot Pedal. Coupled with the motor's ability to maintain a steady course utilizing the various navigation modes, the MOVE ZR offers a superior handling experience that is difficult to match.

7. Wireless Connectivity and Integration

The MOVE ZR includes wireless connectivity options, two wireless foot buttons for anchor mode and active heading, a wireless info display to monitor speed and controls, a wireless hybrid remote that controls your trolling motor and Power-Poles, and the wireless RealFeel Foot Pedal. Power-Pole allows you to integrate this technology with other marine electronics, such as fish finders and GPS units, including a MOVE ZR option with a built-in Lowrance HDI transducer. This connectivity enhances its functionality, enabling anglers to control the motor remotely or program specific routes. The wireless integration facilitates easy updates, ensuring the motor stays updated with the latest software enhancements. This level of integration gives anglers a more comprehensive view of their surroundings, improving decision-making and overall efficiency on the water.

 

Conclusion

The Power-Pole MOVE ZR Trolling Motor stands out in a crowded market because of its superior design, advanced features, and reliable performance. Its precision, quiet operation, brushless motor technology, durability, ease of use, and wireless integration make it the go-to choice for serious anglers. A critical advantage of the MOVE ZR is its ability to adapt to different environments. This trolling motor delivers consistent performance when fishing in freshwater lakes, rivers, or saltwater. Whether navigating complex environments or looking to improve your fishing success, the MOVE ZR offers the perfect combination of power, control, and convenience. For anglers who demand the best, the Power-Pole MOVE ZR is hard to beat as the best trolling motor on the market!

For a deep dive into installing and using the latest features of the Power-Pole MOVE ZR, check out Power-Pole's MOVE ZR - User Guide on YouTube.

Power-Pole ONE Pump - What You Need To Know

The Power-Pole Blade is the best-selling shallow water anchor on the market, and its renowned performance is now even better. Let's introduce the Power-Pole ONE Pump. The ONE Pump design allows you to power dual Blade anchors off one singular pump, utilizing the latest and most advanced hydraulic anchoring system on the water. Stronger, smoother, and quieter than ever, the ONE Pump package features upgrades that improve your Blades performance while making installation and integration onto your boat more accessible.

Pump

The new ONE Pump utilizes a brushless motor with upgraded circuit boards and valves. The upgraded hydraulic valves improve filtration and maximize performance. Each valve is color-coded for easy identification and maintenance. This package is 40% lighter and 41.6 % more energy efficient, allowing for a quieter and more efficient deployment.

This new pump includes a Manual Release with a Drop-Stop Safety Valve. If your poles become stuck while deployed, this valve allows you to safely and securely retract them and lock them in place when retrieved. The Drop-Stop Safety Valve prevents the poles from free-falling, ensuring you have control of the poles.

Weight/Size/Installation

No matter your boat's year, make, or model, space is always a premium, especially for anglers. The ONE Pump package saves you time and space upon installation. You're maximizing your boat's capabilities by reducing weight and valuable space with a pump half the size of a two-pump system.

Installation of a Power Pole pump is now easier than ever. With the ONE Pump Quick-Release Mounting Bracket, you install the bracket and drop the ONE Pump into place. This process not only saves you time and space but can also save your boat dealer time and space, which can save on additional labor costs.

If you've ordered two Power-Poles for your boat before, you know you naturally have to purchase two poles, which come in two separate boxes and generally have two shipping charges. Power-Pole has eliminated this hassle with the ONE Pump package by using one box that houses two poles to reduce any hassle in shipping, making for quick and seamless delivery. Don't forget FREE SHIPPING on all orders over $50 at Fishing Online!

Additional Features

When using Power-Pole products, you want Total Boat Control and easy integration. Using the C-Monster Network, you can integrate your ONE Pump with Garmin, Lowrance, Simrad, and Mercury to control or display your Power-Pole Blades through the various electronics these brands offer.

One Pump includes two newly redesigned wireless remotes with sleek new designs and capabilities. These remotes allow you to control the drop speed of your Power-Pole with the click of a button. The remotes can be handheld or mounted with the included dash cradle.

You can also control your Blades by downloading the Power-Pole App. This app provides an additional remote through your smartphone and allows you to access and monitor your other Power-Pole products, such as a MOVE Trolling Motor or Charge Marine Power Station. The Power-Pole App brings Total Boat Control together for easy access and monitoring.

*** Don't miss out on the exclusive Black Out Blade Edition, which is only available with the ONE Pump. The Black Out Blades feature a sleek matte black design with matte black u-channels, knuckle and stern brackets, and gloss black logos!

Check out Team Marine Service on YouTube and their video on the release of the Power-Pole ONE Dual Anchor Pump.

Warranty

Lastly, the Power-Pole ONE Pump is backed by the marine industry's best customer service and technical support. It features a 5-year warranty on mechanical parts, a 2-year warranty on electrical and hydraulics, and a Lifetime warranty on the Everflex Spike. Rest assured that Power-Pole's team will make the extra effort to ensure your satisfaction during and after the warranty period.

 

For over twenty years, Power-Pole has been engineering and designing the latest technology to provide consumers with the best tools for the job. Adding the ONE Pump provides anglers, mechanics, and dealers a streamlined approach to adding dual Power-Pole Blades utilizing a singular pump. An adaptation many have been waiting for years has finally arrived. If you're looking to save space and weight while enhancing the layout of your boat, the ONE Pump package is what you need!

Why Your Boat Needs A Keel Guard

Have you ever wondered, "Do I really need to purchase a keel guard for my boat?" To answer this, yes, you do! Whether you're an avid angler or recreational boater, a keel guard ensures that your boat's keel is protected from abrasive surfaces that the bottom of your boat may encounter, such as sand, rocks, and boat ramps. A keel guard eliminates scratches and gouges and saves you from experiencing costly repairs.

A keel guard is essential for fiberglass boats because continued wear can break down the protective gel coat finish, allowing water to contaminate and destroy the fiberglass laminates. For aluminum boats, a keel guard protects against scratches, dents, and possibly punctures. A keel guard can only be installed on aluminum boats with smooth surfaces or light protrusions. If your keel features sharp edges or large protrusions, a keel guard will not adhere properly to this surface.

Installing a keel guard provides a sleek custom look using one of the many color options to match your boat best. Not only that, but the keel guard also adds to the overall value of the boat. By taking the time to protect and preserve your investment, you will increase the resale value of your vessel.

Which Keel Guard Do I Choose?

There are a handful of DIY keel guards on the market, but none are more efficient and reliable than the Megaware Keel Guard and the Gator Guards KeelShield. Both brands are well respected and renowned by boat owners and manufacturers for their quality products and ease of use. With keel guards available from 4ft to 12ft and in a wide variety of colors, there's a keel guard for almost every boat. Both Megaware and Gator Guards back their products with a lifetime warranty for the original purchaser through an authorized dealer.

Easy Installation

The Megaware Keel Guard and Gator Guard KeelShield include the necessary tools and applicators to prep and install the keel guard properly. There are a few keys to remember when installing a keel guard:

• The adhesive used on these keel guards can not be applied when the temperatures are below 65 degrees Fahrenheit or above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Generally, a minimum air temperature of 70 degrees Fahrenheit provides optimal conditions for installation.

• You want to install your keel guard above the resting water line, generally about 6 inches above and ending around 3 inches beyond the lowest point of the keel. Doing so ensures maximum protection along your vessel.

• Preparation is critical to installing a keel guard. Following the instructions, properly mask off the installation area, lightly sand and clean the surface with isopropyl alcohol, and then prime the surface using the primer pads included in the kit.

• When applying the keel guard, you will want to center it and slowly and adequately adhere it to the boat's keel. Work in 8-10 inch sections starting in the center and then working on each side without touching or contaminating the adhesive along the keel guard. Once attached, use the applicator to apply pressure to the keel guard to remove any air bubbles.

• The Megaware Keel Guard or Gator Guard Keel Shield does not require curing time. Once correctly applied, the boat is protected and ready to hit the water!

For a great visual representation of this process check out the TacticalBassin Youtube channel and their video on How To Install A Keel Guard. 

Protecting your boat is essential to ensure you can enjoy your time on the water. A keel guard gives you peace of mind that a portion of your boat you may not always consider is adequately protected, saving you from costly repairs.

Check out our entire Megaware and Gator Guards marine products lineup to outfit your boat with products that protect and preserve your investment!

What's New with Shimano Vanford A Spinning Reel?

Are you shopping for a new spinning reel? If so, you've probably searched the internet for "the best spinning reel on the market" or "best spinning reel for under $300," or maybe you already have a brand or two in mind for where to look. If either is true, you've probably stumbled upon the Shimano Vanford online or in your favorite tackle shop over the years. And there's a reason for that: the Shimano Vanford has been one of the most popular spinning reels on the market due to its lightweight construction and durable performance, which is powered by Shimano's advanced technology. Not only that, but it comes at a price point well below its overall performance, making it enticing to professional anglers, guides, and hardcore weekend warriors who want the most of their hard-earned money.

While perusing the internet, you may notice a Shimano Vanford A and a Vanford FA. What's this about? Believe it or not, there was a typo during the release of the redesigned Vanford. This typo led many vendors and users to believe that the new reel would be labeled as the Vanford FA when, in reality, the correct name is the Shimano Vanford A Spinning Reel. So when searching for the latest 2024 release, Shimano Vanford, know you'll be looking for the Vanford A with the Vanford FA being the same reel.

For 2024, the Shimano Vanford A has been redesigned and reintroduced to continue its advancement as one of the most popular spinning reels on the market. But what does this redesign mean? And what has changed?

What's made the Vanford so popular is over a decade of engineering and design, with a lineage that anglers can trace back to the beloved Shimano Stradic spinning reels. The Vanford A is part of Shimano's MagnumLite lineup, which includes reels such as the Shimano Sustain, Twin Power XD, and Exsence. These reels are categorized in light startup rotation and overall lightweight design. The Vanford A features Shimano's lightweight Ci4+ carbon body, ensuring rigidity while reducing size and weight. While internally, the MGL Rotor powers the Vanford. With 48% less rotational inertia than a traditional rotor, the MGL Rotor offers precision and balance for lighter rotations and increased sensitivity.

What's New?

InfinityDrive: The spool shaft now runs through the pinion gear, which is supported by a new low-friction bushing to decrease resistance and reduce rotational torque. Couple this with Micromodule Gear II, the state-of-the-art gear-tooth surface along the cold-forged aluminum drive gear and pinion gear; with this technology, you will experience smoother winding torque, giving you more power and control while fighting your next catch.

DuraCross: Constructed to provide a durable drag system that lasts a lifetime. DuraCross utilizes revolutionary drag washers comprised of a unique woven carbon fiber pattern to offer the smoothness of felt washers but the durability of carbon washers, making them 10x more durable and reliable. Ensuring you have a drag that never slips and can withstand powerful surges from fish, no matter the size of the reel.

AntiTwist Fin: Adding this flexible polymer fin enhances line management along the bail arm roller. This fin maintains line tension underneath the arm roller, preventing the line from falling off the bottom of the spool. For example, when working a dropshot along the bottom, you'll tend to have some slack in your line, specifically along the bail arm roller, as you shake, hop, or drag your bait. The Anti-Twist Fin ensures that when you set the hook, that small amount of slack line is guided directly into the arm roller for a proper hookset, avoiding hiccups.

The improvements to the Vanford A provide you with the performance you expect from Shimano at the same great price point as the previous model. It is available in six sizes, from 500 to 5000, and retails for $249-$259.

Overall, the Shimano Vanford A continues to carry the legacy of its predecessors as a workhorse designed to perform as a lightweight, low-startup, fast-stopping reel. This performance allows you to excel at your favorite finesse techniques, whether skipping a wacky worm around docks, pinging a minnow for suspended bass on forward-facing sonar, or dragging a tube on the Great Lakes. The Vanford A is built for it all and, most importantly, to last.

To learn more about the nitty-gritty details, check out this in-depth breakdown by JP DeRose: 2024 Shimano Vanford A Walkthrough and Specs.

Check out the Shimano Vanford A today at Fishing Online!