A sampling of some of the enticing reels in exhibitors’ booths at the 2019 ICAST show

Perhaps nothing in an angler’s tackle and gear arsenal is more near and dear to him than his reels. Probably no gear causes us to agonize more over our choices than when we’re considering a new reel, so a look at this sampling should be of keen interest. The trend this year seems to be smaller, stronger and smoother, as you’ll note in most of these 11 new reels shown at this year’s ICAST show. (Prices may have been rounded by pennies.)

Accurate's recent addition of Tern star-drag reels to its lineup proved so popular, the manufacturer introduced at ICAST its 600 and new 500 sizes. The Tern is the first reel to feature a twin star drag, using stainless-steel and carbon-fiber drag washers on each side of the main gear. Terns are made from 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum and, inside, boast heat-treated steel gears and gear shaft. Retrieve ratios range from 4.7- to 6-to-1. Expect more than 30 pounds of max drag.