News

Pure Fishing’s Ugly Stik GX2 not only won the adoration of retailers and media at ICAST 2024 but it has now earned a top accolade from anglers themselves.

Following ICAST 2024’s New Product Showcase, anglers everywhere had a chance to vote for their favourite new fishing product in the third annual Anglers’ Choice Award competition.

Of the 41 New Product Showcase Best of Category winning products that debuted at ICAST 2024, Pure Fishing’s Ugly Stik GX2 was proclaimed the winner.

Powered by the American Sportfishing Association (ASA), ICAST – the International Convention of Allied Sportfishing Trades – drew more than 14,000 manufacturers, tackle buyers, retailers and media members to the Orange County Convention Centre in Orlando, Florida in July for the world’s largest sportfishing trade show.

At this year’s show, hundreds of companies debuted almost 1,000 new rods, reels, tackle, electronics, accessories, and apparel products in the highly anticipated New Product Showcase.

The dedicated display area on the show floor showcases hundreds of the best of the best in new fishing product innovation; all competing against each other to take home one of 41 “Best of Category” trophies and the overall “Best of Show” award. The GX2 was this year’s winner in the Best Freshwater Rod category.

Blake Swango, ASA’s vice president for trade show and membership, explained: “ICAST’s New Product Showcase is the pinnacle event of the fishing industry each year.

“In addition to the various Best of Category and Best of Show prizes, Anglers’ Choice is one of the most sought-after awards because it gives a voice to folks who aren't able to attend the show but still want to be involved.”

Sherri Gasparon, director of brand &and product for Ugly Stik, said: “The Ugly Stik brand is dedicated to delivering the strongest, most sensitive rods for anglers and the new GX2 delivers on this promise while still having the same unbreakable spirit.

“We know our loyal Ugly Stik anglers will absolutely love it. Thank you to all who voted for the GX2 as this year’s Anglers’ Choice!”

This is the second Anglers’ Choice Award for Pure Fishing, with its Berkley Fishing Slobberknocker taking home top honours in 2022.