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Misc. Fishing GEar

Costa Del Mar 580P Lenses (Jose Frames)

Introduction:

During all of my post ICAST 2010 field-testing, I was testing out Costa Del Mar’s new 580P lenses on the Jose frames. When speaking with Costa’s Al Perkinson at ICAST, I learned they were made of a super lightweight, impact resistant injected polycarbonate, which is an alternative to Costa’s existing 580 glass lens. While glass is more scratch resistant it is not able to withstand as much impact, so I figured these were the lenses for me. I can break anything.

Testing Scenario: Fishing all over Texas and Louisiana in various conditions.

Results:

I am happy to report not only did they not break but they allowed me to see far more fish than I would have otherwise. The polarization and clarity is great and the frame was lightweight and comfortable. They are also made with a special coasting called C Shell, which helps it with scratch, oil and water resistance. I actually fished these in the rain and had no problems with water sticking to them and causing those funky spots when I finally did dry off before putting back in their case.

F.L.E.X. Notes: Being able to see fish you normally would not get a glimpse of is a gigantic advantage in seeking them. Using top quality shades can make a giant difference in a successful pursuit of angling dreams.

For more information, go to http://www.costadelmar.com

Disclaimer: I was provided one of these units for the purpose of testing.

Outcast Cork

Introduction: Floats are a highly underutilized tool for catching many species of large fish. In recent years I have become a huge fan of using them to fish for flounder in areas like around rock piles and oyster reefs that would otherwise end in frustration of losing leader after leader. These corks from Midcoast Products due to their unique weight system are supposed to enable the angler to cast much farther than most in this size class.

Testing Scenario: I have used this cork extensively since my initial tests fishing from the bank in an area I need to make precision casts to get behind a small reef to target flounder. I was using live mullet rigged on a fluorocarbon 18-inch leader with a split-shot rigged above the mullet to keep it from swimming to the surface.

Results: It did not take long to figure out I can cast a minimum of 20 percent farther with this cork than others similar in size. It is also easy to cast with accuracy and both attributes are huge advantages for landbound anglers. On several occasions I have been able to target flounder (often the biggest caught on these trips) I was not able to get to otherwise.

F.L.E.X. Notes: One problem is the weight does not allow for "smooth casting". Well, you can get a fairly smooth landing with it but not like I would like to ideally cast. The angler will have to sacrifice some stealth for distance.

For more information, go to http://www.midcoastproducts.com

Disclaimer: I was provided one of these units for the purpose of testing.