Today's edition of The Outdoor Wire is split into two: the morning edition you are reading now, and an afternoon edition that you will receive closer to noon Eastern Time. The split edition is due to the large volume of releases appearing today.
Whitewater Fishing debuted five new apparel items at ICAST, including the Basin Deck Boot, TORQUE 7.4V Heated Vest, FINESSE Hybrid Jacket, Destin Short Sleeve Shirt, and Slipstream Bamboo Hoodie. Each piece combines technical utility with functional performance for serious anglers facing on-water challenges.
Outdoor Life selected TenPoint Crossbow Technologies' TX Ultra 29.5 as the 2026 Best Premium Crossbow. Scott Einsmann praised the crossbow for its accuracy, ergonomics, and ease of use. The TX Ultra 29.5 shoots up to 460 FPS and features new 8MM Axles, X-Wide Limbs, and ACUslide MAXX cocking technology.
Hornady sponsored shooters Sean Murphy and Greg Hamilton won the Wyoming Tactical Rifle Championship on July 11-12, 2026, near Weston, Wyoming. Murphy used Hornady 6mm 110 gr. A-Tip Match bullets in his 6mm Creedmoor, while Hamilton used Hornady 22 Cal. 73 gr. ELD Match bullets in his 223 Remington.
Professional exhibition shooter Steve Gould shattered multiple long-distance clay target records using the Benelli ETHOS SuperSport A.I. shotgun and Federal ammunition, culminating in breaking a clay target at a certified 201 yards—the first shooter ever to accomplish this feat.
Firearms Policy Coalition (FPC), the National Rifle Association of America, the Second Amendment Foundation, and the American Suppressor Association filed an amicus brief with the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals arguing that short-barreled rifles are protected by the Second Amendment and that the National Firearms Act's registration scheme lacks historical support under the Supreme Court's Bruen test.
SHOT Show's Industry Day at the Range 2027, scheduled for January 18, 2027, is offering sponsorship opportunities including Media Lunch, Attendee Lunch, and Official Event App sponsorships. The event brings together over 2,300 vetted attendees for live-fire demonstrations and networking, with the National Shooting Sports Foundation as title sponsor through 2028.
Hunting & Fishing Night returns to Truist Park on August 29, 2026, with Realtree, Georgia Department of Natural Resources, and the Atlanta Braves celebrating outdoor tradition and conservation. Ticket proceeds support the Georgia Natural Resources Foundation, with interactive exhibits, live animal encounters, and limited-edition Realtree APX camo Braves jerseys for the first 15,000 fans.
Idaho Fish and Game released approximately one million kokanee fingerlings in June from its first captive broodstock program, which raises kokanee to adulthood in hatcheries to stabilize annual stocking numbers. The program, managed by State Hatchery Production Manager Beau Gunter, aims to eventually produce three million fingerlings annually and was modeled after the successful sockeye salmon hatchery program.
Beginning July 8, the Chinook salmon fishing season on the South Fork Salmon River will increase from four days per week to seven days per week to increase the likelihood of reaching the harvest share as water levels drop and temperatures rise.
Carmen, Idaho angler Akeley Fahnholz caught a new Idaho state record chiselmouth measuring 11.25 inches on the Salmon River on June 8. The native minnow species rarely exceeds 12 inches, making this catch-and-release record a significant achievement for the young angler.
Yamamoto has launched the Uni Mas, an enhanced version of its original Uni lure featuring a larger 20mm body made from durable TPE formula. The new bait is designed to trigger reaction bites and is available in 10 Yamamoto colors, with pro angler Matt Becker praising its balanced size for attracting larger fish while maintaining consistent bite rates.
Northland Tackle introduced the Scope Weight, designed for walleye anglers using forward-facing sonar. Available in four sizes and colors, the product features dual swivels and pairs with the Northland Scope Float for enhanced sonar visibility and bait control.
Buckeye has launched the Contour Jig, a versatile fishing lure available in two sizes and six colors. Featuring a streamlined profile and uniquely-balanced head design, the jig is suitable for flipping, dragging offshore ledges, and targeting fish throughout the lake. Buckeye pro Nick LeBrun endorses the product for its slender design and sharp medium gauge hook.
Big Bite Baits has launched the Gillateen, a 3.5" weedless lure featuring a soft-plastic dorsal fin and hard-thumping vibration. Pro angler Drew Gill praises its effectiveness across various water conditions. The lure will be available this Fall in four colors.
Solo Star North America launched as a Growth Agency for outdoor brands, introducing the S2 Intelligence Platform, a unified data model designed to integrate retail, DTC, and digital advertising channels. CEO Todd Fuller and Director of AI & Analytics Julian Tisdale highlight how the platform helps brands overcome data silos and achieve profitable growth.
CCW Safe celebrates one year since acquiring Armed Citizens' Legal Defense Network Inc. (ACLDN), founded by Marty and Gila Hayes. Thousands of former ACLDN members now access CCW Safe's comprehensive legal protection, 24/7 Critical Response Team support, and self-defense education resources.
ZEISS introduces the V3 riflescope line, featuring six models designed for North American hunters with 90% light transmission, compact lightweight design, and pricing from $299.99 to $949.99. Available mid-August 2026 through authorized retailers.
Safari Club International applauds Representatives Tom Tiffany and Harriet Hageman for introducing the FEES Act to reform the Equal Access to Justice Act. The legislation aims to prevent environmental organizations from exploiting EAJA to pursue repetitive litigation while forcing taxpayers to cover legal fees, with $24.8 million awarded from 2019-2024.
Pope and Young, North America's leading bowhunting conservation organization, opposes Alaska's Proposals 2 and 3, which would legalize electronic scopes and high-tech optics in archery-only hunts. Executive Director Justin Spring warns that introducing technology increases harvest rates and threatens declining hunting opportunities. The organization urges bowhunters to submit comments opposing these proposals.
Kent Cartridge is reintroducing Fasteel® Classic Limited Edition for 2026, a waterfowl ammunition load featuring the original gray hull and high-brass head. Loaded with 1 9/16 oz #1 steel shot at 1300 FPS, this limited offering delivers the pattern consistency and performance waterfowl hunters have relied on for years.
XTech Tactical announced the X-Flare 556 and X-Flare Digital enhanced flared AR magwells designed for Mil-Spec AR-15/M4 receivers. Both models feature a 1.75x larger funnel opening for faster reloads, injection-molded nylon construction, and are priced at $39.95, available now at xtechtactical.com.
1791 Industries has released LiteRaider ultralight AR-15 receivers made from Metal Matrix Composite material that is 33% lighter than aluminum. The LRM4 stripped lower receiver weighs 6.2 ounces and the upper weighs 4.8 ounces, offering superior strength and durability comparable to 7075-T6 aluminum while maintaining Mil-Spec standards.
SPYPOINT announced the availability of the FLEX-M2 cellular trail camera and FORCE-4K non-cellular trail camera. The FLEX-M2 features 32MP photos, 1080p video, and up to 12 months battery life, while the FORCE-4K offers 48MP photos, 4K video, and a 66-degree field of view for hunters seeking premium performance.
Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc. launches the America 250 Limited Edition Model 1854 rifle to commemorate the United States' 250th anniversary. Available in .44 Magnum or .45-70 Government, both models feature detailed engravings, walnut stocks, stainless-steel Armornite-finished barrels, XS Sights ghost ring rear sights, and modern flat-face triggers.
Speer Ammunition launched its Gold Dot Deals rebate program on July 1, offering consumers 20 percent rebates on qualifying self-defense handgun ammunition purchases through August 31, 2026. The promotion includes Gold Dot Personal Protection, Gold Dot G2, and other variants, with a maximum rebate of $200 per household.
Kent Cartridge launches the Steel Some Savings rebate promotion running July 15 through December 31, 2026, offering hunters rebates on Fasteel+, Fasteel 2.0, All Purpose Steel, TealSteel, and Fasteel Classic shotshells, with maximum rebates reaching $100 for premium products.
Hook & Barrel Magazine and Guns.com have partnered to provide firearm buyers with exclusive post-purchase subscription access to premium outdoor lifestyle content, including firearm reviews, hunting and fishing adventures, and celebrity interviews.
Evan Wahmhoff received Georgia Southern University's fourth annual Yamaha Rightwaters Conservation Scholarship, a $5,000 award supporting his master's degree research on crayfish diversity in Georgia's Altamaha River Basin. The scholarship, endowed by Yamaha Rightwaters, recognizes outstanding commitment to coastal sustainability and freshwater ecosystem conservation.
The Outdoor Stewards of Conservation Foundation (OSCF) announced that Executive Director Jim Curcuruto and Board Vice-Chair Tim Brandt will attend the International Convention of Allied Sportfishing Trades (ICAST) Show in Orlando, July 14-17, 2026. They will discuss market conditions and OSCF's research on growing fishing participation, including a partnership with Fishbrain to study fly fishing, surf fishing, ice fishing, and charter boat fishing segments.
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is accepting applications for the Region 1 Citizen Advisory Collective in northwestern Montana. The CAC meets several times yearly to advise FWP on resource management and serve as ambassadors to local communities. The application deadline is August 14 at 5 p.m.
Shooting USA features the National Rifle Association's Competitive Shooting division hosting its first Match Director Summit to prepare future match directors for America's Rifle Challenge events. The episode also covers a Tennessee 4H shotgun jamboree with nearly two hundred kids and includes a new Colt ProTip segment with Wyatt Gibson.
The Abu Garcia Revo VoltIQ is a digital baitcaster than never needs batteries.
The 2026 ICAST show seems more about refinement than revolution. Manufacturers focused on lighter reels, more specialized lures, technique-specific rods and tools designed to make fishing more efficient.
Among hundreds of new products introduced in Orlando, here are some likely to interest serious anglers.
Abu Garcia Revo VoltiQ
Abu Garcia’s Revo VoltiQ adds digital cast control to a low-profile baitcasting reel, using electronic braking to help anglers adjust casting performance for different lure weights and conditions.
The system offers multiple brake settings designed to reduce backlash and improve control in situations such as casting into wind, skipping baits or working with lighter presentations. Unlike some electronic systems, VoltiQ does not require charging or replaceable batteries. Price is $199.95 to $249.95.
AFTCO’s Hydronaut insulated rain system combines waterproof protection with insulation for anglers fishing in colder conditions.
The premium jacket and bib system uses technical materials and reinforced construction aimed at fishermen who spend long days exposed to wind, rain and spray.
Berkley’s PowerBait Chop Block is a compact soft plastic designed for flipping, pitching and Texas-rig presentations.
The bait combines a bulky profile with adequate casting weight, giving anglers another option for fishing heavy cover without moving to a larger creature bait. Like many current soft plastics, its appeal is versatility — allowing anglers to adapt presentations without changing lures.
BUBBA SCORETRACKER LIVE combines connected fish scales with tournament scoring software, allowing anglers to weigh, record and release fish while updating standings in real time.
Developed with Major League Fishing, the system moves tournament fishing closer to catch-photo-release formats by reducing the need for traditional weigh-ins and extended fish handling.
If adopted more broadly, the technology could have applications from professional events to local bass clubs and kayak tournaments.
Daiwa’s Tatula MQ spinning reel uses the company’s Monocoque Body design, with a one-piece aluminum frame that allows a larger drive gear while keeping the reel compact.
The approach follows a continuing trend toward stronger internal components without increasing overall weight—the 2500 weighs just 6.7 ounces.
Shimano’s Insurgence series is built around technique-specific inshore fishing applications, with casting and spinning models designed for species including redfish, snook and tarpon.
The rods incorporate Shimano technologies such as Hi-Power X blanks and Carbon Monocoque grips, with an emphasis on balancing sensitivity and strength for anglers using artificial lures in saltwater environments.
The Rapala Stryda 180 has a variable weight system and swiveling hooks to improve landing percentages.
Built with swiveling hook hangers and premium VMC® RedLine Series™ Round Bend Hooks, the Rapala Stryda 180 helps reduce leverage during the fight to improve hook retention and landing percentages. A premium soft tail, detailed paint finishes and an enhanced gill-flash joint accent add lifelike action and realism that trigger more strikes.
Rapala’s soft bait brand rolls out a weighted urchin, the CEO, and the Avatar Shad, a segmented swim bait, among other offerings. They also have larger sizes of the Freeloader--the original Freeloader has been a favorite with FFS anglers in the past year.
Great Lakes Finesse’s Skirted Ned Head adds a skirted profile to the compact Ned-rig style presentation.
The design gives anglers another option for pressured bass that respond better to smaller, slower-moving offerings. It fits the continuing move toward finesse techniques built around subtle action.
The Old Town 120 Pro comes with integrated wiring for trolling motor and sonar and is an ideal platform for serious kayak anglers.
Old Town’s Sportsman 120 PRO includes accessory tracks, integrated cable routing, universal transducer mounting and trolling motor compatibility both fore and aft.
The 12-foot kayak is designed around customization, allowing anglers to adapt the platform as their preferred electronics and accessories change.
Z-Man’s EVO Swim Jig features a redesigned head, horizontal line tie and updated weedguard. The company also announced a heavy duty Chatterbait, the Elite Evo HD, which has a heavier hook, welded ring eye and wire wrapped skirt. For anglers who like to bang this productive lure into cover, it should be worth the investment.
