Could a cast net design be better? The answer is yes and Betts Cast nets have done it with their new Series the Morada. Ok you ask how is this cast net different??? Designed by the Florida Keys legend “Frank the net”, when you’re casting a Morada you’re casting a legendary cast net design. Designed and constructed to create a bond between the fishermen and there net.
Here is a few of the features that make this net better and when I say better I mean like much easier to cast larger net sizes; like eight, ten and twelve foot size nets. The Morada series was designed for easier casting of larger nets and still with a super fast sink rate.
Morada Features:
-Six panel “Frank the Net” Design; the panels are cut exact size in length and width based on the legendary custom design of Frank the net with an extra 6” of netting sewn in to allow Morada nets to achieve more spread. When compared to other nets Morada achieves an extra 8” to 12” of spread per-cast.
-Lead weights; 1.60 pounds per foot of lead. Small marble weights tied at exact measurements ensure the net opens and closes uniformly, no lost bait. Long weights tied on large mesh nets (5/8’ & 1”) ensure no tangles with a super fast sink rate.
-Netting; Morada netting combines strength and softness to find the perfect balance. Morada’s are constructed out of a premium high grade monofilament. Soft netting fits easily in ones hand when net is fully loaded, but still strong enough to pull in large bait loads.
-Lead Line; tightly woven with color that blends in with the water. Knotted together and crimped to make sure the lead line holds together. The lead line is tied with a secondary lead line interwoven for added strength and minimal wear at stress points.
-Horn & swivel; the horn made to correct size to prevent losing bait, but large enough for easy movement of the bridle lines for ultimate spread. A very strong saltwater rated bronzed swivel to pull in full net loads of bait.
-Bridle lines & Morada tubing bridle divider; bridle lines made with premium mono tied every 25 inches for balanced performance when the net is closed. This helps minimizes bait loss when closing the net. Unique to Morada bridles are divided with tubing for easy separation and less tangles.
-Hand Line “pull line”; thirty-five feet (35’) of water colored blended super strong yet soft hand line included with all sizes of Morada cast nets.
I have a ten foot 1/2” mesh Morada net on my boat everyday and let me tell you this net really is easier to cast. I use to throw eight foot net for bigger baits but now the ten foot throws as easy as my older eight foot that is not a Morada cast net. I’ve saved the best for last…..how about a Limited Lifetime Warranty on a cast net?!?! If the net is ever damaged (even it’s your fault) Betts will replace the Morada net for 50% of the MSRP. All info on the warranty is included with every net purchased. That’s a pretty good cast net warranty I’d have to say. We all know what can and will happen to a cast net!
Check out this link for all info and sizes that the Morada comes in: http://www.bettstackle.net/pdf/Morada%20Flyer%202018%20Small.pdf
Thanks for reading,
Capt. Jot Owens
www.captainjot.com
Posted in Product Reviews on November 9th, 2018
The new Plano Z-Series Tackle bag system, finally a tackle bag that fits my fast paced days on the water; when the bite is on, you must be ready! Designed to give unobstructed, worry-free access to your gear, zipperless Z-Series bags eliminate frustrating failures that are common in many traditional zipper bags. These technically superior bags incorporate a durable, water-resistant coating and fast-entry, splash-resistant openings – so you can grab what you need without ever missing a bite.
The Plano Z-series comes in four different styles of tackle bags. A 3600 size, 3700 size, a tackle backpack and a lure wrap style.
The Z-series 3600 Tackle bag comes with five 3600 Series Stowaway Utility Boxes and the 3700 Tackle bag comes with five 3700 Series Stowaway Utility Boxes. Both bags are equipped with these features.
- Zipperless design
- High-Performance TPE-coated waterproof fabric
- Gusseted top closes neatly and securely with buckles
- Two side pockets with secure closures
- Front and back mesh slip pockets with hook-and-loop closures
- Plano-exclusive Utili-Tackle Rail System & molded waterproof base
I use one 3600 and one 3700 Z-series for my guiding service. I use the 3600 size for my terminal tackle; hooks, weights, leader material, wire and other miscellaneous rigging gear. I have my 3700 size loaded with all of my lures; jigs, soft plastics, hard lures, jig heads spoons etc. Since I’m an inshore and near shore guide I use a lot of different fishing tackle each day. This is the reason I really like that the 3700 z-series has five 3700 size Stowaway boxes. Plenty of room for all kinds of lures for all fishing scenarios and seasons I fish.
I really like the Utili-Tackle Rail System with a molded waterproof base. Raining, sea spray or wet deck no problem; a fully water proof and slide resistant base. When you’re running to your favorite fishing spot or running and gunning to busting fish; no sliding tackle bags! I think the Kayak angler will enjoy the features of the Z-series as well as the boat angler.
The Z-series Tackle Backpack has Four 3700 Series Stowaway utility boxes and these features.
- Zipperless design
- High-performance TPE-coated waterproof fabric
- Comfortable adjustable shoulder straps feature one mesh slip pocket and one tool holder
- Cinch-cord top provides complete closure of main compartment, further secured by buckles and hook-and-loop closure
- Wrap-style front pocket secured by buckles and hook-and-loop provides quick, see-through access to contents
- Two exterior side pockets secure with buckles
- One additional tool holder and one additional pocket beneath front flap
The Z-series Lure Wrap is equipped with features.
- Zipperless design
- High-performance TPE-coated waterproof fabric
- Efficient pack-and-roll design
- Six 6″ x 14.75″ clear compartments for quick identification of contents
- HDPE D-rings for hanging
- Sturdy carry handle
All of the Z-series Tackle Bags & wrap come in a great looking stylish and modern Kryptek Raid pattern. The colors in this pattern look gray and black with a nice bright blue line on all the edges and closers.
Check out the Z-series and all of Plano’s tackle systems at http://www.planomolding.com/
If your local tackle shop doesn’t have the Z-series, tell you want one!
If you have any questions please let me know and thanks for reading.
Capt. Jot Owens
Posted in Product Reviews on August 13th, 2018
PENN has been around a long time, since 1932 to be exact. In 1963 PENN came out with its first generation of spinning reels the Greenie series, then PENN added the 2nd generation the Z series of reels. A little later, the 3rd generation, SS series, came along and it was not too long after that PENN introduced the 4th generation: SSm & SSg series, then the 5th generation (V). I can tell you I have fished with three of the five series ever made and that they were some great spinning reels. My father and I still have and use some of them today.
So after fifty plus years of great spinning reels PENN is going to blow your mind again! Yes, you guessed it, the Spinfisher VI series of spinning reels! I know; why fix something that’s not broken, it is more like taking what is good and making it great! PENN has really put together one versatile line of spinning reels with the new Spinfisher VI series; lighter and tougher! From the Speckled Trout catching SSVI 2500 size to the SSVI5500 Cobia catching size, to the 7500 Long cast Big Drum surf fishing, to the White Marlin kicking SSV10500, yes that’s right a 10500 size reel with a max drag of fifty (50) pounds! SSVI 2500 to the big Dog SSVI 10500 and every size in between….
You asked what makes this line different from the older Spinfisher series? A lighter design, a lighter weight reel makes those longer days on the water more comfortable. Bigger max drag sittings, bigger fish; smaller reels and not to mention in a lighter reel too. And all reel sizes are IPX5 rated sealed.
Here are some of the other great key features of the new Spinfisher VI series:
• Full metal body
• Sealed HT-100 Carbon fiber drag washers
• Superline Spool-No backing needed because of the rubber gasket keeps superline (braid) from slipping
• IPX5 Sealed body and Spool
• Six (6) Shielded stainless steel bearing system
• Line Capacity Rings
• Bail-Less in sizes 4500 and 6500
• Long Cast in sizes 5500, 6500 and 7500.
• Live Liner Feature available on sizes 2500, 4500, 6500 and 8500.
For all sizes and stats: http://www.pennfishing.com/penn-reels-spinning-reels
The PENN Spinfisher VI features IPX5 sealing so whether it gets hit with a wave, or you let it ride in the spray all the way home, you don’t have to worry about saltwater getting in to the gearbox or drag system. The HT-100 drag washers are housed in a fully sealed spool to give the stopping power needed for big saltwater fish. A Full Metal Body and side plate keep the CNC system in precise alignment under heavy loads.
I was honored to be on the test team for these new Spinfisher VI reels and I can truthfully tell you I was impressed with these reels right out of the box. They have a very clean, powerful and traditional, yet a newer PENN look/design to them. The reels are smooth while turning the handle, but still have the power to crank in big fish! I caught loads of keeper Speckled trout on the SSVI 2500, large Flounder and Striped Bass on the SSVI 3500 size. The drag system is super smooth even on the highest drag settings. I put some very high drag pressure on the larger Redfish (Bulls) I caught with the SSVI 4500, Cobia and sharks on the SSVI 6500LL; with that said the drag kept its setting through the length of the fight and stayed smooth
If you enjoyed the Spinfisher series of the past or you’re ready to purchase a reel that will last a long time; take a good look at the new Spinfisher VI series. I believe that this reel is going to turn quite a few heads in the fishing world and you’ll be happy you have them in your arsenal of fishing tackle. I’m personally happy about the 2500 size; now there is a size reel for any Saltwater fishing situation!
Check out PENN’s full line of great Rods, Reels and Accessories at www.PENNreels.com
Thanks for reading and if you have any questions about any PENN products just let me know.
Capt. Jot Owens
http://www.captainjot.com
captainjot@captainjot.com
PENN Let the Battle Begin!
Posted in Product Reviews on July 20th, 2018
PENN Fishing Tackle has brought another great spinning reel to the fishing market; it is the new PENN Conflict II spinning reel series. If you love your original Conflict spinning reels you’re really going to love the Conflict II. PENN has been working hard to come out with LIGHT yet strong spinning reel and they have done just that with the Conflict II series! Here are some of the features that make the PENN Conflict II stand alone as a great light spinning reel.
The Conflict II is a great looking, light and durable design with a super smooth yet strong drag. These are a few of the reasons so many anglers will love to fish this reel! And now with CNC gear technology smooth and light is the name of the game for the Conflict II series.
Key Features of the PENN Conflict II Spinning Reel:
• Superline Spool™ – No backing needed because of the rubber gasket keeps superline (braid) from slipping
• Machined and anodized aluminum spool
• HT-100™ Carbon Fiber drag washers provide smooth drag under heavy loads
• Line Capacity Rings
• 7 stainless steel ball bearings
• Infinite anti-reverse
• Rigid Resin RR30 Body & Rotor
• Machined anodized aluminum/Carbon handle with foam knob.
• Heavy-duty Aluminum bail wire.
• CNC Gear Technology
By keying the proprietary HT-100 Versa-drag washers into the spool PENN was able to use both sides of each drag washer giving the Conflict II higher max drags, more range and smoother start ups than the competition. PENN’s HT-100 washers are greased with our proprietary PENN grease for longevity.
Cap and Stats:
CFTII1000: Mono cap yds/lb: 275/2 135/4 105/6 Braid cap: 160/6 130/8 110/10 Bearings: 7 Max drag: 9 lbs Ratio: 5.2:1 Weight: 6.3oz
CFTII2000: Mono cap yds/lb: 240/4 180/6 125/8 Braid cap: 230/8 180/10 165/15 Bearings: 7 Max drag: 10 lbs Ratio: 6.2:1 Weight: 7.4oz
CFTII2500 Mono cap yds/lb: 255/6 175/8 140/10 Braid cap: 240/10 220/15 160/20 Bearings: 7 Max drag: 12 lbs Ratio: 6.2:1 Weight: 7.9oz
CFTII3000 Mono cap yds/lb: 200/8 165/10 120/12 Braid cap: 250/15 180/20 130/30 Bearings: 7 Max drag: 15 lbs Ratio: 6.2:1 Weight: 9.1oz
CFTII4000 Mono cap yds/lb: 270/8 220/10 165/12 Braid cap: 360/15 260/20 185/30 Bearings: 7 Max drag: 15 lbs Ratio: 6.2:1 Weight: 9.5oz
CFTII5000 Mono cap yds/lb: 225/12 200/15 135/20 Braid cap: 420/20 300/30 240/40 Bearings: 7 Max drag: 25 lbs Ratio: 5.6:1 Weight: 14.5oz
I was one of the field testers for the new PENN Conflict II during the design stage and here are the features that I enjoyed while fishing this reel. The new Conflict II has a much lighter weight which you can feel when casting for hours on the water. When I was fighting hard pulling fish like Redfish and Striped Bass the drag stayed smooth and kept its setting throughout the entire fight. Meanwhile casting for hours I never had tried the hands or arms; the weight is just so light with this series of Conflict II’s. I really enjoy the feel of the foam handles and the handles didn’t flex under pressure even with the light weight aluminum/carbon design. The Conflict II has clean look to it with a black body, carbon fiber detail ring around the spool and handle.
I believe the PENN Conflict II’s are going to be one of the best spinning reels PENN has ever made and it’s the lightest they have ever made!
The Conflict II’s are arriving in stores now!
Check out all of PENN’s great fishing products at www.pennreels.com
Thanks for reading my over view, if you have any questions on the Conflict II or any PENN product let me know, I’ll be happy to answer them.
Capt. Jot Owens
www.captainjot.com
Posted in Product Reviews on September 27th, 2017
The PENN Slammer is back by popular demand, back as the Slammer III series! This Slammer III series is built for heavy-duty fishing from boat, shore, surf or kayak; however you fish hard core! Designed, tested and trusted by Charter and Fishing guides all over the world. The Slammer III reels feature the new IPX6 Sealed system which keeps water, salt and sand out of the gear box and drag system. PENN is also using the updated Slammer Drag System which now utilizes PENN’s proprietary Dura-Drag material. The same Dura-Drag material used in PENN Internationals; “Big Smooth Drag Systems”!
Here are some of the key features of the New Slammer III spinning reel series:
- Full Metal Body, side plate and rotor
- CNC Gear Technology; smooth out of the box and stays smooth under pressure.
- IPX6 Sealed body and spool design
- Sealed Slammer Drag system with Dura-Drag
- 6+1 Stainless Steel bearing system
- Super Line ready spool
- Line Capacity Rings
- Instant Anti-Reverse
- Techno-balanced body
- Slammer III comes in sizes 3500, 4500, 5500, 6500, 7500, 8500, 9500 & 10500
- Drag ranges of thirty (30) pounds 3500 size reel and Sixty (60) pounds 10500 size reel (Max drag)
You may notice the larger gold handle in the photos of the new Slammer III reels. I was on the test and design team for these reels for the last two years. Yes I was wondering the same thing out of the box; “boy that handle looks odd, how’s it going to feel and fish?” To my surprise it feels and works great. It’s easier on your hands and fingers, makes it easier to hold the rod and not have the reel walk back and forth in your hands. Also when reeling in fast or working a lure fast it’s easier to keep the speed constant with the easy control of the larger handle. All models of the Slammer III reels come with the metal gold handle knob and an EVA foam knob as well in the box. You can choose whatever you like to fish with!
As a guide on the design and test team for the Slammer III I’ve been very impressed with the lasting smoothness and strength of this series of reels. I’ve had them for just over a year & a half and they are still just as smooth as they were out of the box! On my 3500 test size I’ve cuaght hundreds of deep water Flounders of one to six pounds with countless by-catch sharks, sea bass and grunts. We also landed five Cobia over fifty pounds on the 3500 size Slammer III test reel! I’ll definitely have a set of these reels for next year’s fishing season, for sure! The Slammer III series should be in your favorite Tackle shops mid-November; Showing up Now!
f you have any questions of the PENN Slammer III series or any other PENN product please let me know or check out www.pennfishing.com
Thanks for reading and good fishing to you!
Capt. Jot Owens
Posted in Product Reviews on November 15th, 2016
