The downrigging phenomenon continues to gain momentum as more and more anglers realise the potential of downrigging to get baits and lures down deep to increase their catch.

Among the many new products from Scotty are these 6 and 12" Downrigger Pedestal Risers. These risers are designed for the bigger manual and electric downriggers and are used to give more clearance by lifting them above the level of the boat rails.

Constructed from fibre-reinforced nylon and 50 mm stainless steel tubing, these Risers are designed for use with all Scotty Downrigger mounts. With many bigger boats now using Scotty downriggers, these are an important addition to the range.

Enquiries: Basser Millyard (02) 9695 7799. www.bassermillyard.com.au

DAIWA CAPRICORN 4500J

Building on its reputation as one of the most popular spinning reels in Australia, Daiwa's new beefed-up Capricorn 4500J is the perfect choice for light tackle sports anglers.

Featuring many of its smaller cousins' specifications, the 4500J features 6 bearings, including three CRBB bearings (corrosion-resistant ball bearings), bail safe locking system, ABS titanium coated spool (plus a spare spool,) with multi-disc waterproof wet drag system, infinite anti-reverse and Daiwa's famous Hard Bodyz construction.

The waterproof wet drag system delivers smooth and powerful drag pressure (maximum 9 kg), while the newly designed machined handle and power knob is comfortable and powerful for extra cranking power. Line capacity is 300 m of 15 kg braid or 220 m of 20 kg braid.

All in all, it's an excellent investment for light tackle sports fishing - from bottom bouncing offshore reefs for snapper to tackling kingfish off the beacons.

Enquiries: Daiwa Australia (02) 9453 5866. www.daiwafishing.com.au

DAIWA COASTAL TOURNAMENT INSHORE SERIES

Daiwa has developed a range of inshore light tackle sportfishing rods with tapers designed to optimise casting performance, yet be strong enough to remain excellent fish-fighting tools.

The powerful yet ultra sensitive IM6 graphite blank provides structural strength with plenty of bottom end power, while the non-glare finish eliminates flash to avoid spooking sensitive fish such as golden trevally mooching across sand flats.

The blank actions aid in casting performance, which are also complemented by lightweight super smooth Fuji aluminium oxide guides. Line flow is unimpeded by oversized stripper guides, and tip guides suitable for bulky leader knots.

The Coastal Inshore Series rods also feature triple A grade cork handles, Fuji stainless hooded graphite reel seats on spin versions, and exposed blank Fuji reel seats on the overhead models, allowing fingers to keep direct contact to the blank.

There are six models in the range - T-701 MLFS (medium/light, 2.1 m, 4-7 kg); T-701 MFS (medium, 2.1 m, 4.5-8 kg); T-701HFS (heavy, 2.1 m, 4.5-9 kg); T-761 MRS (medium, 2.3 m, 4.5-8 kg); T-661 MFB (medium, 2 m, 4.5-8 kg); and the T-701 HRB (heavy, 2.1 m, 4.5-9 kg) - all suited for use with different lure styles and weights.

Enquiries: Daiwa Australia (02) 9453 5866. www.daiwafishing.com.au

DAIWA SALTIST

Jigging for big fish demands strong tackle and the new Saltist range of jigging overheads will out-muscle even the largest of bottom dwellers.

Using technology pioneered in the famous Saltiga series, the Daiwa Saltist bears a striking resemblance to its pricier cousins. The Saltist boasts full metal construction, and virtually all components are metal for maximum reliability. Like the Saltiga, the Saltist is built to handle ultra-strong braided lines, but is still suitable for traditional monofilament.

To eliminate body flex, the frame and side plates are constructed of rigid aluminium alloy. The Saltist has a 4.9:1 gear ratio and is capable of pulling in over a metre of line with every handle turn.

Four ball bearings and a roller bearing add efficiency to the drive train, with Daiwa's special CRBB anti-corrosion ball bearings supporting the super free spinning spool.

The Saltist main gears are machined from Daiwa's exclusive alloy stock. These gears have very tight tolerances for extra high strength and deliver a smooth retrieve.

The Saltist features a similar drag system as the Saltiga, with a 10 element stainless and grease impregnated fibre washer system that offers super-smooth drag pressure. The secret rests in the wet drag system, which effectively combats performance-robbing heat while maintaining maximum contact with each disc's surface.

There are Saltist models are available -30T, 40 and 50.

Enquiries: Daiwa Australia (02) 9453 5866. www.daiwafishing.com.au