Each year, the AFTA Tackle Show brings together Australia’s leading fishing brands, tackle experts and independent retailers to showcase the best new gear hitting the market.
Tackle World stores from across the country fly in to see what’s new, test the latest innovations and meet face-to-face with the brands behind the products we stock. But when it comes to the Best in Show Awards, it’s the public vote that matters most.
From cutting-edge reels to next-gen electronics, these are the products Aussie fishos have rated as the most impressive for 2025 and you’ll find many of them on shelves at your local Tackle World store.
Best Reel
Daiwa 25 Saltiga (G) 14000XH
Built for bluewater performance, the Daiwa 25 Saltiga 14000XH delivers strength, speed and durability. With a monocoque body, oversized drive gear and 6.2:1 ratio, it’s perfect for chasing GTs, tuna and kingfish. Designed for maximum drag and smooth retrieves, this reel gives you confidence in serious offshore battles.
Best Fishing Rod
Daiwa 26 Infeet IL LTD
The Infeet IL LTD is a finesse weapon for targeting estuary species like bream, whiting and flathead. Built on a SVF Nanoplus blank with Fuji Titanium SiC guides and a carbon Air Sensor reel seat, it offers ultra-light sensitivity and crisp recovery. Perfect for technical fishing in pressured waters.
Best Game Fishing Rod
Wilson Live Fibre Relax Game
The Wilson Live Fibre Relax Game rod is built to handle serious offshore pressure. With a strong backbone and smooth taper, it’s ideal for trolling marlin, tuna, wahoo and more. Trusted by big game anglers across the country, it’s a staple for those who chase the ocean’s toughest fish.
Best Combo
Abu Garcia Black Max 561M 4-8KG LP Combo
The Abu Garcia Black Max combo is a reliable choice for fishos chasing barra, flathead, snapper and more. Featuring a lightweight graphite frame and a 4-8kg rod, it delivers smooth casting and all-day comfort. A solid option for weekend fishos or those starting to step up their gear.
Best Hard Lure
Duo Realis Jerkbait 100DR Barra Tune
Designed for Australian waters, the Realis Jerkbait 100DR Barra Tune dives deep and swims with a strong rolling action. Tuned for barra, jacks and impoundment cod, it casts long and stays in the strike zone longer. A must-have hardbody for northern waters.
Best Soft Lure
Nomad Live Ops Switcher Shrimp 3.5"
The Switcher Shrimp mimics a real prawn with lifelike movement, segmented legs and a scent chamber that invites more bites. Perfect for bream, flathead and estuary predators, this soft plastic stands out in clear or pressured water. Built to be tough, yet natural.
Best Game Fishing Lure
Catch Fishing Squidwings
The Squidwings combines flash, vibration and winged stability to troll cleanly at high speed. A favourite for mahi mahi, tuna and wahoo, this lure has a proven track record in offshore spreads. Built for strength and performance in bluewater conditions.
Best Line
Tasline Elite X4 Solid 6LB
Tasline Elite X4 is a 4-strand braid made from pure PE with no coatings or additives. Designed for finesse lure fishing, it offers smooth casting, high tensile strength and great abrasion resistance. Ideal for bream and bass around structure where precision is key.
Best Terminal Tackle
Daiwa Bait Junkie Covert Jighead
These jigheads feature a heavy-wire hook and low-profile keeper that hold plastics securely without affecting swim. Built to match the Bait Junkie range, they excel in deep water or snaggy environments where strength and presentation both matter.
Best Sunglasses
Spotters Striker
Spotters Striker sunglasses are made for Aussie glare. With polarised glass lenses, they cut through reflection and improve contrast on the water. Lightweight and built to last, they’re trusted by fishos who spend serious time under the sun.
Best Fishing Accessory
Nomad Hydra-X 8” Split Ring Pliers
The Hydra-X pliers are made from corrosion-resistant stainless steel and feature strong jaws for handling heavy-duty split rings. Ideal for lure changes on the boat or rigging at camp, these pliers are tough, functional and made for the job.
Best Marine Electronics
Watersnake Geo Spot Kayak 40LB/36"
This compact motor is made for kayak anglers who want precise positioning and hands-free control. With spot lock, wireless control and GPS functionality, the Geo Spot Kayak motor makes it easier to stay on fish and fish smarter in any conditions.
Best Clothing Accessory
Chasebaits Waterproof Jacket
Chasebaits’ first entry into technical outerwear is designed to keep fishos dry and mobile. While full specs are still under wraps, this waterproof jacket promises breathability, durability and a clean design fit for all-day fishing in unpredictable weather.
Best Tackle Management
Wilson Fishing Venom Backpack
The Venom Backpack from Wilson Fishing delivers smart storage in a rugged, fisho-friendly design. Made to handle long sessions on foot, this backpack balances comfort with functionality, offering multiple tackle trays, gear compartments and water-resistant materials. Whether you're hiking into remote estuaries or loading up for a land-based session, it's built to keep your gear organised and close at hand.
Fisho-Voted Favourites Now Available
Every product on this list earned its title through real votes from Australian anglers. Whether you're chasing barra up north or snapper down south, this is the gear fishos trust. Visit your local Tackle World store or browse online to shop the best in show for 2025.
