Simms proves, yet again, to be one of the top innovators in the industry by taking home a pile of awards at the International Fly Tackle Dealer trade show in Salt Lake City, including Best of Show.
The IFTD Show was notably smaller this year, but that didn’t stop industry leaders from showing up and showing off some exciting new fly fishing gear for 2022. Simms was undoubtedly the big winner of the week, taking home the top honor for its G3 Waders, along with eight other category wins.
Sage Fly Fishing had a great showing as well, seeing three of its fly rods make the list of top products for the year. There have been some serious innovations in fly fishing and rod construction, and Sage was eager to show off what they’ve been working on.
So, let’s start at the top and work our way through some of the best new fly fishing gear from IFTD 2022.
Best of Show: Simms Fishing Products – G3 Guide Stocking Foot Waders
The Simms G3 Guide Stocking Foot Waders ($599) have made quite the impression in the fishing world.
Winning Best of Show, Best Women’s Waders, and Best Men’s Waders at the 2022 IFTD show, it’s safe to say they’ve secured their standing as one of the best industry-wide. Combining superior fit, breathability, and durability, these waders are a workhorse.
Simms brought more than waders to Salt Lake City and also took home awards for:
Best Freshwater Fly Rod: R.L. Winston Rod Co. – Air 2 9’ 5 Weight
Best Accessory Under $50: Oros Strike Indicator
Best Spey Rod: Sage – Trout Spey G5
Sage also took home awards for two other fly rods this year:
- Saltwater Fly Rod: R8 Core (which we’re very excited about)
- Specialty Fly Rod: SENSE
Best Luggage Bags/Backpacks: Sea Run Cases – Expedition Classic Travel Case
Best Gifts: Cody’s Fish – Wall Art & Ornaments
Cody’s Fish swept the gift category. The company’s Fish Ornament took home Best Gift Under $50, while the Brown Trout License Plate Art secured Best Gift Over $50. At first glance, it may seem like your ordinary, everyday license plate art, but these are a step above.
Cody travels to each destination to collect vintage plates, many of which adhere to a specific standard, such as only being stamped Prison Made. Cody’s Fish offers a variety of species of fish and wild game, as well as apparel and even rod racks. These things are cool and definitely got our vote for the best gift of the show.
Best Chest Pack/Vest: Simms Fishing Products – Dry Creek Z Sling Pack
The Dry Creek Z Sling Pack ($229) fits that awesome space between wanting to pack it all and wanting to be minimalist. Not quite a full-on backpack and more than a chest pack, it carries everything you need, easily accessible, but out of the way.
It’s lightweight, fully submersible, has an easy in-out net sleeve, and has plenty of attachment points for all your accessories. Though I personally tend to default to a lumbar pack or chest pack, the appeal of a lightweight sling with room for snacks is definitely there.
Best Youth Product: Orvis – Encounter Outfit
The Encounter Outfit ($159) from Orvis nabbed the Best Youth Product award for 2022, but honestly, it’s a great starter package for anyone just getting their feet wet, children and adults alike.
With the complete setup being under $200, it’s a budget-friendly way to dive into fly fishing without sacrificing function. Plus, when your 9-year-old inevitably snaps the tip off, the learning lesson for them won’t be quite so devastating as it would be to let them use one of your own.
IFTD Awards 2022 Wrap Up
With the lack of social gatherings and the move back toward in-person events, it was no surprise that this show was smaller.
There were some notable absences from companies that have been regular award-winners in the past. Several of the companies in attendance just haven’t come out with new gear for a while. Supply chain issues might also have something to do with this.
That all being said, the show had a uniquely intimate feel. It really gave those in attendance the time to dive deeper into the new product specs. We seemed to be able to have more thorough conversations about where the industry is heading.
All in all, this year’s show was a good one. It inserted that thirst for water back into us after what felt like a long winter.
Other Awards Winners
With 33 categories, we couldn’t include them all, but here are a few more of our favorites:
Credit: Source link
