July 12, 2013 by RB Bass

LAS VEGAS, NV - Kid's tackle is the most important tackle. It is the link between creating anglers for life or sitting on the couch playing video games. There was a new Ugly Stik?? Youth combo introduced at the ICAST 2013 show in Las Vegas, Nev., and industry leaders recognized it. The Shakespeare Ugly Stik GX2™ Youth combo was awarded the Best Kid's Tackle Award at the 2013 ICAST show.

The GX2™ youth combos geared towards youth eight and up are offered in a spincast and spinning combos with an MSRP of $39.95. These models have bright green accents and split handle Ugly Grips™.

The Ugly Stik GX2 is infused with enhancements that go beyond cosmetics. Featuring Ugly Tech™ Construction and a new blank through reel seat design; the Ugly Stik GX2 combines graphite and fiberglass to create a strong yet sensitive rod with better balance.

When developing the new Ugly Stik GX2, Shakespeare took angler comments very seriously. As a result of this consumer research Ugly Tuff™ Guides were created. The newly designed one-piece, stamped stainless steel guides provide maximum durability and no insert pop-outs.

"We look to the youth anglers as the next generation of anglers," said Josh Silva, Shakespeare Marketing Manager. "The GX2 youth combos were built with that in mind. We want to impact our sport as much as possible and creating a combo that feeds the passion of youth anglers is key. The entire Shakespeare team is excited to be recognized by industry leaders."

Featuring enhanced cosmetics, the Ugly Stik GX2 showcases a sleek matte black finish highlighted by red and silver accents giving the rod a more modern look. The rod also features the Ugly Stik logo etched into the EVA grip to give it a look all its own.

While there are a number of new features the Ugly Stik GX2 also gives a nod to the heritage of the original. The iconic Ugly Stik?? Clear Tip?? still delivers extra strength right where you need it and is sensitive to the lightest strike. Cosmetically the Ugly Stik GX2 balances a modern look with the classic diamond wind above the grip that many consumers loved about the original.

For more information on the Ugly Stik GX2 Youth combos or any other Ugly Stik products visit Ugly Stik Website.