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Bass fishing will always be the darling in the US, but one of Japan’s top lure brands, which entered the US market last year, is on a mission to promote a popular style from its homeland.
The company says that the Trout BFS method was established around 2015 in Japan following the release of the advanced BFS reel and has become a popular method of trout fishing in the region. Experienced trout anglers have moved from spinning reels to baitcasters, finding them more effective for catching wild trout in streams, creeks and rivers.
Luca Morretti told Angling International: “While advancements in digital technology have led to a decline in interest among anglers in competitive freshwater bass fishing, trout fishing has gained in popularity.
“The rise is attributed to the fact that it requires traditional human intuition and a unique ability to contact with the great outdoors.”
Jackson established Jackson USA in 2024 to enhance the American fishing experience. “The region has exceptional opportunities for trout fishing, but conventional techniques have remained unchanged for over 50 years. We introduced Trout BFS fishing in the US and developed specific products, including rods and lures, specific to the US market.
“While the fundamentals of Trout BFS are similar to bass fishing, it emphasises the need for precision casting using specially designed baits and tackle,” added Morretti. “A main difference for anglers is that they discover nature while hiking and wading – part of the enjoyment of fishing. Fishing without a boat or fishfinder or contour map means relying entirely on the instincts of the angler.”
Morretti believes that the US has significant potential for this new style of fishing due to its wide variety of trout species, diverse habitats and a vast population of wild trout across the country.
“Most wild trout habitats are mainly sought after by fly fishermen and the fish have yet to encounter Trout BFS lures. This means that obtaining results very quickly is possible by using the right equipment.”
Jackson USA has selected a series of products that are known for their success in Japan, including the Meteora (above) and Trout Tune (below), two of its best-selling lures alongside the Kurokawamushi, which attracted significant interest last summer.
The Trout Signal rod series is tailored for anglers of all skill levels, offering particular advantages to beginners as casting a small rod can be initially quite challenging.
Moretti added that wild trout fishing has been enjoyed by fly fishermen for over a century and urged Trout BFS anglers to follow their example of treating the environment with respect and handling fish in a proper way. Jackson USA has a special section on its website outlining the right procedures.
“Many wild trout areas in the US mandate the use of barbless hooks and all our lures designed for the species are equipped with the highest quality single barbless models.
“Jackson started as a brand for trout and surf fishing in 1980 and we are dedicated to enhancing the overall angling experience.”
