Ugly Never Looked so Good, Preview the New GX2
 

Introduction: The Shakespeare Ugly Stik is probably the most recognized fishing rod series of all time and is known by anglers as a highly durable, powerful and yet surprisingly affordable fishing "stik." Since the Shakespeare Ugly Stik was first introduced in 1976 the rod has barely changed, until now. 37 years later Shakespeare will be introducing the new Ugly Stik GX2 at ICAST. The GX2 Series will replace the original and pays homage to the legendary toughness and durability of the original series while infusing the rod line with advanced new technology to improve sensitivity and refinement. 

Meet the new Ugly Stik, the GX2

The New Ugly Stik GX2: The first thing anglers will notice about the new Ugly Stik GX2 are the greatly improved cosmetics. The GX2 features 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 and a branded buttcap.

The new rods feature a blank through reel seat design

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 than the original. The hardware has also been updated and the new rods feature enhanced guides. These one-piece "Ugly Tuff" guides are constructed out of stamped stainless steel to provide maximum durability and no insert pop-outs.

Each rod is finished with EVA grips and a branded butt cap

While the new rods are designed to be lighter and more sensitive durability was not sacrificed and the rod still features the iconic Ugly Stik "Clear Tip" which is designed to deliver extra strength right where you need it. Cosmetically the Ugly Stik GX2 balances a modern look with the classic diamond wind above the grip that many consumers will recognize from the original.

*Denotes Pistol Grip

Part of why the original Ugly Stik was so popular was the wide arrange of offerings that Shakespeare provided to anglers. The Ugly GX2 delivers a robust lineup that includes: 15 casting models, 20 spinning rods and three pack rod options. Best of all these rods continue to be extremely affordable with the exceptional MSRP of only $39.95. The company is also offering six ladies rod models (2 casting and 4 spinning) also with an MSRP of $39.95.