As 2024 draws to a close, Newport reflects on a year filled with innovation, adventure, and a deepened commitment to our community of kayak and small boat fishing enthusiasts. Here's a look back at some of the highlights from an incredible year in Newport's history:
1. Launch of the Award-Winning NK180PRO Electric Kayak Outboard Motor
In early 2024, we introduced the NK180PRO - a reimagined electric kayak outboard motor engineered for improved performance, silence and efficiency. This launch marked a significant milestone in our efforts to provide new and improved solutions to serious anglers, without compromising performance. The NK180PRO went on to win Best Rigging & Outfitting in Kayak Angler and Paddling Magazine's coveted industry awards.
2. NS130 Inflatable Skiff, LoPRO Lithium, NT600 Announced at ICAST
Our team formally announced an aggressive product roadmap to the industry at ICAST 2024, including three groundbreaking products:
- NS130 Inflatable Skiff - launched Fall of 2024
- LoPRO lithium battery - 12V, 24V, 36V and 48V versions
- NT600 - 6hp Electric Outboard Motor
3. Newport Signs Mike "IKE" and Vegas Iaconelli
One of most prominent figures in the history of professional bass fishing "Ike", and his son Vegas "The Hammer" Iaconelli join Newport for a 2-year partnership. This signified Newport's commitment to elevating the sport of small boat and kayak fishing.
4. Newport Partners with B.A.S.S. & Becomes Title Sponsor of the Bassmaster Kayak Series
Newport's commitment to being the leading brand in small vessel electric propulsion was catapulted forward when we locked in the title sponsorship of the most coveted tour in competitive kayak bass fishing. Keep an eye out for Newport in live BASS Elite Series coverage at well this year.
Get involved with the Bassmaster Kayak Series!
2024 Bassmaster Kayak Series Schedule:
- January 18-19 Lake Havasu Havasu City, AZ
- February 1-2 Kissimmee Chain of Lakes Kissimmee, FL
- April 26-27 Dale Hollow Lake Byrdstown, TN
- May 31- June 1 Tenkiller Lake Cookson, OK
- July 26-27 Lake Champlain Plattsburgh, NY
- Sept 27-28 Toledo Bend Reservoir Hemphill, TX
5. Educational Video Series
To support our customers, we expanded our educational video library, covering topics such as:
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Product Quick Start videos: Step-by-step instructions to get your Newport Vessels products up and running.
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Peak Performance videos: Advice on keeping your equipment in top condition.
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Freedom on the Water: Sharing experiences from fellow boaters to inspire your next trip.
6. Commitment to Sustainability
Throughout 2024, we reinforced our dedication to environmental responsibility through our conservation partners:
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CCA: In partnerships with CCA California and CCA Louisiana we pushed our conservation agenda forward by supporting events and chapters that help preserve our fisheries and waterways for years to come.
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Bonefish and Tarpon Trust: Continued partnership with one of the key organizations in preserving fish stocks and healthy waterways in Florida.
7. Expansion of Newport Accessories Line
We are committed to providing the full-solution. This is just part of it! Stay tuned for more premium accessories from Newport that truly enhance your experience on the water.
As we look ahead to 2025, we remain committed to enhancing your fishing and boating experience through quality products, informative content, and a supportive community. Thank you for being a part of Newport's mark on the industry. Here's to more adventures on the water in the coming year!
2 comments
When will the NT600 announced at Icast be available to purchase?
I believe I received one of the very first NK180 motors shipped by Newport in 2024 and, after putting over 500 hours on the motor this past past summer, I am very satisfied with its performance, overall. However, I continue to have a “ratcheting” type noise at lower speeds and I wish the throttle was easier to adjust incrementally.