I know it's more of an outdoor & freshwater thing, but it's easy for me to go as my friend lives about half way up there. I didn't know Abu sent reps to the NJ show. He said they'll be in the Penn booth this year. I got to see the latest Winch & Beast and the Revo S. I want a back up for my NaCL as it's my favorite reel and won't be happy if something happens to it. I'll probably try to p/u another NaCL off E Bay, but I might also buy a larger baitcaster and use it once in awhile for kicks in deeper water. My Gen 3 Winch is just plain ugly from the saltwater, but still works great. Diawa doesn't make the Lexa 100 anymore, I'll see what Shimano has at Edison and decide. Sorry Lep, they didn't have any round reels, but they did have the 3 or 4 baitcasters I when there to see.
I agree the show isn't nearly as good as Edison/Somerset, but it's much better if you're looking for reels from Diawa, Shimano and now Abu. The reels at NJ are hard to handle with the counters so crowded and the rep gaulking over you. Peace Token had some interesting stuff and will be in NJ. Helen H was there, but not too many other charter boats.
One final thought. While walking past a booth in one of the hunting aisles, I picked up a jar with little dark brown pellets and said, "What the hell is this, deer shit?" My friend smacked the side of my head. I embarrassed myself and him as the young lady vender heard me. It wasn't a hunting supply booth, they were selling coffee. They were coffee beans in that jar! I forgot they exhisted, I thought everyone used K Pods today. They had their share of pickle, glue, insurance, BBQ sauce and hot sauce venders.