The latest and greatest holiday gift ideas for anglers. From fishing rods to reels, lures to line, and everything in between we present our top picks for 2020.
Rods
PENN BATTALION II SLOW PITCH
Arm-weary from high speed jigging? Slow it down a bit with center-weighted jigs deployed with the new PENN Battalion II Slow Pitch rods designed especially for the slow pitch jigging technique. Available in both conventional and spin models (product code BATSP) these rods boast a thin and lightweight blank which flex from the grip to the tip to distribute weight. The new parabolic Battalion II rods from PENN offer everything an angler is looking for in a jigging rod, from balance to recoil, and they’re ideal for slow pitch inshore/offshore jigging the wrecks and rubble or even light jigging for fluke. Retail for $149.95.
www.pennfishing.com
FENWICK HMG INSHORE
Since its unveiling earlier this year, Atlantic Coast anglers have been buying the new Fenwick HMG Inshore series rods as quickly as they can be stocked. Built on 30-Ton Graphite blanks, the rods are spiral threaded for additional strength and precise action, and also feature Fuji Guides with stainless steel deep pressed frames and alconite inserts. Cork handle fans will love the traditional feel of the HMG Inshore, while the Sea-Guide Soft Touch Alien Reel Seat with Positive Lock design provides a more secure platform for connecting your favorite reel. Available in both spin and conventional starting at just $99.95.
www.fenwickfishing.com
ZEBCO KIDS COMBOS
Lost in the COVID madness is the fact that more families found the benefits of fishing in 2020, something not lost on the folks at Zebco who have been front and center in introducing the Wilder and Roam combos to first time anglers. The blue, orange and white Wilder spincast combo ($24.99) is a great starter for young ones, while older kids will enjoy social distancing off the beaten path with their new Roam spinning combo ($39.99) available in a variety of bold colors. Reels are pre-spooled with Zebco Cajun Line and paired with durable fiberglass rods with ComfortGrip handles. Remember your first Zebco? Pay it forward!
www.zebco.com
ACCURATE VALIANT SLOW PITCH COMBO
Accurate Fishing Products has expanded their product line to include the first line of Valiant rods—the perfect combo of purpose-matched rods and reels for your next angling adventure. And with the popularity of slow pitch jigging, there is even a pair in the line-up for this deadly tactic. You can match your BV300 with a BV-68M-SP or your BV500n with a BV-68MH-SP and you know that it will balance as well as it fishes. MSRP: Rods – $279.95; BV300 – $419.95; BV500n – $599.95.
https://accuratefishing.com/
G LOOMIS IMX-PRO BLUE SERIES RODS
The series includes four spinning and six baitcasting high-performance models for inshore and light-duty offshore situations. Featuring G. Loomis’ Multi-Taper Technology, which focuses on weight, balance, sensitivity and action, the IMX-PRO Blue rods deliver exceptionally high strength-to-weight ratios with unique actions designed primarily for Northeast saltwater fisheries. From fluke to tuna, there is a rod in the lineup that will do the job. All feature full cork front and rear grips, Fuji reel seats and Fuji’s new durable Fazlite K-Frame guides designed for use with braided line and corrosion resistance. MSRP ranges from $350 to $385.
www.gloomis.com
STAR STELLAR LITE SURF RODS
The newly redesigned Stellar Lite Surf series from Star Rods is engineered to deliver exceptional casting ability and feel in an affordable package. Constructed with a high modulus, powerful graphite blank, they provide superior rebound strength, hook-setting power, and performance. All six rods in the series – measuring from 7’6” to 12’ – feature Fuji reel seats and guides, rubber shrink wrap grips and are covered by a limited lifetime warranty. Whether chasing bluefish, stripers, or weakfish, there is a Stellar Surf rod for the job. MSRP: $79.95 – $199.95.
www.starfishingtackle.com
CENTURY F=MA SHORT STICK FLY RODS
For the fly fisherman in your life, Century is now offering their new Graphene infused F=MA Short Stick” in 3 models: 7’6″ 1pc #9-11 Hybrid glass/carbon blend; 7’10” 1pc #9-11 full carbon; 7’6″ 3pc #6-8 slim diameter full carbon. These true fast action rods work well with both triangle tapers and long belly lines. The short Stick F=MA Fly Rods are capable of shooting an incredible distance. They feature Titan titanium stripping guides, REC titanium running guides, carbon double locking nut reel seats, super grade cork grip and fighting butt. MSRP of $776.
www.advancedfishing-usa.com
LAMIGLAS TRIFLEX INSHORE V2 SERIES
Lamiglas took the already spectacular Triflex series and stepped it up with the Triflex V2 series. This rod now features Fuji BCKWAG & BCKLAG Guides, CFX Carbon Fiber Composite Grips and a matte black finished blank. The end result is a beautiful grip that is lighter and more sensitive than any rubber based handle, translating to more sensitivity and better hook sets. Available in six casting and four spinning models with several different lengths, actions and power. Suggested retail of every rod in the series is $299.
www.lamiglas.com
ST. CROIX MOJO INSHORE 7’ SPINNING ROD
New for 2020 is the St. Croix Mojo Inshore series which includes a 7-foot medium /heavy moderate action model rated for 10 to 20-pound line and capable of casting ½ to 1 ounce payloads. St. Croix revamped these rods with a new attractive blank color as well as Sea Guide Hero Hi-Grade guides with slim aluminum oxide rings and SS316 stainless gun smoke frames. Suggested retail is $170.00.
www.stcroixrods.com
Reels
OKUMA CEDROS INSHORE SPINNING REEL
With the recent success of the Cedros family of spinning reels, Okuma decided to expand the line into the inshore saltwater market with the new 4000 and 6000 size Cedros Inshore Spinning Reels. With high speed retrieves, and upwards of 33 pounds of max drag, these reels are built with stopping power in mind, perfect for everything from fluke to tog to stripers and more. Priced right and backed by a 1-year limited warranty, you can’t go wrong with this reel! MSRP: $154.99 – $164.99.
www.okumafishingusa.com.
PENN BATTLE III / LIBERTY
Voted 2020’s best new saltwater reel at this year’s ICAST show, the PENN Battle III reel has been a hot seller this fall. Built for the battle with full metal body, HT-100 carbon fiber drag system, and CNC gear technology, these are strong, durable reels from PENN are available at the perfect price this season, $99.95 for 1000 series and up to $150 for the monster 10000 series. For those a little more nice than naughty, the PENN limited edition Liberty 50VISWS with patriotically themed engraving and unique American flat spool ($1,000) would look nice on the mantle in its custom box.
www.pennfishing.com
DAIWA BIG GAME MONOCOQUE (BGMQ)
Looking to expand your tuna arsenal? Daiwa recently introduced its next generation of BG spinning reels with one-piece MONOCOQUE aluminum body. They are lighter and stronger than anything you’ve cranked before when tackling big fish. By design, the reel body can house a driving wheel gear that is 85% the diameter of the body surface. Simply put, it allows the use of larger and stronger driving wheel gears at the same body size. Available in 10 size models starting at $199.95, the BGMQ20000 is a well-priced reel for tackling bluefin and yellowfin at $279.99.
www.daiwa.com
QUANTUM ACCURIST BAITCAST
Thanks to the advances in braided lines and high end manufacturing, low profile reels have burst onto the coastal market. One of the more popular saltwater options is Quantum’s Accurist Baitcast reel built with a ceramic-carbon drag system (8+1 PT speed bearings) on a sturdy one-piece aluminum frame. Equipped with a Flippin’ Switch thumb bar which bass pros use for flippin’ baits under docks, you’ll love it for seamlessly dropping back on a fluke bite. Larger star drag wheel and handles accommodate bigger hands. The Accurist is available in three colors and either 6.3:1 or 7:1 gear ratios for $99.59 with a 5-year warranty.
www.quantumfishing.com
AVET STAR DRAG
Flat out, some folks just prefer star drags over lever drags, and the Avet MXL and MXJ (narrow spool for jigging) are workhorse conventional reels for the traditionalist on your list. Designed, manufactured and assembled in the U.S., the Avetstar boasts precision machined stainless steel gears in a 5.8:1 gear ratio and a hardened stainless steel drive shaft. With a powerful multi-disc carbon fiber drag and a large ergonomic offset handle for improved leverage, the Avetstar MXL 5.8 holds 620 yards of 50-pound braid, while the narrower spool MXJ 5.8 holds 470 yards. Priced starting respectively at $299.99 and $289.99. www.avetreels.net
VAN STAAL VR 50B SPINNING REEL
The ultimate gift for the light tackle angler who spends time chasing inshore gamefish like stripers, false albacore and bluefish here in the Northeast, and bonefish, tarpon, permit and redfish during forays down south. New for 2020 is the VR 50B, the B signifying its black finish. Weighing in at just 8.9 ounces, it can easily handle any light tackle, inshore fishing situation you encounter here or wherever your fishing travel takes you. Suggested retail is $489.00.
www.vanstaal.com
TSUNAMI SALT X 4000 & 6000 SPINNING REELS
Built to withstand harsh saltwater conditions for that avid angler on your gift list, Tsunami Salt X reels are fully sealed with a forged and CNC machined A6061 aluminum body and rotor, digitally optimized stainless steel main gear, and 14 seals to prevent water intrusion. It’s available in a 4000 and 6000 size and comes in black or silver. Suggested retail is $369.99 for the 4000 and $399.99 for the 6000 size.
www.tsunamifishing.com
Apparel
HUK MAVERICK FLANNEL
There’s nothing like the feeling of flannel after a long day of fishing. The problem with fishing in that favorite flannel of course is that it gets wet, the cotton gets heavy, and you’re ultimately left feeling cold and miserable. Not so with the Huk Maverick Flannel which is made out of 100% woven polyester so it will stay soft and comfortable all day, on the boat, along the beach, or back at home by the fire. The Huk Maverick Flannel Shirt is soft and warm while boasting dual button chest pockets and an eyewear wipe. Available in sizes S-XXXL for $70.
www.hukgear.com
GRUNDÉNS DEVIATION ANKLE BOOT
The 6-inch Deviation Ankle Boot from Grundéns was designed to provide anglers with a comfortable, performance-driven footwear option that will hold up on and off the water. Built with non-marking lugged rubber outsoles with razor-cut siping to clear mud and other debris, the boots are sure to maintain much needed traction on a wet deck. Constructed with a thicker insole to promote noticeable shock resistance to stay on the deck longer when the bite is on, the anti-microbial cooling liner will ensure you leave the typical footwear stench behind. Available in two color patterns (anchor and refraction camo stone.) MSRP: $129.99
www.grundens.com
SIMMS PRO DRY JACKET & BIB
For anglers who refuse to let wet conditions ruin their day, the Pro Dry jacket and bib from Simms is their foul weather fortress. Both top and bottom are built with a brand new breathable fabric package and utilize the most performance-driven fabrics in the Gore-Tex portfolio. Featuring hand-warmer pockets, water-tight cuffs, adjustable suspenders, easy-access zippers where needed and extra layers in high-wear areas, this foul-weather set will last a lifetime and keep you comfortable in even the toughest of conditions. MSRP: Jacket – $599.95, Bib – $599.95.
www.simmsfishing.com
STORMR STRYKR JACKET
If you’re looking for a new cold-weather fishing jacket then look no further than the Stormr Strykr. Designed for withstanding the harshest weather and working environments for any professional fisherman or mariner, this jacket is equally at home in the surf as it is on a boat. These jackets contain abrasion resistant material in high use areas and the interior has been upgraded with a low pile stretch fleece that continues to provide excellent wicking properties. Available in three colors (black smoke and orange/black). MSRP: $299.95.
www.stormrusa.com
XTRATUF 6-INCH ANKLE DECK BOOT
New from XtraTuf is the commercial grade version of the already popular Ankle Deck Boot. The perfect gift for the individual who spends lots of hours on the water. These boots are 100% waterproof. The upper is reinforced in high wear areas such as the toe and heel for maximum durability. The boots features an EVA/PU blend insole for all-day comfort, and an oil resistant, SRC-rated outsole for the best traction available. Suggested retail is $120.00
www.xtratuf.com
FLIP ROCKS BOOTS
Take them ice fishing, to your favorite river, launch your boat or Kayak or wear them for wetsuiting along the Striper Coast – the possibilities are endless! Three mil waterproof neoprene wraps around your feet, keeping them warm and secured to a contoured EVA molded foot bed equipped with the Griptoenite gripping system featuring the River Master spiked gripping pad or the kayaker felt bottom. The Griptoenite gripping pads combined with ultra-comfortable super lightweight foot coverings make them the perfect for that outdoor enthusiast. Suggested retail is 109.
www.fliprocks.com
Accessories
UGLY STIK MARINE SHEARS
Ugly Tools are designed to be used in ugly situations; cutting up green crabs while at anchor in 3 to 4 footer is about as ugly as you can get! The brand new Ugly Stik Marine Shears are built tough for those winter wreck fishing adventures, with non-slip Ugly Tuff Grips and 420 Stainless Steel blades which separate for easy clean up after the togging day is done. The Ugly Stik Marine Shears feature a scaler, fin snip and scale for quick measurements and come with an air-through sheath. Retail price $24.95.
www.uglystik.com
ENGEL DRYBOX COOLERS
The Engel Drybox Cooler is perfect whether you need to keep things hot, cold, dry or all three. Totally waterproof to a depth of 3 feet, they keep liquid in, or out, depending on how they’re being used. Available in four sizes (7, 13, 19 and 30 quart), and six standard colors (white, grassland, tan, pink, blue, and silver). There are also two high-visibility colors (bright orange and bright yellow), which are great for use as a cooler/dry box on a kayak in terms of enhancing an angler’s onwater visibility. Backed by a 5-year warranty and starting at $49.99.
FRABILL FLOATING NETS
Though they resemble the nets trout anglers have relied on for generations, Frabill’s Floating Nets feature modern technology that benefits any wading, small boat or even kayak angler. Updates to hoop material, mesh, and handles improve on a time-honored design. The result is a more comfortable net for the fish and the angler which in the end puts more fish where you want them. All nets in this series feature Tangle-Free Micro-Mesh, a flat bottom to better protect the fish and include a lanyard and carabiner with a sleek gunmetal finish hoop. Retail price ranges from $24.99 – $37.99.
www.frabill.com
FUJI LKW CASTING GUIDE
The latest addition to the Fuji K series, the LKW is a physically-lighter, medium-duty double-foot guide with a tangle-free sloped frame perfect for lighter applications in salt and freshwater rod design. Tailored after Fuji’s popular LN frames, the LKW has the short footprint and light frame to make it a top choice on applications where saving weight is a concern. The guides are available in five ring sizes, three ring types and three frame colors to perfectly match your next custom build. https://anglersresource.net
PLANO EDGE FLEX SERIES
The all-new Plano EDGE Flex Series provides anglers with the best possible combination of storage and customization in a single tackle box—ever. The Flex Series is the first StowAway to allow the user to customize the internal divider system to fully meet their unique needs. Available in the popular 3600 and 3700 sizes, each one is fully customizable, allowing for literally endless options for a particular fishing application, technique, lures, species, or trip. $29.99 – $39.99.
www.plano.com
SKB UNIVERSAL TACKLE BAG
Providing effortless hands-free tackle transportation, the SKB Cases Universal Tackle Storage Bags deliver high-quality, durable storage for the angler on the move. Made using a 600-Denier padded exterior, the bags feature an adjustable padded shoulder strap and double-stitched carrying handle that makes it easy to tote. On the inside, they are built with a convenient, double-zip padded exterior accessory compartment that is large enough to hold a variety of tackle boxes and other equipment. A must have for anglers on foot, the SKB Cases Universal Tackle Storage Bags are the perfect way to keep your gear organized and within reach while fishing. MSRP: $59.99.
www.skbcases.com
SHIMANO BLUEWAVE SURF BAG
Designed by surfcasters for surfcasters, the Shimano Bluewave Surf Bag is built to handle the tough conditions surfcasting anglers endure. The Bluewave Surf Bag is built with premium fabrics and heavy-duty TPU zippers while boasting performance-driven features including vertical tubes for lure storage to prevent hook tangles and a mesh bottom to facilitate rinsing and quick drying of tackle. Available in two sizes—the medium includes three cylindrical tubes for lure storage and the large includes four—the Bluewave Surf Bag is an essential accessory for anglers to conquer the surf. MSRP: $49.99 & $69.99.
http://fish.shimano.com
DEXTER RUSSELL SOFGRIP FILLET KNIFE
The Dexter SG138 8” wide fillet knife makes filleting and skinning your fish easy. It’s ultra-sharp out of the package with a wide, stiff blade to glide over the bones. It features a SOFGRIP handle that is soft to the grip and provides great control along with slip resistance. It features high carbon, high alloy, stain free DEXSTEEL. Suggested retail is $36.60.
https://dexteroutdoors.com/
Inline Circle Hooks
LAZER SHARP INLINE STRIPED BASS RIGS
Start the New Year off as a legal eagle with Lazer Sharp’s new Striped Bass Rigs from Eagle Claw. These new rigged hooks are 100% compliant with upcoming 2021 striped bass regulations and American made to boot. The Lazer Sharp Striped Bass Inline Circle Hook Rigs offer peace of mind in complying with regulatory efforts to conserve stripers and are available in a variety of styles and hook sizes to accommodate different styles of fishing and baits. They range in price from $2.99 to $4.29. For spring worming and clamming, look for Lazer Sharp’s inline baitholders coming in early 2021.
www.eagleclaw.com
VMC B-LOK BAIT STOPPER
One problem with using circle hooks when fishing live eels or bunker (pogies) is that baits tend to ride up on the shank, causing the hook point to turn into the bait resulting in missed hook-ups. VMC has tackled that issue in time to meet the new regulatory challenges for stripers with their B-Lok Bait Stopper. Available in December, the tournament approved VMC B-LOK Bait Stopper non-offset circle hooks feature a unique, patent-bending dual fluoro bait stopper epoxied to the shank and facing down towards the gap to keep baits where they belong, while keeping the chemically sharpened hook free to do its thing.
www.rapala.com/vmc-fish-hooks
GAMAKATSU 3604XX INLINE CIRCLE HOOK
To comply with current and impending angling regulations for species like striped bass, Gamakatsu redesigned and reinforced their most popular circle hook, the 3604XX Inline 4X Strong Circle Hook. The straight eye, NS black finish and inline point complies with the new rules, but doesn’t reduce the hook’s effectiveness. This is quickly becoming the “go-to” hook for everything from eels to chunk baits and more. The 3604XX is available in sizes 1/0 through 10/0 and in both standard and bulk packs. MSRP starting at $5.44.
www.gamakatsu.com
MUSTAD DEMON WIDE GAP CIRCLE HOOKS
Circle hooks will likely be mandated in most areas by next season for bait fishing for striped bass so now is the time to gear up for these regulatory changes. Mustad’s Demon Wide Gap Inline Circle Hooks (39948NP-BN) allow for better hook sets due to the wider space between the hook’s Opti-Angle needle point and the shank. These hooks are chemically sharpened for easy penetration and solid hookups. They feature a black nickel finish and come in sizes 3/0 to 10/0 in packs ranging from 4 to 25. Price varies according to size. A 25 pack of 7/0s retails for about $16.
www.mustad-fishing.com
OWNER INLINE CIRCLE HOOKS
Circle hooks are becoming mandatory in many tournaments and for species such as striped bass. The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) recently voted to make circle hooks mandatory when bait fishing for striped bass by 2021. Owner’s series of inline circle hooks addresses all of the requirements. Their 5114T Tournament Mutu Light, 5179 SSW In-line Circle and 5174 Tournament Mutu all feature a super sharp hangnail point and a corrosion resistant black chrome finish. Available in sizes up to 9/0. Prices range from $4 to $7 for small packs.
www.ownerhooks.com
Stocking Stuffers
BERKLEY X9 BRAID
If getting thinner is one of your New Year’s resolutions, look no further than Berkley X9 braid, just about the thinnest braid on the market today. This eight-strand (with a core) braid is a difference maker in terms of strength vs. weight required for presentation. Getting thinner means less weight needed in your presentation, better sensitivity and the ability to use slightly lighter tackle. Designed for optimal strength and long, quiet casts, Berkley X9 braid is perfect for both conventional and spin applications. From 6- to 100-pound test available in dark green, flame green and crystal white. Spools start at just $17.99.
www.berkley-fishing.com
SUFIX PROMIX BRAID
The great thing about holiday gift-giving is the opportunity to try something new. This month, Sufix will introduce its new line of ProMix braid in lo-vis green that combines the benefits of premium braid with ultra-longevity, buoyancy, and colorfast technology. Built with input from professional anglers in both the saltwater and freshwater arena, Sufix ProMix braid is made from densely braided HMPE fibers, with a color injection process that provides twice the colorfast retention of other braids. Available a wide assortment of strengths, the 40-pound test Sufix ProMix has a diameter of .013 inches, the equivalent of 10-pound mono.
sufix.com
P-LINE ADARO PLIERS
P-Line Adaro Pliers should fit nicely in the saltwater angler’s stocking this season. Featuring machine cut aluminum handles for reduced weight, the Adaro Pliers also have tungsten carbide cutters built specifically for cutting braid. The jaws are made of a coated stainless steel for strength and durability and the whole package comes with Cordura pouch and heavy-duty nylon lanyard. Find the 7-1/2-inch model for around $50 at retailers or online, or for $40 try the 6-1/2-inch P-Line Adaro Junior Split Ring version to make swapping out trebles for singles a snap. From the makers of the award-winning CFX Fluorocarbon line.
www.p-line.com
MAXIMA ULTRAGREEN
Maxima Ultragreen has been the “go-to” line of serious anglers around the world for decades. Its trademark strength is a hallmark attribute. From big game to small stream trout, Maxima Ultragreen features outstanding abrasion resistance and unchallenged tensile strength that holds up to punishing runs of all sizes of fish. Maxima Ultragreen’s moss green color is nearly invisible to fish, making it an ideal leader material as well. MSRP: $4.50 – $225.
www.maximafishingline.com
POWERPRO DEPTH-HUNTER OFFSHORE BRAID
Serious offshore anglers now have the advantage of PowerPro’s new Depth-Hunter Offshore braid, where the repeating pattern of five different colors every 100 feet can help them accurately dial-in the amount of line off the reel for deep-dropping and precision trolling spread techniques. Depth-Hunter Offshore is offered in 1000-, 1500- and 3000-yards spools, each in 65-, 80- and 130-pound, with the blue, yellow, red, green and orange color repeating pattern changing every 100 feet. With its high strength-to-diameter ratio, anglers will appreciate the exceptional sensitivity for increased strike detection and hook-setting performance.
www.powerpro.com
FISHLAB FLANKER STICK BAIT
The FishLab Flanker Stick Bait is designed for high-speed presentations while chasing big game offshore and inshore. With top notch components, these baits are made to take abuse. The solid thru-wire construction is designed to hold this bait together for big, mean pelagic gamefish. Available in two sizes to match the hatch (3 1/3” – 3/4oz and 4 ½” – 1oz), the FishLab Flanker come rigged with Owner ST Treble Hooks for the ultimate in durability and strength. Cast it, let it sink and burn it back to the boat for some wicked hook ups and unstoppable action. MSRP of $16.99 to $17.99.
www.fishlabtackle.com
SEAGUAR INSHORE FLUROCARBON
Fishing skinny water, running the flats, working a jetty or the surf, Seaguar’s Inshore leader material is built to handle the toughest challenges. Made from 100% custom Seaguar resins, Inshore offers incredible abrasion resistance with maximum knot strength. It’s faster-sinking and significantly less visible underwater than mono Seaguar Inshore will be available in 12-, 15-, 20-, 25-, 30-, 40-, 50-, 60- and 80-pound test, with a MSRP of $15.99 to $58.99.
https://seaguar.com/
QUATTRO BRAID
American Fishing Wire’s Quattro Braid combines the disappearing camouflage properties of Quattro Monofilament Line with the casting qualities and strength of Grand Slam Braid. Fusing both popular lines to create Quattro Camouflage Braid resulted in a line that provides excellent performance and the ability to disappear underwater due to the extreme low-vis scientific proven 4-color combination of blue, black, green and red, patterned in short random lengths. Available in 10-, 20-, 30- and 65-pound test spools with 150-, 300- or 2500-yard lengths to choose from. MSRP is $13.49 to $205.49.
www.afwfishing.com
FISHBITES BAITS
Since 1999, Fishbites® has been making premier flavor/scented baits and lures that have been embraced by anglers up and down the Gulf and Atlantic coasts. Fishbites® E-Z Flea is quickly becoming a got-to-have bait, and like other E-Z baits (E-Z Clam, E-Z Crab, E-Z Shrimp 7 E-Z Squid), are super-easy to use – just cut ‘em, hook ‘em and cast ‘em. Manufactured by Carr Specialty Baits. Look them up at fishbites.com to see their complete product line of baits and terminal tackle. MSRP $5.98.
www.Fishbites.com
Outside The Tackle Box
GLOBAL STRIPER MOUNT
With new coastwide slot options now in place for striped bass, that trophy fish of a lifetime you scored this season was safely deposited back into the sea. But you can still memorialize that personal best with a Global Fish Mount. Order a realistic striper mount from 22 inches ($225) on up to that 50-inch cow ($497.50) online with Global Fish Mounts. With a fired enamel glass eye staring down from the office wall as you spin yarns of the big one that you set free – now that’s the gift that keeps on giving!
www.globalfishmounts.com
HUMMINBIRD COASTMASTER CHARTS
Humminbird’s all-new CoastMaster charts provide accurate coverage for all U.S. coastal waters on a single card. CoastMaster delivers the information and features you need to fish and navigate with confidence, with the very latest data to identify key fish-holding areas through accurate spot soundings, depth contours, points of interest, and navigational aids. Anglers can monitor fishing conditions with a predictive tides and currents tool that provides speed and direction of currents, as well as direction and height of tides, precisely for the vessel’s location. The new Humminbird CoastMaster is compatible with Humminbird HELIX G3/G3N and all SOLIX chartplotter models and retails for $149.99.
www.Humminbird.com/Coastmaster.
MINN KOTA STABILIZER KIT
Minn Kota trolling motors with I-Pilot and I-Pilot LINK technologies have become standard equipment on our local waters. With enhanced GPS functions such as Spot Lock, Autopilot and Follow the Contour, it’s like having a second captain onboard. To protect your investment, Minn Kota offers the MKA-55 Minn Kota Stabilizer Kit to prevent damage to the motor while running in rough seas. Equipped with a low profile mounting base for easy removal and a pivoting arm which can be folded down when not in use, the MKA-55 retails for $64.99.
minnkotamotors.johnsonoutdoors.com
HOBIE MIRAGE PASSPORT 12
Looking for an unforgettable reaction from a loved one this holiday season? Give the gift of fishing access and independence from Hobie. Powered by the original MirageDrive Classic with ST Fins, the new Hobie Mirage Passport 12 is a highly manageable 12-foot pedal kayak that will take anglers where they want to go with ease and world-class Hobie performance. Loaded with a ho-ho-whole lot of fishing features and fully compatible with the vast line of Hobie fishing accessories, the easy-to-own Mirage Passport 12 allows anglers to access productive fishing waters unavailable to shore anglers or other boats. MSRP $1,599
www.hobie.com/fishing-kayaks
SIRIUSXM MARINE FISH MAPPING
Give your favorite angler the gift of SiriusXM Marine’s Fish Mapping service this holiday season. Fish Mapping includes eight fishing features, including fishing recommendations, weed lines, and plankton front strength, to help find fish faster and save fuel. Fish Mapping also includes all of SiriusXM Marine’s weather features, such as radar, lightning, marine zones, and more, to help keep them safe on the water. Fish Mapping is available on Garmin displays via the GXM 54 receiver which MSRPs for $799 ($100 hardware rebate available). Try Fish Mapping free for your first month, a $124.99 value.
siriusxm.com/fishmapping
MUD HOLE “DIY” ROD KIT
If the Farmer’s Almanac predictions are correct, a Mud Hole “do it yourself” MHX Saltwater Turnkey Rod Kit may keep coastal anglers busy during a snowy hibernation this winter. The complete all-in-one saltwater rod building kit comes with everything you need, including the MHX SW70H rod blank, to build your own 7-foot, heavy power and moderately fast rod rated for 20- to 60-pound line. A choice of spin or conventional, with EVA foam grip either split or full with either black or silver kit components starts around $209.99.
Find a full array of turnkey DIY kits online at www.mudhole.com
GARMIN STRIKER CAST
The new STRIKER Cast from Garmin can help identify structure and locate fish, literally from the palm of your hand. Designed for use in salt or freshwater, STRIKER Cast delivers excellent sonar performance from depths of under 2 feet up to 150 feet, wirelessly streaming data back to your phone app from up to 200 feet away. A great tool for ice fishermen, the STRIKER Cast unit is rugged by design, and boasts an internal, USB-rechargeable battery that lasts 10 hours. Garmin’s STRIKER Cast is available in two versions, the GPS model for $179.99, or without GPS at $129.99.
garmin.com/marine
FURUNO NAVNET TZTOUCH3
Available in three screen sizes—12”, 16” and 19”—the NavNet TZtouch3 from Furuno are the easiest to use multifunction displays available. Equipped with powerful TimeZero technology, NavNet TZtouch3 will completely transform the way you navigate. You can scroll, pan, zoom in/out with a smooth, fast and seamless graphics engine. Navigating in a fully 3D environment offers you a true perspective and wider area of view. LED backlighting pushes light through every pixel for remarkable brightness and clarity. Anti-reflective glass coating makes your display viewable in any lighting conditions. MSRP: $3795 – $8495.
www.furunousa.com
YAKATTACK OMEGA ROD HOLDER
The Omega Rod Holder from YakAttack attaches to your kayak, boat, or other watercraft with the LockNLoad mounting system offering unrivaled track mount security and adjustability. The patent pending LockNLoad track base is the most advanced track mount ever created. You want no slip? No problem. The LockNLoad track base attaches quickly and easily with a single MightyBolt, and will not accidentally rotate or loosen from the track, even when your trolling rod takes a big hit. Compatible with YakAttack MightyMount’s, GearTrac, and most other kayak track systems. For use with spinning, casting, and fly rods. MSRP: $30.00.
www.yakattack.us
YAK LIGHTS FL TROLL KIT
The FL-TROLL kit from Yak Lights is the ultimate light kit for the kayak with the addition of a trolling motor! Standard system includes a spotlight system with mini mag mount, two FL33 strip lights, two FL12 strip lights and two FL3 Mini LED strip lights for interior lighting. The kit also features a wireless light controller to control the entire system with ease. It also offers the ability to use your trolling motor battery to power the entire light system or use one of Yak Lights’ own lithium power supplies. MSRP: $349.99
www.yaklights.com
MALONE WIDETRAK KAYAK CART
If your sit-on-top kayak has a wide, non-traditional hull shape, then you need a specialized cart to transport it to the water’s edge. Add in the weight of a fully-loaded fishing craft, and you also need a cart that’s up to the task. Enter the Malone WideTrack Kayak Cart. Available with either balloon tires for use on sand, or no-flat wheels for standard terrain, you’re ready to go no matter the topography! $149.94 with no-flat tires, and $209.95 with balloon beach wheels.
https://maloneautoracks.com
OLD TOWN AUTOPILOT 136
Hot off its ICAST 2020 ‘Best of Show” Award, and the featured Grand Prize in the inaugural Coastal Kayak Clash fishing tournament, the flagship of the all-new Old Town Sportsman Series is the AutoPilot 136. This 13.5-foot kayak includes a fully-integrated, GPS-enabled Minn Kota 45-pound thrust trolling motor which propels, maneuvers and “anchors” the kayak using Spot-Lock technology! Control the AutoPilot with a touch of your thumb using the iPilot remote, and take paddle-free kayaking to the next level. Additionally, the AutoPilot 136 features a 500-pound load capacity, integrated rod holders and accessory tracks, all-new XL rudder and much, much more. MSRP: $3,999.99
www.oldtowncanoe.com
SEA EAGLE PACKFISH7™ INFLATABLE
The PackFish7 is a lightweight, portable, inflatable packraft that keeps you completely dry as you paddle and fish. Bladder construction provides a tough 840 denier nylon fabric external sheath that protects a 30 mil PolyKrylar PVC bladder with 2 separate air chambers. Weighing only 22 lbs. or 29 lbs. with the optional wooden floorboard, the PF7 easily fits in a car trunk, and deflates to just 20 x 20 x 5 inches. Inflated, it measures 7’ long by 3’ 3” wide and can hold up to 1 person or 300 pounds. Packages come complete with oars, seat, backpack and repair kit and start at just $469 USD.
For more info, go to www.SeaEagle.com or call 800-748-8066.
LOWRANCE HALO20+ AND HALO20
For the boating angler that has just about everything but radar, the new HALO20+ and HALO20 radars from Lowrance are affordable, compact, pulse compression radome units that are perfectly designed for smaller fishing boats. Both provide unrivalled short-range performance, while HALO20+ can detect targets from a greater distance than HALO20 and delivers a full 360-degree sweep every second. The HALO20 is the perfect radar solution for more budget-conscious buyers with smaller fishing boats. HALO20+ priced at $2,199; HALO20 at $1,699.
www.lowrance.com
COSTA WADER SUNGLASSES
Quality sunglasses are a must on the water and Costa has always set the bar where boating and fishing are concerned. Named for the legions of birds that call the water home, the Wader is equally adept in its element. Fully integrated Hydrolite rubber flows throughout the temple, guaranteeing a comfortable, secure fit, even in salty conditions. The Wader will make you or that loved one a better angler. Priced at $259.
www.costadelmar.com
EZ ANCHOR PULLER ANCHOR WINCH
Let a Patriot EZ-2 Anchor Winch do all the heavy lifting and organizing for you. This anchoring alternative is completely corrosion resistant, fast deployment speeds and tangle-free storage are just three of the beneficial cornerstones boaters can enjoy with an E-Z Anchor Puller Patriot EZ-2 Designed for vessels between 18 and 27 feet, the EZ Anchor Puller Anchor Winch sets the standard for anchoring systems with its simple design and ease of use.
The Patriot EZ-2 Anchor Winch holds 125 feet of ½-inch line in addition to 10 feet of chain, and can fit even more of the smaller diameter anchor-rode available on the market! Suggested retail is $1850. Visit our website to view our complete drum anchor winch inventory! www.ezanchorpuller.com/AllProducts
Lures
BERKLEY GULP PADDLESHAD
Swimming Mullet, Grub, Nemesis – everyone has a favorite Gulp for a given situation or species. Just in time for the holidays the mad scientists at Berkley have launched the Paddleshad to cover just about every situation with most anything that swims! The new Gulp Paddleshad has a lifelike baitfish profile with optimized nose for rigging jigheads or weighted swimbait hooks. The same legendary Gulp material with extreme scent dispersion, Paddleshads were designed so the body and tail work together for amazing action both on the retrieve and the drop. Available in a variety of colors in 3, 4, 5 and 6-inch lengths starting at $6.99 a pack.
www.berkley-fishing.com
TONY MAJA’S CASTING MOJO
Whenever word breaks that Tony Maja spoons and mojos are taking big stripers on the troll, surfcasters sarcastically respond with “yeah, well how about a casting version.” In 2020 the folks at Tony Maja Products released their new 3-ounce Casting Maja Mojo. Surf? Perhaps in fast-moving water along the inlet rocks and breachways, but on the inshore grounds they’ve been effective while being jigged and retrieved slowly on the drift, or while slow-trolled. Summer reports even have these paddletail rigged 3-ounce bucktails and skirts taking fluke too. Look for 2-ounce versions in the New Year. Retail for $12.99 each.
www.tonymajaproducts.com
STORM 360GT SEARCHBAIT SHAD SWIMBAIT
Remember when Storm molded baits took the striper surf, well, by storm? Storm is bringing the thunder again later this month with their Storm 360GT Searchbait Shad Swimbaits, featuring a rattling, weighted, lifelike jighead matched to new Storm shad bodies. The Storm 360GT Searchbait swims with a slow body roll and exaggerated swing in the tail even during slowest retrieves. A hook rigging channel and exit hole indicator makes rigging a snap, and they’re available in 10 beautiful color finishes each with 3D holographic eyes. The 3-1/2- and 4-1/2-inch models include one fully-rigged bait and two bodies starting at $4.99.
www.rapala.com/storm-fishing-baits
RAPALA X-RAP LONG CAST
The Rapala X-Rap Long-Cast is built heavy for longer casts and can be fished with a fast, steady retrieve for a strong rolling and wobbling action that striped bass just can’t resist. Twitching the bait will create that legendary X-Rap “Slashbait” action, and when stopped it flutters on the drop for an even more enticing presentation. Available in two sizes (4-3/4 or 5-1/2 inches) and 23 different colors including new Green Mackerel and Blue Mackerel patterns out this month (a killer plug when fishing “The Ditch”), the Rapala X-Rap Long Cast is fitted with heavy-duty hardware and super strong VMC single hooks and retails for $14.99 to $16.99.
www.rapala.com
WILLIAMSON KENSAKI JIG
“Slow pitch” is more than a buzz word, it’s a new way to vertically jig using a properly balanced slow pitch rod to deploy center-weighted jigs that’s deadly on sea bass, stripers and tuna. The asymmetrical Kensaki jig from Williamson fits the bill at the business end, cutting water fast with its knife-tip design to go deep. In-line eyelets stabilize the jig during descent and enhance fluttering action at slack. With a lift and fall approach, the Williamson Kensaki darts aggressively upwards and flutters horizontally on the fall. In 120, 170, 220 and 280 gram (4-1/4 to 9-7/8 ounces) from around $17.95.
www.williamsonlures.com
STERLING TACKLE WIDE TRACKERS
Introduced in 2017, the original Sterling Wide Tracker has become one of the top selling tuna weapons in recent memory. Made with an angled keel under the bar bird which causes the bar to track up to 30 feet out from its normal tracking line, Sterling Tackle’s Wide Tracker gets to the cleaner water, outside the wake, where it’s able to attract more attention. When the tuna bite turns hot, the trail to finding enough Sterling Wide Trackers to keep every crew knee deep in gurry can turn cool. Starting at $99 each, stock up now for 2021.
sterlingtackle.com
GUIDES SECRET BABY BOTTLE
You are more apt to find Capt. Frank Crescitelli sucking on a stogie than a baby bottle, but his Guides Secret Baby Bottle plug is always close at hand when the action starts. Designed locally and deployed with success from Florida to Maine, fresh and salt, the Guides Secret Baby Bottle is over-weighted to cast a mile, and is built to pop like crazy. Stainless steel through-wired with heavy-duty hangers and VMC 3X strong hooks, these 1/4-ounce plugs come in six colors ($14.99) and would look great hanging on the tree, or from a striper’s jaw.
www.guidessecret.com
GAME ON! EXO JIG
The EXO Jig from Game On! Lures is a new casting jig with a unique durable EXO-skeleton construction that is shatter resistant compared to standard epoxy and resin jigs on the market. The premium polymer shell provides a natural translucent look with optimal light refraction while adding protection to the lure’s finish. The balanced weight provides for excellent casting from a boat or shore and induces an attractive swimming action that’s irresistible to a wide variety of gamefish. Available in three sizes and seven colors, every Exo Jig comes standard with VMC hooks and heavy-duty split rings.
https://gameonlures.com/
JOEBAGGS SWARTER
Is it a darter? Is it a swimmer? It’s both and more! Taking the surf scene by storm this year, the hard-bodied Swarter from JoeBaggs Tackle has racked up striped bass catches on both coasts, and it has quickly become a staple in the surf bags of the best casters in the surf. Be sure to grab a few in both sizes (6” and 7”) and in any of the ten popular colors and ‘Get your Baggs on!” MSRP: 6″ – $10.49, 7″ – $14.99.
https://joebaggsoutdoors.com/
SAVAGE GEAR SANDEEL
The Savage Gear Sandeel has a wide appeal to anglers fishing from shore and boat alike. The slender soft plastic body mimics its namesake with perfection, and sand eels are feasted on by a variety of predatory species from striped bass to tuna. Cast it, jig, troll it; you can’t fish it wrong so long as it’s in the water. Available in more than a dozen awesome colors and five different sizes, there is sure to be one to match your local baitfish. MSRP: $5.99 – $13.99.
www.savage-gear.com
SPRO POWER BUCKTAIL HD JIG
The SPRO Power Bucktail Jig HD was designed for striped bass anglers, but has found a very broad range of applications from the surf to inshore to deep-water wrecks up and down the East Coast and beyond. Its unique head shape and eyelet placement give it a natural gliding action on the drop and keep the body parallel for a more natural presentation. The new HD version features a 10/0 heavy-duty Gamakatsu hook and is available in 6- and 8-ounce weights. MSRP: $16.99 – $18.99
www.spro.com
YO-ZURI 3D INSHORE TOPKNOCK PENCIL
A great stocking stuffer for that topwater enthusiast. Available in 4 inch and 5-inch models, this new style pencil popper has an action unlike any other lure in its class. It sits flat on top of the water instead of the tail pointing down, which makes it incredibly easy to “walk-the-dog.” This allows anglers to use different retrieves and cadences, and in turn catch more fish. The best feature of the TopKnock is the single one-knock cadence rattle. A single rattle is located in the tail, creating a loud knock, and also allows the TopKnock to cut through the wind for extreme casting distance. It is equipped with #2 size saltwater grade treble hooks, and Stainless Steel Split Rings. Suggested retail is $8.99 for the 4 inch and $9.99 for the 5 inch.
www.yo-zuri.com
BAND OF ANGLERS OCEAN BORN LURES
Here are couple of plugs that would be a great addition to any anglers’ stocking who likes to cast for stripers, blues or tuna. Band of Anglers is led by world famous angler and lure designer Patrick Sebile, and his Ocean Born lures are designed to survive tough battles with ocean going gamefish. The Flying Popper with its unique ribbed underbelly measures 5-1/2 inches and is available in 2-ounce Floating, 2-3/4-ounce Sinking and a 4-ounce Super Long Distance. The Flying Pencil is 6-1/3 inches and available in a 2-1/2 ounce Floater, 3-ounce Sinking and a Super Long Distance 4-1/2-ounce model. Prices range from $17 to $22.
www.bandofanglers.com
