2022 Holiday Gift Guide - The Fisherman

2022 Holiday Gift Guide

Even in the digital age with tablets, laptops and smartphones you’ve no doubt been receiving a slew of holiday catalogs in your mailbox in recent weeks.  But flip through the pages and browse the images in that sharp looking little booklet, and ask yourself if you really need a rolling foot massager or electric carving knife that looks like a chainsaw.

So that’s where we come in!

For decades, The Fisherman Magazine has been publishing the definitive guide to holiday shopping for the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic angler.  For months, out editorial staff has been on the hunt for the latest, greatest gift ideas for the holiday season, compiling this comprehensive guide of products available in our fishing market.

Whether you tear pages out of this mag to stick on the fridge, or leave dog-eared pages open on the coffee table with Post-It notes, let our annual Holiday Gift Guide act as your “gift list” this season.  Let’s be honest, it’s the one month of the year when you’ve got a perfectly good reason for leaving your latest copy of The Fisherman laying around the house, perhaps even on a loved one’s nightstand!

Reel In The Holidays

Penn Authority Spinning Reel

The new PENN Authority sets the standard for best-in-class saltwater fishing reels.  It boasts an impressive IPX8-rated sealed body and spool that allows the reel to withstand extreme saltwater exposure without suffering water intrusion.  The CNC Gear technology with a stainless steel gear train and pinion gear is designed to be better supported overall to allow for long-term durability. Its full metal body, side-plate, and rotor keep gears protected and eliminates flex in the reel’s frame, ensuring rigidity under the heaviest loads. The Slammer drag system with Dura-Drag offers maximum drag pressure and features silky smooth carbon washers which eliminate hesitation even under extreme drag settings.  Starting at $499.95.

pennfishing.com

Okuma Komodo SS 471 Reel

We’re seeing more and more low profile baitcasters on the Northeast saltwater scene over the past few years. And this year Okuma introduced the Komodo SS 471 to their lineup. This low profile baitcaster features a 7.1:1 gear ratio and 30-inches per crank. The Komodo SS lineup is built for the salt, in fact the “SS” stands for stainless steel; the main and pinion gear are stainless, so are the drive and spool shafts and all of the bearings. These things will handle anything from striped bass to school bluefin and they are available in three sizes, 200, 350 and 450. Retail: $219.99 to $269.99. 

okumafishing.com

G. Loomis GCX Inshore Series

As the G. Loomis website states, “roaming roaring coastal currents and traversing skinny flats train saltwater anglers to expect one thing — the unexpected.” And it’s easy to see that the minds at G. Loomis took those words to heart when designing this lineup. These rods come in spinning and casting models that span the full range from finesse on the flats to fishing big live baits for bass. Albie enthusiasts might like the 842S MF, backwater bass chasers should try the 844S MGM and for those that want to throw big plugs to big fish check out the 965S MF. Retail: $289.99 to $339.99. 

gloomis.com

Accurate 600N SPJ Slow Pitch Reel

The 600N SPJ is made for slow pitch jigging and is the first ‘technique specific’ reel ever offered by Accurate. After listening to the wants and needs of some of the best slow pitch guys in the game, the designers at Accurate set their minds to ticking every box. With a 6:1 gear ratio, 53 inches per turn and 32 pounds of drag, This USA-made workhorse can handle just about any fish the mighty Atlantic might send to eat your jig. The extended reel arm allows you to fish from a position of power and the ergonomically designed power handle offers a secure grip that reduces hand fatigue. It truly is the Cadillac of the slow pitch genre.

accuratereels.com

PENN MARINER III RODS

The PENN Mariner III rods are constructed with a tubular glass blank for increased strength and feature a heavy-duty graphite reel seat to ensure a secure rod and reel connection that eliminates flex under heavy loads. The rod features one-piece PENN stainless steel Dura-Guides that offer exceptional smoothness and durability and work with both monofilament and braided lines. The rods are finished with contoured EVA foam grips that fit perfectly in hand to secure rod stability while fighting big-game fish. Whether you are trolling or casting, this rod series has an option for most private and charter boat needs at an MSRP of $59.99.

pennfishing.com

DAIWA PROCYON MQ reel

Using Daiwa technology only seen with reels well above its price point, the Daiwa Procyon MQ LT Spinning Reel is built with a single-piece Monocoque Zaion-V body that makes it exceptionally light and highly rigid. Daiwa’s Monocoque Body increases overall strength, improves water resistance with the absence of screws, and significantly reduces overall weight. The unique MQ frame design provides better spatial efficiency and allows for a larger gear to fit inside of the reel, adding power and longevity to the gear set.  Advanced Tournament Drag and Daiwa’s DIGIGEAR technology combine to set the Daiwa Procyon MQ LIT apart from other reels in its price bracket.  Available in sizes from 1000 to 4000 and under $200.

daiwa.us

RAMSEY TRAVEL ROD

If your winter plans involve a bit of fishing – and we trust they do – the Ramsey Outdoors 7-foot medium heavy (MH) inshore travel rod breaks down to three sections and stows easily in planes, trains and automobiles.  By beach or by boat, this versatile rod can handle a broad range of inshore gamefish, as well as larger freshwater species, from popular Northeast targets like bluefish and stripers, to warm water targets like bonefish and snook.  Three-piece travel series spinning rod (RRCS703MH) from Ramsey Outdoors is built tough with Fuji reel seat and guides comes with a Ramsey Rod Company travel case and no questions asked 1-year warranty for $119.99.

ramseyoutdoor.com

Van Staal VSX2 sERIES

The Van Staal VS Series reels have been go to for the extreme angler for over 30 years.  The new VSX2 series is based off the original proven design with some upgrades to make it the ultimate fishing weapon. The X2 retains all the features the VS Series reels were known for while adding key improvements from top to bottom. The new unibody design increases strength and sealing while the longer handle, power knob, and power drag knob increases both cranking power and drag pressure. The oversized clutch is now on the pinion side which results in immediate hook sets. Bailed, Bail-less, and Left Hand models are available starting at $799.95.

purefishing.com

Tsunami Airwave Elite Light series

Based off the already popular line of Airware Elite rods, the Airwave Elite Light Series is the perfect choice for the angler who’s looking to scale down their great for a more sporty approach to fishing. Bonita, false albacore or school bass, the Airwave Elite Light series is something that everybody falls in love after the first day of use due to its overall weight. The rod itself features all Fuji components including high end SIC guides which mike for the best possible casts. Spring, summer or fall, this lightweight rod finds a place in any fisherman’s arsenal. Suggested retail is $169.99 to $199.99.

biminibayoutfitters.com

ABU GARCIA REVO ROCKET

The fastest spinning reel on the market this holiday season is the Revo Rocket from Abu Garcia.  Featuring an asymmetrical X-Craftic Alloy body design for a more compact, lightweight body, the Revo Rocket boasts the new AMG2 gear system that is 17 percent larger than the previous generation, allowing for extra gear strength and gear ratio.  Filling the gap in your freshwater arsenal with a faster gear ratio for finesse applications, Abu Garcia’s new Revo Rocket is designed to pick up slack more quickly on long casts, ensuring a better hookset and more opportunities to catch faraway trout and smallmouth.  Available in 20, 30 and 35 sizes starting at $199.95.

abugarcia.com

Century Weapon

Superiority is a word that is used when talking about the Weapon line of rods by century. Everything that goes into this high end rod is top quality. Designed as the ultimate inshore rod it is a one trick pony that can do almost everything from trout to tuna. This rod has all of Century’s top materials applied to it. Anti-twist technology, Nano cilia fiber resin, Graphene, S-2 Glass make it a beast on the water and when fighting a fish. The one piece Weapon rods are available from 7 foot, 1 inch up to 7 foot, 10 inches. Suggested retail is $636 to $686.

centuryrods.com

Lamiglas Blue Water Series

The excellent 2022 offshore and inshore season is in the books. Those who got a taste of the action are hungry for more and the Lamiglas Blue Water Series will absolutely have something that can fit the needs of the serious angler. The 5-model series has a rod for each type of application when out in the deep. Whether it’s popping, jigging or live bait fishing, one of the choices will have you covered. An aqua-blue finish, quality guides and X-flock grips over EVA foam round out the rod, making it the ultimate choice. Suggested retails is $159.99 to 169.99.

lamiglas.com

St. Croix Rift series

Tested and designed by anglers for anglers, the St. Croix Rift series features both inshore models and offshore jigging models to meet the needs of almost any type of angler who fishes the salt. From stripers to tuna, Rift has you covered. The blank features SCIII Carbon Fiber which is some of the toughest stuff around, along with aconite guides with stainless frames. A Fuji reel seat with locking nut ensures your reel will always remain seated during the battle. Comfortable Premium EVA grips finish off the rod to make sure your hands never slip or fatigue during the fight. Suggested retail is $290 to $345.

stcroixrods.com

JIGGING WORLD HYBRID NANO CARBON

Looking to ring in the New Year on the tautog grounds?  The Hybrid series from Jigging World is constructed on a premium high modulus nano carbon blank, and the Hybrid 7-foot Medium Heavy (JW-HYB701S-MH) spin rod is the holiday ticket for blackfish jigging enthusiasts. If you were a fan of the Nexus series, you’ll love the Hybrid series even more; the EVA grips allow for complete control and comfort in all weather conditions, and while it’s a good looking rod it functions even better with extraordinary power and super sensitivity.  From blackfish and sea bass, to fluke and stripers, there’s a model that caters to most every inshore fishery – in both spinning and casting – starting at $179.99.

jiggingworld.com

AVET LX/JX 6/3 Raptor mc

The folks at Avet have been working overtime to fill orders on the Avet LX and JX (narrow spool for jigging) 6/3 MC Raptor reels, one of the hottest reels this holiday season. These workhorse two-speed conventional reels are designed, manufactured and assembled in the U.S. with precision machined stainless steel gears in a 6:1 gear ratio in high speed and 2.8:1 in low speed, a hardened stainless steel drive shaft, powerful multi-disc carbon fiber drag and a large ergonomic offset handle.  The Avet LX 6/3 MC Raptor holds 600 yards of 50-pound braid, while the narrower spool JX 6/3 MC Raptor holds 400 yards, priced respectively from $537.99 to $547.99.

avetreels.net

DAIWA TATULA XT ROD

 

For the perfect holiday gift for under $100, Daiwa’s Tatula XT is a rod packed full of features for just $99.  Available in spin or casting models, the Tatula XT is built on Daiwa’s renowned HVF blank with Braiding-X technology which uses an outer layer of carbon tape in a crossing diagonal pattern to dramatically improve both power and sensitivity.  EVA split grips and Daiwa’s exclusive Tatula carbon nut reel seat offer a comfortable grip for all day casting. All models are fitted with durable Fuji Aluminum Oxide guides for friction free casting with all types of line.  Built for versatility, the Daiwa Tatula XT is equally at home in fresh or saltwater light tackle fisheries.

daiwa.us

Star Rods VPR INSHore Spin

When it comes to the top of the line, look no further than the VPR Inshore Series of spinning rods from Star Rods. This high-end lineup of inshore rods comes in eight different models from 7 to 7.5 feet. Multi-directional graphite with new specialized formula Nano resin to increase strength and reduce weight makes these rods what they are. The quality components from Fuji KL-H frame guides with SIC rings, Premium Fuji blank-touch reel seat and top quality core put this rod over the top. Suggested retail is from $309 to $319

starfishingtackle.com

OUTDOOR APPAREL

BIMINI BAY BOCA GRANDE BIB

holiday-gift-guide

The Boca Grande Waterproof Breathable Bib featuring BloodGuard is the newest piece of lightweight foul weather gear from Bimini Bay Outfitters.  But don’t be fooled by the “lightweight” design; this advanced engineered bib is waterproof and repels water, blood and debris, making it just as functional on the spring striper grounds when castnetting live bunker as when sinking the gaff on yellowfin next summer.  Unique to any other PVC bibs you’ve worn on deck, the Boca Grande features 100 percent nylon ripstop construction, making these flyweight bibs both tough and durable.  With hidden security chest pocket and flapped cargo pocket on the thigh for easy cellphone access, they retail for $80 in men’s sizes S-XXXL.

biminibayoutfitters.com

Huk WAYPOINT INSULATED JACKET

Lightweight and warm are two essential points when it comes to finding the perfect insulated jacket. The Waypoint Insulated Jacket from Huk boasts both of these things making it a wearer’s best friend for those extra chilly days on the water. The jacket is compact to it can pack into its own pocket making it easy to store and get out in a pinch. If features two zippered hand pockets and one hidden interior chest pocket. Stretch binding at the cuffs and hem keep the garment secure in the right places. The jacket is available in five different colors. Suggested retail is $150.

hukgear.com

Grundens Full Share Jacket

The Grundens Full Share jacket was designed for commercial fishermen, but became a fast favorite among recreational anglers because of its comfort features, durability and it’s ‘no quit’ effectiveness. This jacket is rugged and waterproof, but also breathable. It’s made to last a long time, but was also elegantly designed for a full range of motion under working or recreational conditions. Anglers will find that it performs well from rainy, windy days on the boat to foul weather days on the river and even makes a great splash top for surfcasters. Available in seven color patterns, the Full Share Jacket is sure to find many fans in the Northeast. Retail: $119.99 to $129.99. 

grundens.com

AFTCO Barricade Outerwear

AFTCO took ‘Best of Category’ at ICAST 2022 in ‘Cold Weather Technical Apparel’ with their new Barricade line of outwear. This foul weather system offers many high-end features at a competitive price. The jacket and bibs boast 3-layer construction, 20K waterproofing and 5K breathability. A SpeedVent hood and Double Dry cuffs round out of the up-front features. An ‘elasticated’ hem that allows the angler to dial in the perfect fit, ensures that your Barricade gear will fit like it was made just for you. The jacket and bibs are available in five color patterns including AFTCO’s new green acid camo.

aftco.com

Simms Challenger Mid-Deck Shoe

This footwear from Simms was designed to be worn on the deck of a boat. Aside from functionability, it provides comfort to the wearer to ensure they can spend hours at a time boating or fishing. Nonslip grip on the bottom of the shoe keeps the wearer planted on one spot when the conditions kick up and the deck gets wet or the boat starts to rock from wave action. This breathable and waterproof shoe also has anti-microbial interior treatment built into it for benefited long term use. Available in men’s sizes 8 through 14. Suggested retail for this product is $139.95.

simmsfishing.com

Apparel Boss Embroidered Jackets

This Holiday Season Apparel Boss brings their 35 years of custom embroidery experience to the boating community. Historically specializing in branding companies all over the world with custom embroidered wearables from every top garment manufacturer, this Long Island based family business is now providing the perfect Holiday Gift for that boat lover in your life. With a simple photo taken on your iPhone and an email to Apparel Boss, your actual boat picture is digitized and embroidered on any jacket, hat, blanket or any other garment of your choice with amazing detail and color. They then add her name and home port under the image, pack it up and ship it right to your door.

apparelboss.com

FISHING ACCESSORIES

PLANO EDGE LEADER MANAGEMENT

The new Plano EDGE Leader Management box is perfect for hardcore anglers who cycle through a lot of different leader sizes.  Each box has eight user-adjusted tension bands to keep the spools secure and avoid tangled messes to help easily manage filler spools of line and leaders for faster line changes.  With DuraView crystal-clear polycarbonate lid and EZ Label system for quick identification, each Plano EDGE Leader Management box holds eight 300-yard spools to provide anglers with quick and convenient leader and line storage that gets the job done and gets them back to fishing.  Just released this fall, it has an MSRP of $49.99.

planomolding.com

Fuji Corrosion Control Frames

Fuji’s new Corrosion Control treated frames would rank as one of the most important new products from Fuji in recent years. CC, BC and Gunmetal finishes tested five times more corrosion resistant than standard stainless guides. These guides are low-maintenance, good looking and widely available across the entire K-series line. The guide has three frame materials and three ring styles to choose from giving you extended options for your next rod build. Whether you consider yourself a professional or amateur rod builder, these guides will look great on your next build.

anglersresource.net

Dexter Dextreme Dual-Edge Fillet Knife

The Dextreme Dual-Edge series of fillet knives is an innovation that will leave any hardcore freezer-filler with that, “Where have you been all my life?” feeling. With a samurai-sharp main blade and a serrated edge running about half-way down the top edge, you can cut stubborn scales and bones with the serrated edge and then make your long, smooth fillet cuts with the main edge. These knives come in 7-, 8- and 10-inch lengths and in both flexible and stiff models. All feature a comfortable and safe DEXGRIP handle and a vented sheath for safe storage and fast drying. If you’re an angler that loves your knives, this one is sure to become your favorite. Retail: $42.99 to $47.99. 

dexteroutdoors.com

Engel Rechargeable Bait Aerator Pump

For those that want the liveliest live bait or that want to travel with live bait with minimal loss, Engel has come out with a rechargeable aerator pump that gives the angler ultimate control. With variable aeration rates, this pump can keep baits alive in vessels ranging from five gallon buckets to Engel’s 30-quart Live Bait Cooler. The pump is designed to clip onto their bait coolers that range from 7.5 to 30 quarts, and have been engineered to run quietly. So whether you want an aerator for your eels on a surf trip or you want a whole Engel live bait setup, the USB rechargeable aerator is the way to go. Retail: $49.99. 

engelcoolers.com

Gerber Ceviche 9-inch Fillet Knife

The Gerber name is synonymous with quality knives and this year they introduced their Ceviche 9-inch fillet knife that ticks all of the boxes on quality and reliability. This ‘task-specific’, no fuss blade is all you need to process any catch bound for the table, be it a big tautog, a slot striper or a speedy bonito. This super-sharp 5Cr stainless steel blade glides through your catch with ease, while their micro-textured grip keeps your lines clean and your hands safe. That blade is double-protected from corrosion thanks to their Salt Rx coating. The vented plastic sheath is easy to clean and provides protection when you’re on the go. Retail: $30. 

gerberknives.com

TURTLE COVE TACKLE Rescue Knife

While fishing is an enjoyable sport, there is always a danger aspect involved. That may come in the form of getting tangled in old fishing line, lobster or crab pot line or you might even have to cut your own line in a pinch. Turtle Cove Tackle stepped up and answered the serious demand of fishermen by creating the ultimate rescue knife for emergency situations. The package contains a Gear Aid Tanu knife, sheath, lanyard and lifetime warranty. The sheath has two color options available and the whole setup retails for $88.95.

turtlecovetackle.com

HOOKS

Owner Single Replacement Hooks

These Single Replacement Hooks from Owner are perfect for replacing trebles on and inshore lures intended for stripers, bluefish and weakfish. Single hooks are a lot less damaging to fish when practicing catch and release. And a lot safer for the angler too as less hook points are free-swinging to get impaled with.  Always be sure to rig the front hook with the point facing forward and the rear facing rear. The hook features include black chrome finish and a super needle point so that you know you’re getting a great hookset every time. These hooks are available in size 6 to 9/0. Prices start at $3.50 a pack.

ownerhooks.com

BKK HYBRID HEAVY CIRCLE-SS

The BKK Hybrid Heavy Circle-SS is the inline-point version of the classic Heavy Circle-SS from BKK. It features BKK’s Super Slide coating for an enhanced penetration performance, a 45-degree up-turned eye to ease the snelling and an inline point to comply with the latest regulations imposed on fishing for striped bass with live bait in the Northeast. If you follow catch and release practices, this is the ultimate hook to use for easy hook removal. The hooks are available in sizes 4/0 to 10/0 in small as well as bulk packs.

bkkhooks-americas.com

Gamakatsu Assist 540 Double Bait Plus

Assist hooks have risen to favoritism for Northeast jig fishermen. These free-swinging single hooks don’t snag often and catch a ton of fish. Don’t let their small size fool you, they are surgically-sharp and focus the hooks around the head and body where gamefish are likely to bite. Gamakatsu is changing the game with their 540 Double Bait Plus assist hooks, with a fish skin dressing added to each hook and the leads are cut at staggered lengths for better coverage. Now the hooks become part of the attraction, making your jigs irresistible. A smooth-welded ring and 80-pound polyethylene leads round out the design; available in sizes 2, 1 and 1/0. Retail: $10.66. 

gamakatsu.com

EAGLE CLAW BAITHOLDER circle

The circle hook requirement when fishing natural baits for stripers leaves many anglers scrambling for baitholder style hooks to hold worms or clams come March.  Get a jump on spring by stuffing your stocking with packages of Eagle Claw’s Inline Circle Baitholder Snell (L801).  These Lazer Sharp inline circle octopus snells conform to new regulations using an American-made inline circle hook with a platinum black finish. Snelled with 18 inches of premium mono and easy-to-attach loop, the Eagle Claw “baitholder” style circle hooks were first to meet the need of holding softer baits in place along the shank.  Sized to 7/0 at about $4 for a pack of five.

eagleclaw.com

LINES & LEADERS

BERKLEY PROSPEC CHROME BRAID

When your personal fishing success is determined by so many uncontrollable factors, having the top braid in your spool can give you the ideal advantage.  The new Berkley ProSpec Chrome Braid is made with the world’s strongest fiber, Dyneema, yet is incredibly sensitive with less than 3 percent stretch.  Tested by professional captains and guides, this new braid is one of the strongest on the market and is built to stand up to any big-water predator.  Available in 30- to 200-pound strength, starting at $59.99 for a 500-yard spool, it should provide a solid season of spooling up any arsenal in 2023.

berkley-fishing.com

Yo-zuri HD Pink Fluorocarbon 500yd spools

A great gift for the serious saltwater angler, Yo-Zuri is now offering its best-selling HD Pink 100 percent fluorocarbon leader in 500-yard bulk spools.  A more than 40 percent lower price per yard, the 500-yard spools are available in sizes 20 to 80 pound and are a great choice for inshore or offshore anglers. HD fluorocarbon is made in Japan, with the finest raw materials and has resulted in several world records, including the all tackle Yellowfin Tuna. The light pink pigment reduces its visibility as it descends in the water, lowers light refraction and hides minor abrasion better than clear fluorocarbon.

yo-zuri.com

Seaguar Gold Label

This product has already proven itself as a top-shelf fluorocarbon with properties that are unmatched. It’s up to 23 percent thinner than any of Seaguar’s other fluorocarbon products. Along with that it boasts better knot and tensile strength. To make Gold Label even better, Seaguar now added three new sizes to the line that includes 50, 60 and 80-pound test. These high-test sizes are crucial to a Northeast fishery where anglers are battling challenging structure along with large fish on a regular basis. Suggested retail is $16.99 to $57.99 for a 25-yard spool.

seaguar.com

P-Line Spin-X Fluorocarbon

Spin-X fluorocarbon leader from P-Line is the sister product their Spin-X Braid (introduced in 2021). This fluorocarbon leader boasts superior abrasion resistance to others in the same class and is offered in unique sizes; 5-, 7-, 9-, 11- and 13-pound test. This offers the angler options when tying braid-to-fluoro via the line-joining knot of your choice. Getting those diameters as close as possible will ensure a stronger and smoother knot. Spin-X Fluoro (available in 50-yard spools) will excel in most freshwater and light saltwater situations and will be a great choice for backwater schoolie stripers or impossibly finicky false albacore. Retail: $10.59. 

p-line.com

Power Pro Depth-Hunter Offshore

For the offshore angler on your list, PowerPro offers their Depth-Hunter Offshore braid. This line is metered in five colors (blue, yellow, red, green and orange), every color marks 100 feet, and there are secondary marks every 25 feet to make deploying baits at specific distances a breeze. This allows offshore anglers to lay out their spreads in configurations that allow for making turns without entangling their baits. The color-coding also makes it possible to know how far that speeding wahoo or yellowfin has run after the hookup. Depth-Hunter comes in bulk spools of 1000, 1500 and 3000 yards and in 65-, 80- and 130-pound test. Retail: $129.99 to $164.99 per 1000 yards.

powerpro.com

American Fishing Wire DELUXE RIGGING KIT

Coming off another outstanding offshore fishing season, anglers are searching for items to restock their offshore arsenal. Part of the offshore game is rigging and if your rigs are not on point it can sometimes make or break the one fish you connect with while out in the deep. Hi-Seas is offering a Deluxe Rigging Kit that will provide you with all the essentials to build strong and reliable rigs. The kit comes in an organized plastic box with dividers to make selection easy assorted sleeves, thimbles and a mini hand crimper round out the package. Suggested retail is $154.49.

afwfishing.com

Feast of The Seven Fishes

NOMAD DESIGN Shikari

Nomad Design recently introduced the Shikari slow-floating swimming minnow to its proven line of products (think DTX Minnow and Streaker jigs). Available in 3-3/4-inch (3/8 ounces) or 5-3/5-inch (1 ounce) models, the Shikari is the ideal plug selection for Northeast anglers chasing stripers, weakfish, blues and false albacore due to its tough thru-wired construction, weight transfer system with tungsten weights, a perfect range of colors, and versatility on the retrieve. Plus, Shakari plugs are equipped with BKK 4X treble hooks to ensure confidence in the hookset and fight and are available in 13 colors that Northeast anglers demand, starting at $11.99.

nomadtackle.com

TONY MAJA DRIFT SPOON

The Tony Maja bunker spoons have been a game-changer for the successful striper fisherman on the troll; now the folks at Maja have something that’s equally effective on the drift.  The new Tony Maja drift spoons flutter enticingly down to where those stripers are on the feed, a great presentation on either spin or conventional tackle.  Available in five colors (white, chartreuse, gold, chrome, and multi-colored), they weigh just under 5 ounces and feature 5X strong 5/0 Mustad Treble, 200-pound split rings on both sides and 175-pound barrel swivel on the top split ring. They are all electro painted and plated for the metal colors and are built to last, fish after fish, at $25.99 each.

tonymajaproducts.com

FISHBITE FIGHT CLUB

You could stick a chunk of bunker or a couple of live eels in a stocking; but if giving natural bait for the holidays is your best idea, may we suggest the new 6-inch grub from Fishbites Fight Club Lures instead.  Fishbites are loaded with irresistible natural flavor/scent technology, yet they’re tougher than all other scented lures on the market. A deadly bait on the fluke grounds as well as with striped bass and virtually every other fish that swims, the 6-inch grubs from Fishbites Fight Club are available in five colors; each bag contains four baits.  And don’t forget that all Fishbites Fight Club Lures are biodegradable and made with pride in the USA.  Learn more at

fishbites.com

BERKLEY GULP! SURF BYTES

Traveling south this winter?  A package of Berkley Gulp Surf Bytes in the stocking will be much appreciated when that traveling angler on your list is targeting various fish species like certain snapper or pompano which can be caught from the shore and piers, jetties, or bridges. Gulp Surf Bytes feature Berkley Gulp scent and dispersion technology is scientifically proven to catch more fish than generic baits. Purpose-designed for saltwater, Gulp Surf Bytes feature improved durability that’s 4X firmer, making them stand up to harsh surf fishing conditions and are rechargeable in their bag. Retail is $7.99.

berkley-fishing.com

STERLING DIAL TRACKER

“The Dial Tracker is the most versatile tracker we have ever produced,” say the folks at Sterling Tackle.  The adjustable dial keel feature allows you to strategically place your bars where you want them; if you typically pull bars on your flat lines, now you can push them over just 5 to 10 feet to run just outside the prop wash in cleaner water. Or if you’re getting bites on your longest, widest tracker bar, now you can send a second dial tracker back to run alongside to increase your chances of a second bite.  From the makers of the wide tracker, the Sterling 22-inch Dial Tracker and 9-inch Bulb Squid costs just $139

sterlingtackle.com

Yo-Zuri Hydro TwitchbaiT

The Hydro Twitchbait from Yo-Zuri is the latest glider to hit the market and it’s a good one. At 6 inches and 2-7/8 pounces, this lure has the deep profile to replicate staple bait species like bunker and herring. This slow sinking, lipless bait features a seductive side to side roll/wobble combination on a straight retrieve and a quick darting action with a twitch and pause retrieve. It features thru-wire construction and 4X strength saltwater treble hooks and split rings that can handle any inshore or offshore big game species.  It’s a game changer for anglers chasing striped bass inshore or yellowfin, bluefin and blackfin tuna offshore. Suggested retail is $17.99. yo-zuri.com 

Game On Lures X-Walk

We all know Game On Lures thanks to their angler acclaimed Exo Jigs which are now standard issue in any albie arsenal. This year they introduced their X-Walk ‘spook style’ plug. This 2-ounce, 6-inch plastic spook fits well in the spread of topwater plugs available to the striped bass angler. The X-Walk is very responsive and easy to fish and features a cupped mouth to increase its splash. The X-Walk is available in six fishy colors ranging from bone to bunker to mackerel and comes equipped with a super-sharp 3/0 treble on the belly and 7/0 inline single hook on the tail. Retail: $14.99. 

gameonlures.com

Fishlab FLANKER SPEED JIG BAIT

Cast, it, jig it, retrieve it. The multi-function Flanker Speed Jig from FishLab is appealing to numerous species in the Northeast. The FishLab Flanker Speed Jig Stick Bait comes pre-rigged with Owner hooks for the ultimate in durability and strength. The thru-wired body design keeps your bait in one piece and features a solid core construction to keep it durable and silent. The Flanker comes pre-rigged with a split ring on the nose for ease of use. The slim-bodied, dart-style design allows for long casting. Try it out on stripers, bluefish, false albacore and sea bass. These jigs are available in two sizes and run $17.99 to $18.99.

fishlabtackle.com

Spro Bronzeye Pop 40 & 70

Freshwater bass anglers already know how effective Spro’s Pop 50 is, it’s a staple bait in every frogger’s lineup. Now they have added two new sizes; the Pop 40 and the Pop 70. These frogs feature all of the same materials and the same feel of the 50, meaning they float well, glide over the weeds, draw big hits and collapse easily when a big bass chomps down on the bait. But the diversity in size (1/4-ounce, 40 mm and 3/4-ounce, 70 mm) adds a new dimension to their lineup and yours and each is available in a dozen fishy—or, froggy—colors. Retail $8.50 or $12.55. 

spro.com

Sea Falcon Dragon Knight Jigs

Slow pitch jigging has quickly become a go-to tactic for anglers seeking everything from sea bass and cod to tuna and other offshore species. Sea Falcon has taken the proverbial bull by the horns in this arena, providing high-end and specialized jigs tailored for specific depths, current speeds, swimming action and species. The Dragon Knight series is designed as a fast-falling jig that can be fished at medium speeds, even in medium to medium-heavy currents. These jigs are designed for big game species and are available in 100, 130 and 200 grams. If you need a high-impact stocking stuffer for the big game slow-pitch angler in your life, you’ve found it! Retail: $9.59 to $20.99. 

seafalcon.com

Rapala Saltwater SkitterWalk

The Rapala Skitter Walk has achieved classic lure status at this point and when they introduced the saltwater version we got really excited. Equipped with VMC Permasteel hooks and beefed up hardware, this 4-3/8-inch spook-style plug is a dead ringer for many Northeast baitfish like peanut bunker, finger mullet and sea herring and will draw strikes from striped bass, bluefish, albies and bonito. They have introduced four new colors that really fit well in our waters. The new “mullet” color is practically a photo-finish, “pilchard” and “pinfish” are great choices when peanuts or herring are around and “holographic bone” is a phenomenal all around choice for any topwater situation. Retail: $10.99. 

rapala.com

Savage Gear Pulse Tail Mullet LT

Swimbaits have become mainstream and they’re now crossing over to saltwater. Savage Gear has been on the cutting edge of producing affordable swimbaits and their Pulse Tail Mullet features a “boot style” tail that puts out a good thump and is molded off a 3D scan of a real mullet. For Northeast fishing, we suggest the line-thru (LT) version, which is rigged with a single, top-mounted treble that ‘breaks away’ allowing the lure to slide up the line. These come in 6 and 8 inches, and can be fished fast or slow and in a variety of situations. The Savage Gear Pulse Tail Mullet is a must-have for any saltwater trophy hunter. Retail: $13.99 to $17.99. 

savagegearusa.com

Holiday Show Stoppers

Gray taxidermy STRIPER MOUNT

Did someone on your list catch a personal best striped bass this season?  Now that she’s swimming free, you can still memorialize that trophy catch with the folks from Gray Taxidermy.  A striped bass trophy fish mount from Gray is handcrafted in the U.S. to look just like the one that swam away (up to 50 inches), with fire enamel glass eye and incredible detail down to the fins and scales.  She’ll look great above the fireplace in the living room, as you sit and retell the story for family and friends for years to come.  Order a realistic fish mount starting at $225 from the American craftsmen at Gray Taxidermy.

graytaxidermy.com

Addya Rod Sling

Like bait fishing in the surf, but prefer to feel the strike as opposed to using a sand spike?  Addya Outdoors recently teamed up with Northeast surfcaster Steve Petri to create the ingenious Addya Surfcasting Rod Sling. The sling is an adjustable length of polyester strap which can be looped around your surf belt, with a pouch at the bottom to accommodate the butt of the rod.  The sling carries the weight and your belt does the job of supporting it; the pouch releases the rod butt with ease, giving you full freedom to react to bites and more easily manage beached fish.  Retails for $24.99.

addyaoutdoors.com

FIN-NOR NORTH DROP SUNGLASSES

An iconic brand in sportfishing, Fin-Nor has made another huge splash diving into the polarized sunglass arena.  Created by the world’s foremost experts on vision, lens and frame technology, the Fin-Nor team has spent decades studying how light deficiencies impact the human eye, ushering in a new era in polarized lenses with Fin-Nor’s Lateral Line lens technology for 99%+ polarization, nearly eliminating reflected glare off the water.  The new North Drop from Fin-Nor boasts the most cutting-edge lens technology, enhancing color without distortion and offering a sharper, clearer view for optimal fishing vision.  High-templed North Drop frames are available in three colors, with both glass and plastic lens options from $199-$269.

fin-nor.com

FISHER SPACE PEN (for anglers)

Fisher Space Pens hold the notable distinction of being the only ballpoint pen used on every crewed space flight since Apollo 7 in 1968.  While the angler on your list is unlikely to have to write in zero gravity – or in temperatures from -30 to +250 degrees – the new series of corrosion resistant Fisher pens with Cerakote coating are great when tagging fish or keeping onboard logs.  The ceramic outer layer helps stabilize grip when wet, while Fisher’s unique PR4 ink cartridge can actually write on damp surfaces. Available in classic Cap-O-Matic style for the shirt pocket or Chrome Bullet with sliding cap at $36.  Gift wrapping and engraving also available at spacepen.com.

MUD HOLE MHX HD ROD RACK

The all new MHX HD Rod Rack from Mud Hole is the ultimate fishing rod storage system with space for up to 20 of your favorite rods. From fly and light tackle rods to heavy offshore rods, the marine-grade, high density polyethylene and stainless-steel construction has the size and the brawn to handle your full arsenal, indoors or outside. It even comes with four supports that lock in heavy duty bent butt offshore rods. Measuring at 26” x 16” x 8”, this heavy duty, multi-purpose rod rack is easy to assemble and will fit perfectly on the boat, the dock, in the garage, or at the shop. Available at an MSRP of just $229.95.

mudhole.com

COSTA JOSE PRO

The Jose PRO was named in honor of the legendary Waterman and larger-than-life personality Jose Wejebe. This frame builds off the original with six performance additions to help anglers manage sweat, reduce fogging and keep their frames locked in place, even when the water gets rough. This frame celebrates the legacy of our friend and the man who broke barriers in the angling community. He saw the angler in everyone, even those who had never fished before. And he grew the community, making it a more welcoming place.  Jose PRO is now available from $264-$284 at local dealers and Costadelmar.com.

VISSER GRIP PLIERS

New from Visser this year is their Visser Grip Pliers. These are the ultimate tool for any angler, made from the toughest titanium alloy available, these pliers are 30% lighter than their closest competitor and feature a rock solid jaw hinge that cannot be twisted out of place. Everything has been thoughtfully considered; the nose portion is thinner and longer than others in their class, the cutters are sharp and easy to replace, they also feature a patent-pending notch system that will open split rings with ease. Visser Grip Pliers come with a tactical grade Kydex holster with lanyard and are available in 6.5- ($359) and 7.5-inch ($399) models with a lifetime warranty.

visserreels.com

Hobie Eyeware Monarch Float

The polarized Monarch Float by Hobie Eyewear combines top of the line performance features and modern styling for unique versatility on and off the water. Worn with or without removable side shields and accompanying integrated retainer, the Monarch Float includes dual-coated hydrophobic lenses for added protection + comfort. If by chance these frames do fall in the water, not all is lost since low density material ensures they will remain afloat. The lenses are available in four colors. Suggested retail is $89.99 to $99.99.

hobieeyewear.com

Sea Eagle FastTrack Angler 385fta Inflatable Kayak

The FastTrack Angler Series Inflatable Fishing Boat is either a one or two person craft that can put you just about anywhere the fishing is happening. With a hull weight of only 45 pounds, maneuvering and transporting this small boat is very easy. Your launch point is anywhere that’s possible. The overall length of 12 feet, 6 inches with an inflatable NeedleKnife Keel makes for a faster, smoother paddling experience. Combined with the sharper, narrower, tapered bow for faster entry through wind, waves, current and water this inflatable kayak will get up and move when it had to. It also has the option for a 34-pound thrust electric motor. Suggested retail starts at $1,199 with four packages to choose from.

seaeagle.com

Bajio Sunglasses

Bajio is an independent sunglass company with a mission to protect and restore the saltwater flats of the world. Bajio says their lenses are the clearest in the industry thanks to a reengineered polarization process that filters out blue light rather than yellow like other manufacturers. The result is a clearer lens and deeper penetration through glare. Bajio offers 23 frame styles, made using sustainable and eco-friendly materials, to meet the needs of men and women from the boat to the beach, one style we really like is the style called, “Nippers”. Sunglasses make a great addition to any angler’s holiday bounty.

bajiosunglasses.com

Old Town Sportsman PDL 132

The Sportsman PDL 132 is a 13-foot kayak designed for any angler that wants to fish big water. The pedal drive offers instant forward and reverse and a patented easy-docking system that facilitates effortless launching and landing. Anglers will also love their improved seat design that features increased lumbar support and mesh backing to keep you cool and dry. There are storage options all over this boat, with rail systems front and back, rod holders and dry storage as well. It’s also pre-fitted with a universal transducer mount for your fish finder. The Sportsman PDL 132 has everything a saltwater angler needs and more! Retail: $2599.99  

oldtowncanoe.com

Humminbird Apex 16 Mega SI+ Chartplotter CHO

The APEX 16 MEGA SI+ CHARTPLOTTER CHO provides the clearest sonar imaging on the sharpest display that anglers have ever seen. Industry-leading MEGA Imaging+ and Dual Spectrum CHIRP sonar come standard, with even more performance from a dedicated sonar channel for accessory 2D CHIRP transducers up to 2kW. The 15.6-inch Full-HD touchscreen provides a customized display of information from advanced network options like NMEA 2000, HDMI In/Out, WiFi and Bluetooth. The APEX Series is a new kind of MFD that will take your fishing to a new level. This CHO (Control Head Only) model is perfect for anglers looking to select their own transducer or simply to add an additional display to an existing Humminbird network.

humminbird.com

MINN KOTA PRECISION MK-550 PCL

Need more power to “spot lock” on the togging grounds?  How about running lithium batteries?  Minn Kota says no problem, with their Minn Kota MK-550 PCL, a five-bank onboard charger that provides the charging flexibility to meet all your trolling motor requirements. Precision chargers feature battery-type selection by the bank, which now includes charge curves specially formulated for lithium batteries; it can even wake these battery types from standby.  Features waterproof construction and Automatic Temperature Compensation which adjusts to ambient temperature fluctuations, Minn Kota’s MK-550 PCL Precision On-Board Charger retails for around $500 and provides 10 Amp true-rated output on each bank for a faster recovery time.

minnkotamotors.com

Hobie Mirage Passport 12.0 R

Hobie hits the holidays with a rotomolded version of their popular Mirage Passport series. This means a more affordable model that is still set up for the angler and is just as customizable as its angler-acclaimed cousin. The 12.0 R is loaded with fishy features like its transducer cavity, scupper anchor mount and Power-Pole micro bracket. It also features a breathable mesh seat that’s comfortable and dry, even when the seas and weather aren’t. There’s tons of storage with a Twist-N-Seal Hatch, two rod holders, two accessory tracks and under-seat and gunnel tackle storage. This yak is powered by their MirageDrive GT pedal system with kick-up fins and retails at $1999.

hobie.com

Garmin GXM 54 SiriusXM Weather & Audio Receiver

Living in the age of satellite communications sure makes taking the boat offshore (or inshore for that matter) easier. The Garmin GXM SiriusXM Weather and Audio Receiver provides multifunction displays that overlays graphical weather and fishing information directly on your charts! Now you can fish with confidence, knowing what kind of weather might be coming and seeing your best course for avoiding it. In addition, you can add over 150 channels of SiriusXM entertainment to your subscription at a discount, and the Garmin GXM Receiver is eligible for a $100 rebate from Sirius Marine! For the boater on your list give the gift of confidence and entertainment with this awesome and informative upgrade to anyone’s marine electronics. Retail: $849.99. 

garmin.com

Book: The Fisherman’s Kitchen

If you have a recreational chef on your list that also loves to fish, he or she will be thrilled to find Leo Orsi Jr’s The Fisherman’s Kitchen underneath the wrapping paper. This book covers a ton of ground, with personal recipes and entries from famous restaurants and well-known chefs. Anglers will gravitate to the ‘onion crusted sea bass’ or ‘charcoal grilled striped bass’ among others. But it’s not all ‘cooking your catch’; entries like ‘veal ossobuco over fettuccini’ or ‘the absolute best cheesecake’ are just as likely to captivate that home chef on your holiday list. Check it out today and reap the rewards in the form of dinner and (if you’re lucky) that cheesecake! $34.95. 

orsifishermanskitchen.com

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