The trout bum in your life could be one of the most difficult people to shop for simply because of the technical knowledge needed to wade through the array of fly fishing equipment available on the market today.
Are those waders you’re eyeing breathable enough? Do you go with the stockingfoot or bootfoot options? Should you choose a reel made from machined bar-stock aluminum or the less expensive composite version? What size rod is right? The go-to five weight or the stouter seven weight options?
All of these questions and more can make the process of shopping for the fly fisher in your life seem a bit overwhelming. Luckily, we’re here to help with these 7 go-to gifts that any angler would be thrilled to find under the tree.
1. Redington i.D. reel, starts at $89.99
The venerable rod and reel maker Redington is out with a brand new reel just in time for the holidays. Not only does the i.D. sport the type of high quality cast aluminum construction that Redington is know for, it boasts a smooth rulon disc drag, a large arbor, and a comfortable handle—all accessible at a price point that won’t break the bank. If you’re not sold yet, the i.D. features a flat back surface to accept custom decals representing anything from your home state to your favorite fish species, and the decals are simple to remove, stack, or swap to update your reel’s look over time.
2. Orvis Helios 3 Rod, starts at $849
This revolutionary new line of rods from Orvis takes casting accuracy to a whole new level. It comes in two lines, the 3D and 3F, both of which come in 9 foot 5 and 8 weight models. The former offers anglers all the power they need to make long distance casts on big water without sacrificing accuracy, while the latter is designed with accuracy and finesse in mind.
3. YETI Panga, starts at $300
The Panga is YETI’s first foray into the world of waterproof gear storage, and it’s quickly becoming a staple on drift boats, dories and rafts around the country. This fully submersible duffle acts as a gear fortress, allowing absolutely no access points for rogue wetness and a laminated, high-density nylon shell that is virtually impenetrable to nature’s assaults. If you’re worried about hauling a high quality digital camera around on the river, worry no more. This is the perfect way to ensure pro quality photos of your latest lunker.
4. Simms G3 Guide Stockingfoot Waders
When it comes to durability in the face of the elements, the Simms G3 Guide Stockingfoot Waders are proudly standing atop the heap. If wintertime fly fishing is your thing, the G3’s have you covered with five layers of GORE-TEX lining. Add to this the convenience of a reach-through warming pocket with stormflaps and micro-fleece lining and an intuitive zippered chest pocket design, with integrated utility tabs that house an arsenal of in-river essentials, and you’e got some of the best waders on the market today.
5. Rio-Fishpond Headgate Tippet Holder, $39.99
Stop fumbling around in your chest pack for one of those ten spools of tippet you jammed into a pocket you can never seem to find. The Rio-Fishpond Headgate Tippet Holder keeps all those spools organized and easily accessible, and once you’ve used one you’ll never be caught on the river without it.
6. Smith Guide’s Choice, $249
Nothing enhances a day on the water like a good pair of polarized sunglasses, and we’ve yet to find a better pair for fly fishing in Southern Appalachian than Smith’s Guides Choice. The lenses are the business end of these glasses, featuring the new Techlite Polarchromic polarized tech that greatly enhances color and cuts through any body of water that a fish might call home. Stainless steel spring hinges allow for maximum flexibility.
7. Soft Science Terrafin Wading Boot, $90
With the Terrafin Wading BootSoft Science has built what they’re calling the ultimate wading boot built for fly fishing, and that’s not far from the truth. This lightweight, slip-resistant shoe shines on the type of moss-covered rocks and stream beds you’ll find all over Southern Appalachia.
8. Filson Fishing Waist Pack, $125.00
The venerable Filson brand has been around since 1897, a fact that is readily apparent in the high quality nature of their products. The Filson Fishing Waist Pack is a lightweight, water-repellent waist pack with divided storage, cotton webbing for zingers and a sheepskin shearling patch for flies. The waist strap extends to 48″ with rustproof, easy-buckle closure, and built in grommets on the the bottom allow for optimal drainage.
