It’s hard to keep up with all the outdoor gear these days.
Even the simplest of sports, like running, has expanded into a seemingly endless wealth of options including clothes, hats, hydration packs, socks and many more things I’m sure I don’t know about. And then there’s fly fishing, a sport that revels in the small details of lures and equipment. So in a way, the desire to always have more toys has a long pedigree with fly fishing. Add to that trend the explosion of modern technology — and you’ve got a recipe for lots of gear on a fly fisherman’s wish list. Here are some of the fly fishing gifts I would suggest checking out. Fly Tying Kit - Orvis Tying flies is easily one of the most attractive parts of the sport for many fishermen. Even for lifetime anglers, catching a fish with a fly you tied yourself brings a special satisfaction. But few kits for tying flies come with all the bells and whistles of the Orvis Fly Tying Kit. At nearly $200, this kit doesn’t come cheap, but it has everything you need to hit the streams with your own flies. Even veterans looking for a new kit will want to check this out. Tenkara Rod Co. - Beartooth Everybody needs to start somewhere, and few companies offer a better beginner fly fishing kit than Tenkara. In fact, the company is also beloved by pro-level fishermen, but the Beartooth kit doesn’t throw you in the deep end — it’s basic with the point of learning the fundamentals. At about $225, it’s reasonably priced and it won’t break in two weeks. You’ll get many hours of fun on the river out of this fly fishing kit. With a rod, fly, lures, and more, you get everything you need to hit the creek right in a condensed package. Wading Boots - Korkers If you’ve already been fly fishing for a while, and you feel like a small but significant upgrade, consider your boots. If you’re like lots of other fly fishing beginners, it’s very likely that you’re still wearing some DIY or secondhand version of actual wading boots. If so, Korkers brand wading boots are worth a look. They come with interchangeable soles for different water conditions. When the soles wear out, you simply replace them — not the boot. In the long run, this will save you money on boots, it’s environmentally conscious, and — most important — they’re some of the best boots a fly fisherman can use. They’re available in sizes for both men and women. Fishing Kayaks and Canoes - Old Town And finally we get to the gift that every fisherman, from raw beginner to seasoned veteran, would want to take on their next fishing trip. The answer is a fishing kayak. And not just any fishing kayak, but if you want to get the best, you should check out the kayaks from Old Town. The Sportsman line, which has several models ranging in price, is probably the best fly fishing kayak out there. But the most amazing model is the Sportsman AutoPilot, which won Best of Show at ICAST last year. It doesn’t require paddling or peddling — just a remote control and a small motor. If James Bond enjoyed fly fishing, I’m pretty sure he would be doing it with this boat. Stay tuned for more of my thoughts, suggestions — and possibly dubious anecdotes — on the beautiful sport of fly fishing. |
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AuthorStephen Gleave of Ancaster, Ontario is a lawyer and a nature lover. Archives
January 2023
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