| Gifts for the Angler |
| Retail industry experts recommend shopping early for the Holidays, so here’s your kickstarter |
| MINNEAPOLIS, MN (October 16, 2025) – Retail experts say price increases driven by inflation and tariffs are motivating consumers to start Holiday shopping ahead of traditional schedules, aiming to lock in lower prices before potential markups later in the season. In fact, as much as 80% of Holiday gift spending is projected to happen before Cyber Monday (December 1, 2025).In conjunction, the fishing industry has been battling tariffs with a fervor, holding hard on prices whenever possible and mitigating increases as much as profitability allows – companies still must make money to survive. In short, our beloved brands are trying to protect the consumer.With that said, given the ongoing tariff turmoil, you might want to jumpstart the season.Here are some new products and fishing-favorites to consider gifting this year. Get ‘em while they’re hot – and in stock… |
| Whitewater Rays Performance HoodieWe’ve been wearing this one and love it. The advanced hoodie sports UPF 50+ sun defense, effectively blocking 98% of the sun’s harmful rays. That same fabric is lavish, too, comfortable against the skin, as well as stretchy to endorse range of motion. Moreover, the Rays Performance Hoodie is engineered with Touch-Activated cooling fabric technology to keep you comfortable when temps rise, while antimicrobial thwarts unwanted smells that can accumulate with use. The hood’s three-panel hood design bolsters fit and keeps it in place. Its signature feature is a breathable neck and face gaiter sewn inside the back of the neck. Behold the anatomy of fishing’s finest hoodie.MSRP $79.99 |
| Whitewater Thermoclyne Hooded JacketThe versatile and snappy-looking jacket stands as a premium insulated layer between you and the elements, whether donned as a standalone or worn between a baselayer and outer shell, say a rain jacket. The lightweight and warm jacket is free of bulk through expert design and its extraordinary, thermally-mapped insulation – Sonora® Aura. The outer shell is composed of a durable but smooth 100% nylon shell with DWR (durable water repellant) treatment and measurable wind protection. Additionally, Polygiene® StayFresh keeps things fresh, even after long days on the water. The fit is exquisite, too, every square inch considered with movement in mind.MSRP $199.99 |
| CROCS Swiftwater Mesh Deck SandalAre there better fishing shoes? Probably. But is there really a better value? Doubt it. For years, we’ve worn, destroyed, and replaced Swiftwater Sandals, using them to pin against gunnels and fight sharks, wade oyster shards, and keep footing on grungy tiles at the pier bar. Crocs’ remodeled version is a little more open, but still incredibly flexible, supportive and water-friendly. Stretch-mesh uppers with a hook-and-loop closure strap allow you to adjust the fit. Plus, wider ports all around shed water and other elements quickly. MSRP $59.99 |
| EGO S2 Slider Landing NetsWe’ll let you know if a better landing net becomes available. Until then, trust that EGO’s S2 Slider series is unequalled in construction and performance, built around a “universal system” that features an extendable net handle for reaching boat-shy trophies—and offers a twist-on and -off system that allows interchanging net frames and net sizes/materials to match exactly what you’re fishing and where. The options are practically limitless. The system also lets you swap the net hoop out for accessories like the 8-inch Deck Brush, Deck Mop, Deluxe Deck Mop, Lure Retriever, or Boat Hook.MSRP $109.99 to $169.99 |
| EGO Tackle Box Sling PackSupreme mobility can be hampered by the clumsy double shoulder straps on the typical backpack style tackle bag. Conversely, EGO’s Tackle Box Sling Pack’s innovative single strap design quickly humps over your head and shoulder, and then instantly settles in place as the strap crosses your chest and pack relaxes on your back. The pack’s tactical and technical exterior utilizes robust 1000D Nylon fabric with PVC backing – the tough stuff. Toughness continues with wide-toothed zippers, which are protected by fabric overlays. Its front sports a trifecta of zippered compartments, bottle pouch, and rod/reel combo holder. The pack opens to reveal three included 3700-size utility tackle trays – accommodating more than enough tackle for an excursion. Also available in Kryptek PONTUS.MSRP $129.99 |
| Norsk Lithium 14.8V 30Ah Portable Sonar BatteryWhether you’re on the ice, in the kayak, or running an all-season shuttle system, the 14.8V 30Ah Portable Sonar Battery from Norsk Lithium® delivers powerful, long-lasting energy for live imaging and forward-facing sonar. Engineered for top-tier performance with Humminbird MEGA Live Imaging™, Garmin LiveScope™, and Lowrance ActiveTarget™, its higher capacity keeps your sonar running stronger for longer, so you can focus on finding fish, not charging batteries. Includes a standard 3A charger.MSRP $179.99 – $419.99 |
| HOODOO Sports Sub-Z Cooler SeriesThe marketplace is no stranger to rotomolded coolers. They’re rugged as a mountain and trap cold like a walk-in freezer – when compared to your typical plastic cooler or one of those blasphemous styrofoam things. With a full 3.5-inches of wall insulation, the HOODOO Sports Sub-Z series is worthy of consideration. Fairly priced, the polyethylene coolers feature stainless steel handles (smaller sizes) and tough rubber latches. Available in 16-, 22-, 48-, 70-, and 90-quart sizes. Choose from Polar Ice, Ocean Blue, Atlantic Sand, and Charcoal Slate.MSRP $129.99 to $329.99 |
| ALL FISH ARE AWESOME“There’s an unwritten weighting system for animals – fish included,” said author Noel Vick, whose ‘real job’ is President of industry communications company Traditions Media. “Anglers regularly rank fish by how they taste, fight, or look.” In All Fish are Awesome, the fair-and-balanced author features both freshwater and saltwater fish, some well-known, others not so much. “My goal was to show a popular species alongside one that’s not so loved and leave kids knowing they’re both awesome and important.” Ages 4 to 10. Hardcover. Paperback available through Amazon.$16.99 |
| FISHING FOR DUMMIESThe “For Dummies” series dates to 1991 with a book about learning DOS. (There’s your trivia question for the day. What is DOS?) Since, 6,000 titles and refreshers have been printed, including the third edition of Fishing for Dummies by Greg Schwipps. He says, while none of us is born to angling, we can all achieve it―and become great at it. Whether you love fishing for fun or sport, this hands-on friendly guide has everything you need to make sure that there need never be such a thing as “the one that got away!” MSRP $24.99 |
| DAIWA D-SHOCK II Spinning Combo with Braided LineInterested in joining the 60+ million anglers in the U.S. and Canada who share a passion for fishing? If you’re a youngster or novice experimenting with the sport – and/or just need some solid, functional, inexpensive tackle for that weekend at the lake, DAIWA’s new D-SHOCK II spinning rod/reel combo is the ticket. These value-packed combos are the first to come pre-spooled with DAIWA’s own modern braided fishing line. The rods are constructed with forgiving fiberglass blanks with comfortable cork handles. The smooth turning reels feature DAIWA’s legendary DIGIGEAR gearing system. Offered in 6’2” ultralight and medium light, 6’6” medium, and 7’ medium and medium-heavy power versions.MSRP $39.99 |
| DAIWA AIRD 80$99.99…and the price is firm. The sleek and palmable AIRD 80 is a prime gateway to mastering a baitcasting reel, comfortable in anyone’s hand and easy to cast. DAIWA’s classic MAGFORCE magnetic spool braking system reduces overrun, aka backlash – the nemesis of anglers, especially those new to baitcasting reels. The AIRD 80’s MAGFORCE braking system works in concert with DAIWA’s inventive LC (Long Casting) Concept, whereby a specially shaped spool maximizes casting distance. The affordably priced AIRD 80 gobbles up the right amount of line for multiple applications – 120yds of 12lb monofilament or fluorocarbon; 110yds of 14lb monofilament or fluorocarbon; 125yds of 30lb braid; and 95yds of 40lb braid. MSRP $99.99 |
| DAIWA PROREX X LTAn anonymous source at DAIWA said, “these are selling like Cabbage Patch Kids in 1983.” If you’re old enough to recall the craze, there were literal retail riots… This super-affordable reel boasts a significant number of DAIWA technologies, including AIRDRIVE DESIGN, TOUGH DIGIGEAR, Long Cast ABS, and even the ATD Type-L drag system. Techi-ness aside, that means a sweet reel. Moreover, the budget-friendly PROREX X LT was concepted for fishing in colder weather, say in the 50’s and under. DIAWA went with lower gear ratios to deliver a slower and smoother turn to accommodate cold water finesse tactics.MSRP from $69.99 |
| DAIWA AIRD-X RodsDAIWA’s best kept secret in rods is out of the barn. The $60 AIRD-X fishes like a rod twice it’s price, and dealers hoard whatever they can get. Available in spinning and casting models, the AIRD-X is constructed of high quality graphite to yield both sensitivity and strength. DAIWA’s “Braiding-X” construction reinforces the blank and reduces blank twist. Also features split-grip handles and rich cosmetics. 8 casting and 10 spinning versions available.MSRP $54.99 |
| DAIWA J-BRAID X8 Grand Braided LineSpool those new reels with what many angling experts consider the best value in braided fishing line: J-BRAID X8 Grand. The popular braid is strong, sensitive, and resistant to abrasion, yet well-bodied enough to lay smoothly on the spool. J-BRAID x8 Grand is a premium quality 8 carrier braid made of the finest materials from Japan. Available in CHARTREUSE, DARK GREEN, GREY, and ISLAND BLUE.MSRP $21.99 (150 yard filler spool) |
| Mystery Tackle BoxThere are monthly subscriptions for everything, from wine and cheese to ethically sourced animal skulls and stuff for doomsday preppers. Mystery Tackle Box is a fun and affordable way to discover new fishing products every single month with subscription plans ranging from beginner to expert angler. Subscribers can choose their preferred species and duration of plan, and are also able to modify, pause, or cancel at any time. Wrapped, it’s like a gift in a gift. Over 10,000,000 boxes shipped to date…Plans start at $19 mo./$82 for gift plans |
| Z-Man Ned Rig KitA perfect way to get started fishing the incredibly effective Ned Rig technique, the Ned Rig kit features the most popular and versatile 10X Tough ElaZtech® finesse baits and ShroomZ™ jigheads. Each kit includes Finesse TRD™, TRD TicklerZ™, and TRD CrawZ™ softbaits along with Finesse ShroomZ™ jigheads in 1/6 and 1/10 oz weights. All Green Pumpkin and Hot Color versions available. MSRP $22.99 |
| Z-MAN Tungsten ChatterBait® Elite EVO™ChatterBaits are to bass fishing what bows are to violins – inseparable. Z-Man’s progressive Tungsten ChatterBait Elite EVO features a compact 96% tungsten head that sinks quickly, producing unique sounds and vibrations. The direct head-to-blade connection ensures immediate action. It has a heavy-duty 5/0 hook, custom 2-part trailer keeper, detailed head paint with 3D eyes, wire-tied silicone skirts, and durable stainless steel blades with various finishes. Available in 2 weights and 16 colors.MSRP $17.99 |
| Evergreen GEZZYThe GEZZY’s leggy invertebrate profile is as critter-ish as it gets. Just shy of two-inches long, the GEZZY is a versatile and effective bait for bass that are heavily pressured or just looking for an easy meal. Heavy for its size, the GEZZY sinks slowly and perfectly horizontal while its appendages quiver and vibrate, rigged weightless on a wide-gap hook. It casts far and lands softly with just a little ping, exactly like an insect touching the surface. Available in 6 colors.MSRP $13.99 (6 pack) |
| Eagle Claw Fishing KitsType “kits” into the search bar on the Eagle Claw website and you get 73 results. No surprise. For decades, the legacy manufacturer has lead the league in specialized and affordable fishing kits. Crappies only? Covered. Just walleyes? Got your back. How about coastal Florida? There’s one for that, too.Wide variety of prices |
| Pro-Cure Pro PacksWe’ve tested a lot of scent additives, some dating back to our childhood days. Brands come and go. Scents in general go in and out of favorability, too. The only brand we’ve trusted through thick and thin is Pro-Cure. For gift giving, consider their species-specific, three flavor Pro Packs. The sticky, purposefully stinky gel emits from palm-sized squeeze bottles and holds like the dickens.MSRP $24.95 |