Yes, it’s that time of the year again, and if you’re wondering what Christmas cheer to bring to your special angler, I’ve got some suggestions. The best things I can recommend are the products that I own and that have impressed me.
First on my list of recommendations is the Patagonia Stormfront Sling Pack. I have purchased enough vests, bags and packs over the years to stock a small luggage store, but I’ve finally found the “perfect” bag. Most of the time it functions as a boat bag whether I’m on my boat or with a friend. It holds all the tackle I need with room for a camera, raincoat (my next suggestion) and other sundries you’re likely to need for a day on the water. If I’m taking a long wade or fishing a mountain stream I can put it on my back where it sits out of the way until I need it. Then just un-snap one clip and it swings around to provide easy access to the waterproof compartment which has a separate zippered pouch. There are plenty of latch points and rings to customize the outside for items like a rod case, net, tippet holders, nippers, etc.
My second recommendation is the Patagonia Ultra-light, Packable Jacket. This is a new addition to my wardrobe that I was able to put to the test on a recent Bahamian bonefishing trip. Three things stood out about this jacket, number one being its ability to keep me dry during a harrowing 25 mph ride up the east side of South Andros into a 25 mph wind. Straps at the wrists, bottom and hood of the jacket cinch down to prevent the intrusion of driving rain, including at the hood, which wraps securely around your headwear. The second most impressive thing about this jacket is its ultra-light weight which translates into cool/breathable outerwear for the sub-tropical and tropical places where I live and fish. Lastly, the way this jacket packs away in a pouch about the size of a beer can is amazing. The first day I used it I forgot the pouch and was frustrated working around it when looking for gear in my sling pack. The balance of the trip it lived out of the way in my pack, and only came out when I needed it.
My third recommendation is the Rio Flats Pro Elite fly line. Admittedly, this is an expensive fly line and it wouldn’t have made this list if I didn’t find that it made a significant difference in my fly casting. Its main feature is a low stretch line (think hook set and fish control) with Rio’s SlickCast coasting that shoots farther and more accurately. This line also stood the test of some extreme conditions in the Bahamas and made a noticeable difference in high winds stalking big, spooky tailing bonefish. The price was well worth the added performance that gave me an additional 10-15 feet when I needed it most.
These three products are not priced to be stocking stuffers but are a gift that will keep on giving. With a little care, they will pay dividends in the field instead of being relegated to the storage closet. Next week we’ll reach out to some local charter captains to learn what gifts they might recommend. If you’re serious about your fishing, consider developing a relationship with and buying from a reputable local dealer. While it might be tempting to just order online, you won’t get the advantages a brick-and-mortar shop provides. For fly tackle, check out AMI Outfitters on Pine Street in Anna Maria. If you’re in Sarasota, The Compound Board Shop has a full line of fly tackle and both shops have courteous and knowledgeable staff.
