Get your Christmas-present buyers in the know
It’s that time of year when friends and family members tiptoe around the subject of what to get their favorite kayak angler for Christmas. Rather than just settle for a pair of socks, leave a copy of the magazine open to this column in a place they’ll stumble across it. It worked out for Ralphie in “A Christmas Story”, maybe it’ll work for you.
Plano V-Crate
First on the list is the new V-Crate from Plano. These folks know a thing or two about storing outdoor gear where it’s accessible, yet still protected from the elements. The V-Crate takes the popular milk-crate model and improves it in every category for storage that’s the first of its kind, engineered specifically for kayak fishing.
The unique V-shape wraps the kayaker with StowAway® utility boxes on either side for easy access. The V-Crate has a lot of storage space in the center module as well, plus a waterproof bin in the base. There’s plenty of room for your gear, but the V-Crate still manages to remain compact to fit securely in the tank well of most kayak models. It’s maneuverable, too, with the ability to hinge backward in low clearance situations and a top section that’s easily removed with two release latches.
The suggested retail is $119.99
Yak Gear Fish Stik
With space in a kayak at a premium, Yak Gear’s new expandable Fish Stik measuring board saves valuable space by folding down and storing easily. Also of utmost importance with anything attached to kayak fishing is that the Fish Stik floats. It’s 36 inches long but folds to 12 inches when stowed. It covers the full spectrum of necessity — from measuring trophy fish to stowing down under a raised seat, between tackle boxes, or in a storage crate.
Additional features include a raised 31/2-inch bump board and line slot to allow the fish to be measured while it’s still on the line so the length can be captured before the angler turns his attention to unhooking and releasing the fish.
The Fish Stik also provides space to store two Yak Gear’s Fish Grips Jrs. inside the folded Fish Stik, and it comes with a marker for self-applied darkened measurement indicators for CPR photos and tournament submissions and measures in ¼-inch measurements.
The Fish Stik is available in white, hi-vis yellow and orange and is made from a durable blend of PVC and plastic for years of use.
Suggested retail is $32.99
Huk Attack
From the folks who have changed the way anglers dress comes their first venture into footwear designed especially for anglers.
The Huk Attack won Best of Show awards this year at ICAST for it’s well thought-out design and engineering, providing unique traction, rugged durability, all day comfort and support.
Huk’s Fuzetek support cages allow a like-custom fit, with perfect pressure around your feet. Performance lacing is hassle free. Dual-density EVA midsoles with 360-degree draining gets your feet dry quicker. Non-marking GripX Wet Traction rubber outsoles hold on to slippery ramps, docks and decks, even in the worst of conditions.
Of particular interest to paddlers is the shoe’s ability to quickly drain water without that squishy, slippery feeling you get from other footwear brands after they’ve been submerged.
The Huk Attack is available in basic slate gray with a choice of purple, chartreuse, or white piping.
Suggested retail is $84.99
Anglr Labs Log Book
The only thing better than spending time on the water in a kayak is planning for your next outing. With the Anglr Labs Log Book, kayak anglers can recall past and future information that will help find where the best fishing will take place.
Anglr Labs first introduced their integrated tracking device and software in 2016. It has quickly become a favorite with anglers for its value and the ease of tracking fishing information with it. New for 2017, Anglr Labs updated and improved their Premium software to offer several new features including the ability to track minute-by-minute trip details, view weather trends up to 48 hours prior the trip, invite friends to share data, coordinate the way out on the water, and mark waypoints from past trips.
The Anglr Labs Log Book software retails for $130, for 12 months of access.
NewChic Mens Outdoor Sport Pants
Serious kayak angler know that kayak fishing isn’t a sport relegated to only the summer months. Fishing during cold-weather conditions means having the right apparel to cope with the elements and one of the best pair of kayaking pants available is the Men’s Outdoor Sport Pants from NewChic.
Made from 100-percent polyester so they won’t absorb water, these pants are super waterproof, breathable and easily vent perspiration. The shell is both windproof and waterproof and durable to prevent picking or tearing when worn around abraisive environments. The pants come with a built-in belt and also feature a sealed zipper fly, waterproof, zippered pockets, flexible cut for easy movement, durable three thread stitching.
The NewChic Mens Outdoor Sport Pants come in Army green and gray.
They retail for $33 online at newchic.com.
Be the first to comment