It may look like there’s a lot of stuff out there for any angler but, a lot of equipment is pretty specialized so, you’d better know what you’re doing. It seems like anyone would want a new rod or reel but, there’s nothing worse than getting a piece of equipment that doesn’t match everything else you have. You may want to click here to get your bearings.


These same goes for lures. There’s plenty of ‘em out there but, it’s hard to say exactly which one(s) to buy. If I went into a situation blind and had to buy someone something, I’d play it safe and get either a crankbait or Chatterbait because they don’t require any tricks—you can just throw ‘em out and reel ‘em back! If the angler is into fly fishing, be warned! There’s no comparing flies and lures!

Line is something an angler can always use sooner or later and it won’t break the bank. Generally speaking, go with something in the 6-8lb. (3-4 kg.) range.

A tackle box may be just the thing. If you haven’t looked at what’s out there lately, you may be surprised. Gone are the metal boxes with built in rulers of yesteryear. Modern tackle boxes make use of today’s plastic and can pack a little or a lot. It all depends on what you choose.


Waders are an item that the angler can often use. If the angler on your list flyfishes, I’d check first because there are a variety of waders on the market but, I’m thinking of simple hip waders that are going to allow you to venture a little ways from the shore of a lake, stream, or pond. You can shop around and pick up a pair for around 30 bucks.

The thing I really like and highly recommend is a multi-tool. They have a lot of different names but they’re the gizmo sort of like a Swiss Army knife that unfolds into a pair of pliers and all the tools are in the handles. These things are available at several price points and it’s something every angler can use. The one I use the most includes a couple of knife blades, a fish scaler, small ruler, bottle opener, wire cutters, straight and Phillips screw drivers, an awl, and I’m not sure what else in addition to pliers. I saw one a few months ago that included a small compass and thought it’d be dandy for a boater or hiker!

Okay. Those are my suggestions.
Now, shop 'til you drop!