Another year, more gear. And contrary to some opinions, field testing angling equipment in Alaska isn’t always a plum assignment. For one, marketing jargon aside, not everything is built to withstand the extremes common to the Great Land. Anyone who’s traveled north with the newest lightweight rain suit and found himself soaked and shivering just two days into a weeklong western Alaska downpour knows this already.

Likewise, the fish of the Last Frontier can put equipment through trials slightly more rigorous than those imposed by pan-sized brookies or the products of coastal hatcheries. Take, for instance, a summer journey to the Kanektok, when a wild Alaska king, chrome-bright and laden with sea lice, made quick work of a new graphite rod, which began as a four-piece setup but went back into the tube in ten. For Fish Alaska, this kind of occurrence, fairly typical everywhere from the Thorne to the Russian to Chignik, lends a certain immediacy to our award deliberations—not only do we want to represent the best of the gear we used over the past season, equipment we can recommend to our readers with confidence, but we’re also looking for the stuff we’d use ourselves, whether packing for a weekend on the Kenai or a week’s adventure on the lonely Noatak.

The results follow, arranged in three categories. First are our gold-medal favorites, items at the top of the angling-equipment food chain, chosen without regard to retail price. Second is our silver-medal category, for those items that performed exceptionally under Alaska’s notoriously extreme conditions but that come with an affordable price tag. Bang for the buck is our motto here. And last but not least are our Field Favorites. Sometimes it’s a rod, other times a line, a lure, or a knife, but always our favorites are items that we found indispensable during multiple excursions over the past year.

FISH ALASKA Best of the Best

GOLD

Sage 1190-4 Xi2

www.sageflyfish.com  Specifically designed for saltwater angling, the Sage Xi2 line of fly rods are actually ideal angling instruments for those taking on Alaska’s largest, most powerful gamefish in some of the state’s most demanding conditions. Whether you need to drive seventy feet of line through an Aleutian williwaw or put the heat to a streaking salmon, these rods will be up to the task. $680 MSRP

Sage 9141 Spey Rod

www.sageflyfish.com Sage’s line of European Style fast-action Spey rods, designed to generate high line speeds with shooting heads, sink-tips, and bulky flies, are particularly well-suited for the deep-sinking, down-and-across style of fishing that’s required to successfully pursue Alaska’s anadromous species. Manufacturer’s Rep George Cook, who teaches a number of Spey-fishing clinics worldwide, prefers the 14-foot, 1-inch 9-weight model for his Alaska’s king classes, usually referring to the rod as his “teacher’s pet.” $770 MSRP.

Tibor Gulfstream

www.tiborreel.com . The Tibor series of reels were first introduced in 1995 and have established themselves as the benchmark for custom-crafted fly reels. The spool’s large arbor design significantly enhances the rate of line retrieval, which can be critical when your freshly-hooked Chinook rounds the bend below and heads for the sea. Tibor Reels are also a mainstay for Spey enthusiasts, delivering the ultimate balance, overall line and backing capacity, and drag performance for the double-handed rod. Standard finishes are Jet Black and Satin Gold. $698 MSRP.

Waterworks ULA Force 4 Saltwater/Spey Reel

www.waterworks-lamson.com With Waterworks’ open frame and spool design, the ULA Force 4 is large enough to accommodate any Spey line/sink-tip combination without bogging an angler down with unbalanced weight. The reel’s spectacular retrieve rate is an additional benefit of this large-arbor design; plus, the use of an oversized, high-torque version of Waterworks’ patented conical drag means you can get on a fish when you need to. $599 MSRP.

G. Loomis RoaringRiver Dredger series FR1078-4 GLX

www.gloomis.com . The G. Loomis RoaringRiver Dredger will comfortably manage the sinking tips and weighted flies required for anglers who need to get down fast in swift, deep runs. This series of double-handed fly rods was designed for the Skagit-style of casting, a term coined in the early 1990s to describe the offshoot system of casting utilized by steelheaders in the Skagit River area, which strongly parallels the mechanics found effective in most of Alaska’s angling scenarios. There are seven models in the line, ranging from the 12-foot, 9-inch 6/7-weight to the 14-foot 9/10. We chose the 13-foot, 4-inch 7/8-weight GLX model as our ideal double-handed rod for tossing articulated leeches and bulky flesh flies to Alaska’s trophy trout on big water like the Kvichak or Naknek rivers. $750 MSRP.

Sage 9141 Spey Rod

www.sageflyfish.com Sage’s line of European Style fast-action Spey rods, designed to generate high line speeds with shooting heads, sink-tips, and bulky flies, are particularly well-suited for the deep-sinking, down-and-across style of fishing that’s required to successfully pursue Alaska’s anadromous species. Manufacturer’s Rep George Cook, who teaches a number of Spey-fishing clinics worldwide, prefers the 14-foot, 1-inch 9-weight model for his Alaska’s king classes, usually referring to the rod as his “teacher’s pet.” $770 MSRP.

Tibor Gulfstream

www.tiborreel.com . The Tibor series of reels were first introduced in 1995 and have established themselves as the benchmark for custom-crafted fly reels. The spool’s large arbor design significantly enhances the rate of line retrieval, which can be critical when your freshly-hooked Chinook rounds the bend below and heads for the sea. Tibor Reels are also a mainstay for Spey enthusiasts, delivering the ultimate balance, overall line and backing capacity, and drag performance for the double-handed rod. Standard finishes are Jet Black and Satin Gold. $698 MSRP.

Waterworks ULA Force 4 Saltwater/Spey Reel

www.waterworks-lamson.com With Waterworks’ open frame and spool design, the ULA Force 4 is large enough to accommodate any Spey line/sink-tip combination without bogging an angler down with unbalanced weight. The reel’s spectacular retrieve rate is an additional benefit of this large-arbor design; plus, the use of an oversized, high-torque version of Waterworks’ patented conical drag means you can get on a fish when you need to. $599 MSRP.

G. Loomis RoaringRiver Dredger series FR1078-4 GLX

www.gloomis.com . The G. Loomis RoaringRiver Dredger will comfortably manage the sinking tips and weighted flies required for anglers who need to get down fast in swift, deep runs. This series of double-handed fly rods was designed for the Skagit-style of casting, a term coined in the early 1990s to describe the offshoot system of casting utilized by steelheaders in the Skagit River area, which strongly parallels the mechanics found effective in most of Alaska’s angling scenarios. There are seven models in the line, ranging from the 12-foot, 9-inch 6/7-weight to the 14-foot 9/10. We chose the 13-foot, 4-inch 7/8-weight GLX model as our ideal double-handed rod for tossing articulated leeches and bulky flesh flies to Alaska’s trophy trout on big water like the Kvichak or Naknek rivers. $750 MSRP.

PowerPro Braided Microfilament

www.powerpro.com . Over the past season, we found Power Pro’s braided microfilament to be an exceptionally strong all-purpose line while maintaining a small diameter that packs well on the reel and minimizes bellying in even the strongest currents. The line transmits the smallest of nicks and nibbles well, and the ensuing hook-set is confidence-inspiring, as there is little stretch in the 100% Spectra fiber. We tested both the 8- and 20-pound-test versions and came away highly impressed. $15.99 MSRP.

LaCrosse Big Chief Hip Wader

www.lacrosse-outdoors.com This olive-drab green hip wader is 100% waterproof and features ozone-resistant rubber bottoms. A great alternative for hot summer days or long hikes into shallow headwaters, they’re 32 inches tall, providing coverage for most situations where minimal wading is required. These hip waders also feature a chevron-cleated outsole for additional traction, a snug, ankle-fit design for comfort and support, and an adjustable, internal calf-harness for versatility. $89 MSRP.

Grunden’s Model 16 Herkules Bib Pants

www.grundens.com . Long the outerwear benchmark for Alaska’s saltwater anglers, the Model 16 Herkules Bib Pants are as tough and reliable as the name Grunden’s indicates, protecting you from even the heaviest doses of Pacific wind and rain. A heavy cotton-canvas base layer, coated with PVC, combine to make the fabric used in the Herkules the company’s heaviest. The bibs also feature reinforced hems and riveted seams, a side gusset for adjustable width, and speed-clip suspender hookups. $69.99–$84.99 MSRP.

XtraTuf 16-inch Non-Insulated Plain Toe Boot

www.xtratufboots.com Non-slip sole for stability on Alaska’s pitching, slippery saltwater decks. These boots are triple dipped in liquid neoprene for added protection, and after the boots are dipped, they are covered with a sealant that is the final step in XtraTuf’s “total protection shield” process. Each pair also comes with cork insoles for added shock absorption and comfort. $86.75 MSRP.

The Original Bug Shirt Elite Edition

www.bugshirt.com . Combining the features of the Original Bug Shirt, this industry-leading bug-protection manufacturer has added several nice features to the Elite edition. A ribbed cuff has been added to the wrists to increase comfort and protection from no-see-ums, blackflies and white socks. An adjusting cord was added to the back of the hood to allow you to pull the hood back and increase peripheral vision. The zipper has been moved from the bottom of the face mesh to the top and two sliders are on it, allowing you to open the face mesh a little if you desire. The Elite addition now comes in a camouflage pattern as well as the natural, sandstone and ivy green. Also available from The Original Bug Shirt Company are pants, gaiters and a bug hood. $65.95 MSRP.

LaCrosse Big Chief Hip Wader

www.lacrosse-outdoors.com This olive-drab green hip wader is 100% waterproof and features ozone-resistant rubber bottoms. A great alternative for hot summer days or long hikes into shallow headwaters, they’re 32 inches tall, providing coverage for most situations where minimal wading is required. These hip waders also feature a chevron-cleated outsole for additional traction, a snug, ankle-fit design for comfort and support, and an adjustable, internal calf-harness for versatility. $89 MSRP.

Grunden’s Model 16 Herkules Bib Pants

www.grundens.com . Long the outerwear benchmark for Alaska’s saltwater anglers, the Model 16 Herkules Bib Pants are as tough and reliable as the name Grunden’s indicates, protecting you from even the heaviest doses of Pacific wind and rain. A heavy cotton-canvas base layer, coated with PVC, combine to make the fabric used in the Herkules the company’s heaviest. The bibs also feature reinforced hems and riveted seams, a side gusset for adjustable width, and speed-clip suspender hookups. $69.99–$84.99 MSRP.

XtraTuf 16-inch Non-Insulated Plain Toe Boot

www.xtratufboots.com Non-slip sole for stability on Alaska’s pitching, slippery saltwater decks. These boots are triple dipped in liquid neoprene for added protection, and after the boots are dipped, they are covered with a sealant that is the final step in XtraTuf’s “total protection shield” process. Each pair also comes with cork insoles for added shock absorption and comfort. $86.75 MSRP.

The Original Bug Shirt Elite Edition

www.bugshirt.com . Combining the features of the Original Bug Shirt, this industry-leading bug-protection manufacturer has added several nice features to the Elite edition. A ribbed cuff has been added to the wrists to increase comfort and protection from no-see-ums, blackflies and white socks. An adjusting cord was added to the back of the hood to allow you to pull the hood back and increase peripheral vision. The zipper has been moved from the bottom of the face mesh to the top and two sliders are on it, allowing you to open the face mesh a little if you desire. The Elite addition now comes in a camouflage pattern as well as the natural, sandstone and ivy green. Also available from The Original Bug Shirt Company are pants, gaiters and a bug hood. $65.95 MSRP.

Lowrance M68C S/Map IceMachine

www.lowrance.com . For the ice fishing nut, you can now get a portable sonar combined with GPS navigation in an ice-fishing package. Features special high-detail hydrographic mapping covering lakes, rivers, Great Lakes, and U.S. coastal waters with navigation aids. Included is a water repellant softpack nylon carrying case, rechargeable battery pack and charger, and swing-out transducer bracket. Saves up to 1,000 waypoints, 1,000 event markers, and 100 routes (up to 100 waypoints/route). The system includes 42 graphic icons to mark big fish holes. We have also used this portable unit in our float tubes with positive results. $449 MSRP.

Mustad Ultra-Line Thor

www.mustad.no  Much as the name indicates, this is one tough, new-age monofilament. It’s design allows for tremendous strength and abrasion resistance and the color makes it almost invisible in the water. We used the 20-pound as both a mainline and as a leader in fishing for salmon and were duly impressed. $4.99–6.99 MSRP.

Owner Boa Rig

www.ownerhooks.com The Boa Rig features a knot that allows an angler to adjust the lead hook but still get a firm hookset when setting the lead hook. By applying pressure to the knot itself, the lead hook slides up or down the line to accommodate various bait sizes. When pressure is applied to the hook, the knot locks in place allowing for a solid hookset. The rig is available in the following bottom hook / top hook size (lb. test leader): 1/0-#1 (15lb), 2/0-1/0 (20lb), 3/0-2/0 (20 lb), 4/0-3/0 (25 lb), 5/0-4/0 (30 lb), 6/0-5/0 (30 lb), 7/0-6/0 (40 lb). $4.99 MSRP.

Blue Fox Rattling Pixee

www.bluefox.com . This tried-and-true spoon now includes sound and a holographic finish, making it a deadly offering. Salmon and trout across Alaska stand little chance against a well presented Pixee. It is nice to see a siwash included to replace the treble for ease in catch-and-release. Blue Fox sells a kit titled “Best Selling Alaskan Rattling Pixee Spoons” that includes three 1/2-oz. and two 7/8-oz. spoons in colors proven successful in Alaska. I hope to try out their Trixee spoon and the Kandlefish jig this year. $2.99 MSRP.

Kodiak Custom Tackle Silicone-Skirt Spinners

www.kodiakcustom.com The addition of the silicone skirt increased the lure action and the corresponding catch rates. We carry them in the box on all silver excursions and always have a supply of #5 in green and light- and dark-blue. Kodiak Custom tackle makes these spinners in 23 combinations of colors, so just about everyone’s go-to color is represented in the lineup. $4.79–5.29 MSRP.

FISH ALASKA BEST VALUE

SILVER

Lamiglas CST12667-6 12-foot, 6-inch six-piece Spey rod 6/7-weight

www.lamiglas.com . The CST Series utilizes the latest design and construction techniques to deliver a casting Spey rod that is ready for travel at a moments notice. The blanks are IM6 graphite, offering fast response without the weight of traditional materials. To further reduce weight and casting fatigue, an internal ferrule is used in the butt section to reduce the overall diameter of the blank. With each rod built in six pieces, even the 14-footer travels in the same space as a 9-foot, 4-piece trout rod. A metallic plum finish, traditional snake guides, Aluminum Oxide stripper, and machined, titanium finished reel seats complete these precise performers. Lamiglas travel tube included. $440 MSRP.

Scott LS2 1509/4

www.scottflyrods.com Scott’s most popular double-handers, the LS2 rods set a new benchmark for easy-casting Spey rods. They feel light in your hands and you can easily switch between casting styles. The actions are medium fast and they’re perfectly matched to today’s line systems so you can use short, mid, or long bellies depending on your fishing situation or preference. They have an ultra-light swing weight for all-day casting ease, important when chasing Alaska’s anadromous species. $595 MSRP.

G. Loomis Cross Current FR10810-3CC

www.gloomis.com . Oftentimes, high-end 10-weights are built with the saltwater flats angler in mind, where precision casting, often at great distances, is the key to success. When staring through the wind at a tailing permit 75 feet away, half a grand might not seem an unreasonable amount to drop on a fly rod. However, Alaskans have another idea altogether when big rods are concerned, and this usually calls for heavy sinking lines, weighted flies, and functional but not necessarily pretty casts. Plus, we need a rod that is sure to hold together when lashed to a 50-pound chromer king. Enter the G. Loomis Cross Current series. While designed for saltwater anglers, the 9-foot, 10-weight FR10810-3CC will punch big flies into that southwest Alaska wind, lift 500-grain lines with authority, and hold up after repeated abuse from the snottiest kings—all at about half the price of the GLX model. $380 MSRP.

Ross Canyon Big Game 7

www.rossreels.com . The Canyon Big Game series is a mid-priced large arbor fly reel that is specifically designed to battle big fish. With six square inches of effective drag surface, and 13.5 pounds of dead lift weight, the Canyon BG series has up to three times the effective drag of cork drag reels. Put simply, the BG series is one of the strongest fly fishing reels on the market today, and it costs considerably less than most competitive brands. By adding in features like titanium drag components, water shedding grooves on the palming rim, a large, easily adjusted drag knob, you end up with the ultimate big-game fly-fishing reel. The BG7 weighs 9.2 ounces without line and backing. $505 MSRP.

William Joseph Backwater Wading Jacket

www.williamjoseph.net The folks at William Joseph woke up one day and noticed everything out there seemed to be taking a bigger bite out of our wallets—a cup of coffee was $3, SUVs were $50 grand, and fishing jackets rang in at the $300-plus mark. So they went to work on designing a jacket everyone could afford. The result is one of the finest technical fishing jackets on the market, the Backwater, which features waterproof zippers, watertight neoprene cuffs, ventilated pit zips, a stowaway rain hood, a unique built in L.E.D. lighted zipper (bright enough to light a small room), and plenty of additional features as well. The price? Just $169.

Columbia ROL Jacket and Bib

www.columbia.com . Columbia’s ROL rainwear is constructed of 100% nylon Omni-Tech Storm Dry that’s waterproof and windproof, yet breathable. All seams on both the jacket and bibs are sealed. The jacket also has neoprene cuffs, front hand-warming cargo pockets, an inside storm flap with rain gutter, and an attached hood with draw-cord and visor. The bibs share the same construction, have adjustable elasticized suspenders, and also have two hand-warming pockets. During the season, we found the best feature of the jacket and bibs to be maneuverability, as oftentimes heavy rain gear can stifle motion. It’s also repels wind and water effectively but is probably most ideally suited to summer wear, as during the coldest early-spring or fall days, heavier, more insulated outerwear will be necessary. Jacket $59.99; Bibs $59.99 MSRP.

SIMMS RiverTek Wading Boot

www.simmsfishing.com Every feature on these boots was engineered to ensure you’ll be wearing them for many more fishing seasons to come, which makes every dollar spent to buy them one that can be put to other uses in future seasons. From the rugged waterproof vinyl uppers to the full neoprene lining, these boots are built to stand up to all the abuse a serious angler can put them through, even in Alaska. The EVA wedge mid-sole is attached to the upper using a Goodyear welt, which Simms markets as the toughest, most reliable boot construction ever developed. Our favorite function—the speed-lacing system, which means no more frozen-fingered fumbling with laces at the end of the day $99.95 MSRP.

St. Croix Wild River Rod 80HF

www.stcroixrods.com St. Croix Wild River rods are made of premium SCII graphite and are precision-balanced for great castability. We utilized the 8-foot, 15- to 40-pound model for kings this past season and found the rods exhibit that rarest of combinations, the strong, durable butt section with a sensitive, strike-telegraphing tip. Fuji reel seats, Hialoy guides, select-grade cork handles, and a two-year warranty on all Wild River models complete the package. $150 MSRP.

Wright McGill Sportsman’s Series Travel Baitcasting Rod

www.wright-mcgill.com Strong and light, this fast-action baitcasting rod traveled with us to points across Alaska in 2005. The 9-foot rod breaks into four sections and comes with a sturdy carrying case. It fits, much like our travel fly rods, into the large dry bags that we use to transport our gear. The rod we tested is rated for 8-12# line and had fast action and medium power. Wright & McGill binds kevlar to the butt end of the rod providing added strength. $129.99 MSRP.

Avet LX 6/3 Reel

www.avetreels.com .This 2-speed model is ideal for salmon and light bottom fishing and employs many of the other features found in all high-quality Avet reels. From preventing backlashes to 15-pound max drag with free spool to the AveDrag drag washer that provides smooth line release in the heat of battle, this Avet reel is a worthwhile addition to any gear arsenal. The reel weighs 24 oz. with a line capacity of 350 yards of 30-pound monofilament. $379.99 MSRP.

Abu-Garcia Ambassedeur C4 Baitcasting Reel

www.abugarcia.com . Always known for long-lasting quality and durability, the Swedish-made line of Abu Garcia Ambassadeur baitcasting reels just got a lot better, with several improvements made to venerable favorites like the C-Series reels, including tighter part tolerances, smoother and quieter design, all new 6-pin centrifugal casting brake, larger star-drag lever, carbon matrix drag system, and redesigned level wind, handle and spool. Besides advancing the drag system to a new level of smoothness, what the new matrix drag system allows you to do is tighten the drag 35 percent more, which might help you land that world-record salmon a little quicker or more easily break away from a stubborn hang up. All these improvements have been made to the immensely popular C-3 and C-4 baitcasting reels and incorporated into the newly introduced Record baitcasting reel now offered by Abu Garcia. In case you don't know, besides color, the difference between the C-3 and C-4 reel models is retrieve speed. The C-3 and new Record baitcasting reel feature a 5.3 to 1 retrieve speed, which is considered standard and the most popular. The C-4 features a much faster 6.3 to 1 retrieve speed, preferred by anglers that mostly cast and retrieve—the idea is that with this reel you'll spend more time fishing and less time reeling. All models are available in either right or left hand retrieve. $89.50 to $99.95 MSRP.

Airrus Ultra XL

www.rodsbyairrus.com This series of rods is light, strong, and performed phenomenally well on silvers in the salt. We experimented with the 6-foot, 8-inch medium and medium/heavy models and were very impressed. The Ultra XL features a removable 3-inch long butt section for two-handed use or for added leverage in fighting fish. The series comes in models from 6-foot 4 inches to 7-foot 6 inches and from medium power (8- to 14-pound test) to extra-heavy power (14- to 40-pound). The Ultra XL integrates an engineered Hypalon material for a grip that offers improved insulation and sensitivity. All rods have Fuji fold down hookeepers, Alconite guides, and rubberized cork butt caps. $159.95 MSRP.

Newell S229-5 Reel

Light, strong, durable and corrosion resistant, the Newell product line is well suited to jig fishing in Alaska. Designed for casting live baits to gamefish on the move, West Coast anglers have been using these reels for some time. Strong drags and ample line capacity add to the necessary requirements for Alaskan anglers. Made in four classes ranging from 20- to 30-pound to 60- to 100-pound, we tested the 20- to 30-pound series jigging for all kinds of tasty morsels. $139.99 MSRP.

Okuma Induron ID–400XL

www.okumafishing.com From the titanium-coated line guides to the multi-disk rulidium drag system, this reel packs a wallop for a reasonable price. We landed many sockeye and Coho salmon on these reels and were impressed with their performance. $109.99 MSRP.

ANDE Classic Monofilament

www.andemonofilament.com We found that this product was worthy of the Ande name, nearly unbreakable, with good knot strength and low memory. It cast well and provided great strike transmission. Available in 4- to 20-pound in moss green. $4.99 to 6.99 MSRP.

Pautzke Fire Cure

www.pautzke.com . This egg cure is a combination of Pautzke’s Balls O‘ Fire recipe, their Krill attractant and Mark Yano’s proven Northwest egg cure formula. It comes in seven colors and we found that by mixing colors, one could achieve new shades that worked well. The cure held the eggs together, and most importantly, they caught fish. $33 MSRP for a variety pack of 16 oz. containers in all four original colors; natural, red, pink, and orange.

FISH ALASKA Field Favorites

GREEN

Caddis Navigator II

Here is a float tube built for big guys. Each pontoon measures 58 inches long, providing stability for the biggest guys, and it has an oversized flotation-support system to provide extra cushion for those long days on the water. But even with its size, the Navigator II Pro is quick to react, lets you sit high enough to see and cast effectively, and rides smooth in choppy water. Four pockets hold all your fishing essentials; plus a built-in cooler and cup holder give you luxury seldom seen in other float tubes. The tube also includes a mesh apron and fly patch, and 420-denier nylon outer is triple-stitched to protect the four vinyl bladders, making it as durable as it is functional. $169.99 MSRP.

Creek Company ODC 420

www.creekcompany.com A new hydro-efficient design for the ODC 420 allows you to cut through the water with little effort and the tube tracks extremely well to boot. The ODC 420 features a 420-denier nylon exterior and 30-oz. PVC bottom. Anglers sit high in this model, dry from the waist up, while the foam backrest provides all-day comfort and support. Dual, multiple-compartment storage areas yield plenty of room for all your accessories. It is incredibly portable as well, weighing just 14 pounds and coming standard with backpack straps included. This is a good option for long hikes into Alaska’s backcountry lakes.$164.99 MSRP.

Lamiglas BFC 4610

www.lamiglas.com . With the introduction of the BFC 4610, Lamiglas has covered the spectrum of big-game angling, as these rods’ ideal uses ranges from halibut to tuna and from jigging small live bait or dredging with large dead fish to working all the lures in between. All BFC rods feature hot black, blue, and silver diamond wraps and under-wraps over matte black blanks. We liked the 4-foot, 6-inch 50- to 100-pound BFC 4610 in combination with the Braid fighting belt for hauling barn doors from the Gulf of Alaska. $116 MSRP.

Braid Power Play Fighting Belt system

www.braidproducts.com At first, we weren’t sold on the Braid belt as a necessity for most Alaska saltwater excursions; then a member of our fishing party used one to help him subdue an adult salmon shark in under thirty minutes. Built to match with 130-lb. tackle, this belt allows you to apply up to 50 pounds of drag pressure to the fight. Fully adjustable, it has separate contoured padding for each thigh to prevent slipping. There are molded receivers on front for pliers or cutters. Crafted of high-impact plastic for superior strength and corrosion resistance, Braid fighting belts and harnesses give you the freedom of stand-up fishing with support rivaling that of a fighting chair. With any halibut that nears triple-digits, you’ll notice the difference. $124.99 MSRP.

Seeker Alaskan Series Fly Rods

www.seekerrods.com Known for their well-designed and high-quality halibut and salmon rods, Seeker has taken a step into the fly-fishers world in 2005 with their Alaskan series fly rods. Lightweight and fast, the rods cast well and have enough backbone to handle big trout. We experimented with the 9-foot, 6 weight model, but this rod is also available in 8-and 10-weights. MSRP 6# $363, 8# $370, 10# $377.

William Joseph Wader Bag

www.williamjoseph.net If your biggest complaint about most on-stream gear bags is the difficulty in access, like those times you’ve had to dump the contents of an entire dry bag onto the gravel bar just to locate one more roll of film, you’re not alone. Thankfully, though, we shouldn’t encounter that problem going forward now that William Joseph has taken care of the problem. The panels on the roomy Willy J gear bag are so wide you can actually load or unload at just about any angle, which is particularly nice when you are working from the tailgate of your truck or the deck of your river boat. To this new design they also added a fully waterproof base, a changing tarp, a no-snag carry handle, built-in rod tube carriers, wet/dry compartments, waterproof zippers, and about 15(or was that 16?) other improvements as well. $149 MSRP.

Grunden’s Petrus 82 Hooded Jacket

www.grundens.com . The Petrus 82 Jacket is made from a knitted polyester base material that’s laminated to a PVC polyurethane layer, the end product weighing only 5 oz. per yard. The strength-to-weight ratio of this fabric is remarkable--an entire set (jacket and bibs) weighs just 2 pounds. The jacket also features a double-secure storm flap, an attached hood and draw-cord, covered snaps, a storm flap, and set-in sleeve design. We wore this exact item when fishing from Seward and on the Kenai in some of the season’s most miserable weather and we stayed completely dry.$60 MSRP.

Patagonia Midweight Capilene Pants & Tops

www.patagonia.com . Patagonia’s most versatile base layer for the greatest range of weather, quick-wicking Capilene Midweight fabric’s brushed interior retains heat, while its smooth jersey-exterior gives it superior glide for snag-free layering. The slightly fitted silhouette provides a non-bulky fit without compromising mobility. The bottoms have a slightly lower rise for torso freedom and reduced bulk within cold-weather layering systems, and the plush elastic waistband is brushed for next-to-skin comfort. Plus, they’re as long-lasting as they are durable: Fish Alaska publisher Melissa Norris has a Capilene top that was bought when she first moved to Alaska 8 years ago, which she still uses as a base layer for everything from skiing in January to fishing on a hot July afternoon. Top $38; bottoms $38 MSRP.

Patagonia Regulator 1.5 Pullover and Regulator 1 Pants

www.patagonia.com . Made for highly aerobic alpine pursuits, the R1.5 uses Patagonia’s BioMap design to seamlessly transition between variable-knit textures for optimal thermal performance with minimal weight. In other words, it’s really warm, but not heavy or bulky. Design improvements have enhanced breathability; while curved mesh grooves inside the elbows, on the shoulder blades, and behind the neck facilitate mobility and minimize bulk. A “closed” knit structure in the core ensures warmth where it matters most. R 1.5 Pullover $135; pants $80 MSRP.

Scientific Anglers Mastery Series Nymph Line

www.scientificanglers.com The Scientific Anglers Mastery Series Nymph Line features a more powerful front taper to better turn over weighted flies, split-shot, and strike indicators, and an extra-long compound tapered head and extended rear taper for improved line control and long-distance mending. A new, larger tip also provides for added flotation, easier mending, and better strike detection. A returning winner, we feel the SA Nymph taper is a must-have for Alaska’s stream fishermen. $59.95 MSRP.

Scientific Anglers Mastery Series Wet Tip Express

www.scientificanglers.com Designed to deliver flies deep, and fast, the Mastery Series Wet Tip Express lines are a one-piece alternative, with significant advantages, to using a shooting line/shooting head system. Each model features a long-tapered sinking head for easier casting and increased diameter to the floating section for better line control, casting, and durability. The running line-section of each line model has been designed for increased durability and greatly reduced tangling. Wet Tip Express lines come in models from 150 grains to 550. $59.95 MSRP.

RIO Skagit Spey Lines

www.rioproducts.com The Skagit Spey Line is designed for the Skagit style of Spey casting, which utilizes short heavy heads and short casting strokes using heavy sinking tips and big flies. This type of Spey cast is easy to learn and an effective fishing method for both novice and experienced Spey casters. The recommended length of the head is no more than 3 to 3.5 times the length of the rod. The Skagit Spey line has a 27 ft. head with a loop. By attaching a standard RIO 15 ft. Tip the line will have a head length of 42 ft., perfect for 12 to 15 ft. Spey rods. When dredging deep, use a 9 or 10 ft section of RIO T-14. The Skagit line has two colors to identify the head from the running line and is available in 7/8(450gr), 8/9(550gr), 9/10(650gr), and 10/11(750gr). $90 MSRP.

Patagonia Synchilla Marsupial

www.patagonia.com . This cozy pullover with its deep front zip is a natural choice for everyday warmth. Made from 8-oz. double-faced PCR (post-consumer recycled) Synchilla fleece, it has an ample kangaroo-style pouch for stashing cold hands or an extra fly box, and is light enough to allow a full and easy range of motion. It’s not too much for taking along on a trip midway through the Alaska summer, nor is it too wimpy to bear the brunt of a crisp autumn morning. $78 MSRP.

Troutbeads

www.troutbeads.com After using a variety of sizes and colors in the field this year, our favorites are in 6mm and 8mm sizes in apricot, caramel roe, mauve pearl, peach pearl and orange clear. Had we had the chance to fish the king bite, we are sure that the 10 mm would work as well. 7 mm jig beads are also now available in eight colors. $2.29 MSRP.

Scientific Anglers System X Fly Boxes

www.scientificanglers.com This unique patent-pending design from Scientific Anglers has a tapered waterproof seal that ensures your flies remain 100% dry. Foam inserts are easily removed and replaced. All boxes float and have a see-through lid for quick identification. Choose the Standard fly box to hold a variety of flies or one of the others designed to hold specific patterns from streamers to nymphs. $21.95 MSRP.

Maxima Fluorocarbon

www.maxima-lines.com Nearly invisible in shallow, clear water, Maxima Fluorocarbon leaders proved their worth in the ultra-clear Iliamna River this past summer. The fish were extremely spooky, and nothing else led to as many hookups; plus, strength is no problem with any Maxima product and their fluorocarbon is not an exception. If you’re planning a steelhead adventure in Alaska or would like to target wary trout in some of the state’s clearwater trout streams, these leaders can make the difference between a two- or ten-fish day. $8.99–9.99 MSRP for leader wheels between 2- and 40-pound test.

Western Filament TUF-Line XP

www.wfilament.com . Aerospace technology has been utilized to produce TUF-Line XP fishing line. TUF-Line XP is produced under high tension allowing more compaction of the fibers during the finishing process. The line is compact, small in diameter, packs well on reels, and is highly abrasion resistant. $10.99 to 35.99 MSRP.

Worden’s M-2 FlatFish

www.yakimabait.com The M-2 FlatFish will dive 14 to 18 feet on the troll or back-troll, yet it maintains the unique, wide-wobble action that is so effective on trout, steelhead, salmon, pike, lakers, and sheefish—basically, everything we’re interested in catching in Alaska’s waters. The diving M-2SP also features bait-wrap grooves to better hold a fillet to the belly of the lure, and it features Eagle Claw Lazer Sharp, wide-gap, short-shank hooks for better hooking and holding of big fish. This past year, we even caught fish in muddy conditions with the M-2 FlatFish—imagine what it can do to fish under normal circumstances. $3.99–5.49 MSRP.

Dai-Riki Tapered Fluorocarbon Leaders

www.dan-bailey.com All the advantages of a fluorocarbon in a knotless tapered leader (abrasion resistant, low visibility, and increased sinking rate). Dai-Riki leaders have a more substantial butt section than other fluorocarbon leaders, making it easy to turn over bulky flies. These leaders have a 20% butt section, 60% taper section, and 20% tippet section, with tippet strengths ranging from 4- to 16-pound, and all leaders are nine feet in length. $6.95 MSRP.

SPRO Swimming Jig

www.spro.com The concept behind this lure is to imitate an injured baitfish. With a shimmer finish and curved tail that produces a wobble action, this lure works well for salmon, halibut and the variety of Alaska’s other bottomfish. It can be trolled or jigged and is available in seven sizes from 3/8- to 7-oz. and seven colors. We successfully used the 7 oz. SPRO Swimming Jig on a variety of halibut trips and on one occasion it was responsible for the biggest and most fish. $5.99 MSRP.

Action Optics Passage

www.actionoptics.com The new Passage is a true high performance fishing frame and was designed to meet the rigorous standards of professional guides. The Passage features Xtra-Thin polarized glass lenses to provide unparalleled visual acuity and low weight. To eliminate all possible distortion, the Passage utilizes a precise thinning of the lens from the center to the edges, known as Tapered Lens Technology. An anti-reflective backside coating eliminates distracting shadows, while exterior hydrophobic coatings on the Passage prevent fogging and make cleaning easier. They are available in eight different lens tints, including photochromic auto-adjusting tints. $144-$169 MSRP.

Owner Super Cut Scissors

www.ownerhooks.com Super cut scissors cut through even the finest micro-threads of today’s high-tech braided lines. The scissors are made from stainless steel, have durable high-impact handles, and include a soft padded sheath with an attachment loop. They are compact and a must for working with today's Spectra microfilaments. $25 MSRP.

Dr. Slick 5 1/2-inch Scissor Clamps

www.drslick.com  The Dr. Slick Company is one of the leading suppliers of high-quality stainless-steel tools (scissors, clamps’ and pliers) and accessories (nippers, retractors, files, and fly tying tools) to the fly-fishing and general fishing industry. In 1988 Kenneth A. High, M.D used his knowledge of surgical suite tools and instruments to design and create dozens of high quality tools and instruments specifically tailored to the needs of the fly- and general-fishing market. Today, the company is renowned for its innovations and quality standards, and we found the 5 ?-inch Scissor Clamps to be no different. Even after a season’s gripping, being used for everything from hook removal to assisting in field repairs, the clamps held tough, not warping out of alignment like generic hemostats are prone to do, while the scissors remained sharp and functional and cut as sharply today as the did right out of the package. $16.50 MSRP.

Leatherman Charge

www.leatherman.com Release a trout and repair an oar with the same tool. A must have for the outdoorsman and especially handy as a multi-use tool in remote situations. When I broke an oar on a float trip in the Mat-su valley, I was able to saw a length of alder to splice onto the oar (with Mustad THOR line) for support. The alder is still spliced to the oar. $99.95 MSRP.

Mustad Fillet Knives

www.mustad.no This light, strong knife was flexible and held an edge. $9.76 MSRP.

Javette

www.javette.com . Made from fresh-brewed, 100 percent Arabica coffee beans, Javette is a .25 ounce, single-serving gourmet coffee concentrate that makes a delicious cup of coffee when mixed with six to eight ounces of hot water. It’s packaged in a pressure resistant, light weight, single-serving pouch that can travel anywhere; in a backpack or pocket. The tear top, no-spill package allows coffee drinkers to easily regulate the strength of each cup – use half a package for a mild cup of coffee and a whole package for a strong cup. Javette is also ideal for hikers, campers and travelers. Javette is available in boxes of 20 at www.javette.com. $19.99 MSRP.

Mountain House Meals

www.mountainhouse.com  . Mountain House offers a wide range of options for breakfast, lunch and dinner. We tried the Rice & Chicken, Beef Stew, and Beef Strogonoff in the 16-ounce Pro-Paks and were impressed. $5.29 MSRP.

FoodSaver Professional Series GameSaver Pro

www.foodsaver.com . Featuring hands-free operation, the GameSaver Pro vacuums, seals, and shuts off automatically. Bags are sealed airtight with a durable, even seal. Special channels enable the efficient and complete removal of air so none is left trapped in pockets around the food. Plus, FoodSaver Bags’ 5-ply construction makes them an especially effective barrier to oxygen and moisture, and they are safe to freeze, boil, or microwave, and proven to prevent freezer burn. While great for personal use, the GameSaver is both efficient and hardy enough to make it a worthwhile product for the fish-packing operations of small lodges and outfitters. $299.99 MSRP.