Testing angling equipment typically isn't heroic duty, especially if most determinations are made in the field and not some spiffy laboratory. For one thing, you really can't learn much about a product until its performance thresholds are determined, and figuring that out usually means pushing, prodding and pulling until the whatever threshold there was lies somewhere in the distance. In this way you find out how much pressure a line of rods can take by breaking a few, and since the testing is taking place in the field, that almost always means watching a pretty solid fish swim away. However, if gear for big fish is what you're after, items that will not only handle a hot 40-pound king but will also stand up to the worst of the elements, Alaska makes the ideal proving ground. Stuff that succeeds up here will make it just about anywhere else.
Likewise, there are both good and bad elements to testing waders and other angling apparel in the Great Land. First, the good: an extreme climate and a world-class trout fishery that peaks during our wettest months means there are plenty of opportunities to see how a product will hold up under distress. The bad news is once you find out, you're already wet. Except, of course, in the rarest of circumstances.
It's those that we're concerned with here, the gear that didn't fail, the wading jackets that didn't leak, even after several seam-popping marches through the brush, the rods that didn't break, or at least not on the first fish of the day. The results of our testing throughout the year follow, arranged in three simple categories. First are our gold-medal favorites, items at the top of the angling-equipment food chain, chosen without regard to retail price. Secondly, we've added a silver-medal category, for those items that performed exceptionally under Alaska's notoriously raw conditions, but that come with an affordable price tag. Last but not least, you'll find sprinkled throughout our "Field Favorites,"those ancillary items that we found indispensable on our best excursions of the year. It also bears mentioning that these tests are not meant to be exhaustive. We can't test every line of rods or all the reels, not with any reliability anyway, so what follows is simply the best of what we did get a chance to see this year, the best in Alaska angling gear for 2006.
 GOLD AWARDS
G. Loomis Native Run FR1327-4-NR-SS GLX $685
www.gloomis.com
If there was a single "best-of" award to hand out, it would almost certainly be bestowed upon this new line of rods from G. Loomis. Designed specifically for salmon and steelhead-near to the heart of every employee at the Loomis factory in Woodland, WA, and obviously, scads of Alaskan-bound fly anglers as well-the NativeRun rods are crafted from the company's proprietary GLX graphite and bring together some of the finest components in modern fly-rod design. They provide anglers with the power necessary to subdue the hottest anadromous fish while retaining light weight, perfect balance and sensitivity, and an exceptional smoothness from the first moment of your backcast through the fly settling to the surface.
After the season's testing was complete, at least two members of the Fish Alaska staff purchased their own NativeRun GLX rods for personal use.
"First thing this spring I pulled an 11-foot, 7-weight NativeRun from the tube, and really, had to wonder about all that rod. I'm sold now, though. After an entire season's use, this is my favorite all-around fly rod. I fished it more than twice as much as any other rod this year, and will undoubtedly do the same in the years to come."-Troy Letherman, Editor, Fish Alaska.
The Adventure Fly-Fishing Company All-Season Vest-Jacket Price: $387
www.theadventureflyfishingco.com
To begin with, the Vest-Jacket offers extremely durable waterproof and windproof breathable materials, reinforced stitched-tape sealed seams for all water-critical seams and pockets, genuine YKK zippers, climbing-grade nylon webbing, and shatterproof hardware. The removable waterproof hood, sleeves, and foul-weather extension easily convert the Cool-Mesh lined summer vest into an all-season fully-functional vest-jacket. You'd have to see it to believe it, but some of the numerous additional features include over 35 pockets, several of them function-specific, like the six exterior and interior dry pockets, a 100% waterproof pocket insert, micro-fleece lined sunglasses and hand-warmer pockets, a clear-view license display pocket, two rod or bottle pockets, and two drop-down interchangeable fly tray pockets.
"I'm not normally a fan of fly-fishing vests, typically finding them uncomfortable and inefficient, and not particularly well-designed for the unique and often rigorous demands of travel in the Alaska bush, where space and weight are of the utmost concern. However, after a week spent searching for spring steelhead in southeast Alaska, I'm finding myself with a different opinion altogether. Whether hiking in, flying out, or boating across Lynn Canal, I didn't have to worry about juggling gear between a backpack, hip pack, and wading jacket. In fact, I didn't have to worry about a jacket at all. I stayed warm, dry, and comfortable; I stayed mobile, and maybe most importantly, I was able to concentrate entirely on the fishing, which in any conditions is about the best recommendation for a piece of equipment that I can imagine."-Troy Letherman, Editor, Fish Alaska.
G. Loomis Escape Travel Rods $250 - $320
www.gloomis.com
As more anglers are traveling to or through Alaska every year, logistics become more of an issue than ever before. Throwing half a dozen one-piece rods in the back of the truck is frequently not an option, but for many performance-minded anglers, the answer lies in the Escape Travel series from G. Loomis. Built with three-piece travel convenience, though as functional and durable as the rest of the Loomis line, the Escape series rods will help make any day on the water more productive. Our favorites were the ETR84-3MLS-10, 6- to 12-pound-test rated spinning rod (medium-light power) that's ideal for tossing small spoons and spinners to Alaska's rainbows, Dollies, and small pike. The ETR99-3MHC-14 extra-fast casting rod (medium-heavy power) was the popular choice for sockeye, silvers, steelhead and Kasilof kings.
Patagonia Women's StretchSST Jacket $315
www.patagonia.com
Patagonia's venerable classic has been revisited, now offered in a new stretch fabric that is lighter, more breathable and even more durable than the materials used previously in its construction. The pocketing was also streamlined, providing more storage room to the angler, with cleaner access and less bulk to get in the way of oars or line. Reversed StretchCoat gussets seal the wrists and a protective cuff prevents line snags. All exterior zippers are waterproof, and a Houdini drawcord hem shortens the length of the jacket for deep-wading. Already a gold-medal winner, the Women's Stretch SST Jacket came out of its design overhaul in better shape than ever.
"The new SST Jacket is the best performing and most stylish jacket I've ever worn! It's unbelievable how such a wonderful fabric can be so waterproof. A great fit and great features, like the high, fleece-lined collar that the hood folds into and the comfortable, leak preventing cuffs, make this one a real winner."-Pudge Kleinkauf, Contributing Editor, Fish Alaska
Scott LS2 1408/4 Spey Rod $595
www.scottflyrod.com
Scott's most popular line of two-handed rods, the LS2 series offers five models, ranging from a 12-foot, 6-weight version to the big gun, a monstrous 16-foot 10-weight. We chose the 1408, a 14-foot, 8-weight rod as our favorite for general Alaska applications, namely casting big streamers to spring- and fall-trout on the tundra rivers of Southwest, or silvers in Cordova, chum salmon on the Alagnak flats, and Karluk steelhead. The rod is light enough to cast all day long without tiring the angler, while its power is plainly evident. All models in the LS2 line are four-piece rods, making bush travel a simpler affair.
"One thing I liked a lot about the Scott LS2 was its versatility-I could set up with a Skagit system and dredge big streamers to deep trout in the morning and then go to a long-bellied dry line for tossing fry imitations in the afternoon, all without altering the rod's casting or fishing performance one bit."-Troy Letherman, Editor, Fish Alaska
Ross Reels Pescador 6 pliers $139
www.rossreels.com
A Ross Worldwide product, the Pescador pliers are exceptional fishing tools for both salt- and freshwater applications. While most aluminum pliers are made from standard 6061-T6 stock, Ross has chosen to use aircraft-grade, 6061G-T6511 proprietary aluminum stock, which provides greater strength and rigidity while still allowing for a beautifully machined finish and vibrant color application. The Pescador pliers fit comfortably in-hand and have ventilated arms for a lightweight feel. Tungsten carbide cutters slice through virtually all sizes of fishing-specific monofilaments, wires and braided lines. The pliers also have ample jaw strength to safely remove hooks, tighten knots, crimp sleeves and connect wires. In addition, Ross has incorporated a medium-grit, diamond-coated sharpening stone into the top of the pliers' jaw for convenient hook-sharpening, always a must for the Alaska salmon angler.
To round-out the package, these pliers come with a custom-designed Cordura sheath and self-coiling safety lanyard as well.
Cloudveil 8X Wading Jacket $395
www.cloudveilfishing.com
A premium outer shell keeps foul weather from halting good fishing, and the Cloudveil X, featuring Gore-Tex XCR fabric, does just that, sealing out moisture during even the hardest rains, while strategically placed pit-zips let steam escape. The sit-flat chest pockets fit oversized fly boxes and the Napoleon pockets can hold up to four stacked spools of your favorite mono or fluorocarbon. The back-stash pocket stows lunch or that bulky 35mm camera high and dry, and a neoprene inner cuff seals at the wrist for reviving your catch.
Clackacraft ClackaMax $7999
www.clackacraft.com
Comparable to 20-foot aluminum drift boats in size and carrying capacity, the Clackacraft ClackaMax offers a gunwale length of 19 feet, 9 inches and a 60-inch bottom, and is geared towards fishing four anglers comfortably. The model features all the regular Clackacraft highlights as well: tunnel hull, tracking channels and gulf stream bottom design. It comes standard with a front passenger bench and rower's split-entry bench with dry storage, two padded, fold-down passenger seats, a foot-release anchor system, rope and anchor. All Clackacraft drift boats carry a 100-year guarantee against punctures and leaks on the bottom or chine.
"We thoroughly enjoyed our season on the Kenai with this boat. It's both spacious and handles well with heavy loads. We were easily able to float and fish four anglers in any water."-Marcus Weiner, Publisher, Fish Alaska
Patagonia Watermaster Waders $335
www.patagonia.com
With a reinforced leg and seat, 21% more puncture-resistant fabric reinforcements and right- and left-specific neoprene feet, Patagonia's Watermaster Waders were ready for another run through of Fish Alaska field tests. By maintaining favored features from their earlier incarnation, like the waist-mounted suspenders that allow anglers to fold down the bib for comfort in warmer weather, it was likely the new Watermasters would be another hit. Anatomically contoured crotch- and knee-sections that allow for freer movement and gravel-guard cuffs that actually seem to work most of the time, coupled with the design improvements mentioned previously, make these our favorite waders of the year.
Strikemaster Lazer 224 $449.99
www.strikemaster.com
This ice auger chews up the ice at a dizzying rate and starts with ease in the toughest conditions. The quad-blade design aided us in rapid descents through ice up to 3 feet thick. With less reliable and powerful gas augers or worse yet, the hand auger, we'd dig some holes and fish them hard because the task of punching new holes through the ice was too daunting. With this powerful and reliable machine, we were able to dig holes quickly and spend more time finding good fish.
Pflueger President 6750 $139.95
www.pfluegerfishing.com
With 9 double-shielded stainless steel ball bearings; a one-way clutch, instant anti-reverse bearing; and Pflueger's patented six-pin adjustable centrifugal brake system, the President series of casting reels promised much in the way of performance, a promise that was backed up in some of Alaska's most demanding conditions. The rugged one-piece solid aluminum frame, with an aluminum-handle side plate, and a machined, ported and anodized aluminum spool make this one item that's likely to stand the test of time. The President 6750 packed plenty of line for fishing big salmon, and displaying a smooth action and a sound drag, the reel handled both kings and silvers nicely.
Leatherman E307x Locking Liner $79.99
www.leatherman.com
Applying the same superior craftsmanship and durability users have come to expect from their multi-tools, Leatherman has created a fine new line of folding knives, including the E307x, a combination straight- and serrated-edge folding knife with a 2.8-inch blade. Like all knives in the line, the E307x features the ingenious Blade Launcher, with a thumb stud for one-hand opening, as well as a proprietary bit driver that combines with a bit holder integrated into the handle to provide six screw bits, a locking, one-hand carabiner clip that can also be used as a bottle opener, and the removable pocket clip.
"As with all Leatherman products, this new knife exhibits the multi-functionality and superior craftsmanship you've come to expect. The 154 CM knife blade is ultra-sturdy, and the other tools like the Phillips and flathead screwdriver and can-opener make this more than just a knife, though it comes in a surprisingly small package."-Wayne Norris, Operations, Manager, Fish Alaska
Simms RiverTek Wading Jacket $379.95
www.simmsfishing.com
New for 2006, this Extreme Wet Weather-rated, high-tech jacket is incredibly light and loaded with innovative features, including three-layer Gore-Tex fabric technology, 100% rip-stop nylon face fabric, and an adjustable storm hood featuring Gore-Tex PacLite fabric for closer adjustment around the angler's head and easier storage. Rounding out the features of this new jacket are four low-profile, water-resistant pockets to store fly boxes and tippet spools. Additional accessories include a forceps tab, retractor docking station, and built-in retractors. Throughout the year, and especially in the late fall when chasing Alaska's largest rainbows, this jacket performed admirably, keeping Fish Alaska field testers dry in some of the wettest conditions imaginable.
Smith Action Optics Prescription Services - $ Varies highly based upon frame and lens choices
www.smithoptics.com
Normally, fitting standard 8-base prescription lenses to a wrap frame causes prism and prescription errors due to the angle of the frame, often resulting in headaches and a feeling of discomfort for the wearer. The Smith prescription program utilizes a patented lens technology that virtually adjusts your prescription for their high-wrap 8- and 9-base lens curves. Prescription ranges from +2.00 to +5.00 are now possible in your favorite Smith frames in clear, high-contrast RC36, True Color Gray, or Sienna Brown lens tints. Polarized and mirrored lens options are available as well. The result is the first prescription wrap lens to provide clear, comfortable vision for every prescription, regardless of the degree of frame wrap.
"If you are like me and don't wear contact lenses, then you require a prescription pair of polarized sunglasses. I field-tested a pair of Smith Action Optics Padre glasses, utilizing their prescriptions services, and came away very impressed. The glasses fit snugly, are comfortable and effective. I was truly amazed when wearing them on American Creek, now suddenly able to easily tell the difference between Dollies, rainbows and sockeye."-Marcus Weiner, Publisher, Fish Alaska
 FISH ALASKA BEST VALUE
Albright Tackle Tempest III fly reel $350
www.albrighttackle.com
A 2006 release from new fly-fishing name Albright Tackle, the Tempest fly reel features sturdy construction (the frame and spool are built entirely from machined bar stock aircraft aluminum), a push-button spool release for the quickest line changes, and easy right/left adjustment with no disassembly necessary. Its large-arbor design allows for plenty of backing and super-quick line pickup on the retrieve, and the drag system packs plenty of punch, enough to stop a marauding elephant it felt like, let alone one of Alaska's hard-charging gamefish.
Ross Reels Cimarron Large Arbor 4 Price: $160 - $180
www.rossreels.com
The Ross CLA is an affordable hybrid large-arbor fly reel that carries the name of one of the manufacturer's oldest and most popular series. However, while this CLA matches the Cimarron in durability and with a similarly affordable price, it also offers a stronger drag, greater drag range and sensitivity, more pleasant incoming and outgoing sound, hybrid large-arbor configuration, innovative conversion mechanism, and other additional features that anglers have come to expect with modern fly reel design. While appropriate for any fishing application in Alaska, including Spey, we liked the CLA 4, which balanced nicely with the lightest 8-weight rods, still holding plenty of backing, and easily handled all the state's midweight fighting fish.
Temple Fork Outfitters 10-wt. Large Arbor Fly Reel, TFO 425 $259.95
www.templeforkflyrods.com
TFO Large Arbor reels are machined from 6061 aluminum and offer a state-of-the-art draw bar/carbon fiber disk drag. Three bearings give the reel a silky-smooth spin and a one-way roller bearing makes it easily convertible from left- to right-hand retrieve. At 9.2 ounces, the TFO 425 balanced nicely with our 9- and 10-weight two-handed rods, and even when carrying a bulky Skagit-style fly line, still packed on enough backing to ensure that big king wasn't going to run out of line.
G. Loomis East Fork 7/8-wt. Fly Reel Price: $165 - $185
www.gloomis.com
An entirely new proprietary drag material on the G. Loomis EastFork fly reels relieves anglers from worrying about loosening the drag to save their tippet, or conversely, from cranking it down to keep large fish from spooling them. The drag on this series of reels transitions from friction-free at startup to controlled strength at any setting. The spool and body are both machined and forged, allowing for a stable, intricate marriage between the two. Plus, it's kept the reel light in weight while retaining strength and hassle-free design. Sizes in the series include 3/4-, 5/6-, and 7/8-weight reels, the latter of which was put to good use on everything from Katmai trout to Kenai sockeye this past season. For the money, it's a fine fly reel for the freshwater angler.
M. Handy Bristol Bay Pro Guide Series fly rod $335
www.handyrod.com
From Anchorage, Alaska, the M. Handy Bristol Bay Pro Guide Series fly rods are made for Alaskan waters, by an Alaskan angler. We tested a 9-foot 7-weight this season, which like all the rods in this line features top-of-the-line components married to a high-density graphite blank. All blanks and finished rods are custom designed and developed.
"This rod performs well when fishing big trout and salmon with floating lines. Attention to detail can be seen in the reel seat, wraps and guides, and the five-piece model made traveling very convenient."-Marcus Weiner, Publisher, Fish Alaska
G. Loomis Split Bottom Rolling Cargo Bag $179.99
www.gloomis.com
Easily carry your fishing rods and gear in one split-bottom cargo bag equipped with heavy-duty skate wheels for convenient transport. The durable extra-heavy exterior material has water-resistant polyurethane coating on the back to keep contents dry. The split bottom has a separate storage area for travel rods. Dual end-pockets proved additional storage, and they also are expandable, making them ideal for keeping wet or dirty clothes separate. The top has an easy-access U-shaped opening. Oversized buckles, webbing, and zippers enhance durability and make securing or accessing compartments easier.
Simms Dry Creek Boat Bag $169.95
www.simmsfishing.com
You needn't be concerned about gear protected inside the Simms Dry Creek Boat Bag, no matter how rough or hot it gets on the water. The exterior is water-resistant 420-denier, double-coated polyurethane nylon, and the interior is the same kind of fabric in a 70-denier, single-coated version. Those fabrics teamed with water-resistant, non-corrosive zippers mean your gear is safe from boat spray and precipitation even in saltwater environments. Also, a special foam body prevents heat from radiating up through the boat bottom and into the bag. There's a map or tippet pocket on top, pockets on the sides, and a clear pocket on the interior of the lid. Velcro interior dividers enable custom configuration for fly boxes or other special items.
"This bag was really put through the ringer and the range of elements an Alaska angler can face in an April through October season. Its simple, spacious design allows one to take everything necessary for a multi-species and technical river adventure. It is highly water-resistant and kept the interior dry in all but the heaviest rains."-Marcus Weiner, Publisher, Fish Alaska
Simms Dry Creek Duffel Large $199.95; Medium $149.95; Small $99.95
www.simmsfishing.com
The Simms Dry Creek Duffel utilizes 420-denier polyurethane-coated nylon with three layers bonded under all handles for additional durability in high stress areas, and a wide-mouth roll top enables anglers to enjoy optimum access to their gear on the water. Durable thermal welding offers a completely waterproof interior with round, tight corners, and the duffel's shoulder straps feature aero mesh padding and a handle wrap with Velcro closure.
Penn GT Level Wind 330LD $139.99
www.pennreels.com
Combining quality construction and performance, these level-wind, one-piece graphite-frame reels are built to withstand the rigors of saltwater fishing. The drags are constructed of super-durable HT-100 material, and the reels also feature anodized aluminum spools, heavy-duty clickers, ball bearings and stainless steel line guides. The 330LD is the perfect reel for freshwater trolling, inshore, and light off-shore fishing.
Tica Veteran S209 $206
www.ticaglobal.com
This reel performed well during several days of knuckle busting fun on an all out sockeye craze this summer. A strong drag and ample line capacity are among the traits that make this a good value.
William Joseph W20 Wading Boots $98
www.williamjoseph.net
In 2006 William Joseph, primarily known for a line of innovative, stylish and functional on-stream packs, jumped into the wading boot free-for-all with the W20, which we found to be both comfortable and supportive. The W20 boots feature a Hypolan outer shell, a high arch, and William Joseph's new RTB soles (River Bottom Technology), with their combination of the finest quality felt joined at the heal and toe with mountaineering-grade rubber. This reduced the concern that the felt would pull back from the toe early-on, a normal worry with traditional wading boots. Also, another highlight for the angler with these boots is the ease of getting in and out, which comes in particularly handy when fingers are numb from cold and all you want to do is get inside by the fire.
Temple Fork Outfitters Drift and Float Rods $134.95
www.templeforkflyrods.com
Temple Fork Outfitters made the foray into the conventional rod market in 2006, with their now typical splash, introducing eight new models of drift and float rods. Especially favored by the steelheaders of the Pacific Northwest, modern drift and float rods utilize increased rod length with sensitive tips to protect light lines and to feel every feature of the streambed so necessary for increased hook ups of those wary fish. Alaska anglers, of course, are no strangers to the targeting of anadromous fish, and over the course of the season, these new TFO rods proved their worth on just about every one of our sea-going species. Additionally, the 4-piece design makes these 8.5 and 9 foot rods very travel friendly, and each rod comes with TFO's lifetime unconditional warranty.
HaberVision Nice Combo $350
www.habervision.com
Founded in 2005 by Steve Haber, who earlier in his career developed the Bolle brand of sunglasses and goggles, HaberVision lenses are specifically focused on polarized eyewear that deals with three types of glare: direct, reflected and indirect. The Nice (pronounced like the town in France) frames present a classic rectangular shape in a wrap style. The combo comes with a pair of lens tints, Amber, for those dreary Alaska days when light is minimal, and Copper Rose, which provides superb contrast and perception in conditions ranging from bright sunlight to heavy overcast.
While the suggested retail price for the Nice Combo is $350, anglers visiting the HaberVision website can receive a 50% discount on their purchase.
"I found the Nice frames to be both stylish and comfortable. With their lightweight and wrap-around fit, I hardly noticed I was wearing sunglasses at all, and having two lens tints available made sure I had the best chance to spot the fish first, no matter the light conditions."-Wayne Norris, Operations Manager, Fish Alaska
Scott E2 1007/4 10-foot 7-weight $495
www.scottflyrod.com
Scott's E2 series of fast-action fly rods balance light in the hand, deliver tight loops, high line speed, and plenty of accuracy. The blanks are designed with thin walls and large diameters to keep anglers in touch with the line and to give positive control over both casts and drifts. We preferred a pair of models, the 1007/4, a 10-foot 7-weight, and the 958, a 9-foot, 6-inch 8-weight, both of which worked well for quartering streamers on the swing, mending and fishing egg imitations on the dead-drift, and ultimately, in controlling powerful fish.
 FISH ALASKA FIELD FAVORITES
Motorola Iridium 9505 and Qualcomm Globalstar GSP1600 $50 - $75/week rental
www.surveyors-exchange.com
www.susitnaenergy.com
We tested both models from The Surveyor's Exchange in Anchorage and found that they worked well on the Nushagak River. Having one on a remote trip is a necessity.
Vision Rolling Swivel with Interlock snap 25-packs: $4.20 - $6.15
www.visionhooksandtackle.com
With a new, innovative design, and ideal for trolling, surf fishing, back-bouncing, drift fishing and dozens of other applications, the Vision Rolling Swivel is quickly finding its place in tackle boxes around the country. The swivels come in a nickel black finish and in sizes 4, 7, and 10. We used this product in a size 7 and found that it really reduced line twist when casting spinners.
Ande Classic Monofilament $4.99 - $6.99
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 4-20 pound in moss-green.
Hope Pharmaceuticals Scopace 35¢ per pill
www.hopepharm.com
Scopolamine, the active ingredient in the prescription medicine Scopace, was rated the most effective drug in preventing nausea and vomiting induced by motion by the American Hospital Formulary Service and is also recommended by the CDC for the prevention of motion sickness. The typical dose is 1 to 2 tablets taken an hour before travel. And unlike the scopolamine patch, which provides a fixed dose, patients can easily titrate a Scopase dose to adjust for weight and individual needs.
"This innovative motion sickness remedy was put to the test when we tried it during some rough days at sea. The product tester is a renowned seasickness sufferer, and amazingly he had a sickness free day. The pill is the next generation from the scopolamine patch."-Marcus Weiner, Publisher, Fish Alaska
Greatland Laser Rescue Laser Light $89.95
www.greatlandlaser.com
This compact rescue laser light from Greatland Laser is compact-at just over three inches in length, it easily fits in your pocket or on a keychain-and durable, made from rugged, machined aluminum. Effective as a nighttime signaling device in ranges up to 20 miles, and up to three miles in daytime, the Laser Rescue Light makes an invaluable addition to any safety kit. The unit operates for 40 hours on an easily replaceable 3-volt lithium battery and contains a long-life laser diode capable of 10,000 meantime hours before failure. The laser is also waterproof up to depths of 80 feet.
Costa Del Mar Frames Hammerhead: $149.95, Fathom: $119.95
www.costadelmar.com
Two venerable options from this respected name in performance optics, the Hammerhead and Fathom frames offer the style and comfort anglers have come to expect, as well as good durability and exceptional functionality. The Hammerhead, an XL-sized frame, features stainless steel spring hinges and a full-wrap style, while the Fathoms offer co-injected, cold-molded frames (size large) for enhanced durability in a saltwater environment. Both come in any number of colors, with the wealth of Costa Del Mar lens tints available.
Scientific Anglers System X Fly Boxes $21.95
www.scientificanglers.com
This unique patent-pending design from Scientific Anglers has a tapered waterproof seal that ensures your flies remain 100% dry. The boxes also float, which came in handy for a certain clumsy editor this summer on American Creek, when he was already miles from the boat and without any other dry flies. Additionally, replacement foam inserts are available and come in several styles (standard, nymph, streamer, dry fly). Each is easily removed and replaced, allowing anglers to carry one overall box, switching out inserts as necessary, or as some members of the Fish Alaska staff have taken to doing, you can build seasonal boxes using the different inserts, storing unneeded flies until just the right time of year.
Thomas Spinning Lures $2.09 - $2.59
With a great variety of sizes and colors, we found ourselves catching everything from trout to salmon, with the occasional saltwater specimen coming to hand as well. The wobbling action and professional finishes had fish across Alaska fooled.
ExOfficio Buzz-Off Lite LS $79
www.exofficio.com
Another product of the BUZZ OFF brand from ExOfficio, the first EPA-registered insect-repellent apparel, the super lightweight BUZZ OFF Lite LS features a 65/35 blend of polyester and cotton and a quick-drying, moisture wicking finish with excellent UV protection. Two covered security-zip chest pockets and contour shaping for a great fit round out some of the other highlights we found particularly noteworthy.
"I will try anything that might help repel mosquitoes, but there are many more advantages to this long-sleeved shirt, namely it's cool, comfortable fit."-Melissa Norris, Publisher, Fish Alaska
Rubbermaid 150 QT Marine Cooler $79.99 - $139.99
www.rubbermaid.com
The Rubbermaid 150-quart Marine Cooler features an innovative and durable design that provides useful features to keep everything cool and fresh for up to five days, even in the most extreme temperatures. UV stabilizers protect the contents inside as well as the surface of the cooler, preventing it from yellowing over time. A threaded drain and recessed lined pockets make cleaning simple and effortless. Additionally, the cooler features a molded-in fish ruler for measuring fishing success on the spot. Providing storage for even the most successful fisher, the 150-quart cooler is built to carry up to 250 pounds of fish. Rubbermaid's Marine Cooler also provides a helping hand for those early mornings with built-in cup holders to secure coffee mugs, cans or bottles.
"If you want to keep your fish cold or pack enough food and drink for an army, then this cooler is the one for you. With an enormous capacity, we used it extensively while salmon fishing. It kept ice frozen for several days and served nicely as an extra seat in the drift boat."-Wayne Norris, Operations Manager, Fish Alaska
ALOKSAK storage bags $4.99 and up
www.watchfuleyedesigns.com
These rugged, reliable bags are useful in keeping your vitals dry. If you wade like I do, then there is a good chance that you'll have water in the chest pouch of your waders. On a recent weeklong trip where we waded everyday, I used one to keep my licenses and money dry and it worked to perfection. They come in a range of sizes.
Scientific Anglers Mastery Series Trout Taper, WF-4F $59.95
www.scientificanglers.com
The Scientific Anglers Mastery Trout Series fly lines excel at performing the duties of traditional trout presentations. Tackle trout on big water with the weight forward model or throw tiny dry flies for brookies on streams you can hop across with the double taper version. Line characteristics are specifically geared towards handling casts and mends associated with fishing for trout. A supple coating allows the line to shoot through guides for decreased drag, translating into longer and smoother casts. Low memory all but eliminates line coil, ensuring the line rolls out the way it was meant to every time. Naturally, this line also floats high for exceptional mending control, even on rough water.
Scientific Anglers Wet-Tip Express $59.95
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, with the 250- to 350-grain models coming in the handiest for our field testers this season.
RIO Skagit Spey Lines $90
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 then 3 -3.5 times the length of the rod. The Skagit Spey line has a 27 ft (8.2m) head with a loop. By attaching a standard RIO 15 ft (4.5m) Tip the line will have a head length of 42 ft (12.7m), perfect for 12 - 15 ft (3.6 - 4.5m) spey rods. For longer rods, simply add a 5 ft or 10 ft RIO Skagit Cheaterª to achieve the required length. When dredging deep, use a 9 or 10 ft section of RIO T-14ª. 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).
Thermacell Cordless Mosquito Repellents $24.99
www.mosquitorepellent.com
Thermacell works by heating a mat saturated with mosquito repellent. As the mat is heated the repellent is released into the surrounding area, providing an area of protection (about 225 sq. feet). Besides being cordless, these units offer odor-free relief, and in certain areas, up to 98% effective performance. Also available as a free-standing lantern.
Acme Trophy Spoon $2.19 - $5.79
www.acmetackle.com
The Acme Trophy Spoon's erratic, darting movement on the upsweep and fluttering, injured baitfish-like action on the fall help make it an extremely effective spoon. However, most Alaska saltwater anglers will be interested in another aspect of its design: the Trophy Spoon was built to sink quickly to where the fish are, whether that's suspended in the water column or holding near vertical structure, ledges or schools of bait and then to quickly grab their attention with its action and flashy, hammered finish. It's proven to be versatile as well, fishing effectively as a jig or when trolled or cast and retrieved. The G-ounce spoon is ideal for jigging through the ice as well.
Watermark packs $36 - $48
800-269-1875
Founded on the principal that it is possible to make top quality fly-fishing equipment without breaking the bank, Watermark took their years of experience in manufacturing equipment for all sectors of fishing (they also manufacture the William Joseph line) and put it to work on building an affordable line of on-stream packs. All seams are taped on these packs, which range in styles, leaving no exposed or raw edges. This seam-taping process also more than doubles the products' strength and ability to withhold water.
"I was pleasantly surprised with the comfort, utility and design of the very functional Watermark waist pack. It performed well during a half-day forced march on American Creek and was my staple for stealthy, lightweight combat insertions on the upper Kenai River for sockeye. We also experimented with the Hydro Pack and found that one could carry the necessities for a multi-day excursion within its confines, while remaining both fully mobile and comfortable."-Marcus Weiner, Publisher, Fish Alaska
Bradley Smoker $459.00
www.bradleysmoker.com
The Original Bradley Smoker is a unique smoke house, sold complete with its accompanying smoke generator. Flavor bisquettes are burned for 20 minutes each at a consistent temperature in the unit's smoke generator, producing clean continuous smoke, thus eliminating the high temperature gases, acids and resins that can distort the flavor of smoked food. It is light enough to carry and is about the size of a small fridge.
The Bradley Smoker makes clean tasting food without any aftertaste. While other smokers need to be tended constantly, the Bradley Smoker automatically produces clean, cool smoke for up to 8 hours safely and without intervention. We tested the Bradley Stainless Steel version which is a great looking model. See the recipe department for Smoked Salmon Spread in the Oct/Nov 06 issue of Fish Alaska.
Berkley Gulp! ® Saltwater 11-inch Continuous Cut Bait $9.49
www.berkley-fishing.com
A continuous cut bait that's easy to cut into shapes for tipping trailers or trolling strips. It clearly outfished the bare jig when used to catch halibut, lingcod, and rockfish in the Gulf of Alaska.
Vision Octopus hook 25-packs from $2.25 - $6.60
www.visionhooksandtackle.com
The Vision Octopus style hook is a thin wire, sticky-sharp, fast penetrating, barbed offset hook that's ultra-strong, resilient and ideal for salmon, steelhead, drop-shotting and live bait fishing. Available in either red or black and in sizes from1 through 6/0.
Pautzke Gel Krill 12-pack, 1-ounce containers: $50.49
www.pautzke.com
Pautzkes new Gel Krill is one of the most diverse scents on the market. Available in an easy to use and store container, this long-lasting scent is ideal for all species, fresh and saltwater. Gel Krill isn't stuffed with chemicals that fish aren't accustomed too. It's a carefully mastered all-natural formula that is derived from shrimp taken from the Artic Circle and transferred into a paste form in a Pautzke-patented process.
Gamakatsu Magnum Assist Hook $5.99 - $7.49
www.gamakatsu.com
This hook, available in 8/0 and 10/0 sizes with a braid rated at 200-pound test, was created for jig fishermen who want a larger assist hook. We have used the Standard Assist Hook on plenty of prior occasions and watched catch rates go up as fish that grabbed the head of the jig would invariably end up solidly hooked. When jig fishing out of Seward, Valdez and Homer this year, we added the Magnum Assist hook to a wide range of jigs. Catch rates indisputably increased. The 8/0 hook is plenty nasty and the 200-pound braid showed little sign of wear.
Rapala Super Line Scissors $3.99
www.rapala.com
These new scissors are designed with special features that grip and hold braided line for easy, non-slip cutting, which makes them perfect for Alaska's guides and other regular salmon-hunters. They withstood a season's use admirably, even after repeated use in cutting superline and stout mainlines, as well regularly being utilized to trim the heaviest monofilament leaders.
RIO Atlantic Salmon/Steelhead WF-Floating Fly Line $62.95
www.rioproducts.com
This tapered, weight-forward floating line was designed for the specific casting demands of steelhead and Atlantic salmon fly fishing, though one could insert the word 'Pacific' in there as well. It also makes a fantastic nymphing line for anglers who prefer to use a strike indicator, like many of Alaska's bead-drifting trout anglers. The long belly and back taper were developed for roll or overhead casting as well as single-handed Spey casting, and a bullet front taper helps deliver Pollywogs and other large, air-resistant flies with ease.
This is the ideal line to match with the gold-medal winning 11-foot, 7- or 8-weight NativeRun GLX rods, loading the rods effectively in both traditional overhead casts or when adopting a single-Spey method.
GreatLite Fluorescent Camping Lantern $13.99
www.great-lite.com
The Fluorescent Lantern from GreatLite includes an energy-saving fluorescent U-tube, is powered by four D batteries (that are included), is water- and weather-resistant and easy to carry. It provided good light output and as it is battery-powered, was especially handy on trips when it was impractical to carry both a lantern and extra fuel.
|
