NEW GEAR 2009

From frameless inflatables to fly rods, casting reels and even flashlights, we've scoured the country (and beyond) looking for the best of the products on their way to the shelves this year. Alaska is like nowhere else, and so it follows that outfitting for outdoor expeditions in the Great Land is just as unique and demanding as the geography. What follows are the products we found that should be of interest to Alaska anglers of every stripe.

RODS

Lamiglas XMG50 Salmon & Steelhead Rods $340 www.lamiglas.com

Constructed from a blend of high-modulus graphite fibers, XMG 50 rods combine an aerospace blank material with woven graphite handles to deliver a fishing experience that maximizes every cast, strike and fight. With ratings of 1/2- to 5/8-ounce (8- to 15-pound-test), the new, extra-fast EXC 92 M and the cork-handled EXC 92 M-C rods from Lamiglas are extremely impressive drift-fishing rods, and ideal for the applications many Alaskan anglers like to employ, whether hunting kings on the Nush or fresh steelies on Prince of Wales.

G. Loomis Xperience Fly Rods $265 - $345 www.gloomis.com

A new range of high-performance / high-value travel rods, the G. Loomis Xperience series fly rods utilize the same modulus graphite found in many top brands, at a very competitive price. The lighter models, with medium-fast tapers and stiffness, provide the high line speed needed for accuracy and control. As the demands of casting greater distance with larger weighted flies arise, the 8-weight and heavier models are designed with fast tapers to meet whatever challenge swims within range.

Sage TCX Fly Rods $780 - $815 www.sageflyfish.com

Marketed by Sage as "more than just another rod," the all-new TCX fly rods feature a radically different series of tapers created to harness Generation 5 Technology, which should help generate maximum line speed-meaning these rods are meant to test the stiffest wind, the largest flies and still produce distance in both salt- and freshwater applications.

Daiwa VIP Salmon/Steelhead Specialty Rods $129.95 www.daiwa.com

This series of 45M Graphite rods from Daiwa offers strength and sensitivity, plus the unique lengths and actions required for the specialized salmon and steelhead techniques Alaska anglers employ on a regular basis. Eight models are offered in the series, including Steelhead Drifting, Salmon Casting, Salmon Drifting, Salmon Hotshotting and Trolling, and Steelhead Spinning models.

Shimano Lucanus Jig System See pricing below. www.fish.shimano.com

Now offered for anglers in search of bottomfish, especially Alaska's halibut, rockfish and lingcod, the Lucanus Jig System from Shimano includes 35 Lucanus jigs in various sizes and colors, the new Calcutta TE 300LJV with a long-throw Power Handle for the necessary slow retrieves, and the new Tescata rod series, designed specifically to fish Lucanus jigs. A complete selection of accessories is also available, including jig replacement skirts and trailers, a replacement multiple-hook system from Owner, wind-on leaders and a jig storage bag. Suggested retail: Lucanus Jigs-from $14.95 to $17.95; CTE 400LJV - $449.99; Tescata rods - $199.99; Jig Storage Bag - $39.99; replacement skirts/trailers - $2; replacement multiple hooks - $5.99; Jig Keeper/3-pack - $14.99; wind-on leaders - $12.99. For product details and a how-to video, visit www.lucanusjig.com.

Lamiglas Certified Pro Salmon & Steelhead Rods $280-$320 www.lamiglas.com

Built from ultra-small diameter, third-generation graphite, the backbone of Lamiglas salmon and steelhead series rods have been home to exceptional jig, float, spoon, and magnum taper rods for decades. Now the line also offers a nine-foot drift rod for steelhead, silvers and smaller kings.

Wright & McGill Performance Glass Big Game Rods $99.99 - $129.99 www.wright-mcgill.com

The W&M Performance Glass series of Big Game rods feature 100% glass construction for incredible durability, extra-heavy guides, aluminum reel seats and a high-density, nylon TUFF-butt sleeve. The lineup is built for durability, no matter the size and strength of the target.

G. Loomis Roaring River GLX Switch Rods $740-$760 www.gloomis.com

When you'd like the flexibility of making a traditional single-hand cast, a roll-cast or a full-on Spey cast, these new switch rods from G. Loomis offer it up like no others. At 11 feet, they are a little more than traditional single-hand rods, giving you the ability to throw long casts with one or two hands. From a nice light 5-weight to an 8-weight, you'll be able to cover almost all water from your favorite trout streams to large steelhead drifts.

St. Croix Legend XTreme Casting Rods $360 - $400 www.stcroixrods.com

Introducing 16 new models, the St. Croix Legend XTreme casting rods are light and sensitive, incorporatinga dynamic blend of high-modulus / high-strain SCV graphite in the rod-upper, carbon-matte scrim, and high-modulus SCVI graphite in the lower section for added weight-reduction. St. Croix's IPC technology aids in smooth deliveries, while the company's Advanced Reinforcing Technology is meant to increase the power of your hooksets.

Shimano Rod & Reel Combo Kit with Blue Fox Spinner & Spoon $69.99

Released in commemoration of Alaska's 50 years of statehood, this all-in-one angler's combo kit is currently available in tackle stores and departments across the Great Land. Included in each kit is the medium-heavy Shimano FXS 70 MHB2 salmon rod, rated for 12- to 25-pound-test, a Shimano FX 4000 FB spinning reel, a 17-pound-test Sufix line one-shot spool and Alaska's two best-selling Vibrax spinners and Pixee spoons from Blue Fox.

Lamiglas Alaska 50th Anniversary of Statehood Commemorative Rod MSRP $199

Similar to the best-selling Kenai Special, Lamiglas' 50th Anniversary Salmon Rod is an 8 1/2-foot, 3-piece travel rod that comes in various weights and features moderate to fast actions. Rated for the 12- to 25-pound line class, it's a great choice for silvers, sockeye, kings, big rainbows and more. The Lamiglas commemorative rod is available at Fred Meyer and Wal-Mart.

REELS

Ross Reels Vexsis Fly Reels $245-$305 www.rossreels.com

Loaded with typically advanced and innovative engineering from Ross Reels, the new Vexsis series of fly reels employs a carbon-fiber drag system, based on the successful Momentum series, but now modified with the addition of ceramic to enhance overall performance. Consistency, strength, heat resistance, shock-dampening capabilities and infinite fatigue resistance are all properties of carbon fiber that benefit this system; the addition of ceramic promotes strength in the overall design by providing an incompressible surface that is highly heat resistant. Moreover, each reel in this series is designed with a specific diameter and width to maximize the properties of drag consistency and quick line retrieval.

Sage 4500 Series Fly Reels $374-$425 www.sageflyfish.com

Based on the benchmark 2500 Series, the new Sage 4500 reels are lighter and stronger, while a high-performance sealed graphite-drag unit provides the power and smoothness expected from a higher-end large-arbor reel. Of note also is that the 4500 spools are interchangeable with and fit the original 2500 Series reels.

Ross Reels Airius Fly Reels $100-$125 www.rossreels.com

Designed for use in all fishing environments, the Airius is a high-end, hybrid large arbor fly reel that features a multilevel disc-drag system. To honor the company's 35th anniversary ,there is a large-diameter spindle support shaft that is reminiscent of a design from the old-favorite Gunnison series. This large diameter shaft provides incredible stability, and is now manufactured out of fully anodized aluminum that is strong, incredibly light and saltwater safe. The spoke designed frame and extensive spool ventilation adds to this series lightweight feel, yet the Airius is built to endure a lifetime of flawless performance.

Wright & McGill Dragon Fly Reel $179.99 - $219.99 www.wright-mcgill.com

Offering a lightweight design and superior drag performance, the W&M Dragon Fly reels are machined from bar stock 6061 aluminum and are crafted for both durability and performance. Every reel features a graphite disc-drag system and large arbor design for quicker line pickup. There are four sizes in the series, from 3/4 to 9/10.

Lamson Guru Fly Reel $179-$249 www.waterworks-lamson.com

The new Guru from Lamson features a signature arm-style element on the frame that combines with open spokes to maximize structural strength while minimizing weight. The Guru also offers true large-arbor ratios and is available in 4- through 10-weight models.

Lamson Velocity Fly Reel $229-$339 www.water works-lamson.com

Finished in Hard Alox and totally redesigned and machined using a unique "3-plane" pocket milling technique, every aspect of performance, strength - to - weight ratio, line pickup speed and storage have been improved in this new offering over past Lamson Velocity models. With the new series, the 10-weight Velocity, perfect for Alaska's kings, will utilize the company's larger drag format to generate more stopping power, while there are also two new spool sizes available-designed to accommodate the backing capacity needed for 8- and 9-weight saltwater reels.

Okuma Cavalla Reels $319.99-$449.9 www.okuma fishing.com

This new series of 2-speed lever-drag big-game reels from Okuma features the only 2-speed reels in the United States that utilize helically-cut heat-tempered stainless steel gears, which engage more smoothly and securely for greater fish-fighting power. Coupled with machined aircraft-quality 6061 aluminum construction that has been hard-anodized for corrosion resistance, carbon fiber drag washers, an oversized, ergonomic T-Bar handle and you end up with a reel that can take anything and everything Alaska's largest fish hand out.

Abu Garcia Soron STX Series Spinning Reels 129.99-$149.99 www.abugarcia.com

With 11 high-precision, corrosion-resistant bearings, the STX Series reels from Abu Garcia offer anglers an exceptional spinning-reel option, with optimal smoothness during both delivery and retrieve. Super light, yet still durable, the STX reels also feature Abu Garcia's Carbon Matrix drag system, giving the reels plenty of stopping power for use in either fresh- or saltwater.

Avet T-RX Quad 50/2 Two-Speed Reel $898.99 www.avetreels.com

This new two-speed reel from Avet is constructed with twin titanium disks on both sides of the spool, with four carbon-fiber brake pads for extra stopping power. Its drag surface is three to four times larger than comparably sized reels, though the smoothness of the retrieve has not been sacrificed.

Okuma Solterra Reels $129.99-$139.99 www.okumafishing.com

After over two years in design and construction, the new Okuma Solterra Graphite lever-drag reels are out. These are reels that can be fished all day, every day, and still keep on ticking. Available in both right- and left-hand level-wind models and right-hand open-top casting models.

LINE & LURES

Luhr Jensen Kwikfish XTreme $3.99-$5.49 www.luhrjensen.com

Already an Alaska-fishing legend, four new models from the Kwikfish XTreme line have arrived to complement the rest of the successful series. Based upon side-to-side body designs and the wide action of the classic Kwikfish, these four models-the Kwikfish Xtreme 7X non-rattle, Kwikfish Xtreme SureSet 9X and the Kwikfish Xtreme 14X rattle and non-rattle-are sure to please any Luhr Jensen fan.

Cortland C16 Superbraid $39.99 - $89.99 www.cortlandline.com

Braided from 16 carriers of gel-spun polyethylene fiber for a high strength-to-diameter ratio, Cortland's new C16 "Spliceable" Superbraid may be the most advanced braided spectra trolling line available for bluewater fishing today. The new C16 features a tight, round braid and uniform pick count (wraps per inch) which won't flatten out or dig into the spool. The special hollow-braid construction allows for easy splicing of end loops or monofilament leaders with almost no loss of line strength between the braid and top shot. C16 Superbraid is available in bulk spools of 600, 1200 and 2500 yards in 80-, 100-, 130- and 200-pound test.

Scientific Anglers Sharkskin Steelhead Taper $99.95 www.scientificanglers.com

Already a Fish Alaska favorite, the Sharkskin lines from Scientific Anglers just got a whole lot better, now offering the SA Steelhead Taper to the lineup, one of our favorite lines for tossing big flies for great distances, with or without that famous Alaska wind. The new lines come in WF-6-F through WF-10-F sizes and offer all the benefits of the regular Steelhead Taper, including a long head for distance casting and control, an extended rear taper to facilitate mending, pickups and smooth casts. Super shootability, improved floatation and increased durability are the features the Sharkskin technology brings to the table, making this one of our go-to Alaska fly lines right out of the box.

Gamakatsu Flat Blade Spinner Rig $3.38 www.gamakatsu.com

Designed especially for those who enjoy lake fishing, especially trolling for Alaska's trout, char and landlocked salmon, the Gamakatsu Flat Blade Spinner Rig comes in two different styles, a two-hook rig with size 4 octopus hooks and a single-hook rig with a size 6 bait-holder hook, and in six different color combinations, including pink, red, chartreuse, pink/silver, red/silver, and chartreuse/silver. All are rigged with a silver blade tied on 36 inches of 8-pound-test leader material.

Gamakatsu Mooching Rig $3.79 www.gamakatsu.com

Combining two favorites, Gamakatsu has now added their red octopus hooks to the already proven mooching rig, introducing a new option for anglers to add to their arsenals. Still tied on quality monofilament that is six feet long to ensure you get that important swimming action, these new Mooching Rigs take a lot of the guesswork-and timely preparation-out of the angler's hands.

Gibbs Nortac Koho $5.99 www.gibbsfishing.com

Ideal for rivers, streams and lakes, the Gibbs Koho features heavy-gauge brass, which aids in casting accuracy and control, and a designed frantic motion for any retrieval speed, making it extremely enticing for fish to resist. It comes in 21 color finishes and from sizes of 3/8- to 1 1/2 ounces.

Panther Martin Stainless Steel Salmon Lures $5.29-$7.29 www.panthermartin.com

Now 100% lead-free and designed on the classic style of the Big Belly spinners, these new stainless steel lures not only cast further and go deeper, but Panther Martin is offering several new colors designed specifically for Alaska salmon. Lures in this series are available in three sizes, 3/8-, 1/2- and 1-ounce.

Kodiak Custom Tackle Bottomfish Jigs 6 oz., $12.99 ; 10 oz., $14.99; 14 oz., $16.99 www.kodiakcustom.com

Available in three sizes from 6- to 14 ounces, the Kodiak Custom Bottomfish Jig bodies are now 5 1/2 inches in length, and stainless steel eyelets have been incorporated, along with a commercial-quality powder coat. The jigs are available in six different glow/color combinations: Pink/Glow, Blue/Glow, Green/Glow, Aqua/Glow, Black/Glow and Orange/Glow.

Silver Horde Ace Hi Junior $4.30 www.silverhorde.com

The newest member of the Ace Hi Fly family, the Ace Hi Junior is simply a two-inch version of the popular Ace Hi lure, featuring a multi-faceted plastic head to enable a more erratic, fish-enticing action and realistic 3D eyes and tinsel. The new lures are available in eight fish-catching colors, including both Double Glow and Ultra-Violet patterns.

Mister Twister Mister Mino $8.95 www.mistertwister.com

Sized perfectly for Alaska's trout, Dolly Varden and char, Mister Twister's Mister Mino can be rigged on a jighead or with a tube and can even be fished drop-shot style or as a swim-bait.

Blue Fox Glow Vibrax Spinners $3.99 www.bluefox.com

Combining the proven attracting qualities of Classic Vibrax spinners with new glow-in-the-dark patterns, the new Blue Fox Glow Vibrax spinners are sure to entice an even wider variety of species. The spinners feature a streamlined, two-part body with a free-turning brass gear mechanism inside the machined brass, glow-in-the-dark bell to produce unbeatable vibration while eliminating line twist. These effective spinners are completed with a 45-degree angled bade that lets the Classic Vibrax Glow Spinners run from two to four feet deep.

Mepps DeepRunner $4.29-$5.29 www.mepps.com

A willow-leaf spinner designed for anglers who need a lure that drops deep quickly and stays there throughout the retrieve, the Mepps DeepRunner features a heavy, oversized, torpedo-shaped brass body that allows the angler to also cover more water, through increased casting distance. The narrow willow-leaf blade /torpedo-shaped body combination makes the spinner ideal for either fishing deep in lakes or for faster-moving rivers and streams.

Hot Spot Red on Green Stryper Silver Mylar Flasher $10.95 www.hotspotlures.com

Due to popular demand, Hot Spot has brought back the #591 Red on Green Stryper Silver Mylar flasher. A staple item in Alaska, it will again be available for the 2009 season.

Hot Spot Jelly Crush UV Glow Flasher $10.95 www.hotspotlures.com

Now expanding their innovative and hugely successful Ultra Violet series of flashers, Hot Spot Lures has released the #850 and #950 Jelly Crush U.V. Glow, and the #852 and #952 White Jelly Crush U.V. Glow. Both are available in 8-inch Minis and 11-inch Originals.

BuschWhacker Decoys $17.99 - $39.99

These hand-carved spearing decoys are sure to drive the Mat-Su Valley pike crazy. Decoys models include the D-1, which is a two-tone unit that is 6- to 8 inches long and comes in four color combinations as well as custom choices. The species-specific decoys come in standard and presentation (more suitable for display) grade and include pike, sucker, trout, salmon and Dolly Varden. Each decoy is carved and painted freehand, making no two alike. Available at many fine Alaska retailers, including Sportsman's Warehouse and 3 Rivers Fly and Tackle.

TOOLS

Leatherman Freestyle $50 www.leatherman.com

At less than 5 ounces, and priced under $50, the Leatherman Freestyle is lighter than its brother, the Skeletool, and offers true hybrid features, such as a premium stainless steel blade, pliers, combo screwdriver and carabiner/bottle opener. That's it-only the most necessary multi-tool features, because sometimes that's all you need.

Eagle Claw Lazer Split Ring Pliers $7.19 www.eagleclaw.com

These new Lazer split-ring pliers feature stainless steel construction and a custom-molded handle for superior grip. The cutter slices through braid with no binding or fraying, producing a clean cut every time. Additionally, the split-ring tip allows for quick and easy hook change outs.

Rapala Two Stage Sharpener $9.99 www.rapala.com

Easy to use, the new Rapala Two Stage Sharpener features ceramic wheels that hold the knife at a correct angle to quickly restore a coarse edge. Fixed ceramic sticks put the razor-fine sharp edge to the knife.

Ardent Reels Rigger Multi-tool $9.99 www.ardentoutdoors.com

Designed as an economical, readily accessible and useful tool for all anglers, the Ardent rigger includes five separate tools: line clipper, line threader, hook sharpener, jig-eye cleaner, razor blade for cutting braided line, and backlash tool. It can be kept close at hand by either utilizing the neck lanyard or by clipping it to a belt.

Maglite Mag Charger Rechargeable Flashlight System $119.99 www.maglite.com

Now with a brighter, next-generation halogen lamp, plus a spare in the tail cap, the new Mag Charger Rechargeable Flashlight System offers all the durability and functionality typical of Maglite products, as well as 51,700 peak-beam candlepower in a flashlight with up to 1,000 hours of battery light (equal to approximately 200 long-life batteries).

Mag Light Mini Maglite LED $25 www.maglite.com

Crafted after the legendary Mini Maglite flashlight, the all-new Mini Maglite LED offers the same durability and features of the classic, but now in an LED model. There are two sizes to choose from, the smaller 2-cell AA or for even higher performance, the 3-cell AA.

Scotty Hammer Head Rod Butt Cushion$13.9 www.scotty.com

More comfortable and easier to use than most fighting belts. Universal rod butt tube allows simple rod to rod transfer.

Scotty Adjustable Rod Holder Extender $17.95 www.scotty.com

Provides the option for you to position your Scotty Rod Holder into that perfect fish fighting location. Conveniently position your rod holder closer to you on your kayak or your downrigger to eliminate reaching for your rod. Can be used in conjunction with any previous Scotty Downrigger Boom Mounted Rod Holder to bring the fish fighting action closer to you. Extends the height of a rod holder by 61/2."

Ultimate Survival Technologies Sparkie $14.95 www.ultimatesurvival.com

Weighing less than one ounce, Sparkie, the newest fire starter from Ultimate Survival Technologies, features one-handed operation in a lightweight, compact design. Approximately one-third the weight and less than half the volume of its big brother the BlastMatch, Sparkie also features a reconfigured striker tab enclosure and spark bar. The compact body has a rubberized grip wrap giving you maximum control and comfort during use. A must for any angler's safety kit.

CLOTHING, BOOTS, PFDs

Mustang Survival Sportsman's Vest $233.50 www.mustangsurvival.com

The Deluxe Sportsman's Vest offers large storage pockets, and includes a hook and fly patch and attachment points for a radio and fishing net. This vest is the ideal choice for sportsmen seeking a comfortable, low-profile PFD for all their activities on the water.

Mountain Hardwear Paldor Jacket $240 www.mountainhardwear.com

Offering a soft and durable Windstopper shell in a sleek, technical package, the men's Paldor Jacket from Mountain Hardwear also features a welded chest pocket, two front-zip hand pockets, a micro-chamois-lined collar and chin guard to keep cold zippers off skin, and two interior zip pockets.

Mountain Hardwear Mistral Hoody $140 www.mountainhardwear.com

A soft and lightweight hoody with a wind-resistance rating of 35 CFM, the Mountain Hardwear Mistral Hoody offers an athletic cut, wind resistance and inner cuffs to shut out cold. The hoody is available in black, espresso, polar blue, winter white and cinnaberry.

Rapala Armored Angler Fishing Gloves $57.99 www.rapala.com

Providing excellent fish control is only part of the attraction of these new UV-protected, machine washable gloves from Rapala. Two layers of SuperFabric protect against cuts and punctures from sharp teeth, gill plates, dorsal fins and hooks; plus there is extra protection around the thumb and index finger.

Simms StreamTread Wading Boots $149.95-$219.95 www.simmsfishing.com

Never one to shy away from change, Simms is again leading the way with its new line of Vibram-soled wading boots. Clean, great-gripping rubber-compound treads, the StreamTread soles, exclusive to Simms, proved traction in all directions, in all wading environments. And with an estimated endurance up to ten times greater than felt, these boots should last. For 2009. StreamTread soles will be available in the G4 Guide Boot, Guide Boot, Rivershed Boot, men's and women's Headwaters Boot and the Freestone Boot.

Patagonia Guidewater Waders $425 www.patagonia.com

These new waders from Patagonia offer maximum durability and flexibility without being too heavy or hot. Patagonia's proprietary waterproof/breathable polyester microfiber fabric and H2No Hydrostorm barrier is deployed in varying layers, as necessitated by location. The new merino wool grid-lined neoprene booties wick perspiration, while the most advanced version of the company's internal suspension system allows easy conversion to waist-height. Additional features include a sculpted upper for reduced drag in heavy current and anatomically-designed left and right legs and booties.

Filson Stockingfoot Waders $325 www.filson.com

Featuring a proprietary five-layer construction, a gusseted crotch, and articulated knees for freedom of movement, Filson's new Stockingfoot Waders are waterproof, breathable and importantly for coastal anglers, saltwater resistant. Other performance elements include outer leg seams for greater durability, removable suspenders and Mackinaw wool-lined hand-warmer pockets.

Heatmax Toasti Toes Insole Foot Warmer $2.99/pair www.heatmax.com

If you enjoy those early-season days of the Alaska spring or working the water late in the year for steelhead or monster trout, here's something to keep your feet warm while wading, allowing you to fish longerÉand later. Each set of these air-activated foot warmers provides up to nine hours of heat, and for a completely snug wading boot, you can also try adding a Toasti Toes warmer.

BAGS & PACKS

Fishpond Blue River Chest/Lumbar Pack $69 www.fishpondusa.com

Simplicity redefined, the Fishpond Blue River pack is a sterling alternative to vests, offering a streamlined profile, always appealing to angling minimalists, as well as all the storage (four compartments, five internal pockets) and features (zip-down fly bench) that you'll need.

Outdoor Research Dry Comp Vertex Sack $80 www.outdoorresearch.com

An extremely light, waterproof sack, the Outdoor Research Dry Comp Vertex features multiple gear attachments and side water-bottle pockets to keep all your gear within easy reach, while its breathable, ergonomic back panel keeps you cool and comfortable as you push towards better, or at least new, water.

BOATS & ACCESSORIES

NRS GigBob Personal Fishing Cataraft $1,595.00 www.nrsweb.com

This new personal fishing boat from industry-leader NRS is completely frameless, though still rigid enough that it can be rowed efficiently. Frameless means it's 20 to 25% lighter than boats of similar size, plus it can be folded and packed with ease. A sure hit for Alaskan anglers who enjoy getting off the beaten path.

The Creek Company ODC Sport XR $339 www.creekcompany.com

An update on The Creek Company's best-selling 8-foot pontoon boat, the ODC Sport XR features oar-lock stations that allows the addition of the company's 6 1/2-foot oar kit, a new frame finish, and 16-inch diameter heavy-duty 840-denier nylon outer covers with 30-gauge PVC bladders.

Wier Outdoors and More Large Backup Anchor $19.95 www.wieroutdoorsandmore.com

Ever lost your anchor and had to cut the day short? The large backup anchor is used in the event that you lose your main anchor. This versatile anchor can be used on river boats, lake boats, jet sleds and other larger boats.

OTHER COOL STUFF

Coghlan's Cooler Light $8.99 www.coghlans.com Designed to work with any cooler, Coghlan's Cooler Light adheres to the cooler lid with double sided tape for permanent installation. The Cooler Light is a single LED light that automatically shines when the lid is raised and turns off when the cooler is closed. Available at Fred Meyer stores.

Camerons Products Smoke'n Fold Outdoor Smoker $139.95 www.cameronsproducts.com

Camerons Smoke'n Fold Outdoor Electric Smoker is perfect for all of your outdoor smoking needs. This unit only takes up 5" of vertical space when folded down but holds up to 45 lbs. of product. Available in two styles-Stainless Steel and Powder Coated Aluminum. Accessories include a Thermal Blanket for those colder days, a Carry Bag to conveniently transport or store your unit, woodchips, seasonings, brines and sausage mixes.

PERSONAL PROTECTION, FIRST AID & LOCATORS

Adventure Medical World Travel Kit $70 www.adventuremedicalkits.com

Designed to have all the items needed when traveling to exotic or remote locations where immediate medical attention may not be available, this eco-friendly kit from Adventure Medical Kits contains an assortment of medications to alleviate the most common travel ailments.

Traveler ER $29.95 www.traveler-er.com

Now you can easily carry your personal, medical and emergency contact information with you on your trip, and as conveniently as possible. The Traveler-ER USB memory drive provides a secure and portable software solution for vital records, using a modem encryption algorithm to password-protect your personal data.

Adventure Medical Quikclot Sport $10 www.adventuremedicalkits.com

A chemically-inert material in a mesh bag that speeds coagulation of blood, Quikclot Sport stops bleeding quicker than conventional methods and is safe to leave on wounds until more advanced medical help arrives. A must for any first aid or emergency kit.

Smith & Wesson Alaskan Backpacker IV $1,085

Launched in January 2009, the Smith & Wesson Model 329PD Alaskan Backpacker IV, a .44 Magnum revolver, brings a big punch from a little package. At only 29.7 ounces (with an empty cylinder) and only 7.75 inches long, the Backpacker is the perfect companion for longer excursions into the Bush, where weight and space are of prime concern. This non-catalog offering from Smith & Wesson has been made exclusively for the Alaskan market and is currently available in many of the state's fine gun and outdoor-equipment stores.

The Guide Holster by Michael's of Oregon $39.95 www.unclemikes.com

Keep your gun front and center and your hands free to fish with this holster that allows you to carry protection in bear country. It holds up to six rounds and has numerous D rings to adjust the positioning. The 21432 size fits most Ruger and Smith & Wesson bear protection revolvers with short barrels.

ACR MicroFix $650 www.acrelectronics.com

Featuring a new strobe light function, the new MicroFix from ACR Electronics represents the smallest, lightest 406 GPS Personal Locator Beacon in the world. The one-button activated emergency signaling device is perfect for the Alaskan angler heading into a remote area and also features a 42-channel GPS engine, which means faster acquisition, a bonus when seconds count.

OPTICS & SUNGLASSES

HaberVision Riva Polarized Eliminator Goggle $120 www.habervision.com

Combined with the Haber Eliminator fan module, these new polarized goggles represent one of the most exemplary examples of goggle technology on the market today, blending contemporary styling and new-world performance with fog-free visual optimization and a frame design that achieves a wide peripheral view.

Nikon Monarch All Terrain Binocular 10 X 40 $300 www.nikon.com

Offering sharp optics, a slim profile and solid construction, these ultra-rugged, versatile binoculars from Nikon feature multi-coated lenses to provide bright, clear images, as well as precision-aligned optics to allow extended viewing. With waterproof, fogproof, shockproof protection, plus Nikon's vaunted performance standards, you could pay a lot more for lesser glass.

Costa Del Mar 580 Silver Mirror Lenses $219 www.costadelmar.com

New from Costa Del Mar, the 580 Silver Mirror lenses are built on a high-contrast copper-based glass, and offer a higher light transmission for those lower light conditions that can plague the sight-fisher. The new lenses are available in several frame styles.

Bollé Marine Collection $130-$160 www.bolle.com

New to the angling industry, respected eyewear manufacturer Bollé has recently introduced its new Marine Collection, featuring two specialized tints, Offshore Blue and Inland Gold, both of which are designed to block vision-blurring blue light wavelengths and to minimize eye fatigue in the unique environments anglers face. Because glare can also sneak up from behind, the backside of the lenses have an anti-reflective treatment.