Fishing Gifts for Anglers
Every year many of us sit down in the fall and begin to think about gifts we plan to give loved ones over the holidays. It can be a challenging process. Some people are easy to buy gifts for, others a bit more challenging. Apart from asking the recipient what they have on their wish list, you’ll need some inspiration or lots of time spent looking at websites to determine what to buy each person.
Following is Part 1 of our Holiday Gift Guide. We hope it serves as the spark to help you begin the gift-buying process. In the December issue, we’ll bring you Part 2.
FORLOH Brush to Mountain Pro Field Jacket
The Brush to Mountain Pro Field Jacket is a reinforced American-made outer layer designed for demanding terrain where abrasion resistance and durability matter most. Built with wax-treated ripstop fabric panels placed in high-wear zones, it delivers increased protection against brush, thorns, and changing weather while maintaining mobility for active pursuits. Designed for upland hunting, hiking, and extended time in rugged environments, it performs where traditional outerwear wears down.
Batson Enterprises Rod Building Supplies
Today’s angling landscape is filled with a greater variety of rod blanks than ever before. Custom rod building allows an angler to create rods to fish nearly any technique. The act of rod building is a combination of technical proficiency and artistic expression. Plus, it’s hella fun. Do you have an avid angler on your list who has the craftsman inclination? If they aren’t building rods, then you’ve got an opportunity to introduce them to a world of fun by gifting them tools and supplies for rod building. Check out Batson Enterprises and their vast array of rod building products to get some ideas.
Alaska Sausage and Seafood #60 Diamond Gift Pack
Here’s a holiday gift idea from your friends Martin and Robin Eckmann at Alaska Sausage and Seafood. Let your loved ones taste the best of Alaska with their greatest gift package, the # 60 Diamond Gift Pack. It contains their best and most popular items, including: Smoked Sockeye Salmon, Smoked King Salmon, Smoked Halibut, Salmon Lachs, Smoked Salmon Strips, Alaskan Sausage with Reindeer, Alaskan Salami with Reindeer, Louisiana Hot Links, German Bratwurst, Hunter Sticks, Teriyaki Sticks, Cheese, Crackers, Alaskan Chocolate, Alaskan Moosetard, and much more. Finished with some diamond bling, this special package is truly a gem. Gift packages are sold in a box with gel-ice. Want a wrapped basket? Add a “Basket Wrapping Fee” to your cart for each basket you order at alaskasausage.com. Wrapped baskets are for In-Store Pickup and local delivery only and cannot be shipped.
Pro-Cure Bait Scents Pro Packs
Pro-Cure Bait Scents has taken some of the guesswork out of scent selection with the all-new Pro Pack. These 3-packs of Pro-Cure Super Gels are hand selected by top charters and guides to fit the bill with three proven formulas that they have found success with over the years. Several different Pro Pack combinations are available. Examples include: Saltwater Salmon Pro Pack, Halibut/Bottomfish Pro Pack, Chinook Salmon Pro Pack, Steelhead Pro Pack, Bloody Tuna Pro Pack, Trout Pro Pack, 411 Salmon Pro Pack, and more.
Beckman Net
Anglers require a wide variety of nets. Beckman offers an impressive lineup, with a range of hoop sizes, net material, and handle options. On many of their nets, the handles are interchangeable, so you can buy multiple hoops and pair them with the handle or handles of your choice. This gives the user a lot of flexibility and ability to have the right net for every situation. Beckman makes quality nets that your gift receiver will appreciate.
Hilleberg Unna
With impressive strength at a very light weight, the Unna is a reliable, all-season solo tent for the unpredictable Alaskan backcountry. Its straightforward, two-pole construction makes pitching easy, even in adverse weather, and thanks to Hilleberg’s innovative linked inner and outer tent design, the inner tent stays dry and protected during setup. The Unna offers exceptional interior space, making it especially well-suited for larger or taller users. Indeed, any hunter who takes serious backcountry trips will find the Unna a comfortable, dependable choice.
LEM #22 BigBite Meat Grinder – 1 HP
This is a meat grinder to last a lifetime and help you conquer all your meat-grinding jobs. It’s also a handy tool to have when making salmon burgers. The unit’s powerful 1 HP motor can grind meat at up to 13 pounds per minute. LEM’s exclusive BigBite technology’s unique extended auger aggressively grabs large “bites” of meat from the pan and draws them through the throat where the rifled head quickly feeds them through the grinder. Meat churns through the grinder with no clogging or bogging down, and no forceful stomping.
The LEM #22 BigBite Meat Grinder features a storage dr features and accessories include: all stainless-steel motor housing, all metal gears with roller bearings, heavy-duty handle for easy moving, 110 volt, permanently lubricated motor with improved grease formulation to reduce motor noise, and built-in circuit breaker. The unit includes: stainless-steel knife, 3 stainless-steel grinding plates (4.5 mm, 10 mm, and stuffing plate), 3 plastic stuffing tubes (5/8”, 1”, and 1-3/8” OD), meat stomper, and a bushing removal tool. Get this grinder and other quality LEM products at Three Bears.
White River Knife & Tool Mudbug Lockback Folding Knife
Proudly made in the USA by White River Knife & Tool, the Mudbug is a classic lockback folding knife built for everyday use. Inspired by the timeless sodbuster pattern, it pairs traditional styling with modern performance. Featuring premium CPM MagnaCut steel, the Mudbug delivers exceptional edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance for years of reliable service. Available with Micarta or G10 handle scales, it offers a comfortable grip and rugged dependability whether you’re in the field, at the shop, or tackling daily tasks. Designed by Smith & Sons, the Mudbug is a true everyday companion built to be carried and used. Specs are as follows: 3.5” CPM MagnaCut steel blade; 8.25” open length; weighs 3.2 oz.
Grundéns Deck-Boss Ankle Boot 1926 Edition
Dressed in the 1926 anchor and gum-rubber colorway, this one carries the Grundéns original Tall Ship logo, a nod to a century spent protecting fishermen. Underneath the throwback look sits the full Deck-Boss build: a thicker insole for shock absorption through the longest days, an anti-odor cooling liner that leaves the usual footwear stench behind, and razor siping that moves water out from underfoot. Paired with a natural gum-rubber outsole, it keeps you upright on a wet deck from first light to last. Heritage on the outside, performance where it counts.
Kershaw Alaska Blur
The Blur has long been one of Kershaw’s more popular knives, and this version includes an homage to Alaska on the handle. The knife features a 14C28N stainless-steel blade, a scratch- and fade-resistant anodized aluminum handle with Trac-Tec inserts for a solid grip, and one-handed opening with the thumb stud. It’s made in the USA and available at Alaska Sport Shop, B&J Sporting Goods, Big Ray’s, Everyday Carry, Klothes Rush, Log Cabin Sporting Goods, Orion Sporting Goods, Prospector Outfitters, Sentry Hardware, Soldotna Hardware, Three Bears, and Ulmer’s Drug & Hardware.
Skinner Sights 1-10×24 Rifle Scope
Skinner Sights, while known for making accurate, rugged, attractive peep sights for rifles, also offers a line of range-tested, field-proven optics. Designed for the field, Skinner Optics deliver excellent performance at reasonable prices. Joining the 1-4 and 1-6 scopes, the latest in the series is now available: a 1-10×24 model. Featuring a ballistic-friendly reticle designed for hunters to be useful at close and longer ranges, the 1-10 will also have a zero-stop elevation turret for those who wish to dial.
A Day Fishing
Book a day with a saltwater caption or river guide for the person on your gift list. They will be pumped. Check out our recommended guides and lodges in a variety of areas. Alternatively, go fishing with the person. Walk in somewhere, take them in your boat if you have one, get a friend with a boat to take you both; the idea here is that you are giving the gift of companionship and what better way to spend it than a day on the water.
Spyderco Skoli
Ready for the demands of the Alaskan outdoors, the Spyderco Skoli is an all-purpose fixed blade designed by custom knifemaker Kevin Smock. Its modified sheepfoot blade combines strength, control, and low-friction cutting performance, while the full-tang construction and contoured G-10 scales provide a confident grip in challenging conditions. A quillon (small finger guard) and spine jimping add further control when the work gets tough. Available stonewashed or with a black oxide finish, the Skoli comes ready for adventure with a versatile Boltaron sheath and adjustable G-Clip mount for adaptable carry. From camp to backcountry, the Skoli loves it all.
Original Bug Shirt Company The Elite Edition Bug Shirt
Let’s face it, for most of the open-water fishing season, bugs in Alaska are constant and often relentless. Getting relief from their attack can be the difference between a great day on the water, and torture. This shirt has been a life saver for us. It’s comfortable to wear and spaciously cut to fit over other clothing and to give you room to cast, and includes an adjustable cord to customize the fit at the hood and waist. The pocket is spacious and the entire shirt stows into that pocket when you aren’t using it. The face mesh is very fine, and won’t let no-see-ums enter. It includes dual zippers to open the mesh. It is lightweight, and comes in many sizes and several color options.
Gift Certificate for a Fishing Shop
You can’t go wrong in buying a gift certificate to a tackle- or fly shop for an avid angler. There are lots of good ones to choose from. If you are in Anchorage, consider Big Ray’s or Mossy’s Fly Shop. Mossy’s is relocating to 908 W Northern Lights and will have a grand reopening this spring. If you are in Soldotna, then Soldotna Hardware and Fishing or Sweeney’s are the logical choices. Gift givers in Kodiak would opt for Big Ray’s; those in Craig would go to Log Cabin Sports. Check out Western Auto in Juneau and Outfitter Sporting Goods in Haines. You get the point; there are lots of great shops around Alaska, and giving a gift certificate is always a safe move so the angler on your list can pick out exactly what they want.
Big Ray’s Men’s Arolik Karluk Zip Wader and Women’s Arolik Togiak Wader
The Karluk Zip Wader was built to fill a need: a quality zip wader tough enough for Alaska’s waters—without costing an arm and a leg. Key features of the Karluk Zip Wader include: full front, waterproof zipper for ease of taking off and on; 6-ply nylon reinforced knees for extra durability; fleece-lined handwarmer pockets; neoprene gravel-guard booties for comfort and fit; dual zippered fly-box chest pockets; inner, zippered device-storage pocket.
The Women’s Togiak Wader was built to be tough, dependable, and designed with women in mind. Engineered for durability and comfort, it features everything women have been asking for: extra storage for on-the-go essentials, cozy hand-warming pockets for cold days, and a flattering, functional fit. Key attributes of the Togiak Wader include: 6-ply nylon reinforced knees for extra durability; fleece-lined handwarmer pockets; neoprene gravel-guard booties for comfort and fit; 4 exterior pockets; and 1 interior zippered pocket for plenty of storage. Both waders offer lightweight construction with cold-weather performance.
YETI Coolers
YETI set the benchmark with their original rotomolded cooler. Our Tundra 105 Hard Cooler is over a decade old and remains reliable, predictably stout, and keeps items cold for a long time. Over the years we have tested drinkware, bags, cases and storage, a wide range of coolers, and cookware. All have met and surpassed our expectations. More recently we added the Roadie 48 Wheeled Cooler and that cooler is great for weekend adventures with the family. Over time, YETI products have displayed their value by their longevity, the way they perform, and their ability to remain functioning properly due to their superior craftsmanship. You won’t go wrong buying a YETI product as a holiday gift.
Ahi USA Live Deception Jigs – Assist Hook
Over the years we have caught tons of bottomfish on Ahi USA jigs. We’ve used the Assault Diamond, Assault Diamond – Assist Hook, Live Deception, Live Deception Flash, and Live Deception – Assist Hook. We’ve used a range of sizes depending on conditions. When it comes to jigging for halibut and lingcod, if the conditions allow us to effectively fish 8-ounce jigs, then the Live Deception – Assist Hook is often one of our top choices. The 8-ounce model in Anchovy or Blue Mackerel are good options.
If you need a little more weight, the Assault Diamond – Assist Hook comes in a 10-ounce model. Blue Bass, Silver Flash, and Glow are all good color options. Make sure you also have a range of 2-, 3- and 4-ounce Live Deception Flash Jigs if you intend to target black rockfish. Anchovy, Blue Mackerel, Mackerel, and Sardine are all viable color patterns for Alaska waters. If someone on your list likes to target bottomfish with jigs, a gift of Ahi USA jigs would be appreciated.
Silver Horde Tackle Variety Pack
Our friends at Silver Horde make several fine lures that a salmon angler will appreciate having in his tackle box. The Coho Killer spoon has proven many times over that it will catch everything that we target in Alaska in saltwater: kings, silvers, halibut, lingcod, and rockfish. It’s primarily used as salmon-catching spoon, but trust us, everything eats a Coho Killer.
There are many great color patterns; we’ve used 395, 650, 651, and 664, just to name a few. We’ve also had good success catching salmon on both the Kingfisher spoon and Ace Hi Fly. And the KatchKooler Deluxe kill bag has proven to be a much more versatile and effective solution than a cooler for holding and transporting our catch. You’ll make a saltwater salmon trolling angler happy with a variety pack from Silver Horde.
Wildhaven Wools Kids Essential Merino Crew + Legging Set
Super soft and cozy, these 100% merino wool kids’ layers will be your go-to for every adventure. Each set comes with a crew neck top and a legging-style pant. Made from warm but breathable merino wool, these kids’ thermals provide the perfect level of comfort for outdoor play in any weather. They are built on Wildhaven’s “Grow with me” sizing which includes long cuffs and a foldover waistband to expand as your child grows. Designed in Haines, Alaska. They are available in 5 sizes and 3 colors.
Spawn Till You Die Book
Ray Troll’s new book Spawn Till You Die: The Fin Art of Ray Troll is an exuberant plunge into the fantastic realities of sea creatures and prehistoric animals that come alive with scientific realism and his quirky sense of humor. For more than four decades, this celebrated Alaskan artist has been luring, hooking, and landing fans around the world with his mesmerizing renditions of the inhabitants of Planet Ocean, past and present. His art is featured in the nation’s major natural history museums including the Smithsonian, in galleries, and in books, as well as on immensely popular T-shirts. Part natural history adventure and part underground comic, his work depicts beautifully and accurately drawn fish of all kinds, Northwest Coast totems, Freud and Darwin, fossils, resurrections of extinct animals, and much more. The full-color, hardcover book is 200 pages and is signed by the author.
Bajío’s Temples of Change Sunglasses collaboration with Fishe Wear
Here’s an item many lady anglers will have at the top of their wish list. Bajío’s Temples of Change collection pairs purpose with performance, featuring their best-selling Rigolets frame in Fishe’s Tropical Tarpon pattern and Darien in Enchanted Grayling. Created in partnership with Fishe and Casting for Recovery, this limited-edition collection celebrates the healing power of the water while giving back. Launching during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, $20 from every pair sold will support Casting for Recovery, helping fund transformative fly fishing retreats for women in breast cancer treatment and recovery.
