What is the minimum size boat for offshore fishing? The answer depends on who you ask. The challenge and your budget are the two biggest reasons for fishing from a small offshore boat. Many cite the unique satisfaction of taking on the ocean to fish it on their own terms, knowing they have the boat, the knowledge and the ability to get out there, catch some good fish and get back.

“There’s definitely the excitement of being out there in a small boat where you’re in control and doing your own thing,” said Angelo Cuanang, a West Coast offshore fishing writer and expert who regularly fishes off San Francisco Bay. He’s done so for many years — all in a 17-foot Boston Whaler Montauk. Being unsinkable, the Whaler is one of the best small boats for ocean fishing.

One school of thought from skilled mariners actually considers a smaller hull advantageous in large swells. Tom King, once a professional mate in Massachusetts, for years made the 20-plus-mile run to fish Stellwagen Bank aboard his 19-foot Midland (“a Nova Scotia-style hull,” he said, with a very high bow and very low freeboard). “We came home riding on top of the big seas like an eggshell, while much bigger sport-fishing boats were having a tough time rolling in the swells.”

For purposes of this discussion, let’s focus on saltwater fishing boats with a minimum size ranging from 17 to 22 feet in length overall (LOA). A boat this size has an element of responsiveness that much larger hulls lose. In addition to being a criterion for offshore fishing, this size range also offers the best small boats for rough seas. Of course, rough seas are relative, and distance from shore often dictates the decision to go or not go.

Offshore Boating Benefits of Small Fishing Boats

Besides the challenge, downsized boats are less expensive and easy to tow on the road than king-size boats. Small boats can also be easier to handle and dock in tight quarters, though features such as joystick controls on larger boats are making low-speed maneuvers easier for skippers of large boats.

Start comparing costs of purchase, insurance, moorage or storage, maintenance and so on for a 30-foot center-console with those of a 22-footer. Then of course there are fuel costs. At today’s prices, a day fishing a 30-footer with twin 300 hp outboards can cost you in the high hundreds of dollars, if not more than $1,000. But you can run offshore and troll all day in a boat such as the Robalo R222 (21 feet 6 inches LOA) or Sea Chaser 22 HFC (21 feet 9 inches LOA) with a single 200 or 250 hp outboard for a few hundred or less.

Lots of anglers trailer their boats 50 to 100 miles at the drop of a hat. Compare hauling a double- or triple-axle trailer behind a ¾- to 1-ton pickup versus a lighter, single- or double-axle trailer behind a half-ton pickup — and there’s even more economy.

Small-Boat Knowledge, Ability and Common Sense

There’s no federal regulation stating that “Thou shalt not take thy boat and go (offshore),” and in fact the Coast Guard only has authority in a few places to prevent boaters from going where they want, a Coast Guard spokesman said. To go or not to go is not the question. Rather, focus on knowing your small boat, recognizing when to go or not, and with what gear and preparation.

Accident reports often retell scenarios where anglers in small boats perished before the Coast Guard could reach them. Often these are cases where knowing the boat and having the right equipment could have saved lives. Experience often makes a major difference when it comes to safety. Anglers who know what the ocean can dish out and respect that power choose to err on the side of caution, and do not scrimp on safety gear.

Many who skipper such mighty mites far from land tend to be independent by nature. Still, many make it a point to travel offshore with another boat — known as “buddy boating”— when possible, small or large, which in effect offers a second engine.

Whether or not you have a buddy going with you, be sure to file a float plan before you leave. That can be as simple as making sure someone back on land knows when you plan to depart and return, and where — in general — you expect to fish.

The Right Boat: Moderate Vees and Hard Chines

What is the best small boat for offshore fishing? There are plenty of 17- to 22-footers for fishing bays, channels or flats. But if you plan to run offshore, you’ll need to investigate construction, quality and design.

That said, some bay boats such as the Pathfinder 2200 TE (22 feet 2 inches LOA) or Sea Born FX22 Bay Sport (21 foot 9 inches LOA) offer offshore fishing capability, as well as the ability to sneak into shallow inshore waters.

Still, there can be no doubt that with the specialized demands of offshore fishing, not all small hulls are created equal. When it comes to hull design, opinions vary — suggesting competent small hulls might come in more than one style.

A modified V rather than the deep V common on larger center consoles ranks as the top choice among experts looking for the optimal small planing hull for big water. While the steeper deadrise angle of up to 26 degrees at the transom offers the softest ride through waves, an angle in the 17- to 20-degree range proves more stable. That way you still get some damping effect from the V but also get some benefit of lateral stability.

Fuel capacity becomes a serious consideration for any small boat heading offshore. On the minus side: Many small boats have built-in tanks and some provide space only for portables. On the plus side: Light boats with small outboards can go all day on amazingly little fuel. Once you pick a boat, know its range and always allow for at least a 15 percent reserve.

A small but important point: marine battery placement. Batteries should ride forward, beneath the console, rather than at the transom, where they can get wet and add unnecessary weight.

One other essential element of small boat construction that becomes particularly important offshore is flotation. Positive flotation is required for certification by the National Marine Manufacturers Association in boats less than 20 feet, but the best hulls are fully filled with foam, and the reasons should be obvious. In an emergency, water can force air out of a hull or sides but not out of foam. A light hull gains little weight (always a factor) but considerable strength and rigidity from foam.

Water In, Water Out

A small boat easily takes on spray and, on rough days, some green water as well. That’s when scuppers become critical. (This assumes that no angler without a death wish would be offshore in a boat that’s not self-bailing.) The scuppers must be able to drain water as fast as it comes into the hull — if not, you’ll soon be playing submarine.

Transom height and design also play key roles in keeping water out of small boats. A small outboard-powered boat faces trouble fast once enough ocean water enters and runs to one side or the other in heavy seas. To help avoid that, look for small offshore boats with a full transom. A cut-out transom might work with a really good, generous motorwell. Worst case for offshore: a low, cut-out transom with no well. If that describes your boat, stick to the bay.

The Right Offshore Boating Equipment

No small boat, however seaworthy and stable, belongs offshore — ever — if it’s not properly equipped. The most major piece of equipment to consider is your outboard engine. A traditional preference among blue-water anglers has been twin or even triple outboards for safety. However, adding a second engine for the small boater might be either cost-, design- or weight-prohibitive. Fortunately, today’s outboard engines are more reliable than ever.

When feasible, a small auxiliary engine (aka kicker) is a great addition since it can get you home in a pinch — but, again, it may not be worth the additional weight on the stern of a 17- to 22-footer.

Additional key safety equipment to carry when fishing offshore includes the following:

Fixed-Mount VHF Radio — Fundamental and essential. Fixed-mount radios offer a range of 15 to 20 miles while handhelds only reach out 3 to 8 miles. All new VHFs, by law, come with Digital Selective Calling, which instantly sends a distress call to authorities anywhere in the world. Be sure that you set up your DSC calling feature before leaving port. Cell phones are popular everywhere, including offshore, and offer some backup. But these can’t substitute for a VHF in a pinch since users might not find coverage in all areas offshore, and a phone call does not immediately summon on-water help. Mate your VHF radio to a tall (8-foot) VHF antenna for the range necessary when fishing offshore.

GPS Plotter/Sounder — As critical for navigation as for fishing. Separate units are fine, but a single unit (capable of showing both chart plotter and sounder reading on screen simultaneously) maximizes limited space on small consoles.

Compass — With a good nautical chart, a compass will keep you headed in the right direction if your GPS fails. Amazingly, some small boaters venture far offshore with neither radio nor compass, according to the Coast Guard.

Extra Battery — Any boat fishing offshore should have a dual-battery system with a selector switch. This allows you to keep one battery in reserve in case one goes dead.

Emergency Beacons — An EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicator Radio Beacon) and a PLB (Personal Locator Beacon) are good ideas for any boat fishing offshore. Once activated, an encoded digital message is received by satellites, and is then transmitted back to ground-based search and rescue authorities. This signal provides information to assist in the search. Assuming you have properly registered the EPIRB or PLB, it tells rescuers who you are, your boat type and size, where you are, and other important data, including emergency contact information. An EPIRB is registered to the boat and is usually mounted on deck, while a PLB is registered to an individual and is carried by that person.

Life Jackets — Going offshore without them would not only be illegal but insane. Make sure your jackets are Coast Guard rated for offshore use (Type I). It is a good idea to wear a life jacket at all times, especially if fishing alone.

Emergency Kit — including flare gun and flares, cyalume sticks and waterproof strobe lights. (I also make sure my boat’s running lights are in good working order.) Don’t forget a good flashlight and extra sunscreen.

Emergency Food and Water — At least a half-gallon of water, some granola bars and beef jerky or canned meat can get you through a day or two.

Anchor and Lots of Line — Even if you don’t anchor to fish, you might find an anchor valuable, and plenty of heavy line is a must if you need to be towed.

Sea Anchor — Space might preclude stowing a small sea anchor, but make sure you have at least a bucket or, in a pinch, even a spare life jacket. Most boats tend to drift stern-to — the worst situation in a building sea. Your odds of staying afloat when broken down and adrift go up by a big chunk if you can keep the bow into the waves, and any sort of sea anchor will help accomplish this.

Pick the Right Fishing Weather

Given a seaworthy boat, properly equipped, everything else comes down to common sense. And nowhere can the small boater better demonstrate that than by reading the weather before and during a trip.

Starting out the morning in a 3-foot sea is a mere irritant to a 30-footer, but for the mini-boater who has his head screwed on right, it means a canceled trip. Many mornings I’ve arisen to find the weather service data revised from the previous evening’s 5- to 10-knot wind forecast to one of 10 to 20 knots. Anyone hoping to go offshore in a 17- to 22-footer has to realize his fishing days will be limited.

Look for periods between frontal systems, particularly in fall, winter and spring when dead-calm days sneak in between blows. During the summer, high pressure systems often bring many successive days of calm weather, particularly in the morning. The run home in many regions might mean a moderate but manageable chop, thanks to afternoon sea breezes.

Just be sure you know the marine forecast for the day, before you head out. When the forecast calls for light breezes all day and into the night, boating anglers with small boats can usually venture forth into offshore ocean waters with peace of mind. Otherwise, the best rule of thumb is a simple one: When in doubt, don’t go out.

The post Small Boats for Offshore Fishing appeared first on Sport Fishing Mag.

Forward facing sonar (FFS), or what I like to call live sonar, stands as one of the most revolutionary new technologies in angling. Offered by brands such as Garmin, Humminbird and Lowrance, FFS paints real-time, ultrasound-like screen images of structure and fish as far as 500 feet from the boat. Popularized largely by freshwater tournament bass anglers, FFS opens new opportunities to target big fish and determine how they are behaving before wetting a line.

Forward facing sonar is definitely changing the nature of angling. I will let you be the judge if that’s a good change or not. But no matter how you feel, the genie is already out of the bottle. That being the case, Berkley is matching this dramatic technology trend with three lines of remarkable lures designed specifically for fishing with FFS.

Quicklook: Best Berkley Forward Facing Sonar Lures

• Krej: Uniquely engineered jerk bait with an upside-down bill and backward darting action
• Finisher: A hovering hard bait designed to maximize hang time within the FFS sonar beam
• Power Switch: Soft-plastic bait with an internal leadhead that offers a tantalizing action when twitched, and reflects sonar signals exceedingly well

Breaking Down Berkley’s Lures for Forward Facing Sonar

“Berkley is the leader in science-based bait development, and we take pride in providing anglers with the best solution to help them catch fish in any environment,” says Jon Schlosser, Berkley’s chief brand and product officer. “We’ve known that forward-facing sonar was coming and have spent the past few years learning about the trend in anticipation of it catching on.

“Berkley Labs has been able to create some truly special baits that are proven to catch more fish with FFS,” Schlosser adds. “It’s exciting to see how revolutionary these baits are, not only in their design, but in how they enable anglers to manipulate their baits in ways that have never been done before.”

Krej

This odd name is actually “jerk” spelled backward, which is fitting since the Krej sports an upside-down bill and works its way upward and backslides toward fish chasing this hard bait. This not only entices fish to bite, but also keeps the lure in the live-sonar beam strike zone for extended periods of time, providing anglers with more chances to see how fish are responding and tease them into biting.

“The Krej is a bait that performs like no other hard bait, especially when paired with forward-facing sonar,” says Dan Spengler, senior project engineer of bait and terminal tackle for Berkley. “Over two years to develop, the bait’s upturned bill gives anglers several ways to manipulate it, providing a solution to the current gaps when using forward-facing sonar.” The 100 mm bait sinks at a foot per second and is available in 10 color patterns. $14.99 – Shop now

Finisher

The Finisher hard bait optimizes time in the FFS sonar beam by “hovering” and moving laterally in the water column with minimal retrieve progression. This lets the angler effectively maneuver the bait based on how the fish is reacting to it, as observed on the live-sonar display. The fin-less glide bait’s weight-forward design also allows for precision casts, fast drop-ins, and a wide range of actions, according to Berkley. The perpendicular line-tie maintains knot position at all times.

“What makes this bait unique is that it has no fin structure, which can allow it to do a multitude of actions,” Spengler says. Its flat bottom lets it hover or hang in the water column, enabling anglers to control how the lure is interacting with fish spotted on FFS, he explains. The Finisher comes with two Fusion19 treble hooks, and is available in 500, 700 and 900 mm sizes and 20 color patterns. $8.99 to $10.99 – Shop now

PowerBait Power Switch

The Berkley PowerBait Power Switch gives anglers the control to quickly switch techniques (hence the name) in response to how the fish are behaving as observed on FFS.

When a fish is located on FFS, the window to catch the fish can close fast. Power Switch lets anglers present their bait as quickly and precisely as possible with an internal leadhead that creates strong sonar returns. The weight-forward design of this soft-plastic bait allows for precision casts, fast fall rates and a wide range of actions. Packed with PowerBait flavor and pre-rigged with a Fusion19 hook, Power Switch appeals to a wide range of species, according to Berkley. 

“This bait can sink fast, hover at the angler’s desired water column, with each action working together in one profile,” says Kyle Peterson, project engineer for Berkley. “It gives anglers everything they need to best interact with fish, especially when paired with forward-facing sonar.” The Power Switch features a natural baitfish profile and 3D eyes, and comes in 1.75-, 2.5, 3-, 4.25 and 5-inch versions. It is available in standard, HD Tru Color and holographic “wizard” colors—14 color patterns in all. $9.99 – View all the options

FAQ

The post 3 Specialized Lures for Forward Facing Sonar appeared first on Sport Fishing Mag.

Spring arrives with new gear and revamped favorites for the fishing season ahead. To meet the needs of ever-changing tactics, new products featuring the latest tech keep up with ambitious anglers pushing the envelope of the sport. At the same time, classic gear and iconic designs have been reimagined with modern style. We all know that one angler waiting impatiently for the next generation of a favorite piece of gear! As the weather warms and the days get longer, anglers have plenty to look forward to with this season’s latest gear. Products are listed in alphabetical order.

Bajio Rigolet Sunglasses

Full-wrap sunglasses don’t have to leave a raccoon-eyes sunburn on your face. Bajio’s Rigolet sunglasses provide the same glare-blocking coverage in a slimmer design for small faces, including men and women. Available in polycarbonate or glass, Bajio’s patent pending lenses cut out bad light and enhance good light for the best balance of protection and definition. The environmentally friendly bio-resin frames have glare-blocking side panels that are vented to release heat and moisture. Best of all, the Rigolet is available in eight lens colors to match every possible fishing condition from open-ocean bright sun to backwater cloudy skies. Prices start at $209

Costa Del Mar Grand Catalina Sunglasses 

Forty years ago, Costa Del Mar released the Grand Catalina sunglasses with their industry changing color enhancing polarized lenses and iconic glacier-glasses side-shields straight out of the ‘80s. This year, Costa dropped a Grand Catalina reboot updated for the 21st century. The new model combines Costa’s famous color-balanced glass lenses with classic aviator frames featuring modern sweat channels, air vents and adjustable nose pad. While the Grand Catalina’s removable side-shields are a throwback to the 1980s, the bio-resin frame and 100% recyclable materials are designed for the future. Prices start at $204

Daiwa 24 Blackline Surf Rods

Epic New England striped bass blitzes inspired the new 24 Blackline Surf rods from Daiwa. Seven spinning rod models cover lengths from nine to 11 feet with power to throw up to 6 ounces, a perfect formula for slinging lures from shore. During those long days or nights with a thousand casts, Blackline’s super light and sensitive carbon-fiber construction pays off. Daiwa gave the rod their best carbon-fiber reel seat to eliminate sharp edges and increase sensitivity. Casting a big plug with a long fishing rod, and then besting a possible 50-pound striper in the surf, puts incredible pressure on the rod blank. The Blackline uses a special cross weave carbon fiber matrix and nano particles in the resin for a solid backbone that won’t twist under pressure. Prices start at $399.99

ePropulsion eLite Electric Outboard Motor

Epropulsion stormed onto the scene with its new eLite electric motor winning “Best New Electric Motor” at the Miami International Boat Show. The eLite electric outboard includes motor, battery and throttle control in one unit and weighs less than 15 pounds. The tiller folds to provide a convenient carry handle, and a unique mounting bracket connects the eLite to a flat transom in seconds. Designed to power a small tender or dingy, the eLite is also a perfect fit for anglers looking to add a little kick to their fishing kayak. Despite its small size, the eLite packs 500 watts of power to propel a small boat four mph for about 90 minutes. Prices start at $999

Fenwick Elite Inshore Rods

You can’t just got through the motions and call yourself elite. That’s the attitude Fenwick took when creating the new Elite series fishing rods. To wear the name Elite, Fenwick outfitted its nine new inshore rods with features for pro-level anglers to fish all day. The difference is sensitivity and comfort. The Elite series rods use ergonomic grips and a reel seat that integrate seamlessly for a softer feel and more control. To improve sensitivity, the reel seat exposes the rod blank so an angler feels the lightest bite. For casting distance and fighting power, the Elite series uses line guides with titanium frames and super-thin zirconium rings. The end product is a rod an angler can use to win an inshore tournament or an everyday diehard busts out to fish harder and longer. Prices start at 249.95

Fish Monkey Stubby Gloves

Everyone loves utility gloves with a knit back and silicone palm — they come in handy for everything from working on the boat to cleaning fish. Fish Monkey takes the concept to a performance fishing glove, combining the non-slip grip of silicone with the UP 50+ protection of a breathable and stretchy fabric. The half-finger gloves are beefed up with reinforced seams and trim to last years on the water. Wear the Stubby gloves for protection from the sun and salt while providing reliable grip on slippery surfaces. Prices start at $28.95

HUK ICON Performance Shirt

Back when performance fishing shirts were a new thing, Huk (pronounced “hook”) stormed onto the scene with the lightweight and durable ICON. To celebrate a decade of technological advancement in performance fabrics, Huk has updated the legendary fishing shirt with the new ICON. Featuring the same aggressive look and comfortable fit, the ICON includes modern updates like odor-resistant, breathability, and cooling fabric with 50+ UPF sun protection. Available in a short sleeve, long sleeve and hoodie, the ICON is designed with super-flexible raglan sleeves and a moisture-wicking mesh back panel. The new design keeps sweat and spray from soaking your shirt. Prices start at $45

Orvis Helios Fly Rod

When the wind is blowing sideways and a grey ghost appears just below the water’s surface, an angler needs laser accuracy to land a fly in range. It is not an easy task. Orvis’ new Helios F and D models take the job seriously. Through meticulous, science-based development and rigorous pro-staff testing, Orvis produced a rod with significantly reduced vibration and increased hoop strength to be more accurate (4X more) than their previous models. The Helios rods are available in sizes from tiny brook trout to 14-weights for blue marlin. Fly anglers should feel confident when the heat is on to make the cast. Prices start at $1,098

Penn Slammer IV Spinning Reel

The Penn Slammer spinning reels earned a reputation as a workhorse with reliable performance at a reasonable price. The new Slammer IV continues to build on the reputation with Penn’s bullet-proof sealed full-metal body, CNC precision cut gears and corrosion-resistant stainless bearings. The Slammer IV is available in 12 models with sizes from 2500 to 10500 to target everything from speckled trout to bluefin tuna. When a speckled trout thumps a twitch bait, the reel needs to get cranking in an instant. The 2500 models employ a carbon fiber drag for super smooth start up to maintain even pressure with soft-mouth fish. To beat bigger fish, the larger reels are available with a sealed drag and beefy EVA handle. At the top end of the product line, models above 6500 have a manual bail to provide better line control when casting large lures. Prices start at $259.95

Shimano Ocea Jigger 2500 LD Reel

To meet the extreme demands of slow-pitch jigging in deep water, Shimano’s Ocea Jigger 2500 LD packs both power and finesse. Boasting 44 pounds of jaw breaking drag in a palm-sized reel, the Jigger is tuned with a micro adjustable lever to dial in the perfect balance of give and take. The drag is designed to reduce side pressure on the plates for 30-percent smoother pick-up even under heavy pressure and high heat. Working a jig hundreds of feet below the boat is strenuous, and then hooking a tuna with a light rod and compact reel will put you into overtime, so the Ocea Jigger doesn’t forget about comfort. The compact reel and oversized handle is easy on the hands to ensure the fish gives up before the angler. Prices start at $599.99

Simrad NSX ULTRAWIDE Multi-Function Display

Remember switching from a standard television to a wide-screen TV? Now, imagine a wide-screen television for your marine electronics. Simrad’s new NSX ULTRAWIDE is the first multi-function display with a screen 63-percent wider than standard multi-function displays. The wider screen allows the owner to replace two MFDs to one screen and still display plenty of information. Configure the new display to show fishfinder, radar, digital dashboard and navigation charts in one place. To maintain high-resolution images across a wider field of view, Simrad optimized their premium charts. In addition to the technical and interface advantages, the wide-screen display looks pretty darn cool. Prices start at $2,749 (12-inch) and $3,399 (15-inch)

SITKA Gear Radiant Hoody

On the bow of a bay boat under a cloudless sky, the only shade comes from a sun shirt with a hood. But the system won’t work if the wind constantly blows down your hood. SITKA Gear’s Radiant Hoody has three-panel hood construction to fit over a ball cap with a lightweight string to cinch the hood in place. No matter how hard the wind blows, the spray flies and the boat pounds, the hoody stays in place. The shirt’s soft, breathable and odor resistant fabric feels soft and light as a cotton t-shirt. Prices start at $79

The post March Madness: Gear to Kick off the Fishing Season appeared first on Sport Fishing Mag.

Recipes are great for both cooking and fishing — follow this set of instructions, and you’ll get that desired result. Professional chefs, however, understand which flavors combine well to create their own delectable dishes. Charter captains, who fish many days consecutively, through varied weather, temperature and tides, similarly understand how a lure’s specific characteristics — its flavor, if you will — mix with given water conditions to convince fish to take a bite.

With that in mind, I asked 11 striped bass experts to pick their favorite striper lure and explain when and how they fish it. I also asked each why he believed that particular lure to be so mouthwatering to striped bass in those circumstances. Sure, pro anglers typically name as their go-to striped bass lure one made by a manufacturer who sponsors them. But knowing it has proved consistently effective for them, then understanding why — both their “recipe” (what to fish, when and how — as well as their reasoning) — will help all striper enthusiasts increase their success. Here are the best striped bass lures you can buy today.

Quicklook: Best Fishing Lures for Striped Bass

• Hard Baits
  • Gibbs Danny Surface Swimmer
  • Rapala Skitter Walk
  • Sebile Magic Swimmer
  • Rebel Jumping Minnow
  • Shimano ColtSniper Jerkbait
  • Strategic Angler Cruiser
  • Tsunami Talkin’ Popper
  • Yo-Zuri Mag Darter
• Soft Baits
  • RonZ Original Series
  • Lunker City Slug-Go
  • Storm WildEye Swim Shad
  • Berkley Gulp! Shads and PowerBaits (for East and West Coast Fishing)

Hard Baits

Gibbs Danny Surface Swimmer

Where, When and Who Along Long Island on New York’s southwestern coast, from Jones Inlet to Fire Island, Capt. Al Lorenzetti targets striped bass on current edges along inshore sandbars from late May through mid-July, and then again in October and November.

Lure Choice and Conditions “When I’m anchored ahead of a rip, the blunt tip of the Danny, plus that metal lip, gives it a wobble that stripers want to pounce on, even with minimal forward motion through the water. Just the current makes the plug work.”

Read Next: Striped Bass Fishing in New England

How and Why “One angler on one side of the boat just holds the lure right in front of the edge of the rip. Another angler on the other side casts behind the rip and reels right up to it. The most experienced angler in a group of three then throws between the two and reels the plug right along the rip line, just fast enough to make it wobble. It lays over side to side and looks like the slow-moving bunker or shad that frequent those rips.”

Size and Color 3½-ounce in yellow (which is intended to resemble bunker)

Unique Rig Bend the metal lip down, not quite to 90 degrees, to keep the lure on top, where it’s easier to keep an eye on it as well as see spectacular striper surface bites.

When to Switch “Casting into the wind, the line tends to foul the Danny’s front hook, and if I can’t get close, like at a breaking inlet bar, it doesn’t cast far enough.” At such times, Lorenzetti goes with Gibbs’ Polaris Popper. “It doesn’t foul, and I can throw it a country mile.”

-Lorenzetti is a pro staffer for Gibbs.

Rapala Skitter Walk

Where, When and Who North Carolina sounds — really, one huge, shallow inland sea — provide stripers year-round, with “dynamite action from late April through November,” says Capt. Gary Dubiel.

Lure Choice and Conditions If he knows where to cast, and stripers are either in shallow water or actively feeding on top, Dubiel says the distinct, loud rattle of the Skitter Walk attracts bigger fish than most other lures will.

How and Why “Use a lot of rod tip and reel slowly” — the classic walk-the-dog, Dubiel says. “Rock the bait aggressively side to side to move that big rattle inside, and keep it moving toward you with slow momentum. The rhythmic noise and motion seem to trigger fish.”

Size and Colors 4 3/8-inch with a white or chartreuse belly, or — in particularly dark, tannic water — a model in orange hues

When to Switch In choppy water that muffles noise, or when fish are deeper or more scattered, Dubiel prefers the louder sound and heartier surface action of Storm’s Rattlin’ Chug Bug, a cup-faced popper, which he says is also easier for many anglers to fish properly.

-Dubiel is a pro staffer for Rapala.

Rebel Jumping Minnow

Where, When and Who Beginning in May, striped bass show up on bars and along marsh edges on the Merrimack River, just south of the Massachusetts/New Hampshire border, says Capt. Chris Valakatgis.

Lure Choice and Conditions “On a calm day, you see the Jumping Minnow on top, even if it stops, and you hear the rattle. That helps get you into a rhythm and adjust your retrieve until you find the cadence that entices bites.”

How and Why “Start with a slow walk-the-dog motion, then use slow twitches of the rod tip to make the bait swing out wider to the side. If stripers are breaking on the surface, try speeding up the cadence and tightening the zigzag.”

Size and Color 4½-inch in bone

Unique Rig Replace original hooks with larger No. 1 or No. 2 trebles to handle 40-inch fish, but crush barbs to aid releasing smaller schoolies.

When to Switch “The Jumping Minnow is so light, it’s hard to cast in any wind, and if it’s choppy, you need a lure with more surface commotion to stand out,” Valakatgis says, so in those conditions, he switches to the rear-weighted Cordell Pencil Popper for better casting and heartier action.

Sebile Magic Swimmer

Where, When and Who After spawning in the Hudson and Delaware rivers, stripers return to the coast beginning late in March and hang there through June, says Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey, Capt. John Luchka.

Lure Choice and Conditions “When adult bunker are around, the fast-sinking Magic Swimmer targets fish on the surface, midwater and all the way to the bottom,” Luchka says. Stripers are drawn to the vibration the jointed body creates and, the guide says, it looks like an injured fish once the fish get close.

How and Why “They’re not super ­aggressive until they’ve had a few meals. Cast the lure outside the edge of the bait school so it looks like a wounded bait separated from the school. Let it sink, then bring it in slowly a couple of cranks and pause, a couple more cranks, and pause. They crush it on that pause.” A faster retrieve entices those same fish after they’ve eaten and become more aggressive.

Size and Colors 7½-inch, 3-ounce fast-sinking in bunker, or the brighter American shad color in murky water

When to Switch When smaller prey are prevalent, Luchka prefers “Sebile’s Stick Shadd, which is a bit rounder, and better matches the body shape of peanut bunker.”

-Luchka was a pro staffer for Sebile, back when the company was producing lures.

Shimano ColtSniper Jerkbait

Where, When and Who Chris Fox’s flexible schedule gets him on the lower Chesapeake Bay as regularly as many pro captains where, from October through early December, he parlays that expertise into frequent striper, trout and redfish slams, all from one lure.

Lure Choice and Conditions Near the mouth of the York and James rivers, green shrimp — which are actually white — show up thick in shallow water near man-made structure such as old pier pilings. “The ColtSniper‘s lip drives the lure underwater a foot or two, where the long, skinny body and white color match the shrimp.”

How and Why From deeper water, “cast it up on a flat and just reel it in slowly. It flashes white as it wobbles and rolls side to side. The fish usually hammer it right at that drop-off,” he says. As the water temperature falls below 50 degrees, “I slow the retrieve drastically, almost to the point of boredom,” he says — until a 40-inch striped bass piles on.

Size and Colors 140 mm (5.5 inches) in bone color with pink highlights underneath

When to Switch When the fish hang deeper than the ColtSniper will reach, “I switch to a sinking version of Hayward Tackle’s Genesis and twitch it for a walk‑the‑dog action.”

Strategic Angler Cruiser

Where, When and Who Along Cape Cod’s eastern shore and north past Cape Ann, Massachusetts, from mid-May through mid-July, tremendous currents from 12-foot tides over bottom with minimal structure to hide behind force striped bass into huge, roaming packs. They’re “more like open-water pelagics” — not their normal ambush hunting style, says Capt. Dom Petrarca.

Lure Choice and Conditions For about an hour on either side of slack tide, Petrarca says, “the stripers push the mackerel to the surface and attack from underneath. The long, wide Cruiser makes a lot of surface noise and offers the mackerel profile that bass are keyed in to.”

How and Why “Every couple of cranks, give a light twitch to the left [for spinners with the handle on the left side]. The wide body is weighted so the narrow nose digs in and it kicks out to the side, then comes back in an S pattern,” Petrarca says, which mimics the quick lateral movements of ­mackerel fleeing predators.

Size and Color 10-inch in a blue- or green-mackerel pattern

Unique Rig Owner Stinger 3/0 treble hook plus a Gamakatsu 8/0 live-bait hook at the tail

When to Switch During ripping currents between high and low tides, striped bass change hunting tactics. “They stack up, looking like a long wave on the fish finder in the middle of the water column.” That huge wall of striper mouths swimming with the current sucks up any unfortunate prey it rolls across. “Get in front of the school, and drop a 3- or 4-ounce jig.”

-Petrarca is a pro staffer for Strategic Angler.

Tsunami Talkin’ Popper

Where, When and Who Capt. Scott Leonard starts his season in May on Long Island, New York’s central south shore, and he moves to Montauk and beyond as the fish migrate east from July through September.

Lure Choice and Conditions “The Talkin’ Popper fishes really well when it’s flat or fairly calm — 12 knots of wind or less. It casts well too when stripers are up tight to the beach and hard to get to.”

How and Why “Cast along the outer edges of the bunker school, where big bass tend to be. Pop it, let it settle, then pop it again, while reeling nice and slow. The slower the better for bigger fish,” he says. “The way it splashes, it looks like a wounded bunker separated from the school, and stripers climb right onto it.”

Size and Colors 3½-ounce in yellow, to mimic ­prevalent bunker

When to Switch “When conditions are rougher, with a lot of surface commotion already, I’ll go with a surface swimmer like the Gibbs Danny.”

-Leonard is a pro staffer for Tsunami.

Yo-Zuri Mag Darter

Where, When and Who Capt. Carter Andrews fishes far and wide for The Obsession of Carter Andrews television show, but he often returns to New England during peak early‑summer striper fishing.

Lure Choice and Conditions The Mag Darter fishes really well in strong New England currents. “It doesn’t roll to the side like a true lipped lure,” he says. “With the magnetic weight-transfer system, super-long casts maximize my opportunities farther from the boat.”

How and Why “With just a slow, steady, straight wind, it darts really well side to side,” which he says entices striped bass in most conditions. To spice it up, though, “on every second or third crank, I give it just a little twitch.”

Size and Colors 6½-inch in bronze or bone, or, at times, holographic pink

When to Switch “When I’m up the rivers, in calmer conditions with less current, I can throw the 5-inch Mag Minnow like a dart,” he says, to more accurately target specific points and pockets of marsh grass where striped bass might lie.

-Andrews is a pro staffer for Yo-Zuri.

Soft Baits

Hard baits require specific angler actions to convince stripers they’re a natural food source. “Soft baits already look and feel real,” says Rhode Island charter captain Jack Sprengel, who offers several hot tickets.

RonZ Original Series

Early in July, as fish move into deeper water off Block Island, Sprengel says, “they’re often using current breaks behind structure to carry feeding opportunities to them. The original RonZ series lure’s tapered body swims just from water moving across its body.” Simply drop a 6- to 8-inch lure from a drifting boat, choosing the weighted head based on drift speed. Alternately, “cast into the direction of the drift and let it sink to the bottom, then slowly jig it all the way back to the surface.”

-Sprengel is a pro staffer for RonZ.

Lunker City Slug-Go

Beginning in May in Narragansett Bay, “when they’re in shallow water and easily spooked, it’s tough to beat a soft-landing, slow-moving bait like the original Slug-Go, presented at or just below the surface,” Sprengel says. A 6- to 10-inch bait should be rigged with a single-hook head. “Less is more. Don’t botch the presentation by adding too much input. If the strike doesn’t come right after it lands, retrieve any slack, give it two sharp twitches, pause, and repeat.”

Storm WildEye Swim Shad

Regarding another favorite of Sprengel’s, he says: “Near a jetty or pier, a weighted paddle-tail shad with tight but erratic action, such as Storm’s swim shad, sinks quickly down into the strike zone along and between structure contours.” Start small, 4 to 6 inches, or as large as 9 inches to target large stripers. “Reel slowly and let the paddle tail do its job.” Sprengel favors these swim shad in bright colors on bright days and darker colors on dark, overcast days. “Hold the lure over your head,” he suggests, “and see how it contrasts with the sky — as fish will see it.”

Berkeley Gulp! Shads and PowerBaits (East and West Coast)

With a West Coast spin on striper fishing, widely known Northern California fishing journalist Steve Carson says: “On major rivers, the 8-inch black PowerBait Maxscent Kingtail rigged on a ½- to ¾-ounce jig head replicates local eels. In the California Delta, Berkley’s 4-inch Havoc Sick Fish and 4- or 5-inch PowerBait Ripple Shad are good for blind-casting at known holding areas, or cast the Gulp! 5-inch or 6-inch Saltwater Jerk Shads into visible boils. Carson adds, “Shad- or trout-replicating colors are usually best, though chartreuse can be very effective in dirty water.”

-Carson is a pro staffer for Berkley.

Back on the East Coast, pro tournament fisherman Capt. Seth Funt (@teamthreebuoys) says, “The fish in Long Island Sound in March and April are tuned in to worms and small sand eels,” so he opts for a ½- or ¾-ounce Spro Prime Bucktail Jig in pearl, tipped with a 4- or 6-inch Gulp! Power Worm in pumpkin color. “It gives them a big, fat sand eel to get excited about. Just twitch, twitch, pull, and then let it fall a little. Worms and juvenile eels don’t swim along like baitfish; they just move with the current, so present it the same way.”

Try Them Out for Yourself

No matter your preferred striper lure, the key is to match it to the seasonal patterns and feeding behaviors of the striped bass you’re targeting. With the right lures and some well-timed casts, you’ll be hooking into plenty of these hard-fighting fish in no time. So get rigged up with some proven striped bass lures and get out on the water — the next trophy is waiting for you.

The post Best Striped Bass Lures appeared first on Sport Fishing Mag.

Tarpon are smart, or stubborn — I’m not sure which. Maybe both? No matter what, a tarpon’s lack of appetite some days makes for frustrating fishing. What I’ve learned over the years is that figuring out the best tarpon lures and understanding which ones work best for your area can go a long way.

I remember one summer trip off a Florida beach when school after school of tarpon swam underneath the boat, completely ignoring our best presentations. Dozens of tarpon patrolled just below and at the surface, often gulping air in defiance to our offerings.

There’s no better way to get out of that tarpon rut than by switching tactics, as my friends and I learned later that month. A local guide let slip that the tarpon were biting white, oversize jerk baits rigged to appropriate-size jig heads. For the rest of the summer, we jumped and released plenty of tarpon along the beaches. I say “jumped” because tarpon are tough to catch, and getting jumps and long runs out of them is still fun fishing, even if they never make it to the boat.

While there can never be 100 percent certainty what tarpon will chew (even if they devoured it last season or last month) I surveyed top captains, fishing-show hosts, tackle shops and lure manufacturers to find the best tarpon lures. To list every valuable tarpon lure would fill an entire book, so we kept it to a mix of 10 hard and soft baits, listed in no particular order.

Quicklook: 10 Best Lures for Tarpon

• Bomber: Badonk-A-Donk High Pitch
• D.O.A. Lures: Terror Eyz
• Hogy Lures: Original Hogy
• Z-Man Lures: Z-Man Streakz
• Yo-Zuri: Crystal 3-D Minnow Magnum
• Rapala: Glidin’ Rap 12
• MirrOlure: Series III Suspending Twitchbait
• Sebile: Magic Swimmer Fast Sinking 145
• Live Target: Scaled Sardine Wakebait
• Storm Lures: WildEye Swim Shad

Bomber

Expert: Capt. Chris O’Neill, Englewood, Florida

Weapon of Choice: Badonk-A-Donk High Pitch (4.75 inches)

Color: Depending on the sky conditions, O’Neill’s first choices are silver mullet or speckled trout. If the sky is bright and the water’s flat, he’ll use a color with a bone- or orange-colored throat.

Fishing Conditions: O’Neill prefers the water’s surface to be lightly choppy or flat calm, though such conditions are not absolutely necessary. Look for signs of tarpon rolling at the surface or feeding on mullet or ladyfish. In the waters around Boca Grande, Florida, O’Neill prefers fishing from August through October. There’s zero pressure that time of the year, and migrating fish are happy throughout the estuary, he says. They are far more willing to take a topwater lure.

Technique: Spot the tarpon and try to get ahead of the pod quietly. Work the bait down-current of the fish, just as Mother Nature would, says O’Neill. Baitfish do not swim against current, toward a school of hungry tarpon. Use a twitch-twitch-pause retrieve — and boom! — expect to get hit, says O’Neill.

Rigging: O’Neill, who’s a Penn pro, prefers an 8-foot Penn Legion rod armed with a Penn Spinfisher 6500 spinning reel. He uses 50-pound braided main line, connected to 60-pound fluorocarbon leader with an Albright knot. But before he ties on the Badonk-A-Donk with a loop knot, he replaces the treble hooks with stout short-shank hooks to increase hookup ratios and minimize potential damage to the fish.

D.O.A. Lures

Expert: Capt. Ed Zyak; Jensen Beach, Florida

Weapon of Choice: Terror Eyz (regular size; “I have caught more tarpon on this lure than all others combined,” Zyak says.)

Color: Root beer

Fishing Conditions: The lure works great on the beach in clear water, as well as the stained waters of backcountry rivers.

Technique: When using the Terror Eyz, Zyak ­typically casts to rolling fish — long, accurate casts are a must. Cast 4 to 6 feet in front of a rolling fish, and let the lure sink freely for a three- to four-second count, he says. Then use a steady, slow retrieve with no jigging movement at all. The bite is usually very light, but make sure to set the hook hard, says Zyak.

Rigging: Zyak prefers a 5,000-size Shimano Stella spinning reel on a 7- or 7½ -foot, medium-heavy rod. He spools with 30-pound braid and 50-pound ­fluorocarbon leader. The line-to-line connection is a double uni-knot, and the Terror Eyz gets a loop knot at the eye. This setup gives the best balance of distance and accuracy, plus great drag and power from the rod, the guide says.

Go Ballistic

Hogy Lures

Expert: Capt. Aaron Snell; Key West, Florida

Weapon of Choice: Original Hogy (10 inches)

Color: Snell prefers bone, followed by bubble gum. He’ll use black in low light or in off-colored waters.

Fishing Conditions: Snell prefers to sight-fish for tarpon over crystal-clear flats. For fishing around bridges, Ross Gallagher, director of retail sales at Hogy, recommends a black Hogy rigged to a jig head. More and more Keys captains bounce the jig along the bottom to catch tarpon in deeper waters, he says.

Technique: When flats fishing, get the lure in the water well ahead of the fish. Retrieve the bait with light twitches right into the fish’s strike zone. Vary the retrieval speed to the fish’s cruising speed, says Snell. Then set the hook down and to the side as soon as you feel the pop, he says. If the tarpon is swimming toward the boat, make sure it turns away before striking.

Rigging: Snell uses an 8-foot, ­medium- to ­fast-action ­spinning rod coupled with a reel that handles 30-pound braid. He ties a Bimini twist into the braid, and then uses a ninja or double slim knot to attach 2 feet of 60-pound fluorocarbon. Sometimes he’ll incorporate a section of furled nylon to add stretch. He rigs the Hogy to a weightless, 10/0 swimbait hook. Leader-to-hook connection is a Homer Rhode loop.

Single Serving

Z-Man Lures

Expert: Capt. Andrew Bostick; Marco Island, Florida

Weapon of Choice: Z-Man Streakz (5 or 8 inches)

Color: Black or white

Fishing Conditions: Bostick covers the waters from Marco Island to Everglades National Park on the southwest coast of Florida. He searches for tarpon feeding high in the water in both clear and tannic conditions. Since the lure is up in the water column, he says, it’s exciting to see the strikes.

Technique: Bostick fishes the soft bait when sight‑casting to rolling fish or blind-casting in a productive area. During the retrieve, he jerks the bait 6 to 8 inches, lets it sit for a second or two, and repeats. It’s important to wait for the fish to turn after it eats because anglers set the hook too fast at times.

Rigging: Bostick rigs the 5-inch Streakz with an Owner 4/0 Aki hook; the 8-inch is rigged with a 7/0. He uses a medium-heavy setup spooled with 20-pound braid, ending with 60- to 80-pound leader. Super glue the ElaZTech material of the Streakz to the hook, recommends Bostick. Once glued, the bait lasts longer than other soft plastics and has an impressive lifelike look.

Yo-Zuri

Expert: George Large, general manager, Yo-Zuri America

Weapon of Choice: Crystal 3-D Minnow Magnum

Color: In clear water, Large uses the holographic sardine color; in tannic water, he uses the holographic bunker; and in dirty water, he chooses holographic chartreuse.

Fishing Conditions: Spring and fall are the best times of the year, especially around new moons and during flood tides, says Large. As far as water conditions go, the lures work well in most waters, but tannic tints really set off the ultraviolet colors.

Technique: It’s as simple as casting and retrieving. Work the lure with a consistent retrieve — fast or slow, says Large. The tarpon will let you know what they prefer. Sometimes incorporate intermittent pause-jerk-pause actions to increase strikes, he says.

Rigging: It’s really up to the user, says Large. He uses a medium-heavy rod rigged with 60- to 80-pound braid, paired with a strong baitcasting or spinning reel. Large ties 80- to 130-pound ­fluorocarbon leader to a heavy-duty split ring attached to the lure’s line tie.

Gulp

Rapala

Expert: Capt. Rick Murphy, host of the Chevy Florida Insider Fishing Report and Sportsman’s Adventures

Weapon of Choice: Glidin’ Rap 12

Color: Gold shiner

Fishing Conditions: Capt. Rick Murphy spends plenty of time fishing Everglades National Park in South Florida for the silver king. He targets laid-up tarpon in the back bays, swirling with clear to tannic-brown waters, during the prime months of May to October.

Technique: Murphy prefers blind- or sight-casting to rolling fish with shallow-running lures that feature strong side-to-side action. He casts out in front of the tarpon and twitches the rod tip to give the lure a walk-the-dog presentation, a forced zigzag motion that many lure anglers are familiar with. Often, tarpon hit the lure during the pause. So far, his largest lure-caught tarpon is 140 pounds.

Rigging: Murphy prefers plug tackle, opting for a 7-foot rod paired with a 400-size baitcasting reel. He rigs up with 20-pound braid main line tied to 60-pound fluorocarbon leader. All line connections use the time-tested uni-knot.

Wide-Eyed

MirrOlure

Expert: Capt. Rhett Morris; Port Charlotte, Florida

Weapon of Choice: Series III Suspending Twitchbait (S25MR)

Color: Morris prefers chartreuse, red-head-and-white back, or apple-red-and-gold

Fishing Conditions: The best time of year to catch tarpon is April through June, as well as in fall, says Morris. He looks for glass-calm waters so the lure leaves a surface wake while being worked toward the boat. Still, the suspending twitchbait works in choppier waters too, so don’t fret when waters aren’t dead calm.

Technique: Cast the lure 10 feet in front of a rolling fish, then slowly work it with a series of twitches. Morris tries to follow a one-second pause with a three-second pause. He’ll change to a one-two count when retrieving the lure more erratically. Try hard to make the bait look like injured, easy prey, says Morris.

Rigging: Morris removes the front hook of the MirroLure and replaces the back treble with a 3x-strong Owner treble hook. That single, rear hook has a better hookup ratio, he says. He attaches the plug to 6 feet of 60-pound leader with a no-name loop knot. Make sure to use at least a 7½-foot rod that can handle 50-pound braid and an 8,000-size reel, he says.

Pretty in Pink

Sebile

Expert: Patrick Sebile, founder of Sebile Lures

Weapon of Choice: Magic Swimmer Fast Sinking 145

Color: A natural shiny color for the daytime. At night, Sebile chooses white so he can see the lure in the water.

Fishing Conditions: The best time of the year is during spring and fall, or anytime tarpon are active in shallow waters.

Technique: Sebile rigs his lures to fish in a number of ways. Cast and reel in the lure with a straight retrieve, or slow-troll the lure behind the boat. If anchored, let the bait sit still so the “Magic Swimmer can do its magic,” says Sebile. The natural wobble of the Magic Swimmer in the current draws strikes from tarpon.

Rigging: Sebile developed this rig years ago when guiding for monster tarpon in Guinea-Bissau, West Africa. Sebile connects a circle hook to a swivel, holding the hook onto the swivel with a rubber stopper. On the other end of the swivel, a split ring attaches to the lure. The rig allows anglers to change sizes and models but still allows total freedom for the lure to swim, he says. Once the fish is hooked, there’s no leverage on the lure’s body and less of a chance to break off. The hook lips the tarpon when they swallow it, minimizing intrusion of the hook in the fish’s mouth, Sebile says.

Live Target

Expert: Henry Waszczuk, host of Fishing the Flats

Weapon of Choice: Scaled Sardine Wakebait (4½ inches)

Color: Ghost amber

Fishing Conditions: Waszczuk prefers stained water, where tarpon can’t overanalyze his presentation. He targets fish in Florida Keys backcountry waters near tide rips, mangroves and other holding areas, plus near bridge structure.

Technique: Tarpon are notorious for keying in on live baits such as crabs, threadfin herring or scaled sardines, so it’s no surprise that Waszczuk recommends twitchbaits, swimbaits and wakebaits that mimic them. Waszczuk makes long casts to the tarpon, staying as far away as he can from the pods, and then utilizes a quick-pause erratic retrieve. The height of the rod tip off the water dictates the various depths your lure swims, he says.

Rigging: A medium-heavy rod matched to your favorite spinning reel is all that’s necessary. Waszczuk uses braid in the 40- to 50-pound class but recommends the angler determine the line weight based on the size of tarpon in the area. Tie a fluoro leader to the terminal end, and then add the plug. Waszczuk works the bait with the rod tip for the best action.

Head Turner

Storm Lures

Expert: Robert Lugiewicz, manager at Fishin’ Franks tackle shop in Charlotte Harbor, Florida

Weapon of Choice: WildEye Swim Shad (4 to 6 inches)

Color: Lugiewicz prefers bunker or mullet colors but says the best color changes from year to year.

Fishing Conditions: Sight-or drift-fishing in the harbor or along the beaches offers the best of both worlds in summer. Lugiewicz prefers a bit of a breeze and some chop on the water, and looks for schools of mullet or threadfin schools. In Charlotte Harbor, he’ll search out deeper holes, ranging from 6 to 20 feet deep.

Technique: Besides casting in front of tarpon schools and letting the bait sink, Lugiewicz offers a tip you might not have considered. Put a float above a swimbait, cast it out, and stick the rod in an ­out-of-the-way holder while drifting. Forget about it while casting to other fish in the area. He’s caught countless tarpon this way, he says — Rodney the Rod Holder to the rescue.

Rigging: Rigging is a cinch with the line-to-­swimbait connection using a basic uni-knot (no leader). Lugiewicz uses an 8-foot rod, such as a Shimano Teramar, and pairs it with a Penn Battle spooled with 50-pound braid. (He’s not affiliated with either manufacturer.) Leader strength is 60- to 80-pound fluorocarbon.

Take this Lure Out of Your Tackle Box

The post 10 Best Tarpon Lures appeared first on Sport Fishing Mag.

We’ve rounded up a collection of current and new tackle, apparel and other gear for women anglers who anticipate new adventures as the weather warms.

Quicklook: Best Spring Gear for Women Anglers

• Best Bib: Grundens Pisces Bib
• Best Conventional Reel: Shimano Speedmaster II
• Best Stain-repellent Clothing: Columbia Airgill Shirt and Cast & Release Pants
• Best Hybrid Performance/Lifestyle Sunglasses: Costa Mayfly and Aleta
• Best Emerging Fishing Gear Line: Academy H2OX
• Best Lightweight Performance Clothing: Salt Life Tectonic Hoodie and Transcend Fishing Shorts
• Best Inshore Rods for Affordability: Ugly Stik Spinning and Casting Rods
• Best Bug-protectant Clothing: Simms BugStopper Leggings and SolarFlex Hoodie
• Best Sunglasses for Diverse Colors & Lenses: Fin-Nor Cleat and Tillies Bank
• Best Lightweight Inshore Spinning Rod: G. Loomis NRX Inshore 883S MR
• Best Breathable Sun Hoodie: AFTCO Air-O-Mesh
• Best Shorts for Comfort: Marsh Wear Prime Shorts
• Best Sunglasses for Small Faces: Bajio Ozello and Eldora
• Best Saltwater Spinning Reel: Penn Authority Reel
• Best Tank and Shorts Combo: Huk Waypoint Flow Tank and Next Level Short

Grundens Pisces Bibs

Is this a great invention or what? Finally a set of breathable, durable bibs that give women an easy outlet, so to speak, for relieving themselves on the water. The suspenders stay put while the lower bib unzips and swings away. The nylon shell fabric features 10K waterproof performance. Grundens also included a zippered chest storage pocket, corrosion-resistant YKK zippers and hardware, and hook-and-loop adjustable lower cuffs. Available in sizes XS through 2XL, the bibs cost $169.99.

Shimano Speedmaster II

The Speedmaster II lineup just added two new sizes — 8 and 10 — providing reliable options for nearshore and bottom-fishing. The lever-drag reels offer a 6.2-to-1 gear ratio and can retrieve 38 inches of line per crank. Their rigid Hagane bodies prevent misalignment of moving parts under the heaviest loads. The LD 8II holds 200 yards of 20-pound mono or 440 yards of 40-pound braid. The LD 10II holds 215 yards of 25-pound mono or 440 yards of 50-pound braid. The reels can deliver 18 pounds of max drag and cost $229.99 to $239.99. Shop now

Columbia Cool Release Airgill Shirt, Cast and Release Stretch Pant

Offering Omni-Freeze Zero sweat-activated cooling, UPF 50 sun protection and water-and-stain repellency, this long-sleeve tech shirt is 100 percent polyester. Airgill comes with vents, zippered hand pockets, a sunglass cleaning patch and rollup sleeves with snap holders. It comes in pink pop or Gulf Stream (pictured) in sizes XS through 2XL and costs $90. The Cast and Release pants are 95 percent nylon and 5 percent elastane and deliver UPF 50 sun protection as well as advanced stain repellency. The pants come with a reinforced pliers pocket, utility loop, drop-in phone pocket and a 27-inch inseam. Available in cool grey (pictured) or black and in sizes 2 through 16, they cost $80.

Costa Aleta, Mayfly Sunglasses

Costa says that while both of these women’s frames are performance/lifestyle hybrids, the Mayfly (bottom) was intentionally designed for technical use on the water, with input from female pro staffers. The frames feature fully adjustable and vented nose pads, top and side shielding, sweat channels and eye drains, and they start at $193. Aleta sunglasses employ lightweight bio-resin and double-injected Hyrdolite for a better grip. Micro shields and hooding keep excess light out. The Aleta starts at $182.

Academy H2OX

How about a new fishing brand from Academy Sports + Outdoors? The new H2OX line has evolved from the H2O Express brand and includes rods, reels, combos, hard baits, soft plastics, tackle storage, terminal tackle and line, pliers, knives, nets and even more. The gear is designed to hit all angler-experience levels beginning with the Premier Series for entry-level anglers to the Ethos Series, which mixes elevated features and value, and the Evo Series, designed with elite-angler input for premium technology and innovation.

Salt Life Tectonic Lightweight Performance Hoodie, Transcend Fishing Shorts

Made with perforated mesh, flatlock seams and thumbholes, Salt Life’s Tectonic hoodie delivers UV 30 sun protection while wicking away moisture. The lightweight shirt is made from polyester and Spandex, comes in sizes S through XL and in light Aruba, coastal blue (pictured) or grey; it costs $54. Transcend shorts feature four-way stretch fabric, a 4-inch inseam, front slant pockets, mesh pocket bags and an inner waistband, and notched leg slits. Available in sizes 0 through 14, the shorts come in washed navy (pictured) or charcoal and cost $48.

Ugly Stik Carbon Inshore Rods

These new spinning and casting rods are built on 24-ton graphite blanks with graphite tips for lightweight balance, crisp action and increased sensitivity. Ugly Tuff stainless-steel guides eliminate insert pop outs. The nine-rod series also features either cork or shrink-tube foregrips and shrink-tube rear grips. The seafoam ocean-blue rods come with medium-light, medium or medium-heavy power ratings with fast or extra-fast actions in a variety of lengths. They cost $99.95.

Simms BugStopper Leggings, SolarFlex Hoodie

Simms BugStopper Leggings are made from a polyester-spandex, insect-repellent knit blend with a high-waisted fit and wide waistband. Insect Shield protects from mosquitoes, ticks, chiggers and other biting bugs. Available in sizes XS through 2XL, the leggings ($109.95) feature a 28-inch inseam and a thigh pocket and come in sapphire daze (pictured), black, or woodland camo storm. The hoodie ($94.95) comes in bay leaf and bluegrass heather, in sizes XS through 2XL.

Fin-Nor Cleat, Tillies Bank Sunglasses

Depending upon the style of frames you prefer and the size of your face, two of Fin-Nor’s recent sunglass offerings might fit your needs. The Cleat (top left) is described as a male-oriented 8-base frame, but this wide-arm style blocks light and helps reduce glare on the water. Cleat also comes with a venting system, spring hinges, and an adjustable nose pad—to comfortably fit a variety of face shapes. Frame colors include matte blue wave and matte black; various colors of glass and polycarbonate lenses are available. Cleats cost $189. Tillies Bank’s 6-base frame is female-targeted. It comes with spring hinges and is available in flats pool tort, matte deep shallow blue, and honey ripple fade with a range of lenses. Tillies Banks cost $179.

G. Loomis NRX Inshore 883S MR

G. Loomis designed this 7-foot-4-inch inshore spinning rod with an increased rate of tip recovery for maximum casting range and accuracy. Super light, sensitive and strong, this rod features the nano-silica resin system that allows Loomis to use less material without losing strength. The company also uses titanium-framed SIC K-frame stripper guides to keep braided line from tangling on the frames at the stiffest point of the rod. After the first three K-frame guides, Loomis added nickel-titanium RECOIL guides to reduce weight and increase that tip recovery rate. The 883S MR has a split-grip handle, medium-heavy power, and fast action, and is rated for 15- to 40-pound braid. It costs $626.

AFTCO Air-O-Mesh Sun Hoodie

The Air-O-Mesh fabric is highly breathable and made from polyester and spandex. It offers UPF 50 sun protection and is quick drying and stain resistant. The long-sleeve shirt comes in sizes XS through XL and in two colors: eventide heather (pictured) and moonlight jade heather. It costs $55.

Marsh Wear Prime Shorts

AFTCO partner Marsh Wear offers the redesigned Prime Shorts, now with a thinner waistband. The high-rise style shorts have a 4-inch inseam and are made from stretch fabric that provides UPF 40 sun protection. Other features include front slant pockets and a back zippered pocket. The shorts come in sizes XS through XL and in two colors: antler (pictured) and smoke. They cost $55.

Bajio Ozello, Eldora Sunglasses

For spring, Bajio offers these two new women’s frames — Ozello (top left) and Eldora. Ozello is a small-fit frame that’s part of the classic-fishing Wide Body family while Eldora is part of the Tight Lines collection, also sized small but built to transition from boat to bar. Ozello features a non-slip nose pad and rubber temple tips and is made from a plant-based material. Eldora features vented rubber side shields, ergo rubber nose pads and temples, and flex hinges. Both frames are available in three colors with seven lens-color options. Ozellos and Eldoras with polycarbonate lenses cost $209 each; glass costs $259.

Penn Authority Reel

“Authority” aptly describes Penn’s line of high-performance saltwater spinning reels that debuted last summer. The Authority line comes in sizes ranging from 2500 to 10500 and features an IPX8 waterproof-rated sealed body and spool, CNC Gear technology with a stainless-steel gear train and pinion gear, and the Leveline slow oscillation system. The 12+1 bearing system delivers a smooth retrieve, and the Dura-Drag generates maximum drag pressure. The reels cost $499.95 to $599.95. Shop now

Read Next: Women in Fishing

Huk Waypoint Flow Tank, Next Level Short

The Waypoint Flow tank top is made with recycled polyester, rayon and Spandex. The fabric also offers 50+ UPF sun protection. It comes in sizes XS through XL and in crystal blue, Wedgewood, winsome orchid and coral reef (pictured); it costs $60. The top-selling men’s Next Level Short has been redesigned for women. Features include an adjustable waistband, side and back pockets and a 5-inch inseam. The material is cotton, polyester and Spandex. Available in XS through 2XL, and in night owl, new khaki and Sargasso Sea (pictured), the shorts cost $65.

The post Spring Gear Guide for Women Anglers appeared first on Sport Fishing Mag.

Packing for a fishing trip to any destination — especially a remote one — can be an exercise in strategy and patience. Airline luggage limits were not designed with anglers in mind, and whittling down our home fishing kits to the basics of what we need when in a new location is not a simple undertaking. I’ve been traveling the globe for 15 years, fishing on six continents as a photographer, writer, and lodge manager, and I’m still changing and adapting my packing lists to each new job and destination.

If you’re traveling with an outfitter or a lodge, they should provide you with a basic packing list suited to the fishery. These lists tend to do a pretty good job of covering the basics: tackle, clothing, and other assorted equipment. I find they don’t cover everything however, including medical supplies and personal care to keep yourself healthy and hydrated during long fishing and travel days.

For every single trip — from the jungles of the Amazon to the Russian tundra — I always pack along a good medical kit including a tourniquet, suture kit, and clean, sterile syringes. Beyond field care, even if I end up in a hospital getting an IV or stitches, I want to know the needles are clean and haven’t been used on someone else. (It’s more common than you might think, especially in certain regions of the world.) I also pack along electrolytes to prevent dehydration, bug protection, and sunscreen for body, face, and lips to protect what’s not covered by clothing. Even in cold climates, long hours in the sun can add up surprisingly quickly.

My packing lists are comprehensive for each trip and job, but I wanted to provide a run-down of a few key categories you should consider when booking your next destination trip. While this is by no means all-inclusive, here are key items you should consider bringing along on your next destination fishing trip, especially if it’s to a remote locale.

A Water-Resistant Duffel

Soft-sided duffel bags are often vastly preferable to hard-sided luggage for remote locations. Small bush planes, helicopters, and even small transfer boats will often not load oversize hard-sided luggage. Duffels can more easily mold to limited space. Yes, there are many models available with wheels if you’re not keen on carrying it over your shoulder. Ideally, look for a duffel made of a water-resistant or even waterproof material from makers such as Simms. You never know when it’s going to get stuck sitting on the tarmac in the rain while waiting to be loaded up.

It’s also worthwhile investing in small “cube”-style packing organizers. Travel enough, and eventually you’ll be emptying your luggage in front of some customs official in a busy airport. Ensuring everything is organized internally will help you stay organized throughout the course of your trip while also limiting theft opportunities when all your necessities are spread out over the conveyer belt.

A Dry Bag or Backpack

By its very nature, fishing is a wet pursuit. We’re either working on or around water, or caught out in the elements when a nasty storm pops up. Do yourself a favor and invest in a waterproof pack, such as those from YETI, so when that squall approaches, you’re not panicking about how to keep your kit dry. There are plenty of options on the marketplace — from backpacks to hip packs to boat bags — so find one that suits your individual needs and preferences, then take the time to set it up how you like. Adjust the straps. Add carabiners and other accessories as needed.

If you already have a bag you love that isn’t waterproof, throw a small, compressible drybag in one of the pockets. You can throw items that really can’t afford to get wet — such as your phone, camera, wallet, and passport — in the waterproof receptacle when the time comes.

A Rod Case

As discussed plenty, organization is key. Especially if you’re in a remote location where you’ll be living out of your duffel and changing camps every night, there’s no time to unpack each day and “set up” home base. Keeping your personal items and your fishing gear organized is key, so consider traveling with a rod case that allows you to pack multiple rods in socks, along with reels and a small selection of flies or lures. Many airlines will allow you to carry a four-piece rod case on the airplane, as long as it fits the set dimensions for carry-on items, which alleviates the stress of checking expensive gear.

If you’re traveling with one- or two-piece rods, you’ll likely have to invest in a hard-sided plastic rod carrier from makes such as Flambeau Outdoors. Most of the iterations of these carriers are well-padded (though don’t be afraid to glue more foam in there) and can be locked with TSA-approved locks. Be aware you’ll likely have to pay an oversize item fee. Plus, check international airline regulations on “sporting goods” and “oversize items” because sometimes the baggage fees can be upward of $500, depending on your airline and route.

Travel Tackle-Storage System

It’s the age-old fisherman’s question: How do I keep all this stuff organized? And if you think that’s a challenging task at home, be prepared for the challenges to multiply when you’re traveling. Each angler has their own system for keeping terminal tackle and lures organized on the road. Some prefer to invest in boxes and organizational systems, understanding that it’s going to eat away at their packing space. Others condense down, preferring gallon-size plastic baggies to group items together. I fall somewhere in the middle. I utilize my fair share of baggies and dry bags, but I also have a box or two readily accessible and organized.

Find a program that works for you, and familiarize yourself with your own system. Jet lag and overall travel exhaustion makes everything seem harder, and the last thing you want when you’re on location is to not be able to find that one key piece of equipment you know is hiding somewhere in the depths of your bag.

Sunglasses

Eye protection is a core piece of gear that’s vital for every angler in every location. I always pack two pairs of sunglasses: one as a daily driver and one as a spare. Things do happen, and sunglasses do break. Whether you’re stalking bonefish on the flats of Belize or chasing grayling in Swedish Lapland, keeping your eyes relaxed and happy is key to success on the water. Especially when fishing with anglers whose skillset of which I’m uncertain, I prefer frames with full wraparound protection to help prevent any hooks landing where they shouldn’t.

Consider your location, the water, and the conditions as you choose which lenses to pack. Quality polarization is key regardless of lens color, helping to cut the glare and see farther into the water column. I prefer green lenses for inshore and flats use, and blue for bluewater and offshore. Every angler will have their preferences; most sunglasses companies offer helpful guides on their website about which lens color is best-suited to specific uses.

Headwear

On and off the water, we all have our personal preferences for things we put on our heads. I tend to favor the good old-fashioned baseball cap when on the water, relying on the brim to help cut glare and protect from spray, flies, and rain. On chilly days, it’s easy to toss a warm beanie over the cap too. Fishermen will often sport full-brim hats on the water as well, opting for the ear and neck protection. Bottom line: Go with what’s comfortable.

I’m also a big fan of face masks. Sometimes they’re called a buff or neck gaiter. I’ll pull a buff up over the back of my cap to protect neck, ears, and face from extreme sun, and always keep a spare or two in my fishing bag for equipment dust protection, wiping hands, and other uses.

Good Fishing Pliers

You’d be surprised at the uses for a solid set of pliers. Most saltwater anglers will keep a set handy to help unhook fish and cut leader, but pliers can also be a handy bottle opener in a pinch, a tool to help solve engine issues, and so much more. I prefer a pair with built-in cutters (saving me from having to carry separate nippers) and a solid belt sheath that I can either wear or clip to my backpack. Just like all your other gear, be sure to wash pliers well with fresh water at the end of every day in the salt.

Solid Footwear

Footwear is going to be dictated by your location, the conditions, and the trip itself, but this is one area you should not skimp on. A good pair of shoes can make or break your day, especially when you’re exhausted and sore from long travel. For cold-weather trips where I’ll be in waders and hiking a lot, I prefer a supportive wading boot with plenty of ankle support. I always bring along a pair of flats wading shoes on saltwater trips; it took just one trip with cheap wading boots and the resulting infected coral cuts to remind me of the importance of good footwear.

If you’ll be in boats, ensure that your footwear is nonmarking—one of the fastest ways to get on a captain’s naughty list is to mark up his deck.

And be sure you pack along a comfy pair of flip-flops, sneakers, or whatever lounge footwear you favor for hanging at the camp or lodge after the fishing day is done. There are few feelings as good as setting aside sweaty, damp fishing gear and slipping into something dry and comfy at the end of the day.

A Fishing Sun Shirt

Anyone who has spent time in tropical climates needs no reminding of the importance of a solid sun shirt. I always look for tops made with lightweight, quick-drying fabric that will help wick moisture while also providing mechanical sun coverage.

Key sun shirt features on my list? A good, deep hood that will fully cover my ears and can be caped out over the brim of my ballcap, ideally with some sort of cinch so that I can snug it down when we’re making runs in the boat. I also look for sleeves that are long enough to provide good coverage on the back of my hand, and thumb holes that are practical.

Rain Gear

As we discussed above when talking about waterproof bags in the boat, it’s a universally acknowledged truth that, somewhere along the way on almost every fishing trip, you’re going to get wet. Whether it’s an afternoon shower in the Caribbean or a daylong deluge, when the time comes, you’re going to be glad you spent the money for the better-quality rainwear.

I run a few different rain jackets depending on the job (thicker for cold weather, lighter for the tropics), but they all have snug cuffs to help limit water running up my warms, a well-fitting hood, and are long enough to help drain water down over my hips, not just into a pool at the small of my back. Pit zips are also a solid feature for warm climates. Just like everything else on this list, rain gear is a personal-preference call, but know that it is worth investing in gear that will keep you dry through the nastiest weather.

Travel Rod

 Some destinations—especially remote locations—might not have the quality of fishing gear that you’re used to at home. Consider bringing along a travel stick, particularly a light-tackle rod that’s easy to carry and doesn’t take up much space during travel.

One good option is from Shimano, although most rod-makers these days have travel options. Shimano designed its Convergence series of casting and spinning rods to cater to the diverse needs of multispecies anglers. These rods boast quality components and versatile actions, making them suitable for various travel fishing scenarios. The redesigned series features lightweight carbon blanks for sensitivity and power, matched with Fuji reel seats for comfort and improved bite detection.

Two- and four-piece rods are available. The four-piece travel rods come with a travel tube, providing additional protection. Too many anglers have been blindsided when hopping on an unfamiliar charter boat and realizing that the tackle might not be up to snuff. It never hurts to bring a travel rod as insurance.

Satellite Communicator

Although it’s hard to believe in this digital age, some locations around the world are still fairly removed from cell service and Wi-Fi connectivity. Heading into remote destinations, it’s a good idea to be able to reach the outside world should the worst happen. If medical evac is needed or a security situation changes, being able work logistics is critical.

And very little can be accomplished without some communications tether to the outside world. Satellite communicators have become more common and certainly affordable in the past decade. Models such as the Garmin InReach allow users to reach friends and family using two-way messaging. They can be used to help set up an evacuation if necessary. Or use them for something as simple as staying in touch with those at home.  

This list should give you a starting point as you consider your next destination fishing trip. I often recommend people keep a packing list and physically check off items as they are packed into your bag. I have two packing lists open on my computer as I write this for two upcoming jobs in very different fisheries: Iceland and Bolivia. And while the two lists have some overlap there are considerable differences. Having the lists and checking off items as they go into my duffels gives me peace of mind that I’m not forgetting something small but crucial, such as foreign plug adapters.

Whatever you choose to bring along on your trip, make sure it suits your individual needs and preferences. Your list might look very different from mine, and that’s okay—bring what you need, pack for eventualities (within reason), and then go forth knowing you’re prepared. Fishing travel is supposed to be fun.

The post The Essentials of Fishing Travel appeared first on Sport Fishing Mag.

Someone hands you a gift. You shake the box. Turn it over and inspect the shape. Balance the package on one hand to judge its weight. Then, you pluck off the bow, break the ribbon and rip through the wrapping paper. If one of the on-the-water gifts on our holiday gift guide is in the box, you have been a good boy or girl this year. (The products are listed in alphabetical order.)

Bajio’s Shop for the Shallows Campaign

During the holidays, everyone is looking for a little something different. Bajio sunglasses offers a great deal for customers and our coastal waters when buying a pair of sunglasses. When you purchase a pair of Bajio’s high-definition polarized sunglasses, Bajio gives you a cool gift and makes a donation to an environmental cause of your choice. You can choose to support oyster reefs, mangrove restoration or ocean plastic mitigation. Along with your new sunglasses, Bajio sends you a trendy camp cup with an illustration representing your preferred cause. 

Berkley Highjacker Saltwater Lure

Every tackle box needs a selection of walk-the-dog style topwater lures to imitate a baitfish zig-zagging across the water. Berkley’s new HighJacker Saltwater takes the place of all other surface walkers. The unique hydrodynamic shape is perfect for imitating smaller baits. Flat sides make the lure easy to walk at any speed. A walk-the-dog topwater is a great search bait. To increase casting distance and cover more water, the HighJacker uses an aerodynamic shape and tail weights. Predators attack a topwater lure with reckless abandon, the HighJacker’s 3X strong, anti-rust and slick sharp hooks make the fish pay for its mistake.

Humminbird APEX 13 MEGA SI+ Chartplotter

Whether you’re searching for bunker schools in the Northeast, looking for red drum schools in the mid-Atlantic, clocking tarpon in the South or paddy hopping out west, the name of the game is side scan and live sonar. But these advanced sonars are only as good as the multifunction display. Humminbird rewrites the book with the APEX 13 MEGA SI+ Chartplotter. Starting with the high definition, customizable touch screen, the APEX provides crystal clear images of fish and structure. The 13-inch screen is a perfect compliment to Humminbird’s famous MEGA side scan and live sonar. Using a super high power transducer signal, the MEGA produces the most accurate representation of the world under the water. To accommodate a wide range of transducers, the APEX 13 is outfitted with a variety of ports and plugs. With the One Boat app you can control downriggers, trolling motor and anchor systems from one display.

King Sailfish Mounts Mini Mount

So you want to commemorate a trophy catch with a mount, but you don’t want to take up a ton of wall space? The solution is a King Sailfish Mounts Mini Mount. These 16-inch-long fish representations are crafted and painted with the same accuracy and quality as King Sailfish’s famous taxidermy. The Mini Mount is cast in polyester and hand painted to look just like a real fish. There’s no better way to remember your first swordfish, longest smallmouth, or heaviest snook than looking at a perfect copy hanging on the wall. 

Minn Kota Riptide Terrova Trolling Motor

Trolling motors are popping up on backwater skiffs and offshore rigs. The convenience of maneuvering the boat and locking it in position has inspired anglers to take trolling motors to new waters. Minn Kota has redesigned the Riptide Terrova to be tougher and easier to use. First, the composite shaft is guaranteed for life. Then, the new brushless motor has been updated from the mounts to the software. Real time battery monitoring and digital maximized power control squeeze every watt out of the battery. As part of Humminbird’s network, the Riptide can be controlled and monitored from a smartphone app.

Newport Tiller Extension Handle

The only limit to adding a motor to a kayak or paddleboard is rigging the steering controls. Instead of running wires and cables, you can use Newport’s Tiller Extension Handle. The carbon fiber handle and silicone grip keep the Tiller Extension handle light and comfortable. An oversized adjustment knob makes sure the tiller handle stays attached to the tiller. The tiller handle comes in three sizes to accommodate any size boat or board. It even works with gas motors on powerboats. Whether you have a Newport electric motor or another brand outboard, the Tiller Extension Handle is an easy solution to rigging controls.

Pelagic Chubasco Bibs

From fall through spring, I wear rain bibs from the time I walk on the boat until I step back on the dock at the end of the day. Heavy and awkward rain bibs sap my strength and cause my shoulders and spine to complain. Pelagic’s Chubasco Bibs allow me to forget I’m wearing rubber pants. The key to comfort is lightweight, four-way stretch, two-layer PVC material that is waterproof and tear resistant. Adjustable shoulder straps hold up the bibs without excessive pressure on my shoulders. My favorite feature is snaps at the leg cuffs to adjust the bib length and keep my pants from dragging on the deck. For day to day fishing, a light pair of bibs blocks wind and spray without causing fatigue.

Penn Fathom Low Profile Baitcasting Reels

For the past three seasons, I’ve used PENN Fathom Low Profile reels for sight fishing red drum and cobia. I switched from spinning reels to baitcasting for better line control and more accurate casts. To stand up against the toughest predators, Fathom Low Profile offers a full-metal body, brass main gears and bearing-supported pinion. The solid package supports the powerful carbon fiber drag washers. The largest models include a synchronized line guide and drag system. As the fish pulls drag, the line guide moves back and forth to reduce stress on the line. The Fathom Low Profile comes in 200, 300 and 400 sizes with up to 30 pounds of drag pressure.

Plano Edge 3700 Swimbait Box

Leave it up to Plano to reinvent the tackle tray … again. The new Edge series takes tackle storage technology to the next level with every advanced feature available. The sturdy one-hand latch and solid steel hinge pins combined with a rubber O-ring keep out moisture. Plano’s Rustrictor corrosion prevention and WaterWick absorbent material further reduce corrosion. Edge tackle trays come in all the popular sizes and dozens of customizable configurations. They fit in tackle storage systems designed for traditional tackle trays. The latest edition to the Edge family is the new Swimbait Box. The unique tackle tray can be outfitted with traditional dividers. Or, to keep large swimbaits and glide baits separate, unique hangers suspend the lures so they don’t contact the sides of the box or tangle other lures. 

Salt Life Aquatic Journey Performance Flannel Fishing Shirt

Modern fishing shirts are designed to perform like athletic wear and look office casual. The Salt Life Aquatic Journey Performance Flannel Fishing Shirt packs a lot of performance into a versatile shirt. On the fishing side, the Performance Flannel is UV and odor resistant with moisture wicking fabric. Two chest pockets with button flaps hold swivels, crimps and other gear I don’t want to lose. A hidden pocket is the perfect size to carry my sunglasses. On the town, the Performance Flannel has a scalloped hem and adjustable sleeves with internal snaps to look sharp at dinner. Of course, the urban camo pattern with hidden gamefish looks cool just about anywhere.

Savage Gear Manic Shrimp RTF Lure

When the water is super clear, nothing fools fish better than a lifelike shrimp imitation. Savage Gear’s latest Mantis Shrimp is designed in six realistic colors and modeled after a 3D image of a real shrimp. The articulated tail and wiggly appendages let the Mantis Shrimp move as good as it looks. Even after a fish attacks, the ruse is not up. The Mantis Shrimp is impregnated with realistic scent and a rattle to complete the presentation. The integrated weight and laser sharp hook are designed for jigging or fishing the Mantis shrimp under a popping cork. 

Shimano Teramar West Coast Fishing Rods

West coast anglers are notoriously tough on their fishing rods. That’s why Shimano updated the Teramar West Coast line to meet the demands of offshore and inshore fishing. Starting with a T-glass blank wrapped in carbon fiber tape, the new Teramar WC produces incredible power with the impact resistance of the graphite outer layer. The most common point of failure is a broken line guide. The new Taramar WC uses Seaguide line guides with beefy frames to avoid corrosion and protect the guide ring. All inshore models feature cork grips while the offshore rods use diamond pattern foam grips. Shimano even included a casting rod with Deck Hand style grip for hardcore, long distance casting. 

Siren 3 Pro Maine Device Smart Boat Monitoring System

As soon as I leave my boat, I start to worry. Did I forget the shore power? What if the bilge pump fails? Is the boat sinking, on fire, stolen? When I can’t see my boat, every disaster imaginable passes through my mind. Siren Marine Siren 3 Pro alleviates my anxiety anywhere and anytime. The Siren 3 connects to boat systems and wirelessly sends status reports to my smartphone. Using wired and wireless sensors and connecting to NMEA networks, the device tracks boat conditions in real time and keeps me informed of an emergency. Even when I’m at home, I can keep an eye on my boat.

XTRATUF Men’s Ice Fleece Lined Ankle Deck Boot

If you’re going to design a boot for walking on wet ice, you better make it warm. XTRATUF achieved both objectives with the Men’s Ice Fleece Lined Ankle Deck Boot. The boot outsole uses certified slip resistant rubber compounds to keep a solid footing even on wet surfaces. The rubber upper is 100 percent waterproof with neoprene ankle patches for all-day comfort. Inside the boot, faux wool lining traps heat and dries fast to keep your feet warm even on the ice.

YETI Stackable Mug

Everyone has a favorite coffee mug. It may be chipped, cracked, stained and ugly, but a coffee drinker’s favorite cup is a best friend, sidekick and adventure buddy. Well, get ready to ditch your current beverage vessel for YETI’s new Stackable Mug. As the name says, the camp-style mug is designed with a wide mouth and low profile for easy stacking. YETI’s version is built around an 18/8 vacuum sealed body that keeps beverages hot to YETI’s high standards. To prevent liquid from sloshing out of the wide-mouth mug, the company includes its clear-plastic lid with magnetic slider opening. But nothing beats the taste of hot coffee from a ceramic mug. To combine the experience of a ceramic mug with the performance of an insulated mug, YETI lined the inside of the Stackable Mug with stain and stick resistant ceramic.

The post 2023 Holiday Gift Guide for Anglers and Boaters appeared first on Sport Fishing Mag.

One word describes the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show: Big! With multiple venues, hundreds of exhibits, and more boats, motors, electronics and accessories than you can imagine, this show can be overwhelming. But if you’re looking to live large, this is the show for you. The 2023 show did not disappoint. Here are some of the big products for boating anglers I saw at FLIBS this year.

Formula 457 FISH

Formula Boats staged a huge announcement at FLIBS. It introduced a big new center-console: the Formula 457 Fish. The company presented a detailed scale model of the new boat, and the real thing will be at the Miami International Boat Show in February 2024.

“Built to your preference, from hardcore fishing to upscale sport cruising, or a little of both, the 457 will match your boating style,” Formula’s Scott Porter announced. “Opt for foldaway aft seating and pressurized bait wells, plus the bait station and fully appointed tower command for a fishing battlewagon. We will build a boat to suit your wants and needs.”

At 47 feet, 7 inches in length with a beam of 13 feet, 9 inches, the 457 will boast a 700-gallon fuel capacity and up to three Mercury Verado 600-hp V-12 outboards. Two rows of helm seating will accommodate eight crew members in comfort. Speaking of comfort, a fully appointed cabin will make long cruises and overnighting at the islands a genuine pleasure.

Grady-White Canyon 386

Grady-White Boats always seems to make big news at FLIBS, and this year was even more spectacular with the debut of the Canyon 386 center console. Mirroring the best design elements of the Grady-White flagship model, the Canyon 456, the 386 offers an immense amount of deck space.

“You’ll find no other boats of its class with the magnitude of square footage that we’ve been able to create in our design process,” said Grady-White Product Designer Christian Carraway. “With an eye toward fishability and luxury, we’ve crafted a boat that’s both rugged and refined.”

With a length of 36½ feet and beam of 13 feet, 2 inches, the Canyon 386 features four luxurious helm seats and a spacious, fully appointed cabin accessed from a sliding door on the helm deck. The roomy cockpit has side doors on both sides, dual 35-gallon transom livewells, and a 291-quart insulated refrigerator/freezer fish box with a digitally controlled thermostat. A fold-away transom bench seat offers extra seating, but tucks away quickly when the angling action heats up.

On the forward console is an inviting lounger and posh seating in the bow. The updated engine area eliminates the traditional motor well and supports triple Yamaha XTO Offshore 450-hp outboards, now available in classic white to perfectly match the iconic Grady-White gelcoat.   

Aquila 47 Molokai

The ranks of big offshore-capable power catamarans welcome a new member at FLIBS: the Aquila 47 Molokai. The double-step 45-foot, 8-inch-long cat hull features carbon-fiber forward and aft main bulkheads to create the structural strength required for up to four powerful 400-hp outboards. High tunnel clearance creates an air cushion and reduces hull noise when trolling. The deck level offers 360 degrees of walk-around space, and the forward platform grants elevation when cast-netting for bait to fill the twin 42.5-gallon transom pressurized livewells. There are 180 gallons of in-sole fish-box capacity and two 74-gallon forward coffin boxes.

Port and starboard side doors ease boarding of crew and big fish. A console sliding door at the helm offers access to the cabin boasting a queen berth and an enclosed head with a shower for cruising and overnighting. Expansive hull-side windows provide cabin illumination. The hardtop integrates stylishly with the full-height windshield, protecting two rows of helm seating for up to seven crew members.

Garmin GPSMAP 9000 Series

Talk about big! Garmin’s new GPSMAP 9000 chartplotter series is available with 19-, 22-, 24- or 27-inch touchscreen displays. The multifunction displays (MFDs) boast stunning 4K resolution with edge-to-edge clarity, and are powered by a processor that’s seven-times faster than previous generations. They also feature the new Garmin BlueNet gigabit network for comprehensive, high-speed connectivity throughout the boat with sensors and other networked devices.

Each new MFD can be flat or flush mounted, and offer in-plane switching (IPS) touchscreen displays that can be seen from all viewing angles, even with polarized sunglasses. The GPSMAP 9219, 9222, 9224 and 9227 come preloaded with Garmin Navionics+ mapping that includes Auto Guidance+ technology for faster and more detailed route calculations.

ICOM IC-M510BB Black-Box VHF

ICOM’s new IC-M510BB represents the latest in VHF technology, letting you expand your VHF accessibility throughout the boat. All operations, including DSC, can be made from the CommandMic allowing the VHF radio unit to be installed in an out-of-sight place and as far as 60 feet from the CommandMic. Up to three of the CommandMics can be connected to the IC-M510BB, which allows it to double as an onboard intercom system on large boats. NMEA 2000 networking capabilities provide plug-and-play data communication with other electronics such as an MFDs. The radio can also share GNSS (GPS) position, AIS, and DSC calls with other onboard equipment. The unit has a last-call voice recording function that automatically saves up to two minutes of a recent incoming call. A built-in 15-watt amplifier increases the audio output to an external hailer speaker, and there’s built-in hailer function that also sounds foghorn patterns.

The post What Caught Our Eye at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show appeared first on Sport Fishing Mag.

SiOnyx Nightwave

Night vision isn’t just for zombie hunters. When the sun goes down, boaters turn on the SiOnyx Nightwave Ultra Low Light Marine Camera. The Nightwave digital camera enhances nighttime images to see a man-sized object up to 150 yards away. On a moonless night, the Black Silicon BSI CMOS sensor is capable of producing clear images on a standard multi-function display. To provide the widest image, the camera has a 44-degree field of view. With the SiOnyx Nightwave mounted to the boat’s hard top and connected to the GPS and fishfinder display, you can watch for navigation aids and hazards without taking your eyes off the water. Price: $1,995

Penn Prevail III

Night fishing is tough on gear. Rods and reels bang around in the dark and I don’t notice the damage until the next day. To keep up with the abuse, Penn beefed up the latest generation Prevail III fishing rods. Line guides are the first thing to break. The new Prevail III uses Dura Guides, one-piece stainless steel line guides without a guide ring that can crack or pop out. While a night fishing rod has to be tough, it also must be sensitive for casting, working the lure and detecting a light bite in the dark. That’s where I appreciate the 100-percent, 24-ton graphite blank. The material is strong enough to withstand abuse and still transmit every bump and bite. Somehow, Penn put together a graphite rod with cork grips for $99.95 for the medium action and $109.95 for the medium-heavy model.

Berkley Powerbait The Champ Swimmer

The end of daylight savings time doesn’t cut short the time I spend fishing after work. Instead, losing an hour of daylight increases the time I spend fishing in the dark. One of my favorite pursuits is chasing striped bass, redfish and speckled trout in the dock lights of my neighborhood tidal creek. When I’m targeting fish in the lights, I look for a wide-body soft plastic that sinks and swims slowly. Berkley’s Powerbait Saltwater The Champ Swimmer is perfect for casting into the lights. Even when the wind is blowing, I can cast The Champ accurately beneath the boat dock or the edge of the shadow. A wide profile gives The Champ a larger silhouette in the lights. When I land a perfect cast, I want the lure to stay in the strike zone. The heavy tail and large shoulders allow the bait to swim or sink slowly. Best of all, Berkley has added PowerBait attractant to saltwater soft plastics. The Champ is one of seven new soft plastic models with a special scent and taste package for saltwater fish. Available in 13 colors and two sizes (3 inches and 3.8 inches) for $8.99.

Astral E-Ronny

For a little extra confidence when I’m kayak fishing after dark, I zip up and tighten down my life vest. I’m looking for a comfortable vest I don’t mind wearing. Astral’s E-Ronny life vest uses the highest quality, environmentally friendly components and materials with smart features for fishing. To provide storage without taking up space, the E-Ronny has a large pocket for a smartphone or VHF radio, plus a smaller pocket for tackle or tools. I like the mesh pocket added to the front of each large pocket for a little extra storage. Instead of placing foam high on the back like other fishing PFDs, the E-Ronny uses a thin panel of foam in the back, which is more comfortable for canoes and for fishing kayaks with a frame seat. The E-Ronny comes in four cool colors and three sizes for $135.

Toadfish Cutting Board

In the fall, I’m always on the go. I need a fish cleaning board that can keep up. Toadfish’s Folding Cutting Board fits in my surf bag and my fish box. I use the smaller version for cleaning fish when I’m away from home. Then, I keep the larger model on the boat to make quick work of the catch when I return to the dock. I’ve even thrown the folding cutting board in my suitcase for road trips. The board features a two stage knife sharpener so my blade is ready for the toughest fish. The top of the board is covered with food-safe high density polyethylene and the bottom of the board uses rubber pads to prevent slipping. The standard size (12 X 16 inches) is $40 and the X-large (14 X 22 inches) board costs $45.

Shimano ARMAJOINT

Just like a kid in a Halloween costume, a fishing lure tricks a fish with a treat. Shimano’s new line of ARMAJOINT jointed swimbaits takes the imitation game to extremes. To capture the realistic flash of a bait fish, inside the ARMAJOINT a thin foil sheet with holographic scales suspends on tiny springs. Every time the lure moves, the sheet vibrates to throw off a disco ball flash. For the longest casting distance, the ARMAJOINT uses magnets to fold the lure into an aerodynamic package as it flies through the air. When the lure lands, the magnets release and the bait swims naturally. All of this technology would be worthless if it didn’t work. The engineers at Shimano poured all their experience into designing a reliable swimbait with technology that will amaze the fish. The new swimbait is available in five colors for $42.

RELiON InSight 12V Battery

When the sun goes down, the navigation and deck lights come on. The added power draw requires a reliable battery for night fishing. RELiON InSight 12V Battery is up to the task with overbuilt design and advanced performance. For vibration resistance, the InSight is built with a steel backing plate and bolted connections. To improve rigidity, the cells are housed in aluminum casing. An IP67-rated case keeps out water and dirt while still letting heat escape. To protect the electronics, the InSight uses an advanced battery management system that controls charge and discharge and prevents overheating and overcharging. Lithium batteries cost significantly more than traditional lead batteries, but they last longer and weigh less. The RELiON InSight is built tough and smart to get the most out of LiON’s advantages. Price: $1,199.95

Daiwa Free Swimmer

Fishing in the dark requires more finesse than daytime fishing. Predators seem more wary after sunset, so a free-swimming live bait is just the thing to convince a large snook, speckled trout or striped bass to bite. A spinning reel, like Daiwa’s Free Swimmer, allows the angler to cast a light live bait and then let it swim naturally. When the fish strikes, slam the free swimmer in gear and the circle hook comes tight. Then Daiwa’s best reel technology takes over. The new Free Swimmer uses larger and more robust gears along with a metal sideplate to produce greater pressure on the reel handle. The carbon fiber drag uses grease with a low start-up viscosity. This means the drag engages easily and then turns up the pressure as the fish turns up the heat. The Free Swimmer’s freshest models are in 3000 or 5000 sizes, your choice for $149.95.

Columbia PFG Bonefish Quarter Zip Pullover

After the sun sets, fall nights cool fast. For an extra layer of warmth when the temperature drops, Columbia’s Bonefish Quarter Zip Pullover is suited as an outer layer or mid layer under a heavier shell. The versatile fleece allows me to control the heat whether I’m freezing while I wait for a bite or sweating while I fight the fish. To lower the heat, I open the quarter-zip collar. A soft chin guard on the high collar keeps the zipper from irritating my neck and face. To turn up the furnace, I cinch the bottom hem to block out cold air. Fall weather is unpredictable, the Bonefish Quarter Zip makes comfort more predictable. To fit any angler, the Bonefish Quarter Zip Pullover comes in five sizes from S to XXXL and three colors for $75.

Z-Man ZWG Weighted Swimbait Hook

Fish hunt at night by looking for bait silhouetted in the moonlight. A suspended or slow-sinking soft plastic on a weighted weedless hook makes an easy target. Z-Man’s ZWG Weighted Swimbait Hook addresses some of the challenges of using a weedless soft plastic. To secure the soft plastic to the hook, the ZWG uses a plastic bead at the hook bend and a plastic collar at the hook’s eye. The thin lead weight prevents snags by sliding through grass and over rocks and oyster shells. In the dark, I feel and hear the bite before I see the fish strike. The ZWG has a dual tapered hook point to set the hook before I realize I’ve had a bite. To match a variety of soft plastics and target species, the ZWG offers three hook sizes (3/0, 4/0, 5/0) and each hook sizes has three sinker sizes. A pack of Z-Man ZWG Weighted Swimbait Hooks runs $6.49.

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