17 Christmas Gift Ideas for Fishermen: A 2022 Buyer's Guide
Tis the season to be jolly and to also find some great deals on fishing and angling gear.
Even if the fisherman in your life isn’t planning to go out until the spring, you can find some great deals right now to have him ready to hit the water prepared and in style.
Today we’ve put together a list of items from lures, to trolling motors and boats. These are in no particular order and cover a pretty wide range of angling needs.
At the end of most item reviews you will find links to other posts covering that particular item and others just like it a little more in depth.
So, let’s get to it and take a deep dive into the world of the avid angler and check out 17 Christmas Gift Ideas for Fishermen: A 2022 Buyer's Guide!
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The 17 Best Gift Ideas for Fishermen in 2022
Postropaky Mens Hiking Quick Dry Lightweight Stretch Fishing Trousers
The POSTROPAKY MENS HIKING QUICK DRY TROUSERS are perfect for wading a creek, primarily because of their effective quick dry technology.
This particular brand has a reputation for durability at an excellent price point. It changes your life when you switch to a reliable quick dry trouser.
Typically after exiting the water and packing up my gear into my vehicle, I am already only damp, and by the time you get home or to your getaway cabin, you’re likely as dry as when you left.
I recommend this trouser in green, again due to my ‘blend in with the environment’ preference.
For more ideas on gifts for the fisherman in your life, check out BEST WAYS TO CATCH SMALLMOUTH BASS IN CREEKS
This hoodie is more of a long-sleeve beach shirt than a hoodie, but the hood is an excellent accessory to block the sun off your neck and ears.
The mesh back allows for the free flow of air and makes the shirt as cool as any t-shirt you could wear.
Supreme breathability, UV protection, Moisture-wicking and Stain Release technology make this the perfect creek/backcountry fishing shirt.
For more ideas on gifts for the fisherman in your life, check out BEST WAYS TO CATCH SMALLMOUTH BASS IN CREEKS
Minn Kota Terrova
Freshwater Bow - Mount 80lb/24Volt
The Minn Kota Terrova is one of the most popular trolling motors on the market. Not only does it provide many of the technological advances of other bow-mounted trolling motors, but it comes with the trusted Minn Kota name, which as of 2019 claimed 80% of the trolling motor market share.
The Minn Kota Terrova 80lb thrust offers 45, 60, and 72 inch shafts, which allows you to select the right motor for the right depth.
The fall-away ramp system and lift assist are serious perks for the professional trying to move quickly, or the retiree looking to enjoy rippin’ some lips without excess back pain.
The foot pedal has a low profile, but more importantly has a rotary speed dial, momentary/constant on toggle, and autopilot on/off toggle right at the touch of your foot. Plus, the foot pedal offers the “spot-lock” feature.
As offered in the Garmin Force under the name “anchor lock”, Minn Kota changed the playing field when they invented this technology and again in 2017 by working out the kinks of spot lock. Previous generations were known to drift as much as 20 feet off location before correcting.
2017 models and newer have demonstrated a complete 180 degree turnaround, and actually live up to the name spot-lock. I have operated this model on a 50,000 acre lake and can tell you the spot lock works brilliantly, even in choppy water.
The built in GPS not only makes the spot lock technology work, it allows for recording paths taken and control speed from a touch screen remote. This is made possible by the i-Pilot link system, which also allows for a virtual remote within Hummingbird Fish Finders.
The built in universal sonar offers excellent performance and reads your surroundings very accurately. From my experience with this motor, the sonar is very effective. From giving you a clear picture of the structure and layout of the lake floor, to picking up various size fish at varying depths, this sonar performs well enough to make even the grizzled angler feel spoiled.
I used the 72” shaft, 24 volt, 80lb thrust model on a 18’ fiberglass hull bass boat, and it performed, but Minn Kota also offers a 112lb thrust/36 volt behemoth. I consider the Minn Kota Terrova the “Cadillac” of the list because it offers a lot of the luxury and features of Garmin Force, while checking in at around $1,000 less.
FEATURES & SPECS:
72”shaft
Product shipping weight, 66lbs for 80lb thrust
Easy-to-deploy fallaway ramp and spring loaded lift assist for easy use and stow
Low profile electric foot pedal
Spot lock, rotary speed dial, and autopilot all controllable from the foot pedal
Built-in GPS with bluetooth compatibility allowing you to control speed and record paths
Optimal sonar performance with the built-in Universal Sonar 2, seals and protects your transducer and wiring
Wireless remote allowing for foot and bend free navigation
If the idea of trolling motors has your gears turning and you’d like to see more options, check it our article THE TOP 5 TROLLING MOTORS FOR BASS FISHING IN 2022
When it comes to fishing gear, Plano is a name that people have trusted for many years and for good reason. They make quality fishing tackle at an affordable price and that is why you will see that name appear more than once in this article.
Considered by some to be the best tackle box on the market right now, the Plano 7771 Guide Series Tackle Box is one of the larger tackle boxes on our list.
It has four clear utility boxes inside the main compartment and each of those are able to be customized to fit your individual needs.
Just to the right of those boxes is a set of smaller jig compartment with a clear window so you can clearly see what is stored in there in case you forget.
The top of the tackle box has a clear and removable lid, perfect for storing lures that you can clearly see for quick access. But wait, there’s more! Underneath that is a larger compartment perfect for storing bigger items and backups, such as reels, big tackle, extra line, and tools.
This box is a bit of a store-all and can get quite heavy when completely utilized. I would suggest this for the angler who prefers to fish by boat with a decent amount of room.
It’s also a great main tackle box that potentially holds all of your fishing gear at home or in the shop for loading smaller tackle boxes and packs for specific fishing trips that may not require your entire arsenal.
Features:
Very Spacious
4 Large utility boxes
3 removable racks with seperate access
5 Customizable compartments
Clear compartment windows for viewing
DuraView lens for top access
Lifetime Warranty
For a look at more tackle box and bag options, check out THE TOP 5 TACKLE BOXES IN 2022
First, in the multi-tool department, we have the KILAMENJARO MAGNUS. This multi-tool is big, bulky, and heavy duty which I love.
It comes with a belt attachable, button down sheath which can obviously be worn around the waist, but more importantly it can be easily attached to a pack that has MOLLE webbing or multiple unclippable straps. This is how I pack the MAGNUS.
It is tough as nails, even boasting a hearty saw-blade. The saw-blade feature is great for removing small undergrowth popping up along banks and disrupting your casting lanes.
The pliers are sturdy and narrow enough to navigate the gullet of a bass. This multi-tool comes in handy for other sports as well. If you, like myself, love to deer hunt in the fall, the MAGNUS’ saw blade is great for aiding in field dressing and processing your harvest.
FEATURES & SPECS:
10 Components: Long-nose pliers, Wire-cutters and stripper, Crimper, Bottle Opener, Phillps screwdriver, Flat/Slot screwdriver, Single-cut File, Saw-Blade, and a Knife
Stainless Steel Tools
Snap Pouch with Belt Loop for ease of storage and wearing
Overall Length: 10.4” open, 6.4” closed, Knife Blade Length= 4”, Weight= 15.9oz
The Heddon Tiny-Torpedo topwater lure is one of the most successful I have ever used and seen used on the creek.
Topwater lures can feel a little big and loud for a calm creek setting and sometimes that’s exactly the correct assessment. I have spent two hours of a morning casting a hula-popper or whopper plopper only to realize I’m spooking good sized smallmouth away.
The Heddon Tiny-Torpedo is designed to avoid being too loud, while giving the smallmouth that topwater target they love. The tiny propeller on the rear of the lure provides the Whopper Plopper-like disturbing of the water, while being small and quiet enough to appear to be an easy target.
I recommend the 1 and 7/8ths inch model that weighs approximately 3/8th oz, and in the color “baby bass” as it provides a dark topwater target, which I prefer in all settings, while having a hint of chartreuse on the sides.
Do not be afraid to cast this lure upstream and right out in the middle. Creeks are usually pretty small and bass patrol the whole thing when they’re hunting.
—These lures are my three go-to lures in the creek. In fact, I can’t remember the last time I threw anything other than the three lures listed above while fishing a creek for smallmouth. This is also why I say you only need one tackle box. If you get these lures and maybe a couple others, and get some variations of color even, you will still only need one solid mid-sized tackle box for your creek arsenal.
Yakima Baits Worden’s Rooster Tail is one of the most classic lures on the market. It has been around for generations now, and is a household name in freshwater fishing.
It is perhaps one of the most versatile lures ever made, and I can personally attest having caught 9 different species of freshwater fish on a Rooster Tail.
Many of your more serious amateurs will scoff at the Rooster Tail because of its simplicity and ease of use, do not be that angler. It catches fish, period. If it’s a bright sunny day and the water is clear, you’re a fool not to try it.
I have caught loads of smallmouth on days when no other lure, even my trusted tube, was getting it done. Fish this lure tight lined, meaning constantly retrieving it. This lure is intended to be a moving target always. Letting a Rooster Tail sink risks hanging it up and damaging or losing it.
I recommend the chartreuse color if you’re only getting one, white is a great second choice for the creek, and after that it’s angler’s choice. For the creek setting I recommend 1/8th oz to 1/4 oz for size.
The classic tube - This is one of the most basic, simple, inexpensive, and successful lures on the market. The tube has been around for decades and is a tried and true classic for all black bass species. For smallmouth in the creek, I use ZOOM SALTY SUPER TUBES watermelon red.
3.75” is a great size for bass fishing and conforms to both 3 and 4 inch hooks. I fish this tube weightless and with slack in my line. Make sure you pay attention to your line, since you’re not tight lining or instantly retrieving you will miss bites if you don’t keep an eye on what that slack is doing.
Let the natural sinking action of the tube do its job. If you find your tube is wanting to float, pop it a couple times and it will likely start to sink. Tubes have a skirt that gives a natural flutter when sinking, let this happen! Throw the tube near downed structure or submerged trees and stones. (pro tip: if the tube is floating, and the smallmouth are hitting the top of the water, just go with it)
I use and recommend GAMAKATSU OFFSET SHANK ROUND BEND worm hooks in 3/0 or 4/0. These hooks are some of the best on the market. They are sharp, durable, and rarely let a fish off once you’ve set the hook. My lost fish ratio went from now and again to almost never after switching fully to Gamakatsu.
This top rated fishing tackle bag comes highly recommended by serious anglers. For those who prefer bag-style tackle boxes, this is the perfect choice.
This tackle system is ideal for anglers who need plenty of space and compartments to store a wide variety of fishing gear and fish-specific tackle all together in one place, making it easy to organize according to the type of fish you are setting out to catch that day or even that spur of the moment decision due to location or changing weather patterns.
This is an angler gear bag for organizing a large amount of tackle as the main compartment can hold up to 8 large individual boxes and 4 of those boxes are included.
The outside of this beast is made of a heavy-duty polyester canvas blend material with seams that are double stitched and a velcro wrapped carry handle with a padded shoulder strap.
This tackle bag is made for efficient organization and storage allowing you to focus on what is important, FISHING!
Features:
Inside flap covered pocket
A large top-loading compartment
Three large easy access zippered pockets
Two moisture free vented pockets
Two pockets for small pliers or hand tools
Hard shelled case for your polarized sunglasses.
This combo is perfect for anyone looking to get into fly fishing. 5/6 WT means it is light enough to be a breeze while wading, while having the backbone for trout, bass, and panfish.
The Scientific Anglers 5/6 WT Trout Fly Fishing Kit is the perfect rod if you are navigating coastal rivers and streams for trout and salmon.
The rod is a 100% graphite construction, with a moderate rating (same as medium) for power. It is paired with a standard disc-drag reel that is set up for palm rigging for increased drag control.
The Scientific Anglers 5/6 WT Trout Fly Fishing rod is 9’ long but breaks down into four pieces for easy transport, and adding to that ease is a sturdy rod tube that comes with the kit and is made to be easily carried, or attached to a pack for hiking through terrain.
The Scientific Anglers 5/6 WT Trout Fly Fishing Kit is a great starter kit for those interested in learning the art of fly fishing, or an affordable stream rod the experienced fly fisher can use to adventure with while sustaining the abuse of backcountry fishing.
The disc-drag reel comes preloaded with a fly line specifically designed for that rod and reel, meaning this combo is truly ready from the moment it leaves the box to be assembled and cast.
I chose this rod and reel combo, because of its accessibility for new fly fishers and its durability to handle the backcountry stream.
FEATURES & SPECS:
9 foot, four-piece graphite rod
Sturdy plastic lined tubing for storing and toting combo
Disc-drag reel preloaded with rod specific line
For more information about rod and reel combos, check out THE 5 BEST ROD & REEL COMBOS FOR CREEK FISHING IN 2022
Pulsinno has been making waves in the rod and reel industry for a while now, primarily because of their telescoping and fly rod technologies.
They are the market leader in telescoping rods, which due to its niche nature, gets a little less fanfare in fishing circles.
This is no indictment on Pulsinno. They have applied their excellent gear and gadget manufacturing to rods and reels and we the people are reaping the benefits.
Most of us who are stream veterans are used to packing a two-piece rod that can be split into a couple three foot sections for ease of carrying. Nowadays, one can acquire a rod that telescopes and collapses down to less than half that length and can be easily attached to a pack for non-invasive portability.
Pulsinno delivers not only a durable rod made from high-density carbon fiber mixed with fiberglass, but gives you a quality reel with an aluminum spool and reinforced gears for added strength and saltwater versatility.
The Pulsinno Carbon Fiber Telescoping Fishing Rod And Reel Combo is perfect for the salmon seeker fishing brackish rivers and streams near an ocean. My favorite feature is of course the Pusinno’s packability.
As someone who enjoys fishing trips that include camping, or long day trips covering multiple miles of creek, a quality telescoping rod and reel combo is a game changer. I can attach this combo to my pack and walk in with my hands free. This will up your stream fishing prowess, as oftentimes the ability to negotiate harsh terrain can lead to better fishing holes and more success.
Having a small rod and reel combo that can attach to a pack and not stick up or out to get hung on vegetation, while leaving your hands free to climb, grab, and stabilize will get you to those places most anglers won’t venture into.
I recommend the 1.8 meter or 5.91 ft rod due to my preference for shorter rods while fishing a stream. That version collapses down to 15.75” which is amazing for packing and storing. I chose the Pulsinno Carbon Fiber Telescoping Fishing Rod And Reel Combo due to its applicability across a wide variety of fishing opportunities.
Fresh or saltwater capable, so it’s brackish ready. Strong yet easy to pack and store, so it’s ready for the stream or estuary. Brand reputation and reliability are strong, so you can have confidence you’re getting a quality product.
All of these things make the Pulsinno Carbon Fiber Telescoping Fishing Rod And Reel Combo one of the very best rod and reel combo purchases you can make in 2020.
FEATURES & SPECS:
5.91 foot carbon fiber and fiberglass mix telescoping rod
Collapses down from 5.91 ft to 15.75 inches
Stainless steel hooded reel seat for added saltwater corrosion resistance
Rod power - Medium
Reel gear ratio is 5.2:1
Reel features instant anti-reverse, powerdrive gears for extra strength
Spool cast from deep aluminium for extra corrosion resistance
Monofilament line capacity: 8 lb/200 yd, 10 lb/160 yd, 12 lb/120 yd
For more information about rod and reel combos, check out THE 5 BEST ROD & REEL COMBOS FOR CREEK FISHING IN 2022
Alright, stepping it up quite a bit here with this guy. Lots of love from the Rugged Man crew for the Classic Accessories Colorado XTS Inflatable Fishing Pontoon!
The Colorado XTS Pontoon is a 9-foot high-capacity pontoon boat with swivel padded seat, transport wheel, removable stripping basket and gear bags.
This is a one person deal, so the idea that it can safely carry up to 400 lbs means that you can be a pretty big dude and still get on this thing with confidence, along with a motor and battery, and all of your gear with no problem.
Speaking of all of your gear, the Colorado XTS Pontoon has a TON of secure pockets and storage. In fact, you would have to get pretty creative to think of utilizing all of this space, and that’s a good position to be in. It means you can come extra prepared. This allows you to think ahead about ALL of those potentials that could go wrong while you’re floating around out there and simply be ready for them.
It feels good to be prepared. It feels good to have gear that aids you in being prepared. This is a fine product and one of the best inflatable boats on the market, period!
FEATURES & SPECS:
Boat and oars disassemble into a compact size for easy transport and storage
Two-year limited warranty
Heavy-duty pontoons with abrasion resistant PVC bottom, tough nylon tops and powder coated steel tube frame
Cold and heat resistant bladders
Two-position motor mount
Wire rear storage and battery platform
Rod holder can be mounted in six different positions
Two-position integrated anchor system with fillable mesh bag, cord and pulley
Swivel padded seat folds down, three oar-lock positions
Seat mount and foot rests adjust to a variety of leg lengths
Strong, non-corroding brass oar-locks
Removable stripping basket for side or lap mounting
Huge storage capacity; includes 20 pockets and two insulated drink holders
Two detachable micro-slit fly patches
Stowable transport wheel
Bladder patch kit
Assembled size: 108” L x 56” W x 28” H (to top of seat)
Weight: 80 lbs
Weight Capacity: 400 lbs
Boat and oars disassemble into a compact size for easy transport and storage
Two-year limited warranty
Heavy-duty pontoons with abrasion resistant PVC bottom, tough nylon tops and powder coated steel tube frame
Cold and heat resistant bladders
Two-position motor mount
Wire rear storage and battery platform
Rod holder can be mounted in six different positions
Two-position integrated anchor system with fillable mesh bag, cord and pulley
Swivel padded seat folds down, three oar-lock positions
For more exciting options for inflatable boats for your fisherman, check out more at THE BEST INFLATABLE FISHING BOATS OF 2022
From the car to the water with ease, no trailer needed for this incredible inflatable angling machine. Fly solo or bring a companion along for a great day on the water with the Sea Eagle Green 375fc Inflatable FoldCat.
Now in a Dark Hunter Green to naturally blend in with the waters and natural habitat, this inflatable pontoon is a lightweight, portable, fuel efficient, large platform fishing boat that packs easily into a car and does not require a trailer!
The Sea Eagle FoldCat features a patented folding system allowing it to be fully assemble in just minutes. When fully inflated, the lightweight aluminum cross boards and under-bars combine to create a solid platform providing a fully accessible and secure deck, ideal for two anglers to stand and cast in all directions.
The full fabric floor with the aluminum cross boards will hold any electric batteries, fishing tackle, tackle boxes or fishing lures you may have, even if you drop them! Best of all this boat comes comfortably equipped with padded 360° swivel seats, oarlocks, and a motor mount which allows you to paddle, motor and fish!
This is one of the most versatile and angler friendly inflatable boats in existence, and a personal favorite here at Rugged Man!
FEATURES & SPECS:
Featuring the versatile universal Scotty Mount System with 2-4 Scotty Rod Holders and the ability to attach an incredible assortment of other Scotty accessories.
Exterior: 12'4" x 4'6"
Weight: 75 lbs. (hull only)
Material: 1000 Denier Reinforced
Seam: Quadruple Overlap Seams
Capacity: 2 Adults or 650 lbs
Inflation & Assembly time: 10 minutes
Inflation Pressure: 3.2 psi
Engine Capacity: 3 hp gas (15" Shaft) or 70 lbs. thrust Electric Motor (45 lbs. max wt.)
Deflated: Approx. 56" x 21" x 10"
Chambers: 4 Air Chambers
Tube Diameter: 16.5"
Air Valves: Recessed One Way
NMMA and CE Certified
Super strong oars & oarlocks
Motormount for gas & electric motors
Rugged molded nose cones
Four conveniently located carry handles
Printed instructions
For more exciting options for inflatable boats for your fisherman, check out more at THE BEST INFLATABLE FISHING BOATS OF 2022
UglyStik Gx2
(Versatility Meets Affordability & Quality)
Shakespeare Company has been around since 1897! The objective; make fishing easy and enjoyable for EVERYONE. That has been a priority of this company for 123 years and they apply the same principles now more than ever.
Combining heritage, tradition, strength, and durability, the GX2 is the next bold and beautiful generation of indestructible Ugly Stik rods.
The inception of the Ugly Stik was in 1976 and it was the first to feature the “Clear Tip” design and the Howald Process, making it virtually indestructible.
These elements with “Ugly Tech” construction, which is a graphite/fiberglass combo, provide serious backbone and a sensitivity that allows you to easily detect touching bottom while feeling the tiniest nibbles and obstacles.
The GX2 has better balance for a lighter feel and comes with improved components.The one piece stainless steel guides provide excellent durability and eliminate insert pop-outs. It has durable and lightweight EVA grips, and though not necessarily a top concern for us here at Rugged Man, it is sharp with new eye catching cosmetics for a more modern look.
Boasting versatility, your GX2 can easily double as a freshwater rod and the sizes range from 4’6” - 9’ medium. For saltwater fishing, we recommend 7’ and above, though 6’6” may also work well for you. With the 7’6” medium inshore, a favorite, enjoy heightened sensitivity for smaller fish, and catch big Reds with ease.
With remarkable casting accuracy and distance, the GX2 is the type of rod that feels like you’ve been using it for years. Few rods ever seem to outlive their reels, and while many others seem to come and go over time, these just don’t seem to give up!
At the top of the list when it comes to ease of use, quality, and value, this Ugly Stik is a clear choice for anglers who want a lighter rod for various inshore applications. Not to mention you can buy 3 for the price of 1 of the competition!! You simply can’t get a better rod for the money. And, the 7 year warranty just puts a sweet cherry on top!
Winston Saltwater Air
(Fly-Fishing Rod)
The world’s finest fly rods are made by a company of men who love to fish. That’s their secret!
We here at Rugged Man have an immense appreciation for men, such as these, who place honor and integrity at the forefront of everything they do and are passionate about the quality of their work.
We close our eyes and sigh in deep remembrance of such times where this was a common characteristic of men. We have to remind ourselves that there are plenty of us still out there and it is our responsibility to carry the torch and uphold such traditions.
In 1929, Robert Winther and Lew Stoner started what is known today as the R.L. Winston Rod Company and the bamboo rods these two men built quickly earned a reputation for performance and exceptional quality. A few years later, Lew Stoner developed his patented hollow-fluted rod design for use in tournament casting competition.
This company has a reputation for shattering world records since the 1930’s. Primo Livenais used a Winston surf rod in 1936 to break the world record with a 623 foot cast. In 1938, Marvin Hedge used a Winston to break the world fly casting record by 36 feet.
The R.L. Winston Rod Company has been responsible for some of the most groundbreaking innovations in fly-fishing for over 91 years, pioneering technologies to optimize power and performance.
They were one of the first companies to incorporate the use of materials such as fiberglass in the 1950’s, graphite in 1975, and then on to boronIII/graphite technology in the 2000’s, which manifests a combination of high strength and high elasticity.
The Winston Saltwater Air is “the new smooth in saltwater”. Winston smooth. It is the newest line to be released by Winston and it upholds the solid reputation that we have grown to respect and expect from this time honored company.
These lightweight and powerful AIR series rods deliver that old fashioned feel combined with the latest in modern technology and allow for unprecedented fast recovery no matter how far you’re casting.
Let’s get technical for a short bit and let Winston explain things to us in a way that only they can:
“Combining our proprietary SuperSilica lightweight resin system and Boron III material with modern progressive tapers, Winston Saltwater AIR rods deliver the celebrated Winston “feel”, along with balanced, fast graphite recovery rates, for incredible line speed and presentation, making them our most versatile rods in saltwater environments.
What this means for anglers is faster mid-sections to dictate line control and easily manage windy conditions along with Boron III technology applied in the butt section for more lifting strength to fight and land fish quickly.”
Winston is a company that is also very active in conservation and they support over 6 major organizations dedicated to environmental preservation and education.
There is little left to imagine why this organization and there new creation has made the list today as our hands-down choice when it comes to saltwater FLY-FISHING!
The Air Series ranges from 6 wt - 12 wt, are all 9’ long, and all have full wells with fighting butt grips.
Below is a list of specs directly from their site to give you a better idea of which rod will work best for you and your particular application.
Saltwater AIR 6 wt: This 9’ 6 weight utilizes a saltwater focused fast action for quick shots on calm days while wading the flats looking for tailing bones. A great sea-run cutthroat rod off the beach in the Pacific Northwest as well. These 6 weights have plenty of power for longer casts, but anglers will notice it’s the perfect choice for delicate presentations to spooky species like bonefish.
Saltwater AIR 7 wt: Our 9’ 7 weight Saltwater Air has become the perfect all-round bonefish rod. With a taper that allows for minimal back casts and quick shots off the bow of the skiff, this rod will put crab, shrimp and baitfish patterns on target every time with minimal effort. Light in hand, and extremely responsive, these 7 weights are becoming the go-to for dedicated bonefish anglers worldwide.
Saltwater AIR 8 wt: With a lighter swing weight, the 9’ 8 weight Saltwater Air was built for all day casting at a variety of saltwater species. From bonefish, redfish, stripers, snook, and various other species, this rod is up to the task. If you could own only one saltwater rod, this 9’ 8 weight would cover any standard saltwater application.
Saltwater AIR 9 wt: An unbelievably light 9 weight that produces fast line speed with incredible accuracy. The perfect rod for feeding heavy crab patterns to picky permit. In addition to Permit, anglers will love these 9 weights for giant Hawaiian and Bahama bonefish, barracuda, baby tarpon in the mangroves, giant red fish, and stripers in the Northeast.
Saltwater AIR 10 wt: With great power comes great fish. Use this smooth and powerful 10 weight for quick shots on Roosterfish, Sharks, blitzing GTs, and more delicate presentations to tarpon. This rod is responsive, easy to cast and built for those once-in-a-lifetime shots.
Saltwater AIR 11 wt: The new standard for an all-around Tarpon rod. With a little more feel than a 12 weight, this 11 will make pinpoint presentations when a pack of silver kings are bearing down on the skiff.
Saltwater AIR 12 wt: The ultimate Giant Tarpon rod. When sinking lines are needed for these big fish, this rod can make the presentation. With amazing lifting strength in the butt section, anglers can pull hard on these powerful fish. When an angler needs the most powerful rod for the most powerful of saltwater fish, this is a 12 weight that’s up for the task at hand.
To see a list of our favorite saltwater fishing rods, check out THE 7 BEST SALTWATER FISHING RODS OF 2022
My previous article THE TOP 5 RODS AND REELS FOR BASS FISHING (2020 EDITION) included the Ugly Stik on the rod list.
Ugly Stik has been making quality rods for decades and their durability is proven year in and year out.
Shakespeare took the brand from a niche rod manufacturer to a staple of the rod and reel combo industry. The Ugly Stik GX2 is the latest incarnation in this family of combos.
The GX2 is arguably the best combo you can get for under $50. If you are looking for a rod and reel to take on adventurous outings, meaning you’re likely going to beat it up, this is your combo.
I say this not because of the excellent price point, but because of the Ugly Stik reputation for durability. The rod is comfortable in the hand, and the reel is durable and solid. The Ugly Stik GX2 is another combo that can take on multiple venues, and depending on the size and power you select, multiple large game species.
The rod is made with Ugly Stik’s standard graphite and fiberglass, and features the clear tip for extra bite sensitivity. The EVA grips are lightweight, but very padded and comfortable.
The reel features an anodized aluminum spool with an over-sized bail wire, constructed with 3 ball bearings plus a one-way clutch, instant anti-reverse bearing.
This combo is perfect for anyone who is new to fishing, or trying to find a quality rod and reel for a child without breaking the bank, or someone like me; looking to have a combo around that can take the abuse of long trips across terrain and creek bottoms.
I recommend the 6 foot two-piece due to its ease of transport and toughness to go beyond the creek.
I chose the Ugly Stik GX2 because it has all the comfort and ease of use that other major brands offer at a reduced price. The Ugly Stik rod alone is worth the cost of the combo!
FEATURES & SPECS:
3 ball bearings plus one-way clutch anti-reverse bearing for smoother gear feel
Machine double anodized aluminium with over-sized bail wire for improved durability
Compression bail springs to increase reel lifespan
5.5:1 gear ratio
Rod Power= Medium
Monofilament capacity= 190 yd/4 lb, 140 yd/6 lb, 110 yd/8 lb
Rod length = 6’6” (other sizes available)
Take a look at THE 5 BEST ROD & REEL COMBOS FOR CREEK FISHING IN 2022 to satisfy that creek and stream fishing enthusiast.
Here’s a simple, but decent quality, inflatable boat that is another on our list today that’s not going to have a hard-hitting impact on the wallet. We’re talking about the Angler Bay Inflatable Boat by Airhead.
Angler Bay Inflatable Boats are designed to provide you with all of the basic necessities to have a great day on the water with your family.
These lightweight and portable air-vessels come with two rod holders, multiple molded drink holders, a battery storage bag, a ditty bag, and has four drain plugs. For the sake of convenience, this boat is quick to air up to get you out on the water without delay, it has great rod holders, and it’s easy to store.
Equipped with wrap-around grab lines for safety, swiveling oar locks for control, transom mounting fixtures, and side mounted oar holders, the Angler Bay is well-constructed of heavy duty vinyl with electronically welded seams.
However, it is probably the closest thing to a pool toy that we have on the list today, but we’re not trying to put it down. Hell, it made the list! We’re just trying to say that you shouldn’t go looking for a BRIS Inflatable Rescue & Dive here. This is a good little boat. We just want you to be informed.
NOTE:
Some folks claim that three’s company and four’s a crowd for this little ship, but also say that with four people, you may just have to watch how much stuff you’re trying to bring along.
So the six person capacity claim on Amazon is a bit of a stretch, it seems. However, we didn’t see that this was worthy of a disqualification of a good boat for the money, but some clarification is certainly in order here.
Airhead’s website actually does clarify, on this boat, a three person capacity. You’ll just have to take a good look and see if this is the right size boat for you and yours.
Also, let’s be clear here, THESE ARE NOT MADE FOR BIG ROUGH WATERS! However, they are IDEAL for small to mid-sized lakes and slow-moving streams and they’re a perfect raft for outdoor adventures with the kids. Having said that, the tall walls and multiple cells do provide a sense of safety and control.
All in all, we think the Angler Bay Inflatable Boat is well worth the less than $200 price tag. Just like anything, it has its limitations and you’re not going to get the performance of some of the high-end boats on our list today.
For a great relaxing day on the water, making lasting memories, and some quality time fishing with the kids, it’s hard to beat this boat for the price.
FEATURES & SPECS:
Deflated: 96'“ x 54”
Material: Heavy Gauge K80 PVC
Max Capacity: 3 Riders
Lightweight, portable and ideal for small to mid-sized lakes and slow moving streams
2 Rod Holders
Molded drink holders
Wrap-around grab lines
Swiveling oar locks
Compatible with Airhead Trolling Motor Transom (AHIBT-1)
Side mounted oar holders
4 drain plugs
Battery storage bag
Includes an inflatable floor and a movable seat
Constructed of heavy duty vinyl with electronically welded seams
For more exciting options for inflatable boats for your fisherman, check out more at THE BEST INFLATABLE FISHING BOATS OF 2022
“Many men go fishing all of their lives without knowing that it is not fish they are after.”
—Henry David Thoreau
So there you have it. There’s an unlimited amount of gear out there that the Rugged Man angler would love to get his hands on. We tried to cover a fairly broad spectrum here and hope that we got you off to a good start to finding some great Christmas Gift Ideas for the Fisherman in your life!
With the holidays rapidly approaching, we here at Rugged Man wish you the best of what the most wonderful time of the year has to offer. We hope you and your loved ones, together, can find joy and happiness in the great outdoors.
Whether it’s fishing, hunting, exploring, building, or preparing, find ways to enjoy each other and ignore any ugliness in the world. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder and you have absolute control of your own reasoned choices.
Do yourself and all of your loved ones a favor and have a safe and joyous holiday season!
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