Is there a single angler among us who doesn’t love getting fishing gear as a holiday gift? Of course not! Nothing beats ripping open that wrapping paper and gazing upon glorious goodies that will help us catch more fish.
But how do you know what to get the fishing fanatic in your life? Luckily, I’m here to tell you exactly what they (we) need! Here are some top holiday fishing gifts every angler will appreciate.
1. New Lures
Don’t just get one, get a bunch! Look in the tackle box first to see what sorts of plugs and soft plastics the angler you love enjoys using. Then, get a nice selection of sizes and colors.
2. Antique Fishing Lures
Anglers of all ages are usually intrigued by antique fishing lures, especially those made before plastic was even invented. They can be tough to come by and usually aren’t cheap, but you love this angler, right? Then get ready to do some searching and spending.
3. Fresh Fishing Line
Sure, this one’s kind of a boring gift. But all anglers need fishing line, and it requires constant replacement. Monofilament grows weaker over time and break-offs can severely limit casting range on a spool of braid if it isn’t regularly replaced… It may not be terribly exciting to open a package and find a spool of line, but it’s always appreciated. Check the angler’s rods and reels to see which type and size line they might need before you buy.
4. Zipper-Clippers
Anglers of all types love these inexpensive clippers, which are attached to a self-recoiling reel. They’re an invaluable tool, but only tend to last for a season or two before going dull or losing their zip. You can’t go wrong with this stocking-stuffer because even if your loved one already has one, they’ll be glad to have a backup waiting in the wings.
5. Warm Hats, Gloves, or Underlayers
In most places, the fishing season draws to a close because it becomes uncomfortable to fish, not because the fish quit biting. Gifting an angler some warm layers means helping them to extend their season, especially if they want to try ice fishing this winter!
6. Spools of Fluorocarbon Leaders
Everyone needs leaders. This is another item that anglers tend to chew through over time. Peek in their tacklebox and you’ll likely see a collection of leaders of different sizes. If you see any gaps, plug them. And if you don’t, check to see which are low on line and will need to be replaced soon.
7. Fishing Art
People who love fishing tend to love fish, and there’s an endless selection of paintings, statues, fish replicas, and more to choose from. T-shirts with cool fish prints count, too!
8. A Vacuum Packer
Nothing says “I believe in you” like giving a fisherman a vacuum-packer. As an added bonus, the fish you freeze will last longer and taste better!
9. Emergency Communications Gear
There isn’t an angler around who wouldn’t want a satellite messenger, handheld VHF radio, or personal locator beacon. This is especially true for those who venture deep into the wilderness or far away from shore! When you give a gift like this, it really shows you care.
10. Give the Gift of Fishing
Choose a fishing destination close to home and book the angler you love a fishing trip with a real pro. Or book them a trip for an upcoming vacation! Nothing—I mean nothing—can beat an actual fishing trip when you’re trying to make that angler smile.
But aren’t we missing something?
Wait a sec! What about fishing rods and reels? Naturally, these can make a great gift, too, but different anglers favor different types and sizes depending on their needs. It’s easy to buy the wrong thing, so unless the angler you’re shopping for gives you some specifics, getting rods and reels can be risky.
Besides, you should have more than enough to work with, looking at this list. And if it still doesn’t seem like you’re getting a gift that’s good enough, you might have to buy them a new boat!
Do you have some other fishing gift ideas that would make any angler smile? Is there a gift you’re hoping to get yourself? Let us know in the comments below!
