It can be tough to shop for the angler in your life. To help you out, we came up with gift ideas for the fisherman who has everything, unique fishing gifts, cool gifts on a budget, gifts for fly fishermen, and more. And like all the products we recommend at Wired2fish, we’ve tested these so we know they’ll perform as they should. Though we geared this list of fishing gift ideas toward Christmas and the holidays, you should bookmark it for birthdays, Father’s Day, Mother’s Day, and other occasions throughout the year.
OUR TOP PICKS
- Best for Kids: Ugly Stik Youth Combo – Buy at Bass Pro Shops
- Best Budget Gift: Z-Man Rattle-Snaker Tool – Buy at Bass Pro Shops
- Best Sunglasses: Costa King Tides – Buy at Bass Pro Shops
- Best Soft Cooler: YETI Hopper M30 Soft Cooler – Buy at Bass Pro Shops
- Best Hard Cooler: Orca 20 Quart Cooler – Buy at Bass Pro Shops
- Most Versatile: SOG x Tackle Warehouse Power Access Assist Multi-Tool – Buy at Tackle Warehouse
- Most Unique Gift: DHUKR – Buy at DHUKR
- Best for Fly Fishermen: G Loomis IMX Pro V2 Fly Rod – Buy from Bass Pro Shops
Ugly Stik Youth Combo
Ugly Stik has been around for over 40 years, and for good reason. Their rods are all but indestructible, and offer anglers excellent fishing tools at affordable prices. Ugly Stik revamped their line with the introduction of the GX2 series at ICAST 2024, and the new rods provide all the durability that have made the brand famous with more sensitivity. This makes for a rod that maintains its kid-proof status with bite-sensing abilities on par with rods costing twice as much. My seven-year-old son has been using one of the youth combos to catch smallmouth for months now, and it has become his favorite rod. He’s careful, but he’s seven, so the rod has endured some abuse and is none the worse for wear.
AFTCO Reaper Hoodie
I’ve been a big fan of AFTCO clothing for many years now; their shorts are about all I wear in the warmer months. I’ve also grown quite fond of their cold weather gear, like the Reaper Hoodie. This quickly became a favored piece, with its soft micro-fleece construction, adjustable hood, and built-in vented face mask. A large kangaroo pocket is the perfect place to stash stuff while out on the water, and the unique Block Tapey closure keeps it there. The proprietary AFGUARD stain-resistant treatment is pretty good at keeping fish slime — or coffee – from sticking. Laser-cut ventilation under the arms makes it exceptionally breathable so you won’t overheat on tough walks.
SOG x Tackle Warehouse Power Access Assist Multi-Tool
Just about everyone can benefit from having a good multi-tool in their pocket. The SOG x Tackle Warehouse Power Access Assist Multi-Tool has unique gear-driven pliers that flip open one-handed. I’ve been using these for a few months, and have found them indispensable for tweaking tackle and making repairs. The needle-nose pliers can unhook fish, but have enough grip to break rusty fasteners free. They also feature a unique bit driver that operates on the tool’s axis, as well as an adjustable driver that can be rotated 90 degrees for even more torque. This handy unit comes complete with locking tools like a serrated blade, chisel, awl, and more, plus a 12 bit set and a sheath.
For more options, check out our roundup of the best multi-tools.
Costa King Tides
What’s old is new again with the Costa King Tides. The company channeled their heritage when building the new shades for their fortieth anniversary, pulling styling cues from their most favored designs. But they added a whole lot of new tech, including the side shields that block light from sneaking in, but remove easily when you don’t need them. The frames feature cooling vents that let airflow in and sweat out, and stay in place even on sweaty faces thanks to the earpads. Of course, they are fitted with Costa’s legendary 580G glass for unbeatable clarity on the water. These are some of the most comfortable, functional sunglasses I’ve ever worn.
For more, take a look at our roundup of the best fishing sunglasses.
LaCrosse Ursa LS GTX Boots
I’ve always considered rubber boots a necessary evil, but I prefer something with more support whenever possible. The need for insulation often wins out, and I end up with a rubber option on cold days — until now. I recently started wearing a pair of LaCrosse’s Ursa LS GTX boots, and have found the 400G Primaloft Gold insulation to keep the chill away even on days when the temps dipped into the teens. The 10-inch tall uppers, gusseted tongues, and GORE-TEX construction kept water out when I broke through on the edge of a freshly-frozen pond. That tall upper, combined with the speed laces, give the support needed for a long day on the ice, tough hikes to the treestand, or a full day chasing ditch chickens. The rugged Vibram outsole with micro-lugs provided plenty of traction of ice and other slippery surfaces. LaCrosse’s Ursa LS GTX boots are a good choice all winter long.
BoatEFX GraphLOX
Electronics are expensive. Give the gift of peace of mind with the BoatEFX GraphLox. Machined from a solid block of 6061 aluminum, GraphLOX help prevent theft of valuable fishfinder units. The high security lock provides a detergent to would-be thieves, keeping your units where it belongs: on your boat. They are compatible with Lowrance, Humminbird, Raymarine, Garmin, and Simrad units. Installation is easy, and you can multiples keyed alike when you order them together.
TIDEWE Chest Waders for Toddler & Children
I would have never guessed that my then six-year old son would have been as excited to find a pair of waders under the Christmas tree as he was — he put them on immediately and started marching around the living room. He’s worn them through duck season and wading the river ever since, with nearly the same excitement as the first day he put them on. They have held up well, even with hikes through burdocks and crawling through the mud. As every parent knows, kids grow out of stuff very quickly so it’s much easier to spring for a value-priced pair of waders like these.
Gill Meridian-X Fishing Jacket and Bibs
Gill’s Meridian-X fishing jacket and bibs provide just enough insulation to keep the chill off, without being bulky or inhibiting casting ability. I’ve been wearing a set for over a year now, and have enjoyed the excellent fit and three-way adjustable hood. Fully-taped seams and YKK AquaGuard zippers stop even high-speed wind-driven rain and spray. Of particular note is Gill’s XPEL treatment, which did an amazing job of keeping menhaden slime. Fish blood, and other substances off. Watertight double cuffs and a shock-cord hem keep water and wind out, and generous pockets provide plenty of storage space. The bibs feature a stretchy back panel and Velcro shoulder adjustments for plenty of freedom of movement. Thigh-length zippers, adjustable ankle closures, and a front zipper make them easy to get on and off.
YETI Hopper M30 Soft Cooler
A good cooler can improve the quality of just about every outing. Who doesn’t enjoy a cold beverage or a tasty sandwich on the water? Many boats have built-in compartments that can serve as coolers, but you still have to get your food or drinks there. I’ve been using one of Yeti’s soft coolers, the Hopper M30, for about a year. It’s been great for river floats, days on the bay, camping trips, or trips to the beach. The soft construction keeps weight down, and makes it easy to transport. Plus, the magnet top makes it easy to load and grab items. For more on the M30, you can check out our long-tern review.
Frabill Collapsible Bait Bucket
When I saw this at ICAST 2024, I was amazed that no one had thought of it sooner. Frabill has reinvented the bait bucket, transforming it into a collapsible form that makes storage simple. In fact, the new container only takes up as much space as a standard 3700-size tackle tray so it will fit just about anywhere. Open, the 6-quart capacity holds enough minnows, killifish, or crawfish for a full day’s fishing. The included aerator will keep them lively, even on hot days. Comfortable handles make transporting the bucket easy even when full.
Duck Camp Lightweight Performance Drirelease Hoodie
I initially resisted the whole sun hoodie trend, but then I started wearing them and quickly became a convert. Duck Camp’s entry into this category is about the most comfortable I’ve worn. The polyester blend fabric features Duck Camp’s drirelease technology to dry four times faster than cotton; I wear this shirt wet-wading and it’s dry by the time I hike back to the truck. Built-in UPF 30+ protection keeps the sun at bay without the need for sunscreen. Raglan sleeves provide plenty of freedom of movement for casting, and the attached hood ensures you don’t end up with sunburn on your neck.
Orca 20 Quart Cooler
Coolers always rank high on the list of best gifts for fishermen. Orca’s 20 Quart Cooler is the perfect size for a couple anglers to spend a day on the water. It can hold a couple of sandwiches and enough cold drinks to fish from dawn to dusk. The 20-quart storage capacity handles 20 cans with ice, and keeps them cold for up to five days thanks to a tight lid gasket and plenty of insulation. Roto-molded construction holds up to a rough life, mine has lived in the bed of my truck for years and is no worse for wear. A unique cargo net attachment offers a convenient place to stash tackle or other items, and the stainless-steel handle makes carrying it a breeze. An easy-flow drainage spout makes clean up simple.
Bajio Sigs
I’ve been wearing Bajio’s Sigs with prescription lenses for a couple of years now, and I’ve been quite impressed with the clarity of the lenses and fit of the frame. The wide, polarized lenses provide an enhanced field of vision, and the “Sun Ledge” blocks rays from the inside. They also feature patent-pending blue light blocking technology that seems to reduce eye strain even after long days on the water. They’ve proved to be fairly durable too, as my son sat on them once and they survived.
BUDGET GIFT IDEAS
Z-Man Rattle-Snaker Tool
Give the gift of more bites this holiday season with Z-Man’s Rattle-Snaker tool. You can surgically implant a glass rattle into any standard soft plastic bait, turning them into rattling lures that will turn on the bite. You can also use it to place weights into any soft bait to make them sink faster, including the tough ones made with ElaZtech. This kit comes with a steel insertion needle, pushrod, and 10 glass rattles. A surgical tubing needle guard prevents you from poking yourself when not in use.
Handing M1 Spinning Rod
If you want to give someone a quality spinning rod without spending a lot of money, we suggest you take a look at Handing’s M1 spinning rod. Despite only costing about $50, this two-piece rod is lightweight and durable. The action, weight, and sensitivity of the blank make it seem like a much more expensive model, as does the Fuji hardware used throughout. The two-piece design is perfect for traveling anglers, or just for stashing behind the seats of a pickup. For more details, check out our review of the Handing M1 spinning rod. And for even more options, you can review our roundup of the best fishing rods.
Level NGX Casting Rod
Looking for a great casting rod this holiday season? Designed by two-time Bassmaster Classic Champion Hank Cherry, Level’s NGX offers quite a bang for your buck. In our review, the Level NGX performed well with a variety of baits including hollow body frogs, swim jigs and for light pitching and flipping. It also makes for a pretty good skipping jig rod. The rod is lightweight and solid, thanks to the Japanese Toray 30/40 Ton Carbon Blank with a Carbon X-Wrap to reinforce it, while also adding a nice finish to the product. Semi-micro Fuji K frame guides with Alconite inserts and comfortable grip built from EVA foam, with a carbon rear grip and carbon reel seat round out the impressive build. But if you’re looking to give a rod to the swimbait aficionado on your list, check out our roundup of the best swimbait rods.
Penn Battle IV Spinning Reel
Penn has made quality equipment at affordable prices for longer than I’ve been alive. The Battle IV continues that tradition, providing anglers with a spinning reel that can survive the rigors of big water and large fish at a price that everyone can swing. I’ve been using one to catch striped bass and bluefish all summer long, and have been very pleased with how the reel has held up. The drag performed better than it should for a reel at this price point, with very little start-up inertia and smooth performance even on blistering runs by hard tails. We also have a complete roundup of the best spinning reels if you’re looking for something different.
GIFT IDEAS FOR THE FISHERMAN THAT HAS EVERYTHING
Wired2fish Coffee
Just about everyone loves coffee, which makes it one of the better gift ideas for fisherman. This holiday season, get those on your list a coffee-house quality brew that also helps improve fishing. Wired2fish Coffee gives back with up to 25% of net profits being donated to support clean water initiatives and faith-based organizations. Plus, it tastes pretty good too. Choose from a variety of roasts made from a blend of 100% Arabica beans, available as whole beans or pre-ground. Available as a subscription, or bundled with a mug or tumbler. Did I mention it’s very good coffee? I particularly enjoy the dark roast.
Sowbelly: The Obsessive Quest for the World-Record Largemouth
Know anyone that’s obsessed with big bass? Well, they’re not alone. Ever since George Washington Perry caught that 22 pound, 4 ounce hog way back in 1932, people have been on a quest to top it. Monte Burke details the obsessive pursuit of the next world record largemouth bass in the way only he can. Follow along as Burke tells us the tale of a Los Angeles cop that was in spitting distance of the record, and an Alabaman that lost his marriage and his daughter to this pursuit. Because the obsession is year-round, Sowbelly makes a great gift for Christmas, birthdays or Father’s Day.
Benchmade Fishcrafter Filet Knife
There’s something about the way a nice knife handles. I’ve been using the 7-inch version of Benchmade’s Fishcrafter filet knife since its introduction, and I’ve been impressed with its responsive handling and the sharpness of its blade. A Santoprene handle provides plenty of grip even when breaking down flatfish with aid of the marina’s hose. The corrosion-resistance of the CPM MagnaCut steel is another high point; this knife gets a quick rinse and then gets stashed in my truck’s cap in the included sheath until its next use. If you’re looking for one of the best filet knives money can buy, this is it.
Watershed Animas Waterproof Backpack
I am a big fan of dry bags; I’ve spent more than one field season living out them. In that time, I came to recognize what makes a great dry bag, and the folks at Watershed sure know how to make one. The opening on the Animas is the best I’ve ever used, with a closure similar to a zip-lock sandwich bag that seals just as easily. Since I picked that pack up a couple years ago it’s been with me every time I hit the water: canoe trips, float planes, or out in my center console. It’s large enough to hold extra layers for a couple folks, while also protecting your electronics and camera gear.
UNIQUE FISHING GIFTS
DHUKR
It might seem weird to get someone a gift you hope they never use, but that’s probably exactly what you’re thinking if you give someone a DHUKR. I came across this unique tool when it was introduced at ICAST 2024 and was immediately blown away. The first of its kind tool quickly and easily removes hooks from skin one-handed, so you don’t need loops of string or help from a friend. The DHUKR works with singles, trebles, flies — anything. So this Christmas, give the gift of easy hook removal — just in case.
GoPro Hero 10 Action Camera
Though it’s best to share time on the water with those we love, they can’t always make it. Let your favorite angler share a highlight reel with you by giving them one of GoPro’s action cameras. I’ve been using a Hero 10 Black to record moments of my little guy and I on our fishing trips, and we both love reviewing the footage together — and sharing it with Mom and Grandma. Footage from the tiny camera is of unbelievable quality with 5.3K60 + 4K120 video resolution and 23 megapixel still photos. GoPros are remarkably easy to use, waterproof, and transferring footage to your preferred social media platform or storage device is simple. The bundles include camera, rechargeable battery, curved adhesive mounts, mounting buckle, thumb screw and USB-C cable.
Bote Rackham Aero 12′4″ Classic Mangrove Inflatable Paddle Board Package
Odds are pretty good the angler on your list doesn’t have a paddle board, though maybe they should. I’ve been using one of Bote’s Rackham Aero inflatable paddle boards for everything from striped bass in salt marshes to brook trout on remote ponds and had a blast in the process. A paddle board offers a unique perspective, letting you stand right on the water’s surface. It also offers plenty of stealth, sneaking up on fish quietly. The Rackham comes with an innovative leaning post that provides a place to store tackle or rods as you paddle out, keeping your hands free. There’s also a paddle keeper so you can put it down and concentrate on fishing without it floating away. This one is fun for the whole family, as everyone likes to go for a paddle. Plus, it breaks down to fit in a compact roller duffle when not in use.
GIFTS FOR FLY FISHERMEN
G Loomis IMX Pro V2 Fly Rod
I’ve been using the G Loomis IMX Pro V2 for about a year now, and it has become my favorite rod to fling Clouser minnows, Game Changers, and the like to hungry bass. It also has enough oomph in the butt section to throw deer hair divers and big poppers, as well as pull bass out of the weeds. In the lighter weights, it also makes an excellent panfish rod. The fit and finish on this is what you would expect from G Loomis, and looks as good as it performs. If you know someone that needs to make long casts with wind-resistant flies, get them one of these this holiday season.
Fishpond Tacky Original Fly Box
A great fly box makes a good gift for your favorite fly angler’s birthday, Father’s Day (or Mother’s Day), Christmas or any other occasion. I’ve been using the original Tacky Fly Box for the better part of a decade, and it still looks almost new. The unique, patented silicone pad firmly holds up to 168 flies with a vise-like grip that won’t loosen or get torn up over time. The clear polycarbonate lid lets you know exactly what’s in the box without opening it, but the magnetic closure makes opening and closing fast and easy. Despite the large capacity, the slim profile tucks easily into a vest or wader pocket.
Grundens Boundary Zip Stockingfoot Waders
If you’ve never had a pair of waders with a zip front, let me assure you that you’re missing out. Getting into and out of them is simple, and it sure makes life easier when that coffee catches up to you. Grundens’ take on the zip-front wader is beyond comfortable, with super-breathable GORE-TEX Pro Wader Laminate to shed sweat on tough hikes and an anatomically-shaped neoprene stockingfoot. The shoulder harness is the best I’ve experienced, distributing weight across my entire back. The D-ring is perfect for hanging a net, and the well-thought out pockets provide plenty of storage space. From the warmest summer wades to steelhead trips deep into the winter, these have you covered.
Fishpond Nomad Mid-Length Landing Net
A landing net is often the difference between a hero shot and a fish story. Fishpond’s Nomad Mid-Length landing net has been my go-to for years. The handle is sized for both wading and float trips, with just enough reach for an inflatable or a canoe. The basket is sized appropriately for big trout and bass; I’ve even managed to fit pike in there. Carbon fiber and fiberglass composite construction makes it rugged and keeps weight down; it floats like a cork if dropped. The net is made of a soft, clear rubber that is friendly to fish for safe releases.
