Last updated on December 5th, 2023.
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Getting your fishing friend a gift can be tricky. Don’t worry we’ve got you covered with our ultimate fishing gift ideas guide.
The choice of fly fishing gifts to give is sheer endless. We have selected our favorites from all categories. No matter whether your budget is small or whether you want to get something special. Our guide covers everything and makes sure there is something you can get your fly fishing friend for the next occasion.
Table of contents:
Best Fishing Gift Ideas for People Who Have Everything
Conclusion on Fishing Gifts Ideas
Picking the Best Fly Fishing Gifts
The most important factor when choosing your fly fishing gift is to think about the person you want to make a gift to. Is this person a fly fisher or does he or she also use other techniques. If you are not sure, you should go for a gift that any fisherman or woman will love such as a knife, a backpack or a pair of sunglasses. These items are essential pieces of gear for any kind of fishing and hence decrease the chances of you picking the wrong fishing gifts.
Secondly, of course your budget is going to play a role. But don’t worry we have made sure to pick the best fishing gifts from a wide range of categories making sure there is a choice for everybody. Some of our fishing gifts ideas will only cost you a few dollars but still bring a lot of joy. We will also look at special fishing gifts for women and present the best fishing gifts for kids. Lastly we compiled the fishing gifts for people who have everything. Let’s get started!
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Best Fishing Gifts for Men
In the first part of this guide to the best fishing gifts we’ll be looking at fishing gifts for men. Of course some of those items are also suitable for women like knives, backpacks or landing nets. Some of them are particularly tailored at men like waders or vests.
Filson Rolltop Backpack
Every fly fisherman or woman loves quality equipment. If you know your friend is looking for a fly fishing backpack, the Filson Rolltop Backpack (read our hands-on review here) is an excellent choice. This backpack is highly versatile thanks to its rolltop closure and its tough nylon fabric make it not only waterproof but also fully submersible. Best thing about this backpack is the fact that your friend will look great in the outdoors but in the city as well.
Opinel Slim Line Folding Fillet Knife
A good knife is essential when hitting the water. A pocket knife such as the Opinel Slim Line Folding Fillet Knife (read our hands on review here) comes in handy as you can easily carry it along in your waders and use it to fillet a trout on the spot for a campfire. The Opinel Carbon Steel Folding Pocket Knife is classic pocket knife with a wooden handle that gets more beautiful over the years. I recommend getting it with the olive wood handle as that one doesn’t swell when wet.
VSSL Essentials Catch and Cook Set
If you know that you fishing friend likes to keep their catch every once in a while, then the VSSL Essentials Catch and Cook Set is the perfect gift. The set includes 15 pieces of fishing tackle ranging from rubber worms and hooks to a quality line of 20 lbs (50 feet).
Once you’ve landed your catch, it’s time to prepare the fire to cook your fish. The wire saw with strap handles that comes with the VSSL Essentials Catch and Cook Set will make cutting larger pieces of wood an easy task. Once you’re done with that, it’s time light the fire with the fire starting tabs and the ferro rod that will even work in wet conditions.
Umpqua Bandolier Sling Pack
A sling pack such as the Umpqua Bandolier Sling (read our in-depth review here) is another great fishing gift. If you think a backpack is a bit too big and heavy to carry along, a sling pack is a great option. Especially this small sling keep everything light and easy and still allows you to store your most important pieces of gear such as pliers, tippets or fly boxes. What’s great about the Bandolier is that because of its slim silhouette you can wear it as a sling pack or also as a waist pack (like we did – see photo above).
Fishpond Nomad Emerger
The Fishpond Nomad Emerger has all the features of a great fly fishing net. Made from carbon fiber/fiberglass material it is built for utmost durability and a long lifespan. Another positive aspect of the material is its low weight – an important factor when carrying a landing net all day. The Fishpond Nomad Emerger is also waterproof and floats in case you drop it into the water. As you would expect in that price range the Nomad nets come with a rubber bag for better storage.
Barnsley Fly Box + 100 Assorted Kit
The Barnsley Box + 100 Assorted Flies is a combination of an Aluminum Box with Slotted Foam inserts. With it come 50 dry & parachute flies, as well as an assortment of 50 nymphs, beadhead nymphs, wet flies, scuds, streamers and worm flies. The box is made from sturdy aluminum and fully packed with flies. With bigger hands it can get a bit tedious to take them out and put them back in. If you want to have a bigger selection of fly boxes, check our ultimate fly box guide.
Oakley Split Shot Prizm Fly Fishing Sunglasses
A pair of fly fishing sunglasses makes for one of the best gifts for fisherman. The Oakley Split Shot Prizm Sunglasses (read our in-depth review here) is a choice you can’t go wrong with. Their polarized lenses are some of the best on the market. The great thing about the Oakley Split Shot is that they come in a huge variety of colors to cover all sorts of situations. They also come with a solid protective case and – a neat little feature – a retainer (so you won’t loose your sunglasses if you drop them accidentally).
YETI Hopper Flip Portable Cooler
The YETI Hopper Flip Portable Cooler is not only one of the best fishing gift ideas but a great gift for anybody who loves being outdoors. Yeti has made a name for itself to be one of the most innovative outdoor brands.
Their coolers set the standard and the YETI Hopper Flip Portable Cooler is no exception to this rule. The great thing about this one is the fact that it’s highly portable. It comes in a large variety of colors. Yes, it doesn’t come cheap but the joy it brings to a day on the water is immense and Yeti’s product quality ensures that it will last a long time.
Patagonia Fly Fishing Hat
When you’re out on the water you need protection from the elements, especially the sun. The Patagonia Trucker Fly Fishing Hat is a stylish option and one of the fishing gift ideas. Everybody loves caps such as the Patagonia Trucker Fly Fishing Hat. Great thing about it is the fact that you can wear it around town and still look good.
Epic Fly Rod Building Kit
Building your own fly rod? Sounds harder than it is. With the Epic Fly Rod Building Kit anybody can build his or her own rod. You don’t need any special skills and any equipment. Everything you need is included in the Epic Rod Building Kit. There is no better feeling than catching a fish on the rod you built yourself – definitely one of the best and most special gifts for fishermen. (Click here if you want a detailed “how to” on building your own rod using the Epic Fly Rod Building Kit)
Grundens Shoreleave 55 Liter
The Grundens Shoreleave 55 Liter is a simplistic yet incredibly tough waterproof duffel bag. Grundens was founded in Sweden for commercial fishermen that had to withstand the toughest conditions while out on the sea. Hence their gear is basically indestructible. The Grundens Shoreleave 55 Liter is kept in all black which gives it a nice and clean look. The Grundens Shoreleave 55 Liter also features a roll top closure and its straps can be used to carry it like a backpack which comes in handy when you have to walk for a bit. Made from 500D PVC tarpaulin material, it features welded seams for extra durability.
50 Places to Fly Fish Before you Die
There is huge amount of great fly fishing books out there. One of the best to dream about your next fly fishing adventure is 50 Places to Fly Fish Before you Die. No matter whether your fly fishing friend is new to the sport or an experienced angler. 50 Places to Fly Fish Before you Die has a trip for any fisherman or woman to spectacular places around the world.
Dr. Slick Magnetic Net Keeper
A magnetic net release is another one of those great little gifts for fisherman. A tool like the Dr. Slick Magnetic Net Keeper always comes in handy at the water. You can easily attach the Dr. Slick Magnetic Net Keeper to the back of your wading jacket and always have it ready in case you catch a big one.
Hydro Flask Water Bottle – Stainless Steel & Vacuum Insulated
The Hydro Flask Water Bottle is another great all round fly fishing gift. The great thing about it is the fact that it can be used in multiple occasions. It’s not only great to carry it along at the water but you can also use it in the office. The Hydro Flask Water Bottle keeps your beverage hot or cold for hours. It comes in all sizes and color to make sure there is the right one for anybody’s taste.
Simms Tributary Fishing Vest
If you are looking for fishing gifts for men, there is no way around the Simms Tributary Fishing Vest. A fishing vest is essential on the water to carry your gear. This model is Simms’ entry level fishing vest for well under $100. It still offers everything you are looking for in a quality fishing vest no matter if your friend is into fly fishing or traditional fishing. The Simms Tributary Fishing Vest offers a variety of pockets and is made from a light mesh fabric that offers great ventilation on hot summer days and keeps the weight low. Any fisherman will love this vest as a gift.
Patagonia Danner Wading Boots
The Patagonia Danner Wading Boots are hands down some of the best wading boots money can buy. If your friend is a serious fly fisherman and you know he is looking for a new pair of boots you can’t go wrong with these. The Patagonia Danner Wading Boots are a coproduction of Patagonia and the American manufacturer of hiking boots, Danner. The moment you put these on you can feel the know how of Danner. These wading boots feel so comfortable you don’t want to take them off. Plus, they are made in the USA. If you want to know more about these beauties, read our review here.
Simms Guide Classic Waders
The same thing we said about the Patagonia Danner Wading Boots, holds true for the Simms Guide Classic Waders (read our in-depth review here). These made in the USA waders are Simms’ entry model into the world of Gore Tex waders. Value for money wise these waders are some of the best money can buy. The Simms Guide Classic Waders have all the features you are looking for in a great pair of waders such as adjustable shoulder straps, two big pockets for your fly fishing essentials, reach through handwarmer pockets for cold days and gravel guards top keep gravel and sand out of your boots. A fantastic gift for any fisherman.
Bass Pro Shops Gift Card
This is sort of the ace in sleeve if you have run out of ideas or if you think your fly fishing friend is picky and he or she won’t like what you gift them. The Bass Pro Shops Gift Card makes sure he or she can choose something they really need. The other great thing about the Bass Pro Shops Gift Card is the fact that you can pick an amount that fits your budget…
Best Women Fishing Gifts
Now that you have a good range of options for your male fishing friends, we want to give you some inspiration for fishing gifts for women. More and more females are getting into fishing and hence many manufacturers have started producing specific fishing products tailored to women. Here are a few fishing gift ideas for women.
Simms Women’s Tributary Waders – Stockingfoot
If your female friend is just getting started with fishing and you want to contribute to her fishing essentials, the Simms Women’s Tributary Waders are a fantastic gift. You don’t have to spend a fortune to get these quality waders. The Simms Women’s Tributary Waders offer adjustable shoulder straps, a large front pocket and gravel guards. The highly breathable waders will be a great companion to your female angler friend. Don’t be surprised if they are asking for more if you opt for the Tributary Waders as a fly fishing gift.
Patagonia Women’s Swiftcurrent Jacket
In case your female fishing friend has a quality pair of waders already but is still looking for a great waterproof fishing jacket, look no further than the Patagonia Women’s Swiftcurrent Jacket for a fantastic gift for any female angler. Specifically tailored at smaller physiques, the Patagonia Women’s Swiftcurrent Jacket has all the features of a great wading jacket. Large pockets on both sides can hold even big streamer boxes. You can choose from two color options.
Redington Women’s SIREN Wading Boots
To round off the essentials of wading gear, we want to show you one of the best wading boots for women on the market: the Redington Women’s SIREN. They feature molded rubber overlays for increased abrasion resistance where it matters most: at the heel and around the toe cap. The Redington have a padded collar for increased ankle support and all day comfort at the river. You can choose between several options for the sole spanning from felt soles to rubber soles and the option to add spikes.
HUK Women’s Icon X Hoodie
To round off our collection of women fishing gifts, we want to bring you a piece of gear that is a great addition to the wardrobe of any fisherwoman, no matter if she is into fly fishing or big game saltwater fishing: the HUK Women’s Icon X Hoodie. Made from polyester, the HUK is super quick drying in case you sweat on a hot day or get wet. On top of that the fabric features a +50 UPD sun protection which makes this shirt a perfect companion for any fishing adventure. A great fishing gift that won’t break the bank but bring a lot of joy to the fishing friend.
Best Fishing Gifts for Kids
Now that we’ve got the grown ups covered, we want to take a look at the best fishing gifts for kids. You might be looking for something to give to your own kids or maybe you have a goddaughter or a godson who is into fishing. Here are a few ideas that could make them happy.
Simms Kid’s Tributary Waders
If you are looking for a quality pair of waders for your young one, you can’t go wrong with the Simms Kid’s Tributary Waders. Yes, they don’t come cheap at well over $100 but their quality justifies this price. Plus, if you have more than one kid you can be sure that the younger one will still have fun wearing these. The Simms Kid’s Tributary Waders have all the features of a great pair of fly fishing waders: adjustable shoulder straps, a wading belt for increased safety and anatomical booties for a great fit plus gravel guards to keep sand and gravel out of the wading boots.
Echo Gecko Kids Fly Fishing Kit
If you’re into fly fishing yourself and have been thinking of teaching your kids young, you should take a look at the Echo Gecko Kids Fly Fishing Kit. It contains everything you need to teach the young ones their first casts. The Echo Gecko Kids Fly Fishing Kit comes with a fly rod, a fly reel, a fly line and a leader. All of it nicely stored in the rod tube so you can even bring the fly fishing kit along on vacation. All you need to do is to tie on a fly (maybe without a hook to get started) and show your kids how to cast.
HUK Kids’ Icon X Camo Long-Sleeve Shirt + Sun Protection
The best way to turn kids into fishermen and women is to teach them young. What better way to do that by bringing them along on your own fishing adventures. If you do so, protection from the elements is crucial. That’s why the HUK Kids’ Icon X Camo Long-Sleeve Shirt + Sun Protection is a great gift for any young fisherman. At around $30 it won’t cost the hair from your head and still offer great value with a sun protection of +50 UPF, shielding the young from harmful UVA und UVS rays.
Best Fishing Gifts for People who Have Everything
By now you should have a good overview of a wide range of the best fishing gifts for men, women and kids out there. Now you might still be like: that’s all nice and fine, great gift ideas, but I have this one fishing friend who basically has everything. I need something really special to surprise him. Well, don’t worry here are a few items that are so special you can be almost 100% sure he or she doesn’t have them.
Winston Bamboo Fly Rod
If your friend is serious about fly fishing, he or she will have heard the name Winston before. This brand builds some of the finest fly rods in the market. The Winston Bamboo Fly Rod is the pinnacle of their rod making know how and you can almost certain that your friend won’t encounter anybody else fishing this rod. Yes, it’s very pricey but it’s the fishing gift of a lifetime.
ABEL ROVE FLY REEL
What we just said about the Winston bamboo rod, is true about Abel reels as well. Yes, they are pricey but also particularly cool. The new Rove reel (read our in-depth review here) is extra special since it gives you plenty of options to customise your reel (from colors, to handle design, etc) and hence the opportunity to create an almost unique fly reel. Can there be a cooler gift? I don’t think so.
Van Staal Titanium Pliers
A quality pair of fishing pliers is one of the most essential pieces of gear for any fisherman or woman out there. The Van Staal Titanium Pliers are for the ones who don’t want to compromise on quality and performance no matter the circumstances. The pliers are made from corrosion-proof titanium, extremely lightweight and come in a beautiful, exclusive leather sheath with a lanyard making sure your fishing friend won’t loose them on his or her adventures.
Conclusion on the Best Fly Fishing Gifts
We hope this ultimate guide to the best fishing gifts ideas has brought you joy and inspiration. No matter which of the products we recommended in this guide you end up choosing, we are sure they will make a great gift for any fishing friend.
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