The best winter socks ever - $33
Whether your fisherman fishes all winter or chops wood in the backyard, he needs these merino wool socks to keep his feet warm and dry. Get them here: http://fil.sn/Bd3kB
Service their fishing reels ~ $25 per reel
I trust the team at Fisherman’s Headquarters on Long Beach Island to disassemble, clean, and service my spinning reels every other winter. They replace bail springs, remove salt and corrosion, and re-grease the reel’s guts, extending the lives of our expensive toys. You can drop-off or ship your favorite fisherman’s reels in January before the spring rush! Learn more here: http://www.fishermansheadquarters.com/
Custom Fishing Rod - $300-$500
Much like a suit, you can buy a fishing rod off the rack, but a custom fishing rod fits its angler like a glove, allowing for longer casts, better presentations, and more fish pictures. Advanced Fishing USA specializes in spinning rods from back bay flounder to 11’ surf-casting sticks. Call or text Tim Davis to see what your favorite fisherman might want and to order a gift certificate. (609) 290-1367
A personal rescue beacon - $300
I’m not a gadget guy but this pocket-sized device alerts search and resce authorities around the world where you are and that you are in need of help. Snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef? Yup. Heliskiing in British Columbia? Yup. African Safari? Yup. Locally, it’s just as effective if your favorite fisherman falls overboard. I already bought one. Get yours here. https://www.acrartex.com/products/resqlink-plb
Fish with an incredible guide -$400-$4000
After a certain point, every fisherman has read every book and blog out there. But we can continue to learn by fishing with the best professional fishernen. I’d be delighted to introduce you and your favorite fishermen to one or more top captains locally and/or abroad. PS - There are great female captains on my list, too!
Bring, help, or clean - FREE
Fishermen appreciate the details. I bring handwarmers everywhere this time of year. A good friend always bring 2 bags of ice and a Wawa coffee for me for a boat ride. My dad and I routinely wash the boat as if she were “boat show ready.” But we can always use your help, whether washing, waxing, fueling, or fixing, especially when preparing to launch the boat each spring and hauling the boat each fall. Raise your hand and commit to help your favorite fisherman with his or her gear. You’ll probably get invited to participate more frequently!