How’s your fishing lately? I hope it was really fun! Saltwater and freshwater fishing are really challenging. You need durable and more advanced fishing gear such as spinning rod, spinning reel, waterproof gear bags, trolling motor battery charger, life jackets for kids, polarized sunglasses, sun hat, fishing line, fishing pliers, line winder spool-er and seat for fishing picnics.
The first time I encounter the fishing world, I have not yet learned the basic skills that I really need. I did not focus on the gears and equipment that I should use when fishing. It was really hard for me.
I searched different kinds of gears that I should bring on my next fishing adventure. I decided to purchase them all and tried so hard to know the basics in fishing.
Thankfully, with these gears, I never experienced disappointment and regret anymore. These fishing gears really helped me a lot during my kayak fishing.
Now, I want to share with you the best items that would really help you out when fishing. Let’s go!
Best Spinning Rod of 2018
Are you planning to fish in saltwater or freshwater? Most anglers just chose their spinning rod without considering the place where they will be spending the time in fishing. There are the things you should consider before purchasing a spinning rod.
Length
Spinning rods have different lengths. The length determines the kind of control you have when casting a fish. It is important to know how far you will need to cast, your casting position and the type of bait you will be using.
If you have longer rods, it has a faster tip speed which allows them to cast farther. They can also absorb the shock when fighting with bigger fish to prevent the line from breaking.
However, shorter spinning rod provides more accuracy and control. It can only cast short to medium distances. This short spinning rod gives more leverage and maneuverability where there is heavy vegetation.
Weight
Rod’s weight is also important. It indicates the strength and weight of its tip that can sustain without even snapping. Weight includes ultra-light, light, medium light, medium, medium heavy, heavy, and extra heavy.
The right weight also depends on the line, size of the fish, lure weights and the type of fishing you will be doing.
If your rod is heavy, you can also do kayak fishing in saltwater. If your rod is medium it means that you can handle a wide range of small to larger fish sizes to moderate cover.
Action
The action indicates how a spinning rod bends when there is a load at its tip, how it recovers when the weight is removed.
It also affects the casting and other types of fishing situations. There are types of action rods such as extra fast, fast, medium, and slow actions.
Extra fast action spinning rods are very sensitive and cast long distances. They produce quick hook sets and also popular for jigging and trolling.
Medium action rods are also sensitive and flexible. They hook well and can cast mid-weight crank baits and lighter lures.
Slow action rods bend uniformly. They are the most flexible for ultra-light fishing of small bait fish. The set hooks slower and gentler which prevents the light rod and line from snapping.
Durability
You definitely love to have a high-quality of the spinning rod. If you are planning to go fishing in the saltwater area, be sure to have a good quality of rod that is made strong and equipped with corrosion resistant finishes and components.
- Ugly Stik GX2 Spinning Rod
If you are really interested in fishing, spinning rods will help you out. This kind of rod will make your learning curve easier and more enjoyable and fun. They are efficiently and accurately cast lines and light lures farther away.
This Shakespeare’s fishing rod is the number one among fishing rods nowadays. This rod has a strong and balanced graphite and fiberglass construction.
Even though it has a name “Ugly” doesn’t mean the functions are ugly too. It has a durable one-piece stainless guide and clear tip design for strength and sensitivity. It’s no joke, right?
Most anglers think the heavier your equipment, the durable it is. Well, not all heavier things are durable.
This fishing rod is lightweight and durable too! The manufacturers really improved the components and made it an eye-catching design and style for a modern look. It has a 7-year warranty which will prove its strength and durability.
Best Spinning Reel of 2018
Without the help of a spinning reel, how could we get our big catch under the sea? Reels help us a lot in our daily fishing.
They make fishing more exciting and easier. For those who are fishing in saltwater, it is best to choose spinning reels made of graphite. For freshwater, aluminum is the best.
Reel Size
When choosing your spinning reel, consider also the size. The size is found on the reel’s body on the product details. Fishermen and anglers must determine the size needed to be used. If you have a lighter fishing line, then you would go for a light spinning reel. The pound line is best when it is rated from 6 to 8-pound line.
Gear Ratio
Gear ration refers to the number of times the bail rotates around the spool. Remember, the higher the ratio, the faster the retrieve speed. Reel with a ratio of 4:1 is actually considered as low-speed, while 6:1 is a high-speed reel. If you want to catch larger fish, a moderate speed is ideal and the best.
Drag System
In dragging your line, it is important to drag it smoothly if not, the line would be broken and you will lose the fish. The front drag and the rear drag are the two types of drag systems. The front drag system has multiple large drag washers which increase the performance while the rear drag system is easier to control and access. Among the two, the front drag reels perform better when fighting a bigger target of fish.
Anti-reverse Handle
Anti-reverse is very important to mention in this area. It has a significant role which is responsible for preventing the handle from moving or spinning backward when trying to pull off the line. The anti-reverse system along with a drag system really works simultaneously.
2. Superb Penn Battle II Spinning Fishing Reel
Penn is really one of the famous names around the world. They are known for its outstanding fishing equipment and materials for how many years. This spinning reel is also one of the famous and excellent reels among others.
This spinning reel has a durable and high-range reel which is ideal for saltwater game fish. It is made of full metal body, motor, side plate and heavy-duty aluminum bail wire for excellent performance and durability.
Its HT-100 carbon fiber drag system offers a powerful drag with a smooth operation. Penn really does a great job! The ball bearings have 5 sealed stainless steel and instant anti-reverse bearing. This spinning reel has a line capacity rings marked at 1/3, 2/3, and full capacity. The super line spool has no backing and is braid ready.
Best Waterproof Gear Bags for Fishing
Waterproof dry bags are one of the things we needed when doing some outdoor activities specifically in the water area.
Dry bags take up less space than standard bags. They are also ideal for float trips, motorcycle, and other activities.
Versatility
You need to choose a dry bag that has a multi-use ability. Besides from protecting your things from getting wet it also has a large capacity to organize things and allows great versatility in their use.
Craftsmanship
The craftsmanship and materials have to be of the highest quality. They need to remain waterproof and they must provide great protection which allows the bags to be fully submerged even for a short period of time without any water to your valuables.
They also need to be strong enough to withstand and stop the water from entering your dry bag. Strong enough to different types of bumps that can happen during your outdoor activities. Of course, high-quality dry bags must be with you for long years.
Make sure that your dry bags are comfortable and convenient to carry wherever you go.
3. Incredible Uni-gear Floating Waterproof Dry Bag
Where could I place my devices and accessories to avoid it by getting wet? Most anglers have problems about all of those. But now, I hope your problem has been solved.
This Uni gear waterproof bag is proven and guaranteed. It becomes the best-selling waterproof bag specifically in Amazon. And it is made lightweight and durable.
It gives your accessories protection from getting wet and protects valuables from dirt, dust, sand, and water. Your phones, clothes, camera and even documents will be protected.
It’s a waterproof guarantee! For your convenience, it comes with an extra-long removable and adjustable shoulder strap for easy carry and transport wherever you go.
This dry bag will meet all your needs to stay dry and will provide a great performance and functions. It fits all smartphones up to 6 inches diagonal size, wallet, money, credit card and other needed things and devices you will carry during fishing or tour.
Best Trolling Motor Battery Charger
It might not hard to choose battery chargers nowadays. But please remember these things in buying your own battery chargers.
It must have a dual terminal connection, maintenance-free technology, and longer storage life. Also, consider its durability and cranking power. Of course, it will be the best if it has a sealed battery case to avoid contamination.
Now, I will give you tips for the longevity of your battery charger. First, shallow discharges lead to a longer battery life. The maximum safe discharge is 80 percent discharge.
Second, don’t leave your batteries deeply charged for a long time. Lastly, charge your batteries after each period of use and don’t ever mix old batteries with new ones.
4. Genius UltraSafe Smart Battery Charger
Having problems with battery chargers? No more! Every one of us makes sure that everything is ready. There must be alternative solutions if anything went wrong and unexpected. When it comes to battery chargers, I know we are all picky for some reasons.
We are picky to avoid being deceived by designs and fake brands. However, this charger can guarantee a great performance and will not leave you hanging.
This battery charger is a 6-volt and 12-volt charger and maintainer for lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries up to 120 amp-hours. It has an ultra-safe design featuring spark-proof technology which is great and as well as reverse polarity and overcharge protection.
This charger safely charges automotive, marine, power sport, RV and lawn, and garden batteries. There’s more! Same goes with AGM and deep-cycle batteries.
Good news for all of us! The manufacturers upgraded its performance for it actively monitors the batteries health and repairs discharged and sulfates batteries to improve battery life. This battery charger is superb! No wonder it became the best-seller this year!
Specifications:
Brand: NOCO
Model: G3500
Item Weight: 1 pound
Product Dimensions: 7.7 x 2.7 x 1.9 inches
Manufacturer Part Number: G3500
Folding: No
Amperage: 3.5 A
Voltage: 12 volts
Best Life Jackets for Kids Fishing
Families take time to spend with their mostly on weekends. In these hot summer days, it is best to bring your family outside of your house to have some fun. Most of us bring them to beaches and swimming pools or go fishing. As a parent, we are making sure that everyone is safe while having some fun. One of the safest jackets is paddle jumper. Let’s read through to know some of the requirements when buying some.
Life Vest Materials
When it comes to our child, their safety is one of our considerations when fishing. Make sure to choose the right life vest or puddle jumper for kids. There is two most common type of materials, nylon which is less expensive.
However, it makes it easier and more comfortable for the user. The other one is Neoprene which is more expensive the nylon. It provides comfort and gives a higher amount of buoyancy to keep the user especially the kids afloat.
5. Stearns Puddle Jumper Basic Life Jacket for Kids
As an angler, it is important to remember the safety of everyone. Even if you are a professional angler without wearing a life jacket becomes dangerous especially when you are with kids. This US Coast Guard-approved life jacket is for kids.
It comes with a colorful and a kid-friendly design. It’s made of nylon shell which makes it durable and woven polyester materials for a softer fabric.
It has an adjustable buckle at the back which offers a secure fit for your kid. This life jacket specifically designed for your children that weigh 30 to 50 pounds. Your kids can also use this life jacket as a learn-to-swim aid in the water.
But remember, you have to look after your kids even though they put their puddle jumper on. Guide them and play with them. Make it a wonderful summer with your kids.
Specifications
Product Dimensions: 19.2 x 13.5 x 2.8 inches; 13.9 ounces
Item Model Number: 3000002179
Best Polarized Sunglasses for Fishing
Sunglasses help reduce the number of sun rays and brightness. It protects our eyes from harmful UV light, wind, dust, rain and snow. Make sure to choose sunglasses that will suit your needs and wants.
Selecting a Frame
Before purchasing it, make sure to think beforehand where you will wear them. You can select the best sun glass that you could wear in your outside activities. Consider the demands an expectation you will place upon this item or product.
Consider the Frame Material
Lighter frame suits any kind of sports. You need a frame that can withstand some abuse by using it almost every day. If you want a sun glass that would last for a long time then ready to purchase an expensive one. There are options below.
If you want a cheaper one, the standard plastic frame is an option. It is made heavier and less aerodynamic. However, it is a well-made frame that can last for a while. It also has a strong frame that is usually rather lightweight. You may also want to go with a castor frame which is made from castor plants. These frames have similar qualities to acetate ones and it is an Eco-friendly frame. If you are looking for a flexible one, you might look into a nylon or nylon-hybrid frame. These frames are styled and designed for the sport that can bend and retain to their original shape.
Consider the Lenses
For sports, the best sun glass is with polarized lenses. They are slightly expensive but they have many advantages and admirable qualities. They can block UV rays and reduce glare from bright surfaces like as a snow pack. Those anglers and fishermen prefer and choose this style and type of lenses fort hey improve the track and water visibility.
Brand
There are many manufacturers evolving around the world. They make different kinds of sunglasses every day. We all know that there are originals and replicas of any products that are being produced everywhere. Be sure to consult the seller before purchasing one. For a great option, you can go visit a shop where you can trust to avoid unexpected situations that could harm your health.
6. Interchangeable Polarized Sport Sunglasses
Sometimes, it’s really hard to go out when you don’t have any protection from the heat of the sun. Now, it’s time to add these sunglasses as one of your important accessories every time you go out and fish.
This sun glass comes with five interchangeable lenses. The entire lens has 100% UV 400 protection coating that blocks 100% harmful UVA & UVB Rays.
It restores true color and eliminates reflected light and scattered light. Don’t worry about the scenery, it makes the scenery more clear and soft and the most rational is it protects the eyes perfectly.
This sun glass comes with different designs and colors. The main one is the colorful lens, the yellow one is for activities during nighttime and the black one is polarized which is good for driving and other activities.
This sun glass is clear, lightweight, durable and stylish at the same time. The cool rimless jacket frame design provides a clear lower visual field.
It is made lightweight for the benefit of those who do motorcycling, driving, running fishing, skiing, climbing, trekking, racing, and other outdoor activities.
If you are a stylish person, this sunglasses is for you with a rich combination of colors of frames and lens. It is scratch resistant, unbreakable and durable because of its compact poly-carbonate lens and frames.
Some sunglasses make our nose uncomfortable but not like this one, it has a soft rubber nose pad that lets your nose comfortable while wearing these sports sunglasses for running, fishing, golf, and cycling.
It also has a lifetime breakage warranty on the frame so you have no risk in purchasing it. Contact the seller without hesitation if anything happens to solve the problem until satisfaction.
It provides lifetime after-sale service for all Torege products. The customers have 30 Day Money Back Guarantee that can return and get refunded in case the purchasing is not satisfactory. So, definitely, you have no risk to try.
Best Sun Hat for Kayak Fishing
Sun hats are very cool, right? Sun hats are made of different materials and types including the straw sun hat, pith helmet and pressed fiber sun hat. They are very common nowadays.
They are very useful in protecting you from UV rays and other harmful effects. Make sure to choose a sun hat that could not only give you a good appearance but also can provide the needs that you are looking for.
The Cool Factor
A hat may seem just a simple hat for anybody out there. But there is a cool factor at play with them. They are one of the keys to a fashion statement. Before you go choose your own hat, consider also the style and fashion while wearing it on.
Ventilation
Ventilation is also important for fishing or other outdoor activities. Direct heat from sunlight may cause some dangerous reactions, particularly on humid warm days.
Ventilation on hats will help you cool under the heat of the sun. This can be found in fabrics. The fabric of your hat needs to be soft.
For those anglers and fishermen that are bald, sun exposure can be dangerous so it is really needed to keep your head safe and cool.
Large mesh holes that are oriented near the top of the hat must be avoided. Small mesh holes are enough to allow the air to pass through while direct sunlight.
The best vents are located on the sides of the hat that will still allow plenty of evaporation and cooling while preventing and avoiding sunburn.
Adjust-ability
The wind catches the bill of the hat and it goes off into the water, which is a common situation by the way. Make sure to have hats that are adjustable.
If you have one, you can get it cinched down tight and loosen it up when fishing. The adjustability of your hat will make you comfortable and convenient during your journey.
7. Bora Bora Mooney II Sun Hats
This cool Bora Bora Booney features UPF 50 to block out 98% of harmful UVA and UVB rays. It carries the Skin Cancer Foundation’s seal so it’s really highly recommended to wear especially when fishing and doing some outdoor activities.
Besides, it has an Omni-Wick sweatband with a mesh vent panel to keep you cool and avoids sweat from dripping in your eyes. It also has a quick-dry property that it will dry in no time.
Moreover, it is made of 100% textured nylon poplin. It has an adjustable drawcord and toggles at back with an adjustable chin strap to add further security.
Specification
Product Dimension: 15 x 4 x 3 inches
Best Fishing Line for Spinning Reels
The line is the most important equipment item for an angler. It baits and lures presentation in hooking and landing the fish one hooks. But there are some anglers who don’t know and confused about the types of the line now available and the properties that a line must-haves.
Strengths
Braided line is stronger than mono-filament line. You can use it in situations where you will be going to face rocks and trees. Choose a fishing line that could withstand some of the elements better than other lines out there.
Weaknesses
Braided line is one of the strongest lines created ever since. They are difficult to break when you get snagged. You really need to use scissors to cut the line when that situation comes during your fishing. Braided lines are more visible to fish than mono-filament lines. For that reason, it is a good idea to use fluorocarbon lines leader onto a braided fishing line.
Tips
Choose the line that is merged through various types of fibers than just a single strand of line. In saltwater fishing, you really need a line that is stronger than others and is resistant to hazards.
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A Must- Have Braided Fishing Line
Kastking is one of the popular names in the fishing industry. They produce such high-quality braided lines that would satisfy your needs when it comes to lines in fishing.
It has a strong knot strength which is dynamically incorporated strands that allow you to easily tie the more solid knot and tie an improved clinch knot.
Its special proprietary treatment allows the supple fishing line to zip through the guides to your targets. It also helps you achieve a better, less chance of wind knots and farther casts.
Its braided line decreases the chance to lose your big catch. Indeed, the Kastking braided lines are superb! It has an ultra-high sensitivity and zero stretches for a great hook setting that will definitely increase your catch possibilities.
Others may have long diameter but this braided line has a small diameter that allows you to spool more fishing line on your reel.
Best Fishing Line Winder Spooler
To get a higher chance of catching big fishes, you might have a large collection of fishing equipment from the fishing reel, rod, fishing line, bait, spooler, and other more equipment.
All of those gears are really important. Now, let me show you the one that you might need, the Winder Spooler Machine.
This spooler helps you to spin the line faster with a firm stand on the ground line spinning into the reel for just a second to complete the task.
Choose a winder spooler that could fit your line reel because there are some spool holders that only work with heavy duty line winder. So be aware of that. There are line spoolers that use the conventional approach using the suction cup that could make it stand sturdily.
But there is also some line winder that uses the creativity to spool easily than ever before. Lastly, make sure that the materials used to create a winder spooler are water resistant and stainless.
9. Fishing Line Winder Spool-er Machine
Another high-quality brand is the Piscifun. They came up with a patent line spooler. Piscifun is the only Exclusive Authorized name to sell this line spool-er in the U.S market.
Without their logo on the item or product, it will be the automatically illegal reproduction. This is a clever tool for all fishermen and anglers out there! This will help to load your reel with braid or doing some tying a fish hook.
No more using a difficult technique just to hold the reel. The Line Winder looks amazing with both narrow and wide spools.
It comes with a 3/8 bushing which can perfectly work with string spools either Mono or Braid Line that have a smaller diameter center holes.
The spinning reels or bait caster reels can interchange directions. To do it, tighten the wheel fastener on the tip when winding a bait caster reel and lose it while winding a spinning reel.
Then let the spool spin with the rotor. This Piscifun Line Winder is definitely a portable one for it is just compact and lightweight.
You can carry it wherever you want to go and easily get in hand at any time. This Piscifun reels and line are only for spooling reference and sadly not included in the package.
Features:
- It is made of high strength graphite frame, strong and light
- Super handy spooler
- It comes with two small extra bushings for different diameter line spools
- It can easily disassemble.
- Easy taking and more convenient
- Length: 26 cm x 16 inches, Width: 10.23 inches x 6.29 inches
- Weight: 8.82 ounces
- It can be stored in your truck, bag, and tackle box
- Time saver and a must-have for anglers and fishermen
Best Fishing Pliers Float Fishing for Salmon and Steelhead
Fishing pliers are also important in fishing. Pliers can make your fishing easier. You can cut those braid lines without exerting too much effort. Pliers are not just only as pliers.
Now, I will give you some information to know them better. Let’s take a look!
Purpose
All fishing pliers have advantages and disadvantages. It is better to understand your fishing needs while you are in the process of learning how to fish.
Pliers have many purposes when it comes to fishing. Before you start to choose, make sure to know first the purpose of the pliers that you are going to buy.
Materials
Most manufacturers used aluminum and stainless steel to make the best pliers. Not all stainless steel materials are great. There are low-quality ones that may rust over time so you may need the advice of anglers or fishermen.
Make sure also that the aluminum is an anodized aluminum fishing pliers because anodized aluminum makes your pliers stronger.
Length of the Nose
Most anglers who fish in saltwater prefer pliers that have longer nose since they will be fighting with larger fish.
Line Cutters
Line cutters must be sharp enough to cut even braided lines. They must be versatile to prevent difficulties when you are cutting braids.
Weight
Anglers prefer lightweight pliers for they add comfort and ease when handling the grip. This feature is also to give the angler the ability to resist in challenging fishing conditions.
- Stainless Fishing Pliers
This stainless fishing plier comes with a coiled lanyard, sleeve crimped end and insert the wire. It’s within reach so it’s far from losing it. It works as a tool plier which can hold objects tightly and crimp shot slit lead.
It also has a split ring opener which helps you repair your lure. Its design has a sharp line cutter and a small wire cutter that locks to keep pliers in close when it is not open.
The spring in the handle offers a better operation and performance when it’s just 6.5 inches small fishing pliers. The pliers’ design is specifically for young anglers so it will not be hard to carry.
Always remember that this plier is commonly used in freshwater to keep it dry and clean at the same time.
Specifications
Material: Stainless steel tips and ABS plastic handle
Color: Black, Blue, and Orange
Weight: 11 kg.
Product Dimension: 6.3 x 2.1 x 0.3 inches
Best Seat for Fishing Picnics
After a long day of fishing, now it’s time for you to have some rest. But before that, what are the types of seats you want for your picnic or outdoor event?
Comfort
We don’t like to seat in an uncomfortable seat, right? Picnic chairs are made out of different materials like plastic, fabric and even polyester materials. Before choosing the best one for you, make sure to know and find out what materials you find comfortable the most.
Portability
The next thing to consider is portability. It is essential to have a seat that gives you ease to transport and set up. Consider also the size of your portable chair and how much the chair weighs.
Style
Most of us think that style might not be important but to some, it is one of the keys that add comfort and convenience when you sit on it. It establishes the ambiance of a picnic also. If you are not affected by the style of your chair, you can also select that goes with your taste and personality.
Affordability
There are picnic seats available everywhere. You can select a seat that goes along with your budget. But if you like to choose the most comfortable picnic seat, then no one is stopping you to buy it. It’s for your convenience, which is what really matters.
Color
Color also matters. It is better to have light colors picnic seats which will bring you warm and peace when you are resting.
- Great ONIVA Picnic Seat
I know, spending so much time under the heat of the sun is sometimes tiring. Because of that, this picnic seat is for all of us! This seat is originally designed by Oniva, a Picnic Time brand.
It features a durable polyester covered padded cushion on a sturdy steel frame and comes with a water-resistant reinforced underside.
You can adjust the chair incredibly to six different positions and integrated armrests for a great and maximum comfort and convenience.
It can invert the armrests to increase the width of the sear to 20 inches. It can fold flat and has an adjustable backpack shoulder strap for your ease of transport that includes a zippered pocket on the back.
Specifications:
Dimension- Opened: 16 x 20 x 16 inches
Flat: 20 x 2 x 32 inches and 37.5 x 20 x 3.5 inches
Weight: 10 pounds
Conclusion
Water bodies are very wide. No one can stop you from doing what you love, which is fishing. I really enjoyed my fishing game with my relatives, friends, and family.
They also use the same gears as I do. We really love the spinning rod, spinning reel, waterproof gear bags, trolling motor battery charger, life jackets, polarized sunglasses, sun hat, fishing line, fishing pliers, line winder spooler and seat for fishing picnics.
More fun, no more disappointments, and no more regrets. I hope that this article will help you to start your fishing journey.
