I’m sure there’s some reason behind it, but most of the rods they use on offshore charters seem to have daggers or needles or some other sort of sharp edges at their butts. Whether you’re straining against a bulldogging 40-pound roosterfish, a greyhounding 80-pound Pacific Sailfish, or a 600-pound black marlin, if there's no true fighting belt you’re going to feel that rod digging into you. If you’re not careful, it could scar, sterilize or deflower you.

That’s why I’m always happy to see a Cush-It when I step onto a boat headed out in search of big fish. It might be the difference between pain, suffering and injury versus happy success. They tend not to be on the rods to start, because they won’t fit in rod holders, but don’t hesitate to ask for one during the fight. You’ll be glad that you did.

Samantha Sukupcak fighting a roosterfish in Panama

They also make bass-sized versions. I haven’t seen the need for one, but I’ve heard that some dedicated mat flippers use them to avoid scars from their bruising hook sets. The “floater” version could also be useful for those of you who occasionally launch an expensive rod and reel into the drink.