More Great Finds for Traveling Anglers from ICAST 2021
I’ve already outlined some of the best new fishing products for 2021 for traveling anglers, those heading specifically to El Salto and Picachos, and those who have peacock bass on the brain. Not all of this year’s introductions will pan out, and I’m sure that some sleepers got lost in the mix, but nevertheless I remain excited about the level of innovation and creativity throughout the fishing industry. There aren’t many true “game changers” or “revolutionary” items, and there are clearly some duds, but the incremental benefits of certain new products can make your overall fishing experience much better.
Here are four more that caught my eye specifically for the traveling angler:
SPRO 65 lb. Digital Scale
I’ve made no secret of my disdain for anglers who optimistically guestimate the weights of their fish without a scale. It hurts the sport and hurts the traveling experience for other anglers when you’re not truthful. In this day and age there’s no reason not to have a compact, simple-to-use spring or digital scale ready to go. I like the Boga Grip and the Brecknell ElectroSamson, but I recognize that they’re costly. At less than forty bucks, if this one works as advertised it’s a bargain. I’ve generally been impressed with SPRO’s lures and accessories, so I have every expectation that it’ll be accurate and reliable. It comes with a fish gripper to hold the fish securely, along with a built-in measuring tape in case you want to get measurements for a replica.
Plano Atlas Tackle Pack
My Cabelas Advanced Anglers bag has made the trip to Mexico countless times, as well as Brazil and other distant fishing venues. I also have a few of the Super Mag sized versions in storage at Anglers Inn and at home, loaded to the gills. They’re durable, well-designed and practical, but when filled with tackle like tungsten weights and soft plastics they are HEAVY. There are times when it feels like the shoulder strap is going to wear a permanent groove into my collarbone. As such, it may be time to move to a backpack for future travels. If I find the right one it will likely do double-duty, both as a tackle bag and as an all-purpose carry-on. I like the fact that this one has a waterproof base that’ll allow it to stand upright, along with specific pockets aimed at cell phones and other accessories. At 51, after a lifetime of fishing and bumpy boat rides, I need to take care to focus on ergonomic features or I might not be able to cast upon arrival. This one is not inexpensive, but it looks like it’ll save my gear and my back.
Berkley Stunna Jerkbait
The Megabass Vision 110 and its thin-wire hooks might not be stout enough for the Amazon, but for a long time it has been my go-to jerkbait in Mexico and at home. I recognize that the twenty-plus dollar price point may not be in everyone’s comfort zone, so here’s an option at a little bit over half that much endorsed by two-time Bassmaster Classic champion Hank Cherry. Hank made no secret of the fact that he used multiple rip baits in his victories, but his imprimatur is pretty significant at this point. It’s available in both a standard and a “Plus One” deeper-diving version. Some of the colors may look pretty familiar or derivative, but I’m pretty sure I’ll invest in “Shad Fillet” and “Hankie Pankie.” The “Blaze” paint job is unlike any other jerkbait I own, so I’ll throw one of those in the shopping cart, too.
AFTCO Everyday Fleece Pants
Where were these during the coldest portion of the work-from-home pandemic? I may have lived in a variety of AFTCO shirts and hoodies while sitting in my home office, and they’re critical for my time on the water, but other than my Hydronaut bibs I have no long pants from the company. That may have to change now. I’m a weird fit in pants, so I make no guarantees, but the many pairs of AFTCO shorts (and boardshorts) I own fit me perfectly so I have high hopes for these. They look like they’ll be great not just for home, but for plane rides, lounging around a fishing camp, or under waders.
