As we fished in Panama I started to wonder if a long enough lull with a particular species qualifies you as a “born again angling virgin.” To wit, when my father and I went to Costa Rica in August of 1995, I caught both a blue marlin and several roosterfish, among other quarry, but I’ve yet to catch either of them again in the subsequent 25-plus years.

Whether your father introduced you to fishing or you brought him into the sport, there’s no better way to celebrate than by hitting the water together. As Father’s Day approaches, we recommend time in the boat, but even if you’re not able to fish together, you can still show him how much you appreciate his influence with a fishing-themed gift.

Mother’s Day is coming up this Sunday, May 9, 2021. You have no excuse to say that you didn’t know about it, junior, and while it’s the thought that counts, we find that thoughts are often improved by offering up a tangible gift. If your mother likes to fish, and especially if she travels to fish, there are lots of great options out there.