Stuff We Like Inspired by our Travel
Fishing should be fun. Part of that is art and food and other things that don't put fish in the boat, but nevertheless make you enjoy the process more.
Ron Zacapa – A Casa Vieja Bonus
If you opt for Ron Zacapa, you’re in for a special treat. It won first place in the premium rums category 4 years in a row at the International Rum Festival. It was the first rum to be included in the International Rum Festival's Hall of Fame.
The Salty Boys of Summer
Baseball is the all-American pastime, but some of us would rather be on the water. The minors to find some of the most creative saltwater-oriented teams. Here are a few of my favorites.
The Truth on Sunscreen for Anglers
For years, we’ve all heard theories about the best sun protection for long days on the water, with little science to back them up. Finally we decided it was time to truly get informed. Fortunately, we have the generous resources of Adam Tinklepaugh, MD and Sarah Oyler, DNP, FNP-C to answer our questions.
Two Dozen Pieces of Men’s Fishing Gear Fit for the Fourth
Independence Day is fast-approaching. It’s our hope that you’ll spend it on the water. Whether you’ll be chasing down tuna, largemouths or bikinis, or just staying home close to the grill, you’ll want some flag-themed or red, white and blue clothing to keep you in the mood.
Catch a Tiger by the ???
I wish there had been a hat with a big, grinning, toothy tigerfish when we visited Zambia in 2016. Now Bajio offers one so we’ll have to go back.
Watch the Right Teaser
When you head to Casa Vieja Lodge in Guatemala you’re going to want to try to bait-and-switch a sailfish (or 10) on your own. When written, or spoken on land, the process sounds easy. Here’s an entire brand dedicated to that moment of semi-coordinated chaos.
How Deep is Your Love?
Several manufacturers have incorporated sonar readings into their apparel – everything from socks to hats – but this ensemble from Pelagic takes it to new levels…or perhaps new depths.
Caracara Clothing
It’s hard to go to Lake El Salto or Lake Picachos and not be amazed by the avian life, and one of the most impressive species is the Crested Caracara, also known as the Mexican Eagle. The guys at Howler Brothers have a range of Cara Cara clothing to commemorate this cool hunter.
A Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing
They may be ugly, but whether you call them wolf fish, traira or hoplias, they look surprisingly good on apparel. We already listed some hats, so here are t-shirts with their images (plus some tournament jerseys).
What Should Anglers Know About Mohs Surgery?
If you hang around with hard core anglers you probably know someone who has been damaged by the sun. As I entered my fifties, I started hearing more of my friends talking about “Mohs.” I was afraid to ask what that meant or how I’d know if I’d need it, too.
The Sole of a Well-Lived Fishing Life
Korkers is a company that I associate with noots and wading gear, but in my constant search for fish-themed comfort I was pleased to find out that they also have some fun slip-ons. They’re the “mullets” of casual shoes – business on top, party on the sole.
Your Feet Smell Like Shad
Have you ever seen socks with threadfin shad on them? These are actually quite dressy and nice — and don’t smell.
Apparel of the Week – The Fish That Ate Pittsburgh
Unlike many pundits and fans, I thought that the 2005 Bassmaster Classic on the Three Rivers of Pittsburgh was one of the best of the last 30 years. If you’re a Yinzer check out the fishing apparel from Fish Local.
Topwater Yellowfin Tuna Reading List
Here’s a sampling of articles about one of our newest passions — topwater fishing for yellowfin tuna — particularly in Panama. Check them out and you may want to book a trip with us. We’re headed back in 2024.
I Spent Most of My Money on Hookers and Blow – The Rest was Just Wasted
How about a shop half-dedicated to Slow Pitch Jigging called “Hookers and Blow”? Now you’ve caught my attention.
Gotta Get Gyotaku
Gyotaku is the art of Japanese fish prints dating back to the 1800s. Some modern artists have taken up the craft and it’s a great way to replicate your trophy fish or show your respect through appropriate hats, shirts and shorts.
Look Like a GT, Top to Bottom
Hotspot Design in Italy offers up a hat, shirt and boardshorts that’ll help you blend in with Giant Trevally, even if it’s just in your dreams. We’ll get there sooner or later.
The Unwritten Rules of Dining at Fogo de Chão
I’ve already written about how to maximize a trip to Fogo de Chao, but recent visits have gotten me thinking about how to further enhance your next trip to Brazil’s little bit of culinary heaven. After experiencing lots of rookies booger up the process, I thought it was high time to explain the “unwritten rules.”
My Favorite Wildlife and Wildlife-Like Substances from the 2024 Nashville SCI Convention
Since I’m a fish replica groupie and general fan of wildlife, I’m particularly interested in the taxidermy and related items at outdoors shows. Here are some of my favorites from the 2024 Nashville SCI extravaganza.
The Effed Up, Curious and Occasionally Semi-Useful Fishing and Travel Links Never Stop Coming
Google’s algorithm must think I’m an absolute freak – or in need of ever-increasing jolts of dopamine – because they keep on feeding me weirder and weirder suggestions. Many of them are related to fishing, travel and wildlife, so I know that they have my best interests at heart.