(Photo: Korkers)
The salty air, the crashing waves, the thrill of the catch—fishing is an experience like no other. But before you cast (or drop) a line, make sure you’re prepared for the elements. These top pick’s will equip you with the must-have fishing clothing ensure comfort, safety, and success on your next Island adventure. From foul-weather gear that can withstand the fiercest storms to innovative tech that enhances your angling experience, we’ve got you covered. Some of these products are so good, we awarded them our “Gear of the Year”. Always remember to support your local retailers.
GRUNDÉNS NEPTUNE 509 FISHING BIB
For 100% waterproof foul weather protection, look no further than this polyurethane-coated polyester bib. This very affordable bib is light and flexible. We found sizing up was a good idea if you are wearing layers and a hoodie, as West Coast fishing often demands. Cleaning with a hose is an absolute breeze after a long day of fishing and processing, too. They also have pretty cool “Suspender Savers” that really help out when nature calls. This list is in alphabetical order.
Ever have that “where have you been all my life” moment? You will when you try Korkers wading boots. Why? The OmniTrax interchangeable sole system, BOA lacing system, and quick-drying hydrophobic materials. This line of boots is awesome for all terrain situations, with nine quick-changing custom traction sole options on the fly. Two soles are included—pick from the Vibram SX Trek and Felt, or Vibram SX Trek and Studded Vibram SX Trek. The BOA Fit lacing system allows for micro-adjustable precision tightening and loosing—no more laces, just use the dial. For long days when your feet may swell, this system proved to be a genius lifesaver! The fit is excellent, and they boast extra heel support and stability and abrasion-resistant protection in a hyper-light package. The lack of exposed stitching really makes them stand up to dirt and abrasion—the seams are all encased in a very cool Exo-Tec skeleton which surely extends their life. And man, the interchangeable soles just can’t be beat!
MUSTANG SURVIVAL MIT 150 CONVERTABLE A/M INFLATABLE PFD
This is our favourite personal flotation device (PFD). A/M stands for automatic and manual inflation, which is a great feature. In the unlikely event the CO2 automatic inflation mechanism fails, pull the orange handle on the bottom of the inflation mechanism. There is also a manual inflation straw conveniently located on the inside flap. Also included is an emergency whistle attached to the loop strap holding the straw in place. On the belt is a zippered pocket, which contains the cap for converting the unit to completely manual (straw inflate) mode. Another smart feature is a D-ring to which you can attach your engine’s cut-off switch. It’s super easy to repack, durable, light (1.75 lbs), and built to last. We suggest keeping the Re-arm Kit F (Model #MA7113) in your tackle box.
SMITH OPTICS GUIDE’S CHOICE CHROMAPOP
A good pair of premium glasses will help you see fish in the water and cut glare. And for those that fly fish, eye protection is just plain smart. Enter Smith’s Guide’s Choice polarized shades. First, they are comfortable, thanks to the Italian spring hinges, Megol nose and template pads, and an 8-base lens curvature (a wraparound fit). You’ll have less eye strain and full UV protection, and the lenses have a smudge- and moisture-resistant coating that keeps them clear and easy to clean. While there are a variety of lens options and colours, we suggest you take your time picking and consider your conditions. We found that the brown or bronze lenses were great to spot fish in the river by really enhancing contrast, especially on sunny days. Grey is our go-to neutral colour for offshore UV protection and blocking light without changing colour perception.
West Coast fishing means being on your feet a lot. You need good solid boots that grip the deck well and are truly waterproof—the deck gets slick the more fish you bring in, and constant hosing down means you’ll want your feet to remain dry. Ankle boots like XTRATUF line are perfect for the job. We like sizing up so we can fit extra thick winter socks for cold fishing days. The neoprene inner bootie and pull tabs make for slip-on-and-go, and they have an evaporative cooling liner (XPRESSCOOL) that helps keep you comfortable in both cool and warm environments. For those who need a work boot, the Wheelhouse model is the commercial-grade version with an outsole that boasts an SRC rating—currently the top rating for oil on metal surfaces. It also means they pass SRA (ceramic floor tile with a wetted soapy solution) and SRB (smooth stainless-steel surface with glycerol) tests. For sport anglers, this may be overkill; we have the men’s 6 Ankle Deck Boot, which is mid-model and rated SRA. There’s also a lighter SPORT model with a softer sole. All three boots have a very smart heel kick-off that makes the boots easy to remove. They also help keep your bib’s pants from sliding down and around your heel if you cinch them above it.
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Father Day - Catch & Release 40 lb Hatchery male, North Island. Taylor and Ray Logan
