By BassFan Staff
"What do you buy for the angler who has everything?" Well, no fisherman has absolutely everything that's effective for catching America's No. 1 gamefish. There's just too much stuff out there and you can always find something that your favorite angler doesn't already possess, no matter how much gear or how many accessories they own.
Here are a few recommendations from the BassFan staff for Father's Day gifts this year. We're betting that there's not a single BassFan out there who already has them all – at least not yet.
Lew's
Custom Pro Baitcast Reel
Elevating precision and unleashing limitless potential, the Lew's Custom Pro Baitcast Reel (MSRP: $279) features an ultra-compact design with 30-milimeter spool. It boldly redefines expectations of quality and performance. Within the sleek, one-piece aluminum frame lies ParaMag ITB (Inertia Transfer Braking) – the highest-quality cast control on the market, enabling maximum cast control and efficiency without sacrificing casting distance. After dialing in settings to meet your preferences, ITB takes the reins. Its highly responsive magnetic system seamlessly adjusts, providing precisely the right amount of force in proportion to your casting speed, virtually eliminating the need to thumb the spool with every cast. Feel the surge of power coursing throughout every mechanism of this reel, from the hard aluminum Speed Gears with P2 Super Pinion bearing supported pinion gear and premium 11-bearing system with double shielded stainless steel ball bearings to the carbon fiber drag system with 20 pounds of drag power. The aircraft-grade double anodized Duralumin drilled spool with Speed Knot line attachment feature is lightweight and durable, while the bowed 95-milimeter carbon fiber handle with Lew’s Pro Power knobs provide increased leverage and comfort. Finer details like the Lew’s exclusive patented titanium-coated zirconia two-stage line guide for extended casting distance, Speed Dial line indicator, and Speed Keeper hook keeper will easily propel the Custom Pro to the top spot in your lineup.
Rapala
CrushCity Bronco Bug
The most unique offering in the CrushCity lineup, the Bronco Bug (MSRP: $6.99) offers a body with actions that most bass haven’t seen before. Double-sided ribs allow the angler to rig either side of bait to maximize usage. Hinged arms create unique dual actions. Forward-facing legs provide subtle, secondary action with the slightest movement. Bassmaster Elite Series pro Kyle Welcher has been fishing the Bronco bug for the better part of a year, using it to punch mats, on the back of a jig, or even swimming it, but it is particularly deadly when a giant female bass is on the bed. He caught 19 of the 20 fish that he weighed on it en route to winning the April event at the Pasquotank River. “There’s something about it,” he said. “I don’t know how much it has to do with the action and how much is the fact that they’ve never seen anything like it, but there’s something special about it. There are a lot of other bulky creature baits, but the unique legs and the way it’s sort of hinged make it different."
Cigars International
Humi-Care Herf-a-Dor
Anglers who enjoy a cigar on the water or around the fire won’t have to worry about the condition of their favorite sticks when they’re protected by the Herf-a-Dor (MSRP: $18.99-$54.99). This airtight, watertight case has a sturdy, reinforced ABS frame that stands up to the hazards of travel and ensures its contents won’t get crushed. Inside is a cushioned foam liner that cradles cigars and prevents them from shifting when the water or road gets rough. A built-in humidification wafer accepts a few drops of distilled water to keep cigars in optimal condition. The dual-latch case is lockable, includes a lanyard and has multiple external points for securing it to a rail, pack or other tie-down point. Available in four sizes, the Herf-a-Dor accommodates from five to 40 cigars up to 54 ring gauge and 8 inches long. Whether the next trip involves kayaking the local river or flying to an international hot spot, the Herf-a-Dor will keep cigars in prime shape for celebrating a personal-best catch.
Bajio
Zapata Sunglasses
This frame was named after the Zapata swamp in Cuba, which is infested with permit, bonefish, snook, tarpon, snapper, and barracuda. With integrated side shields and an arched brow design, you'll see your target species long before your line leaves the reel. Other features of the Zapata (MSRP: $209-$259) include narrow temples, ergo rubber nose pads and temple tips, built-in sun ledges and flex hinges.
Bird Dog Rods
Trucker Hat
This newer rod company based in Indiana might have the coolest logo in the fishing industry! Owners Mike and Tina Quinlin named the company after the five German shorthair pointers that they hunt with as much as possible during the fall months. The structured, six-panel, mid-profile hat is a 65/35 blend of cotton and polyester with a mesh back, slightly curved visor and snapback closure.
FORLOH
Men's SolAir Shorts
FORLOH’s flagship cooling technology features cooling minerals built into the fibers of the fabric to keep you cooler. These lightweight men's quick dry shorts are perfect for all your warm-weather activities. From hiking to golfing to lounging by the pool, the SolAir Shorts will soon become your favorite summer shorts. FORLOH is proudly 100-percent Made in America from concept to finished product. Every step of the process, including design, sourcing, testing, and manufacturing, happens within the United States. This commitment ensures not only world-class quality and durability, but also supports American workers, communities, and supply chains. Unlike brands that merely assemble products domestically using overseas materials, FORLOH goes further by sourcing all fabrics, trims, and components from American suppliers. It’s a deeper level of patriotism and accountability that you can feel in every stitch.
