Christmas Wish List from Angler's Covey Guides
While Santa decides which of our guides and staff has been naughty or nice this year, we caught up with a few of them to see what was on their Christmas list this holiday season. We have items for that angler in your life – male or female, experienced or just starting in this adventure – and for all budgets! Check out this list!
Michael McMillan: “I’ve been getting into more backcountry fishing, so a roomier pack that allows me to carry a bit more gear is high on my list.” The Umpqua line of packs for 2016 has just come out, so I have my eye on a couple of those choices. The Ledges 650 is a great pack! As a lefty, I like the versatility of Umpqua’s new Ambli-Sling ZS. The Ambli-Sling allows the angler to shift the orientation from one shoulder to the other. Check out Michael’s overview of the new line of packs from Umpqua on our YouTube channel.
Vince Puzick: So many ways to go! For stocking stuffers, I would go with things like Loon Outdoor’s Aquel floatant and Frog’s Fanny fly treatment. The angler is always going to need those items, so may as well stock up. Nippers make a good choice, too.
Janine Young: My wish list for items for the woman angler includes wading socks of at least 70% merino wool like Simms wading socks plus Simms neoprene socks overtop.
Greg Blessing: Two things that seem like luxury items but will impact your fishing are a seine and a water thermometer. Both are crucial tools for checking what is in the water. Spend fifteen minutes checking the water temperature and seining to see what bugs are in the water – and take the guesswork out of what to tie on.
Jon Easdon: I think the most important “accessory” in fishing are good optics. It doesn’t matter what stage of the game you are in, good optics are imperative. Smith optics has been leading the charge with the chroma-pop technology. I really like the brown lens. Another really good suggestion are the new Ignitor low light lenses. These are a great accompaniment to an angler’s regular shades. I actually use these about 50% of the time. Perfect for overcast days and early and late in the day.
Another great idea is fly tying. This is a whole other door to walk through in the fly fishing world. Tying is extremely satisfying and rewarding. Of course there is a pretty good initial investment to get into, but its one that’s well worth it in the long run. There is nothing like creating your own bugs and catching fish on them…this is next level awesomeness.
Our classes. I honestly believe that we have some of the most comprehensive classes in the state. With a great variety, there is something for the beginner to expert angler. Check out our calendar for December classes — and watch for our many offerings through 2016!
Neil Luehring: One thing on my wish list is a lightweight rain shell. I want one to keep in my vest or pack all the time, so I want it to be light and compact.
Earl Hecker: Earl, our shop minimalist, no-frills guide suggests this wish list: “buy a dozen flies and go fish!” Sounds good, Earl, sounds good! Nothing like opening that gift and discovering a new fly box stuffed with Amy’s Ants, some RS-2, a half-dozen Elk Hair Caddis, and a handful of BWOs.
Still can’t decide? Come in and talk with our staff members. Daily specials now through Christmas Eve!