Guide's Father Day Gift Ideas
Our Guides weigh in with their top picks for Father’s Day gifts.
Apparel
At the top of the list for a handful of our guides were products from the Orvis line of “ultralight” apparel. As Orvis states on its website, the “lightweight material, treated with DWR, dries faster and breathes better. Strategically integrated mesh offers ventilation and form-fitting comfort.”
David Caraghar goes a little old school on us but chooses the technologically advanced Orvis Ultralight Vest. “I know vests are out of fashion, but for those dads that don’t like hip fanny or sling packs and have a good idea of what the fish are taking, consider the Orvis Ultralight Vest. No need to stuff your pockets full of fly boxes. This vest is all you need. Who needs to carry 3000 flies to fish the Trico Hatch? When I am out on a ‘fish-for-me day’ and not guiding, this is what I use. You don’t have to look like you just set down the branding iron to do a little fishing.”
Scott Hartwig and Mark Mahlerare also fans of the ultralight products. Both put the Orvis Ultralight Jacket at the top of their list. Mark says that “I absolutely love my Orvis Ultralight Wading Jacket. I like it as much for travel as I do for fishing. It is extremely lightweight, packs up very small, keeps me completely dry in the rain, is breathable (nice when it’s warm), and looks great with any type clothing when I’m traveling. All the pockets with zippers are a great help for the traveler.”
Boots
Boots are always a great gift idea. And there is new technology there, as well as plenty of choices for different types of fishing.
Dave Herber puts the Simms Intruder Wading Boot on his list and on his feet. “I’ll be starting my second year with the Simms Intruder Wading Boot for my wet-wading. Both the ankle support and traction (with the Vibram soles) are excellent.And with the built in booties I am comfortable in them all day.”
Jon Easdon is right there with Dave. Jon’s top choice is Simms Intruder wet wading boot. “Wet wading season is definitely here. I rejoice when I put the heavy waders away for a few months. The Intruder boot fits great, is extremely comfortable, and has a great grip right out of the box. I like the fact that you can also stud these boots.”
When he’s not wet wading, Dave’s choice is the Orvis Access Boots. “This year I am test driving the Orvis Access boots.They are the most comfortable boots I have ever worn and the easiest to get in and out of.With the Orvis Studding system, they have better traction than other boots.”
Jim Young (and wife Janine) stick with the “what do you have on your feet” theme and choose Wet wading shoes and Simms Neoprene socks. “Wet wading has been a topic of conversation around our house. So wet wading shoes and Simms neoprene socks would be a recommendation from me.”
Nets!
Kenny Romero and Kaitlin Boyer both chose Fishpond Nets.
Kenny’s Father’s Day recommendation for this year is nets. “Long handled nets allow for quicker landing and release of fish which is important in reducing stress on the fish. The Fishpond Nomad mid-length and Guide net lengths are reasonably priced and ideal for Colorado rivers.”
Kaitlin Boyer leans toward the Fishpond Nomad Hand net. Nomad Nets are constructed with carbon fiber/fiberglass composite material. The result is a very lightweight and durable net. Nomad Nets are built for the conditions that prevail where great fishing exists; they are waterproof, UV protected, and float like a cork.
Rods
Although rods get into some higher priced items, they are a great gift idea to consider.
Mark Mahlersays he is “ loving my new 2-weight rod. I think everyone should think about fishing with a 2- or 3- weight rod more often. They cast easily and are a blast to catch fish on.”
Jon Easdon gets a little bit more specific in his choice: the Orvis H3 fly rod.“I know a high-end fly rod is a bit of a stretch for most folks, but I can’t stop raving about the H3. I’ve casted and fished many various weights and lengths of the rod and have yet to find one I don’t like. With two models in the H3 line, there is something for everyone. The H3F has a great touch for those lighter presentations while the H3D can throw bombs.”
Some Miscellaneous, Nice to Have Gear
Mark Mahler: Soft-Sided Cooler from Fishpond
“I love my soft sided cooler from Fish Pond. It works surprisingly well at keeping stuff cold, protects the inside of my car from any water, and it stuffs in anywhere. Very easy to take in the car or in the raft.”
Jon Easdon: Smith Transfer XL Sunglasses
“I am really digging the new Smith Transfer XL sunglasses. They are a bit bigger than the Guide’s Choice model, and also have moldable “arms” to make your fit customized.”
Dave Herber says “Ihave worn a lanyard for a lot of years. Jack Duerson used to make them for us.This is the fourth year I have used the Big Sky Lanyard. Get one for Dad and load it up!”
Can’t decide? Come into the shop and get some ideas from our staff and guides! We also offer gift cardsso your dad can make his own choices.
And why not consider giving the gift of a guided fly fishing trip? We’re offering $50.00 any trip booked by Father’s Day.