Get Early Start on Christmas Shopping for Anglers

Give yourself a little time to search for the abundant gift ideas that are available at your favorite outdoors store or tackle shop.

Let’s start with fishing reels, because who doesn’t want the latest and greatest technology under the Christmas tree.

When it comes to saltwater fishing, PENN is known for its fishing tackle that combines quality and ruggedness to stand up to all kinds of conditions. The company has upgraded its Battle line of spinning reels and kept the modest price point. The new Battle III reels include the proprietary PENN HT-100™ Carbon Fiber Drag System for smooth drag even when battling hard-pulling saltwater fish and a full-metal body and sideplate. Combined, these features make the Battle III ideal for inshore, surf and select offshore application. PENN uses its proprietary CNC Gear™ Technology to ensure the pinion and drive gears are cut to exact tolerances using premium metals.

Staying in that modest price range of $100 to $150, consider the Shimano Socorro, which comes in a variety of sizes for all types of saltwater action. The Socorro is equipped with long-lasting Hagane gears, which give anglers the strength for both inshore and offshore action, and with X-Ship technology, they offer the ultimate in smoothness and power.

For those looking for larger tackle to fight those bigger fish offshore, consider the Shimano Saragosa SW. One of the latest additions to the Offshore Spinning line up dedicated to the blue water angler, Saragosa SW features Propulsion Line Management System, Paladin Gearing, Waterproof drag and Shielded A-RB bearings. The Saragosa has up to 44 pounds of drag to stop even the strongest offshore fish.

If you’re looking for a quality inshore fishing rod, take a look at the St. Croix Mojo Inshore. Available in a variety of lengths and actions, the Mojo Inshore sports premium quality SCIII graphite, Integrated Poly Curve (IPC) mandrel technology, Sea Guide Hero Hi-Grade guides with slim aluminum oxide rings and SS316 stainless gun smoke frames, Fuji reel seat as well as a 5-year warranty.

When it comes to fishing apparel, you can’t go wrong with AFTCO shorts and shirts. The original AFTCO shorts have been around since 1989, which means they’re everywhere along the Alabama Gulf Coast. For those who prefer a little longer inseam, the long version sports an 8-inch inseam. AFTCO offers a line of performance shirts for fishing as well, including the Yurei Air-0Mesh LS shirts, which are made for warm climates, high humidity and otherwise sticky situations. Yurei provides all day comfort, breathability and sun protection. The shirts offer stain resistance, thumbloops and antimicrobial treatment for odor control.

When it comes to saltwater fishing, a pair of quality polarized sunglasses are essential to a fun day on the water. Costa Del Mar is known for its quality eyewear for anglers, and the latest pair from Costa with the latest technology is called the Ferg. A tribute to the company’s late founder, Ray Ferguson, the Ferg focuses on top-of-the-line performance details including top and side shields, integrated textured Hydrolite rubber, vented adjustable nose pads and 100% UV protection polarized lens made of 580G glass.

If your budget is limited, visit any of the great tackle stores along the Alabama Gulf Coast and ask the sales people to help you find something in your price range that will make any angler cheerful on Christmas morning.

Order a fishing brochure to help plan your next fishing adventure on Alabama's beaches.