With the Christmas music cranking up and temperatures dropping, it’s time to think about what gifts you’ll give your loved ones this holiday. If you’re searching for the perfect presents for the anglers in your life, here are a few great gifts they’ll appreciate.
You can’t let the stocking go empty this holiday. Any angler who fishes in the surf along Alabama’s beautiful coast will need to be stocked with the bait enhancement product called Fishbites. This product is made of tough material and infused with the flavors of standard baits for surf fishing. All you have to do is cut a chunk and add it to your hook with or without additional bait, whether it’s a chunk of shrimp, squid, or cut fish. Each bait strip is ½-inch wide and about a foot long. The latest formula, Longer Lasting, features a cloth binder in the middle of the bait that keeps it on the hook much longer when the fish are nibbling away at the bait.
Winter is usually when anglers think about changing line on all their reels after a long fishing season, and several spools of line would make great gifts. The line choices are almost endless. Braided line has been a staple on the Gulf Coast for years, and Power Pro has been an industry leader, although just about every line company has a braid as well. I suggest going with the lightest line possible because fish can become line-shy. I like a 10- to 15-pound braid with a monofilament or fluorocarbon leader. The monofilament will provide a little stretch when fighting a big fish, while fluorocarbon virtually disappears in the water. If you dislike braid, go with monofilament or fluorocarbon for the main line. I usually don’t go larger than a 10-pound test on fluorocarbon because the line can get slightly stiff. Seagur is the leader in fluorocarbon, but Berkley and P-Line also make great products.
Every angler can use a pair of pliers designed for saltwater because carbon steel doesn’t last long in the coastal environment. Rapala makes pliers specifically for saltwater, as do Gerber and Bubba. Speaking of Bubba, add one of their great filet knives to the stocking, and you’ll have a happy angler.
Throw in a pack of GOT-CHA plugs for those who live to fish off the Gulf State Park Pier.
If you’re not familiar with the fishing habits of your family or friends, head down to one of the great tackle shops on the Alabama Gulf Coast, like J&M Tackle or Hooked Up Bait and Tackle and tell the folks at the counter what kind of fish is preferred. They’ll help you find a variety of terminal tackle, hooks and baits you’ll need for the target species.
You also can’t go wrong by adding a pair of quality sunglasses to the stocking. There are plenty of local shops in the area, like Sun Ray Sunglasses Center and Shades Sunglasses, where you can purchase a pair. Make sure the lenses are polarized, which is a must for anglers.
Of course, the best gift is a trip to Alabama’s beautiful beaches! Spend the holidays in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach for an incredible beach vacation filled with fishing. Our area is home to plenty of fantastic fishing spots and charter tours for anglers to reel in the perfect catch on the Gulf Coast.
Make plans to visit the beautiful Alabama Gulf Coast soon for an unforgettable fishing trip!
