The holidays are here, and for anglers, that means one thing: it’s time to mix a little merry with a whole lot of fishing. Whether you’re shopping for a die-hard tournament angler, a weekend bank-fisher, or the family member who just loves anything with a hook on it, finding the right gear can feel as tricky as locating a school of bass on a windy winter day.
That’s where we come in. We’ve rounded up the season’s best rods, reels, lures, tools, and fish-friendly gadgets that are guaranteed to make any angler’s eyes light up brighter than the navigation lights at takeoff. From budget-friendly stocking stuffers to splurge-worthy upgrades, this guide will help you reel in the perfect gift—and maybe even a few extra brownie points at home.
So pour a cup of cocoa, kick back, and let Wired2fish help you hook the holidays right.
Our Top Picks
- Most Gift-able: Mystery Tackle Box – Buy from Mystery Tackle Box
- Brings the Party: Turtlebox Original Outdoor Speaker — Buy from Amazon
- Best for Kids: Ugly Stik Youth Combo – Buy from Bass Pro Shops
- Best Budget Gift: Z-Man Rattle-Snaker Tool – Buy from Bass Pro Shops
- Best Sunglasses: Costa King Tides – Buy from Bass Pro Shops
- Best Soft Cooler: YETI Hopper M30 Soft Cooler – Buy from Bass Pro Shops
- Best Hard Cooler: Orca 20 Quart Cooler – Buy from Bass Pro Shops
Quick Picks
Mystery Tackle Box
Mystery Tackle Box is the gift that keeps on giving. Each box is packed with carefully selected lures, tackle, and gear tailored to specific fish species and regions. It’s part surprise, part tackle box upgrade — and totally fun. There are options for bass, trout, panfish, saltwater, and more, starting at $19.99 a month. Each is filled with high-quality tackle from manufacturers such as Googan Squad, Westin, Duckett, Nomad Design and more, that does what it’s supposed to: catch fish.
Z-Man Rattle-Snaker Tool
Give the gift of more bites this holiday season with Z-Man’s Rattle-Snaker tool. You can surgically implant a glass rattle into any standard soft plastic bait, turning them into rattling lures that will turn on the bite. You can also use it to place weights into any soft bait to make them sink faster, including the tough ones made with ElaZtech. This kit comes with a steel insertion needle, pushrod, and 10 glass rattles. A surgical tubing needle guard prevents you from poking yourself when not in use.
Turtlebox Original Outdoor Speaker
If the angler on your list enjoys listening to some tunes, then give them the gift of waterproof go-anywhere audio with one of Turtlebox’s innovative portable speakers. Though I typically like my time on the water to be quiet, I have found countless uses for mine. Whether grilling out, working in the backyard, or gathering around the fire, the Turtlebox keeps the party going — it even saved me from having to put a radio in the barn to keep me entertained while I wrench on my junk. The company claims 25 hours of battery life, but I suspect it may even be longer; I only have to charge mine every two weeks or so. And this thing is LOUD; I usually only need to crank it up a couple of bars to hear it clear across my property. Waterproof construction means it can go for floats down the river or on the boat with no worries.
Rods
TRIKA 6X Spinning Rod
For the angler who wants one rod that can truly do everything, the TRIKA 6X 7-foot medium-power, fast-action spinning rod is a gift that will instantly earn favorite-status. After countless hours on the water from dropping to lake trout in 80 feet to skipping Senkos under tight dock cover, this rod proved itself over and over again. Its best trait? Sensitivity. The kind that makes finesse presentations feel effortless and helps detect even the slightest tap.
This rod is a perfect pick for multispecies anglers, bass enthusiasts who appreciate finesse tactics, or anyone trying to slim down their rod locker without sacrificing performance. If you want to give a gift that will see constant use — and maybe even become someone’s go-to setup — this is the one. For more info, read our full review of the TRIKA 6X spinning rod.
Other Great Rods
- Shimano Outlier Swimbait Rods — Buy from Tackle Warehouse
- Okuma Guide Select Classic Casting Rod — Buy from Bass Pro Shop
- Jenko Fishing High Roller DCVR Casting Rods — Buy from Tackle Warehouse
- 13 Fishing Tickle Stick Carbon Pro Ice Spinning Rod — Buy from Bass Pro Shops
- Check out more great options in our roundup of the best bass fishing rods
- Check out more great options in our roundup of the best crappie fishing rods
- Check out more great options in our roundup of the best catfish rods
Reels
Okuma Safyre Spinning Reel
The Safyre spinning reel is Okuma’s latest addition to their lineup, unveiled at the 2025 ICAST show. Designed for both fresh and saltwater use, offered in a full range of sizes, and priced squarely in the budget-friendly category, the Safyre checks a lot of boxes right out of the gate. After fishing with it for several weeks, we’re just as impressed with its on-the-water performance as we were with its spec sheet. the price is pretty nice, too. For more details, read our hands-on review of the Okuma Safyre spinning reel.
More Great Reels
- Abu Garcia Beast Casting Reel — Buy from Tackle Warehouse
- Daiwa Ballistic MQ LT Spinning Reel — Buy from Bass Pro Shops
- Lew’s Speed Spool RX Baitcaster — Buy from Bass Pro Shops
- Penn Battle IV Spinning Reel — Buy from Bass Pro Shops
- Check out more great options in our roundup of the best spinning reels
- Check out more great choices in our roundup of the best baitcasting reels
Lures and Terminal Tackle
Lake Fork Lures Pro Flat Finesse Worm
If you’re shopping for an angler who’s serious about landing big bass, Lake Fork Lures’ Pro Flat Finesse Worms are a gift that will earn a permanent spot in their tackle box. Known for their soft, supple construction and irresistible action, these finesse worms are designed to mimic natural forage with lifelike movement that bass simply can’t ignore. Perfect for anglers who appreciate precision techniques — like drop-shotting, shaky heads, or other finesse rigs — these worms excel in pressured waters where subtle presentations make all the difference. Their detailed design and proven scent formula help entice even the wariest fish, making them a go-to choice when the bite gets tough. Whether your gift recipient is a seasoned tournament angler or someone who just loves chasing bass on weekends, this is one of those quietly powerful fishing tools that can turn slow days into successful ones. Slip a pack into their stocking or pair it with a new finesse rod for a thoughtful, fishing-focused gift they’ll appreciate all season long.
Z Man Swag LT Swimbait
The Z-Man Swag LT Swimbait is a high-confidence bait that delivers realistic action, rugged durability, and fish-catching power, making it a can’t-miss gift. This carefully engineered softbait combines lifelike action with Z-Man’s signature durability, making it a welcome addition to any tackle box. Designed with a thumping tail and natural body roll that mimics real forage species, the Swag LT is perfect for fooling pressured or finicky fish. Whether casting for largemouth or chasing redfish, it performs reliably across environments. It’s a thoughtful, performance-oriented gift for bass fanatics, gear junkies, or any angler who appreciates high-quality lures that combine innovation with practicality.
More Great Lures and Terminal Tackle
- Rapala Bass Boom Box — Buy from Amazon
- Strike King Hybrid Hunter Shallow Jr. — Buy from Amazon
- BKK OCD Tackle System Fully Loaded Finesse Kit — Buy from Tackle Warehouse
- Seaguar TactX Braided Camo Fishing Line and Fluoro Kit — Buy from Amazon
- Berkley Froggin’ Haul of Fame Fishing Lure Kit — Buy from Amazon
- Z-Man Ned Rig Kit — Buy from Bass Pro Shops
- Trout Magnet Lure Kit — Buy from Bass Pro Shops
- Northland Mimic Minnow Gamefish Kit — Buy from FishUSA
- Rapala CrushCity Customs The Mayor Swimbait — Buy from Bass Pro Shops
- Yo-Zuri Striped Bass Kit — Buy from Bass Pro Shops
- Bass Pro Shops Big Bass Bundle — Buy from Bass Pro Shops
- Rebel Lures Classic Critters Kit — Buy from Amazon
- Catch Co Mystery Tackle Box Bass Lures Kit — Buy from Amazon
- Berkley Flicker Shad Pro Pack — Buy from Bass Pro Shops
Electronics
Vexilar FL-8SE Genz Pack
The Vexilar FL-8SE Genz Pack is a classic piece of ice-fishing tech that never goes out of style. Built around Vexilar’s time-tested FL-8SE flasher head and mounted on the rugged “Genz Blue Box,” this unit delivers ultra-responsive sonar feedback that helps anglers see fish, track lure movement, and read bottom structure in real time — even in the harshest winter conditions.
The included 19-degree Ice-Ducer transducer provides a versatile, wide-angle sonar cone—ideal for scouting, jigging, and hole-hopping across various depths. Simple, durable, and incredibly intuitive, it’s the perfect choice for beginners learning their first flasher or seasoned ice anglers who want a dependable tool that simply works.
Other Great Options
- Humminbird XPLORE — Buy from Bass Pro Shops
- Garmin Striker 4 Sonar Fishfinder and GPS Plotter — Buy from Bass Pro Shops
- MillerTech 24V 80Ah LiFePO4 Lithium Battery — Buy from Amazon
- Minn Kota Kayak Terrova Trolling Motor — Buy from Bass Pro Shops
- Garmin Striker Cast — Buy from Bass Pro Shops
- Check out our roundup of the best fish finders for more great options
- For more options, check out our guide to the best trolling motors
Clothing and Accessories
AFTCO Breakwater Glove
If you’re shopping for someone who lives for long days on the water, the AFTCO Breakwater Gloves are a gift they’ll truly use—and rave about. Designed specifically for anglers who demand durability, dexterity, and all-day comfort, these gloves strike the perfect balance between protection and performance. The reinforced palm provides excellent traction on wet surfaces, ideal for handling gear, braided line, or a that bass that’s trying to slip away. Lightweight construction and ergonomic design ensure full mobility, making tie-offs, knot-tying, and precision tasks effortless. They offer reliable sun protection and guards against line cuts, fin spikes, and general wear from long hours spent casting and handling fish.
More Great Clothing and Accessories
- Huk Pro Series Rain Jacket — Buy from Tackle Warehouse
- FXR Pro Fish Hat — Buy from Amazon
- AFTCO Reaper Hoodie — Buy from Bass Pro Shops
- FXR Adventure Light Tri Laminate Jacket — Buy from Tackle Warehouse
- Ranger Boats Hat — Buy at Ranger Boats
- Plano Weekend Tackle Backpack — Buy from Amazon
- Frabill Collapsible Bait Bucket — Buy from Walmart
- Check out our roundup of the Best Fishing Shirts and Hoodies
Sunglasses
Bajio Vega Mossy Oak Bottomland Sunglasses
The overlap between hunters and anglers is massive. How many fishermen do you know who put down their rods and pick up their shotguns in the colder months? Plenty. To the surprise of no one, camo is an obvious crossover for apparel and sunglasses.
Bajio partnered with Mossy Oak to produce its Bottomland pattern on Bajio’s Las Roca (extra large), Vega (large), and Palometa (medium) frames. We tried out a pair of Vega frames — named after a legendary flat in Mexico’s Ascension Bay — with copper, glass lenses. If you know Bajio sunglasses, glass lenses are its bread and butter, but of course, they offer polycarbonate and prescription options too.
What stood out to us while river fishing in November was Vega’s full-wrap coverage, wide temples, and lightweight frame. Glass does add a bit of weight on your eyes, but most bass fishermen don’t notice or really care. Meanwhile, the crystal clarity is definitely something worth experiencing. A great gift option, these glasses are designed for anglers and hunters to use daily, from the highway to the water and wilderness. — Sam Hudson
For more, take a look at our roundup of the best fishing sunglasses.
Costa King Tides
What’s old is new again with the Costa King Tides. The company channeled their heritage when building the new shades for their fortieth anniversary, pulling styling cues from their most favored designs. But they added a whole lot of new tech, including the side shields that block light from sneaking in, but remove easily when you don’t need them. The frames feature cooling vents that let airflow in and sweat out, and stay in place even on sweaty faces thanks to the earpads. Of course, they are fitted with Costa’s legendary 580G glass for unbeatable clarity on the water. These are some of the most comfortable, functional sunglasses I’ve ever worn.
Other Great Sunglasses
- Hobie Cabo Polarized — Buy from Amazon
- Bajio Sigs — Buy from Bajio
- Redfin Amelia — Buy from Redfin
- Pelagic Pursuit — Buy from Amazon
- Zenni Black Zunnies — Buy from Zenni
- Wiley X Kryptek WX Omega — Buy from Wiley X
- Kast King Molino Fit-Over Polarized Sunglasses — Buy from Amazon
Coolers
YETI Hopper M30 Soft Cooler
A good cooler can improve the quality of just about every outing. Who doesn’t enjoy a cold beverage or a tasty sandwich on the water? Many boats have built-in compartments that can serve as coolers, but you still have to get your food or drinks there. I’ve been using one of Yeti’s soft coolers, the Hopper M30, for about a year. It’s been great for river floats, days on the bay, camping trips, or trips to the beach. The soft construction keeps weight down, and makes it easy to transport. Plus, the magnet top makes it easy to load and grab items.
For more information, you can check out our full YETI Hopper M30 review.
Orca 20 Quart Cooler
Coolers always rank high on the list of best gifts for fishermen. Orca’s 20 Quart Cooler is the perfect size for a couple anglers to spend a day on the water. It can hold a couple of sandwiches and enough cold drinks to fish from dawn to dusk. The 20-quart storage capacity handles 20 cans with ice, and keeps them cold for up to five days thanks to a tight lid gasket and plenty of insulation. Roto-molded construction holds up to a rough life, mine has lived in the bed of my truck for years and is no worse for wear. A unique cargo net attachment offers a convenient place to stash tackle or other items, and the stainless-steel handle makes carrying it a breeze. An easy-flow drainage spout makes clean up simple.
Other Great Coolers
- Yeti Roadie 15 Hard Cooler — Buy from Yeti
- Yeti Tundra 45 Hard Cooler — Buy from Yeti
Gifts for the Angler That Has Everything
Pedal-drive kayaks continue to be game‑changers in the kayak fishing world: hands-free propulsion means more time for rods, electronics, and reading water. The Sportsman PDL 120 was already an angler favorite, but Old Town’s new “Pro” variant offers an overhauled interior that increases customization potential and maximizes space. The upgraded deck layout offers more mounting options for electronics, motor‑ready features, and better storage. If you want to make sure you give the angler on your list the best gift of the season, get them their next favorite kayak.
Watershed Big Creek Waterproof Backpack
I am a big fan of dry bags; I’ve spent more than one field season living out them. In that time, I came to recognize what makes a great dry bag, and the folks at Watershed sure know how to make one. The opening on the Big Creek is the best I’ve ever used, with a closure similar to a zip-lock sandwich bag that seals just as easily. Since I picked that pack up a couple years ago it’s been with me every time I hit the water: canoe trips, float planes, or out in my center console. It’s large enough to hold extra layers for a couple folks, while also protecting your electronics and camera gear.
Other Great Options
- Giant Rapala Crankbait — Buy from Tackle Warehouse
- Giant Rapala Minnow — Buy from FishUSA
- Customized Bobblehead — Buy from Amazon
- Don’t Be A Dumb Bass Tumbler — Buy from Amazon
Gifts for Women
Bajio Annette Women’s Sunglasses
If you spend time outside, you need a good pair of shades. Bajio’s new Annette sunglasses feature a full wrap design engineered with a woman’s face in mind, to provide ideal coverage. My wife has been wearing a pair pretty much since they came out, and she’s enjoyed the fit and excellent lenses that block out an impressive combo of 100% of UV light, 95% of bad blue light, and 90% of harsh yellow light for full days in the sun without squinting or fatigue.
The Bio-Based nylon frame features the wide light-blocking temples of Bajío’s other fishing-focused sunglasses, as well as the “sun ledge” that prevents excess light from sneaking in over the top. Ergonomic rubber nose pads and rubber temples keep them in place, even when the sweat starts. There are a great choice for Mother’s Day, birthday, or any other occasion.
For more great options, check out our roundup of the best fishing sunglasses.
More Great Gifts for Women
- Women’s Huk Rogue Wave Boots — Buy from Bass Pro Shops
- XTRATUF Women’s Fleece Lined Ankle Deck Boot — Buy from XTRATUF
- BOTE Deus Aero Kayak — Buy from BOTE
- FORLOH Women’s Airalite Rain Jacket — Buy from FORLOH
- Columbia Benton Springs II Half-Snap Pullover — Buy from Bass Pro Shops
- Grundens Women’s Deck-Boss Shorty Sherpa — Buy from Grundens
- AFTCO Women’s Coastal Layer Hoodie — Buy from AFTCO
- Bass Pro Shops Prodigy Baitcast Combo — Buy from Bass Pro Shops
- Daiwa Regal LT Spinning Reel — Buy from Bass Pro Shops
Gifts for Kids
Ugly Stik Youth Combo
Ugly Stik has been around for over 40 years, and for good reason. Their rods are all but indestructible, and offer anglers excellent fishing tools at affordable prices. Ugly Stik revamped their line with the introduction of the GX2 series at ICAST 2024, and the new rods provide all the durability that have made the brand famous with more sensitivity. This makes for a rod that maintains its kid-proof status with bite-sensing abilities on par with rods costing twice as much. My seven-year-old son has been using one of the youth combos to catch smallmouth for months now, and it has become his favorite rod. He’s careful, but he’s seven, so the rod has endured some abuse and is none the worse for wear. For even more info, read our hands-on review of the Ugly Stik youth combo.
More Great Gifts for Kids
- TIDEWE Chest Waders for Toddler & Children — Buy from Amazon
- Zebco 33 Spincast Combo with Bonus Reel — Buy from Bass Pro Shops
- Check out more great kid-friendly reels in roundup of the best spincast reels
Gifts for Fly Fishers
Grundens Boundary Zip Stockingfoot Waders
If you’ve never had a pair of waders with a zip front, let me assure you that you’re missing out. Getting into and out of them is simple, and it sure makes life easier when that coffee catches up to you. Grundens’ take on the zip-front wader is beyond comfortable, with super-breathable GORE-TEX Pro Wader Laminate to shed sweat on tough hikes and an anatomically-shaped neoprene stockingfoot.
The shoulder harness is the best I’ve experienced, distributing weight across my entire back. The D-ring is perfect for hanging a net, and the well-thought out pockets provide plenty of storage space. From the warmest summer wades to steelhead trips deep into the winter, these have you covered. For more info, read our hands-on review of Grundens Boundary Zip stockingfoot waders.
More Great Gifts for Fly Anglers
- G Loomis IMX Pro V2 Fly Rod — Buy from Bass Pro Shops
- Bote Rackham Aero 12′4″ Classic Mangrove Inflatable Paddle Board Package — Buy from Amazon
- Ninja Bull’s Eye Tippet Threader — Buy from Amazon
- Fishpond Nomad Mid-Length Landing Net — Buy from Amazon
- Fishpond Tacky Original Fly Box — Buy from Bass Pro Shops
Knives and Tools
Benchmade Fishcrafter Filet Knife
There’s something about the way a nice knife handles. I’ve been using the 7-inch version of Benchmade’s Fishcrafter filet knife since its introduction, and I’ve been impressed with its responsive handling and the sharpness of its blade. A Santoprene handle provides plenty of grip even when breaking down flatfish with aid of the marina’s hose. The corrosion-resistance of the CPM MagnaCut steel is another high point; this knife gets a quick rinse and then gets stashed in my truck’s cap in the included sheath until its next use. If you’re looking for one of the best filet knives money can buy, this is it.
Other Great Options
- Work Sharp Guided Field Sharpener — Buy from Amazon
- SOG x Tackle Warehouse Power Access Assist Multi-Tool — Buy from Tackle Warehouse
- Berkley Hook ‘Em and Cook ‘Em Fillet Kit — Buy from Amazon
- For more options, check out our roundup of the best multi-tools
- For more great filet knives, check out our roundup
Fishing Books and Magazines
Kayak Angler Magazine
Give the gift of adventure, inspiration and on-the-water know-how with a subscription to Kayak Angler, the most well-rounded kayak fishing magazine available. Whether they chase redfish on the flats, smallmouth in winding rivers or trout on backcountry lakes, Kayak Angler delivers expert insight straight to their mailbox. Each issue is packed with real-world gear and boat reviews, detailed rigging ideas, proven tactics for saltwater and freshwater species, plus industry news and local what’s-biting reports to help them plan their next outing. With stunning photography, practical instruction and stories that spark adventure, it’s the #1 resource for paddlers who live to fish.
Other Great Books
- Sowbelly: The Obsessive Quest for the World-Record Largemouth — Buy from Amazon
- Hooked: Legendary Fresh and Saltwater Fish to Catch in a Lifetime — Buy from Amazon
Gift Cards
When it comes to fishing, every angler has their own style, favorite tackle and must-have gear. That’s why gift cards are one of the smartest—and most appreciated—presents you can give. Whether they’re a weekend bank-beater, a seasoned tournament angler or someone just getting hooked, these three angler-approved gift cards make it easy for them to gear up exactly the way they want.
- Bass Pro Shops Gift Card — Buy from Bass Pro Shops
- Tackle Warehouse Gift Card — Buy from Tackle Warehouse
- FishUSA Gift Card — Buy from FishUSA
