Whether you’re shopping for an angler, hunter, seasoned backcountry pro, weekend warrior, or someone just beginning to fall in love with the great outdoors, finding the perfect gift can be a challenge. Outdoorsmen value gear that is tough, practical, and built for real adventures — think items that can withstand a storm, help start a fire, or turn a campsite into a second home. Never fear, we found the best gifts for outdoorsmen and compiled them all here.
This guide is packed with hand-picked gear, gadgets, and goods that blend function with a bit of wilderness spirit. From items that take lake days up a notch, practical solutions that make travel easier, and ways to take the evening’s campfire to the next level, we’ve got gift ideas to suit every budget and backcountry personality. Consider this your one-stop shop for Mother’s Day gifts, Father’s Day gifts, graduations, birthdays, holidays — whatever you’re shopping for, we have your back. You can also check out our roundup of the best fishing gifts for even more ideas.
Our Top Picks for Gifts for Outdoorsmen
| Best Fishing Gift: | Mystery Tackle Box | Buy from Mystery Tackle Box |
| Best for Lake Days: | BOTE Inflatable Hangout Sling Chair Classic | Buy from BOTE |
| Best for Mother’s Day: | Bajio Annette Women’s Sunglasses | Buy from Bajio |
| Best for Cook Outs: | Coghlan’s Cast Iron Double Camp Cooker | Buy from Walmart |
| Best for Family Camping: | Marmot Limestone 4-Person Tent | Buy from Backcountry |
| Best for Everyday Wear: | Timex Expedition Scout 40mm Watch | Buy from Amazon |
| Best for Dry Feet: | Lacrosse Alpha Deck Boot | Buy from Amazon |
| Best for the Long Haul: | Osprey Transporter Duffel 120 | Buy From Osprey |
| Best Budget Gift: | Fiskars X7 Hatchet | Buy from Amazon |
| Best for Backcountry Power: | Jackery Explorer 300 | Buy From Amazon |
Mystery Tackle Box
Whether the angler on your list is a seasoned bass hunter or just dipping their toes into the fishing world, 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.
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.
BOTE Inflatable Hangout Sling Chair Classic
Over the years, the float tube that I typically use to bob along catching fish in remote ponds has been hijacked for more relaxing activities at the lake. BOTE felt my pain, and made a floating lounge designed for such a thing, complete with a beverage holder. The U-shaped pontoon supports a comfortable mesh sling seat for comfortable floats and all-day relaxation. It also features BOTE’s MAGNEPOD magnetic koozie system to keep your drink cold and at the ready.
And the Hangout Sling Chair is the lightest and most packable BOTE has ever made, weighing less than 6 pounds and packing down as small as a sleeping bag. It comes with everything you need for lake Saturdays, including a pump, carrying bag, and koozie. The Inflatable Hangout Sling Chair Classic should rank high on any list of the best Father’s Day (and Mother’s Day) gifts for outdoorsmen.
Lacrosse Alpha Deck Boot
If you spend any time around the water, you’re going to want a waterproof boot. You probably want it to be comfortable, too. Lacrosse’s Alpha Deck Boot checks both those boxes, in ankle- and calf-height. I’ve found the 12-inch high version to be perfect for early season canoe rides, bank fishing, and just tackling the rigors of mud season.
The non-marking outsole provides plenty of grip and won’t scuff up your boat, either. A quick-drying mesh liner encourages air circulation and a nub on the heel lets you kick them off quickly. Plus, if they’re anything like the other Lacrosse boots I’ve owned over the years, these will be around for a long time. Just note that these run a little snug, so you may want to order the next size up.
Find even more options in our fishing boot roundup.
Solo Stove Ranger 2.0 Fire Pit
Sure, you can make a fire in a well-constructed ring of rocks, but that doesn’t help keep the smoke out of your eyes. The line of fire pits built and sold by Solo Stove optimize airflow to provide more complete combustion, all but eliminating smoke. This means you can spend your night enjoying the fire, not playing musical chairs to avoid watery eyes.
There are many sizes in the lineup, but the Ranger is the smallest and most portable, letting you have a smoke-free fire wherever you go. Plus, Solo Stoves satisfy the requirements for a contained fire in many jurisdictions, letting you safely enjoy your s’mores. A removable ash pan makes cleaning up easy, and makes this a top choice on any list of gifts for outdoorsmen.
Women’s Huk Rogue Wave Boots
A good pair of boots is indispensable — and they make a great Mother’s Day gift. Huk’s women’s Rogue Wave boot is perfect for the boat, around town, and everywhere in between. My wife has been happily wearing a pair of them for a month, fishing, tending her garden, commuting on rainy days and plucking clams from the mud. Feet stay dry, thanks to the combo rubber/neoprene contraction on the outside and a breathable mesh liner that wicks sweat away on the inside.
Huk’s Grip-X Slice non-marking outsole provides stable footing on wet docks and decks. The slip-on design features a wedge on the heel to kick off easily, keeping dirt in the mud room where it belongs.
Fiskars X7 Hatchet
A good hatchet is indispensable. I’ve been a fan of Fiskars’ affordable line of axes and hatchets for well over a decade, taking one on all my backcountry adventures. I keep an X7 Hatchet stored in my truck for impromptu camping trips, using it to split wood, make kindling, and sink tent stakes. The unique design is pretty much indestructible; I’ve certainly mis-used these over the years and they just keep going.
A nylon handle absorbs shock, and the head bites easily and splits logs like butter. The diminutive size makes it easy to store, but this probably isn’t the one you want for felling duty. Check out the Fiskars’ X15 chopping axe for bigger jobs.
Duck Camp Clothing
Like cool hats? Who doesn’t. Duck Camp offers some of the coolest hats out there, in their “Grandpa” line. Like your Grandpa, they exude timeless style, with a five panel structure, rope detail across the back of the visor, adjustable snapback and embroidery of cool species such as this largemouth bass.
The Duck Camp Outfitter tee is another great choice for the outdoorsman on your list. This midweight cotton short sleeve is extremely comfortable, making it one I go for as soon as it comes out of the wash. Like all Duck Camp gear, the graphics are pretty cool too. Pick up a few items and make someone’s day.
We also have a roundup of fishing shirts that provide even more gifts for outdoorsmen.
Marmot Limestone 4-Person Tent
While I’ve spent the most time in my Kelty, Marmot’s Limestone 4-person tent serves as our go-to shelter on family trips. The larger size easily accommodates my wife, son, and I on our camping adventures, going strong since we got it back in 2020. We camp at least two weekends a month in season, and it performed flawlessly in that time — even during a week of seemingly endless rain in coastal Maine.
Nearly vertical sides provide plenty of headroom, and it goes up quickly thanks to a series of clips. Two entries mean I can sneak out for early morning fishing trips without disturbing anyone, and a roomy vestibule provides plenty of room for everyone’s boots. Though this is designed for car camping, we’ve managed to fit it in the canoe for island overnighters.
Poncho Pagosa
It’s hard to beat a good flannel shirt for time outdoors. They are comfortable, keep the chill off, and look good. Poncho has taken the classic shirt into the next century by crafting them from a high-tech poly that wicks sweat and dries quickly (even when you accidentally dunk the sleeve grabbing a fish), but feels great against your skin. I’ve been wearing the Pagosa for a couple of months now, and it has quickly become one of my favorites.
The shirt has enough stretch to provide plenty of freedom of movement, which makes casting a breeze. The chest pockets feature easy open magnetic closures which make it easy to grab whatever you have stashed there. I also really value the built-in lens cloth, which lets me keep my glasses clean. If you’re looking for a Father’s Day gift that works in the woods or around town, this is it.
Coghlan’s Cast Iron Double Camp Cooker
One of our favorite summertime activities is campfire cooking, and there’s no better way to do that than with a pie iron. These cast iron devices let you make hot breakfasts, warm sandwiches, and delicious deserts over an open flame. Just flip open the device, load your favorite fillings, and throw it on an open fire to let it cook. Our favorite is “pizza sandwiches,” which consist of pizza dough stuffed with tomato sauce, pepperoni, and shredded mozzarella.
Another hit is white bread coated with nutella for a chocolatey desert that will leave you wanting seconds. We’ve been using Coghlan’s Cast Iron Double Camp Cooker for years, and it just seems to get better with age. Like all cast iron, it “seasons” itself for improved non-stick qualities. Grab as many as you need to feed everyone in your family.
Farm to Feet Ansonville Mid-Weight Wader Sock
When you were a kid, you probably weren’t too excited to open a package of socks. But once you get to a certain age, socks become a welcome gift — especially really comfortable ones. Farm to Feet’s Ansonville Mid-Weight Wader Sock is one such pair. I’ve been wearing a pair in my waders and under my boots for the last three months, and couldn’t be happier with them.
The dense merino wool provides plenty of cushion for long days on the water or in the woods, and transports moisture away to keep my feet dry dry. Plus, merino wool has natural anti-bacterial properties that prevent odor from building up so there’s surprises when you take your boots off.
Osprey Transporter Duffel 120
When my son was an infant, he racked up some serious miles in an Osprey kid carrier. That pack took him over some rough terrain with no issues, so I know I can trust Osprey’s Transporter duffels to take my gear wherever I may roam. The large, 120 liter volume, swallows up clothes, waders, footwear, fishing gear, whatever you need to make your journey a success. Backpack straps allow for hands-free carrying, so you can sprint to your next flight, but tucks away so it won’t get snagged on the luggage conveyor.
The big, U-shaped opening is secured by a burly, lockable, #10 YKK zipper protected by an oversized rain flap, providing easy access. A mesh organizer bag keeps items like toiletries handy, and detaches so you can take it with you. The zippered top pocket keeps smaller items, like keys, handy. It’s the perfect companion for car camping, or for that international fishing trip you’ve always dreamed of.
Work Sharp RKS (Rolling Knife Sharpener)
For most people, knife sharpening is an annoying chore. Fortunately, Work Sharp has developed a number of sharpeners that make the task easy, such as the Rolling Knife Sharpener (RKS). As the sharpener moves along the length of the blade, wheels on the bottom of the plastic housing keep it level and moving smoothly, while the round abrasive disc also rotates as it moves along the edge. Three discs are included: a heavy 320 grit diamond disc, a 600 grit, and a fine ceramic disc.
The magnetic angle block holds the knife blade in place at 15, 17, 20, or 25 degrees — the latter two have a shelf to support smaller pocket knives so the edge will rise above the body of the angle block. This thing works, it’s easy to use, and it’s fast. You get a precise edge, providing your work surface is level, that’s consistent from the heel of the blade to the tip without shallowing out at either end the way straight-arm angled sharpeners do. — Dave Maccar, managing editor
Timex Expedition Scout 40mm Watch
Though there seems to be a push for “smart” devices everywhere these days, there’s something timeless about the rugged simplicity of a good field watch. I’ve been wearing one of Timex’s Expedition Scout watches for years now, and it’s been invaluable. Having a reliable timepiece on my wrist saves me from digging for my phone, and lets me skip that distraction — and keeps my phone tucked safely away so it doesn’t end up in the water.
The Indiglo feature lights the face up so you can check on legal shooting time without spooking anything, and even with frequent use during the fall, the battery has lasted for three years so far. Timex says the watch is ‘water resistant to 50 meters,’ which means you don’t have to worry about dunking it to land a fish or pick up a decoy. And it’s a bargain at less than $50, making it a top contender for a gift for outdoorsmen.
CRKT Minimalist Cleaver
CRTK’s Minimalist knife designs have proven popular for everyday carry and backwoods use alike, thanks to the simple but robust designs that stand up to rough use. Despite the small size, the three-finger grip is surprisingly comfortable and provides great control.
One of the strengths of the cleaver design is the strength that it offers, all but impossible to break even if you misuse it. High carbon content in the blade makes it easy to sharpen. The molded sheath keeps the knife locked in place, and offers a lanyard for neck carry and loop for use with a belt or on a strap. And only weighing about 2 ounces, you’ll forget you’re carrying it. And at less than $35, this one is a real bargain.
Kelty Grand Mesa 2
I picked up an earlier version of the Grand Mesa 2 nearly two decades ago and it’s still going strong. In that time, I’ve taken it from the northernmost reaches of Maine to the PIne Barrens and everywhere in between. It has kept me dry and warm through downpours and unexpected snowstorms, and on fairer nights, I’ve pulled the rainfly to watch the stars as I fell asleep. It’s billed as a two-person tent, but you had better be comfortable with your tentmate as you’ll be pretty close.
The Grand Mesa 2 packs small and is pretty light for a tent at this price point, so it’s a good choice for car camping or when you’re hoofing it. Set up is quick; with a clip system. Another unexpected feature at this price is the bathtub floor, which keeps even a heavy downpour out. A roomy vestibule provides plenty of space for taking your boots off and stashing gear.
Work Sharp Benchtop Whetstone Knife Sharpener
If you want a more traditional sharpening tool with a couple modern tweaks and some guides to keep you on track, the Work Sharp Benchtop Whetstone Knife Sharpener is a fantastic and affordable option that will put up with a lot of use and abuse. It has 15-degree and 17-degree angle guides and a two sided sharpening stone with 1,000 grit on one side and 6,000 grit on the other. There’s also no need to use oil on this stone, just water will do.
There’s nothing quite like a whetstone hone, especially on thin blades like filet knives. The housing provides a stable platform with anti-skid feet so you have more control and get more out of every pass on the stone. Plus, the base collects water shed from the stone, so cleanup is super easy. You can probably get away with using this one the coffee table in the living room, but we’re not responsible for any repercussions. —Dave Maccar
Gerber Freescape Saw
A good saw makes quick work of cutting firewood, clearing shooting lanes or maintaining a trail. Gerber’s Freescape saw might not be as fast as my 40cc Husqvarna, but it’s much easier to pack — and certainly quieter. The folding saw stashes easily in a backpack pocket, inside a toolbox, or under a truck seat but opens to provide 12 inches of saw blade.
And unlike Sven-style backpacking saws, this one locks open quickly, without the need to tighten any wing nuts. Mine has provided reliable service for many years now, and I believe it will continue to do so. Even though the folding design is unique, the saw blades are standard, so you can easily find replacements if it becomes dull. Plus, the whole thing weighs less than 15 ounces.
Jackery Explorer 300
I spend time in the outdoors to get away from it all, but it can be nice to have some power along just in case. Jackery’s Explorer 300 is a lightweight portable power bank that can juice up cell phones, digital cameras, drones, and even a CPAP machine for quiet nights. The 293Wh lithium-ion battery pack has two pure sine wave AC outlets that deliver stable and safe power for medical equipment, with USB outlets for your small devices.
It recharges quickly through wall outlets, USB ports, and even in the car. It is also compatible with solar panels so you can let it charge while you’re on the water or in the woods. Mine has served me for the last three years, and there’s no signs it is going to give up anytime soon. And with the power backup capabilities it offers around the house, extends its usefulness beyond a gift for outdoorsmen.
