Christmas Gifts for the Anglers
by Gus Gustafson

Are you having difficulty finding a gift for a fisherman on your Holiday shopping list? Listed below are a few ideas that might bring a smile to any angler’s face on Christmas morning.

Fish Finders (Sonar) are the perfect gift for anglers who have difficulty locating fish. The viewing screen indicates bottom readings, water depth and actually shows fish under the boat. Prices begin at $50.00 for black and white units. Color models are more expensive, depending on screen size, quality and features. Popular brands are Hummingbird, Eagle, Lowrance and Garmin.

GPS/Fish Finder combination units not only show bottom readings, depth and fish, but can also track an angler’s location on a map. When a good fishing hole is located, the exact spot can be marked to allow the angler to return to the location another time. Prices start at $199.00 for black and white models. Functional color units can be purchased for a few hundred dollars more.

Underwater cameras are easy to use. They show underwater action, bottom structure and are popular with anglers who like to explore new fishing areas. Many lake residents enjoy using them to watch the fish that swim below their boat docks.  Portable units, complete with camera, cable, viewing screen, battery and charger are priced beginning at $100.00.

Wooden rod racks are perfect for anglers who wish to display their favorite fishing outfits or need a place to store them in an orderly manner. Wall mounted six rod racks begin at $14.99. The free standing twelve and twenty four floor rod racks are priced beginning at $19.99. 

Landing nets make great gifts, even if they are a little difficult to wrap. Nets can be purchased less than $10.00. The price increases as the hoop size, handle length, and depth of the net increases. Regardless of the one you choose, be certain the handle is long enough to reach the swimming fish whether you are wading or fishing from a boat or pier.

Stocking stuffers & other gift ideas:
* “How to Fish” DVD’s and books
* Plastic storage boxes for terminal tackle, soft plastic and other lures
* Soft or hard sided tackle boxes
* Fishing knife with sheath
* Fishing pliers
* Minnow bucket with battery operated aerator
* Fishing Caps
* Marker Buoys – These colorful plastic buoys are thrown overboard to mark a place where fish were found.
* Gift Card 

Tip from Capt. Gus:
If you are not exactly sure what to buy the fishermen on your gift list, ask a fishing buddy. If he doesn’t know, he can find out.

Captain Gus Gustafson of Lake Norman Ventures, Inc. is a member of the Southeastern Outdoor Press Association and a full time Professional Fishing Guide. Visit his website, Fishin’ with Gus! at www.FishingWithGus.com, call 704-617-6812 or e-mail Gus@lakenorman.com.