by Chris Grech

One of the latest editions to the Power Pro family of braided lines is the Super 8 Slick. The 8 fiber construction is braided under high tension and the result is reduced line friction on the spool and guides for superior casting with less line noise. Just like original Power Pro, Super 8 Slick starts with ultra-strong braided Spectra Fiber which is then treated with the Enhanced Body Technology (EBT) to create a round, smooth and super sensitive line. Currently, the familiar eight sizes from 10 to 80-pound test are offered in Hi-Vis Yellow, Marine Blue, Timber Brown and Aqua Green. Spool sizes available include 150, 300 and 1500 yards. Next time you replace your line try Super 8 Slick in 30-pound test Timber Brown and test it out for yourself. It will handle just about any inshore challenge with ease.

$19.99 for 150 yards MSRP
powerpro.com

by Chris Grech

Solid feel from new tech XGT7 graphite material and the ability to easily adjust the drag while fighting a fish are two of the key features behind Shimano's redesigned Saros FA spinning reels. The series brings a complete upgrade to all four sizes available (1000FA, 2500FA, 3000FA, 4000FA) with a long list of Shimano reel technology. Anglers will find Shimano's unique XGT7 graphite in the frame, rotor and sideplate construction. When hooked up, anglers have the convenience and reliability of Shimano's Rapid Fire Drag. Included in all four Saros FA reels is a long list of features from Propulsion Line Management System to virtually eliminate any line twist and increase casting distance, Paladin Gear Durability Enhancement, SR Concept, Aero Wrap II, Dyna-Balance and Super Stopper II. They all have five S A-RB shielded bearings, a one-way roller bearing to eliminate any handle backplay and a gear ratio of 6.0:1 or 5.8:1. Best of all, they are backed by Shimano's stellar track record of producing quality fishing reels.

$139.99 to $149.99 MSRP
shimano.com

by Chris Grech

The Brite Group feature a selection of high performance maintenance products specially formulated to tackle all of your boat cleaning needs while being environmentally friendly. Yacht Shine Phenomenon is contemporary chemistry at its finest since the company has literally integrated liquid glass with the finest gloss agents to form a product that will generate the highest level of appearance and protection for all of your onboard solid surfaces, both interior and exterior. The "Polished Jewel Finish" can be attained via a fast and easy application to produce the finest gloss finish with long lasting protection. Simply spray a light mist of Phenomenon and wipe dry with a microfiber towel. If applying in direct sunlight, do small areas so the product does not dry on the surface.

This revolutionary product can be used on painted/gelcoat surfaces, varnish or urethane coated surfaces, metallics (brass, chrome, gold, silver, stainless, etc.), glass, mirrors, clear vinyl, in the galley (countertops, appliances, sinks, faucets), in the head (shower walls, doors, fixtures), wooden tables and chairs, outdoor vinyl fabrics/furniture and inflatables, tenders and toys. It also safely cleans and then repels fingerprints on smartphones, tablets and marine touch screens...realistically any surface that looks best highly polished. The company has also developed other great products including an algae and waterline stain remover, exhaust stain cleaner, teak cleaner and sealer, mold and mildew eliminator, as well as many others. Yacht Shine Phenomenon and their entire line of products are proudly made locally in the USA and are available at West Marine stores and online at www.yachtshine.com.

$19.95 for 16-ounce spray bottle (larger sizes available)
YachtShine.com

by Chris Grech

Berkley recently introduced their new Gulp! and Gulp! Alive! Mantis Shrimp to their already mega arsenal of fish catching goodies. These new baits are 3-inches in length and feature a split tail, four sets of action-driving legs and a set of tentacles on the head that adds another dimension to this realistic bait. All that plus the already legendary attractant built in that helped make Berkley Gulp! the go to bait that it is today. The color pictured is New Penny Fleck which I have already had success with. A total of 14 colors are available to match just about any fishing scenario that you may encounter. If you have never used Gulp!, you're really missing out. Give these a shot and spice up your natural baits or rig one on its own and see for yourself what all the fuss is about. It's available in the common 6-pack packages as well as larger oval and quart buckets.

$6.99
www.berkley-fishing.com

by Chris Grech

The Honda BF250 four-stroke engine is the newest and most powerful outboard to join the Honda Marine lineup and now the company's flagship model. The design of the BF250 incorporates a number of advanced technological innovations that contribute to the engine's high fuel economy and superior performance. The 3.6 liter VTEC® (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control®) engine is equipped with an all-new gear case, incorporates the world's first marine direct air induction system of its type on a production outboard (providing for cooler, denser air for better combustion than conventional under-cowl induction systems), and has a full-throttle RPM range of 5300-6300.

The Honda BF250 engine also incorporates the Boosted Low Speed Torque (BLAST™) System through which holeshot and acceleration are dramatically improved by advancing ignition spark timing to within one degree of the knock limit during ‘hammer down' acceleration.

$24,025 MSRP (This is for the most common AXA model)
marine.honda.com

by Chris Grech

Lowrance has recently announced an exciting addition to its Elite fishfinder/chartplotter family, the Elite-7 Hybrid Dual Imaging (HDI) series. The Elite-7 models feature a 7-inch, widescreen color display that is 70-percent larger than comparably priced 5-inch products, allowing anglers to see more sonar history and more detail in split-screen mode. Its fishfinder capability also feature Hybrid Dual Imaging (HDI), which combines two award-winning technologies, Broadband Sounder and Downscan Imaging, to provide the best possible view of the water column.

To maximize fishing time on the water, signature Lowrance Advanced Signal Processing (ASP) reduces the need to manually adjust settings to see fish, structure and bottom detail more clearly. In addition, TrackBack allows anglers to scroll back in recorded sonar history to review structure or fish targets. When used on an Elite-7 model with chartplotter capabilities, users can also TrackBack and pinpoint locations with a waypoint, eliminating the need to circle back and retrace the path.

$449 to $869, depending on model
lowrance.com

by Chris Grech

These amazing White Water Pride Spreader Bars have been one of the most popular bars in the past three years. They are available in three styles which include...

6-inch squid
9-inch squid
Mini Green Machines

All are meticulously rigged with four birds in the front of the bar which help the bar track properly in all sea conditions while trolling at any speed. The birds also provide enough buoyancy to float the bar so it looks simply amazing in the spread. They are deadly on bluefin, yellowfin, bigeyes and albacore but will catch just about anything that swims. White Water Pride Spreader Bars are available in as many as ten possible color combinations and can be purchased right off the shelf or custom built with upgraded hook baits, fluorocarbon main chain, etc. The guys at White Water Outfitters will basically custom rig it anyway you like.

I spoke with Captain Jamie Hummel of the charter boat "Sasquatch" and he said, "In 35 years of Canyon fishing, I have never seen a lure or bait that consistently catches fish day in and day out like my 6-inch rainbow colored Pride Bar by White Water Outfitters. This is what helps me be successful and why I always have a few in my spread."

The increased popularity of these bars has resulted in new styles that will soon be available in winter 2012/2013. To place an order or for more information, please contact Bryce Poyer or the rest of the friendly staff White Water Outfitters. You will not be disappointed.

Price $149 and up
Phone: 631-594-3336
WhiteWaterOutfitters.net

by Chris Grech

The Outdoorsman is a double weave bracelet with a stainless steel buckle. The outer weave is placed over a standard bracelet and is much thicker than the standard bracelets offered with twice as much 550 paracord. You can remove the outer layer and still have a bracelet.

Paracord has long been known to anglers, hunters, campers, etc as a very useful item to have in your possession because it has so many uses only limited by your imagination. They range from having a rope to tie down a trunk lid to tying tent flaps to providing emergency shoelaces. Use for tying sticks together for making a shelter or securing an emergency splint. Another use is a makeshift clothesline to dry wet clothes by a fire in a survival situation. The possibilities are endless.

Simply find the ends of the paracord and unwind the bracelet to access this useful cordage. Once unwound carefully check to see that the paracord is in good condition and straighten the strong yet thin rope. It has seven inner threads that can each be pulled out of the cord and be used as finer thread. The Outdoorsman is available in nineteen colors and six wrist sizes.

$25.00
Emmalinedesign.com

by Chris Grech

Caliber Outdoor Products offers a fish hook remover that is specifically designed to free a gut-hooked fish without causing additional injury to the fish. In addition, with the price of today's increasingly expensive hooks, the "Fisherman's Assistant" Deep Hook Remover will pay for itself over time. The product was developed, tested and proven by anglers to reduce fish mortality by dislodging and flipping the hook 180 degrees for easy extraction. It can remove all types of hooks, including circle and J-hooks, even if your line is already broken off. The Fisherman's Assistant is made of non-corrosive materials to handle the harsh saltwater environment, the cable is replaceable (with basic 90-pound coated stainless steel fishing wire) and it even floats. It will tackle any size hook up to size 9/0. Check out their website for additional information and videos.
$19.99
caliberoutdoors.com

by Chris Grech

Everyone needs a hat when fishing. Plain and simple. It's an important piece of clothing that can often times be overlooked. If you're looking for a new hat to keep the sun out of your eyes or to keep your head from burning off, check out the Vintage Thresher Trucker from Old Harbor Outfitters. It features a heavy wash giving it that vintage look, a pre-curved bill, super soft durable mesh back and an adjustable slide buckle on the back. Anyway you slice it, the thresher shark logo is tough to beat! Colors available include burnt orange, navy and olive. The OHO Vintage Thresher Trucker Hat is one size fits all. Treat yourself this season and you'll be lookin' stylish (for a change) with a picture proudly holding your trophy fish.
$24.95
oldharboroutfitters.com

by Chris Grech

The compact Berkley Superline Shears are the perfect size for easy transport. They are specifically designed for cutting braid but will also give you a very clean cut with any other type of fishing line. The serrated stainless steel blades are extremely durable and will have no corrosion issues out on the surf or on a boat, day in and day out. I've used Berkley Superline Shears quite a bit and they have kept a surgical sharp edge so I have not needed to sharpen them, which is always a good thing. As with all cutting tools used in a saltwater environment, it's always best to rinse them off with water at the end of the day and sharpen them if they get a little dull. This little tool is an excellent value.
$5.00
berkley-fishing.com

by Chris Grech

Tsunami's Aluminum Pliers are a necessity in every angler's tackle box. Aircraft grade ultra-light aluminum, which has been heavily anodized for greater corrosion resistance, makes this 7.5" tool a perfect combo of light weight and durability. Titanium coated stainless steel jaws and replaceable tungsten-carbide cutters mean these pliers are a must have for any situation. The handy coiled tether and clasp mean they will always be handy when the going gets tough. I have been using a Tsunami 7.5" Aluminum Plier for years in a saltwater environment and it is still remains rust free and cuts braid with ease even after extremely heavy use and abuse. They remain a great value.
$34.95
biminibayoutfitters.com

by Chris Grech

The Bimini is a thong-style sandal that incorporates Rugged Shark's exclusive Shark Grip outsole. It's the same non-marking, sure footed, slip resistant bottom used on their premium boat and fishing shoes. The leather strap is padded where it contacts the skin for added comfort. The footbed is textured with molded cushioned EVA, a soft, resilient material that will not absorb water or foot odor and provides a comfortable platform for your foot. This footbed can be easily cleaned with a rinse of freshwater after a hard day of fishing and boating.

The Bimini is made using the finest materials and available in maple Nubuck leather in sizes 8 through 13 (whole sizes only). Check out their website for more info on the Bimini and other styles they offer.
MSRP $45.00
ruggedshark.com

The Bimini


The Classic


The Hampton

by Chris Grech

One of the most important and commonly overlooked aspects of fishing is a sharp knife. Most times any knife will get the job done cutting bait or a line, but in order to properly clean your catch a very sharp knife is crucial. I've been using the AccuSharp Knife Sharpener for years and it does an excellent job with everything from fillet knives to serrated knifes to just about every knife I own. It can even put a super sharp edge on larger items like cleavers, axes and machetes. The sharpening is done via Diamond Honed Tungsten Carbide sharpeners which provide years of use and are also reversible as well as replaceable. Simply follow the included directions and you'll end up with a razor's edge in about 10 seconds. The most important thing with the AccuSharp Knife Sharpener is to always use light pressure when sharpening. Heavy pressure will still give you a great edge but will wear out your knife much quicker. AccuSharp also produce many other products so their website is definitely worth a look. A quality product at a great price with a Lifetime Warranty that's made in the USA. You really can't beat that.
$9.49
AccuSharp.com

by Chris Grech

Every angler needs some type of tape measure on their boat or cooler. The problem is all of them include fish pics, fish size regulations and seasons that change every year (or even multiple times per year!) or a bunch of other unnecessary nonsense. Enter the Fish-Strip.

Fish-Strips are 48-inches long by 1-inch wide which makes them perfect for most locations on your boat or on your cooler. If you don't need all 48-inches, simply cut the Fish-Strip down to whatever size you need. They have simple, easy to see black numbers and hash marks for quick measuring of your catch. The material used is a top quality matte white 3M vinyl that is 7 mils thick for each Strip. This combination allows it to stand up to the rigors of fishing day in and day out. Sun, saltwater, soaps, chemicals, fish…Fish-Strips can take it all and they simply look awesome anywhere. This is a very simple yet quality product that performs when and where you need it. Just peel and stick!

Plain, white, durable and simple. That's what I like about it.

$4.99

Fish-Strips.com

Video:Installing Fish-Strips





Added 5/13/12:

by Chris Grech

The new Berkley PowerBait Realistix Power Jerk Shad will produce that extra flash and movement to produce strikes from all types of gamefish. These baits also include the proven Powerbait scent and flavor in addition to the erratic darting motion that imitates a struggling baitfish. All Power Jerk Shads include 3D eyes and holographic inserts for lifelike detail. They are 5-inches in length and come in 6-packs of the following colors: Arkansas Shiner, Pearl Watermelon Shad and Pearl White.
$5.59
berkley-fishing.com

by Chris Grech

The Ranger by Robert's Lures is one of the favorite casting lures of anglers across the world. Unfortunately, it's one of those lures that is always forgotten about. These lures shine for just about every fish on the planet from tuna to mahi to cubera snapper. A couple of friends of mine recently returned from Panama where Robert's Ranger was literally the only lure they used all week for cubera snapper, roosterfish, tuna etc.

Another good friend of mine took a once-in-a-lifetime fishing trip to Christmas Island this past December/January and it was their top producer of tuna, trevally and just about everything else that they caught. He told me, "Our guide had never heard of our reels (Van Staal) and had no clue what Yozuri lures were but knew exactly what Rangers were and said we should have brought more since we lost twenty to the sharp coral."

He put it best when he said, "If I was stranded on an island and only had one lure to feed myself, it would be a Ranger."

With that said, if you've never tied on a Robert's Ranger, I think it would be worth a shot.

www.robertslures.com

by Chris Grech

The GreenFish CPR Mount (Catch, Photo, Release) is a universal camera mount with patent-pending technology that ensures the mount locks into most tube-style rod holders, rocket launchers and Scotty flush mounts.

Developed by sustainable fishing company GreenFish, the CPR Mount's Expansion Lock technology fits most rod-holders, providing a stable platform for taking photos or capturing video. Its universal camera mount fits most digital cameras and the GoPro. The Flex Arm lets you position the camera to film the action from multiple angles– even underwater.

The GreenFish CPR Mount is ideal for kayaks or small boats, but it can also be an effective sales tool for charter boat captains. They can film an epic battle between a bolting marlin and the crew using one CPR mount, or multiple mounts to shoot the action from different angles. The angler can replay the action at home; the captain has a great promotional video.

$95.99
greenfishmovement.com

by Chris Grech

More and more of us are using Smart Phones these days. Why not protect your investment? After all, you won't be able to call for help with a wet or broken phone. Enter the Pelican i1015 Smartphone Case. Designed for the iPhone, iPhone 4, iPod Touch and many models of Smart phones, this tough case will keep your mobile device working in even the worst conditions. It features an external jack, built-in cable manager, active sport carabineer, easy open latch, custom rubber liner that doubles as an o-ring seal and stainless steel hardware. The Pelican i1015 is water resistant, crushproof and dustproof and is available with a clear or solid color lid. The case measures 5.14" x 2.64" x 1.37" and comes with a lifetime guarantee.
$25.00
pelican.com

by Chris Grech

The Nip N Sip from Loon Outdoors is like a mullet. I'm not talking about the fish, I'm talking about the hairstyle. Just like that popular redneck hairstyle that we all secretly wish we had, the Nip N Sip is "Business in the front and party in the back!" All kidding aside, there are two very important tasks that must be completed on each fishing outing; cutting line and opening bottles. (Catching fish is also important.) This handy little tool accomplishes both jobs in style with its stainless steel cutting blades, built-in bottle opener, extra wide grated pads for grip and eye clearing needle. The Loon Outdoors Nip N Sip allows anglers to cut their line easily and enjoy a beverage without breaking their teeth or breaking the bank. Pick one up for yourself and a true friend today.
$19.95
www.loonoutdoors.com

by Chris Grech

These solid brass AFW Ball Bearing Swivels and Snap Swivels with welded rings are a must for any serious angler who simply wants the best. The patented bullet shape provides fluid rotation and decreased water resistance and are engineered to survive the fiercest one-on-one battles. The unique gun metal black finish minimizes reflections and cloaks the tackle. Swivels have a solid brass body, stainless steel bearings, and welded rings for maximum security and to endure the unforgiving offshore environment. The tournament snaps are tempered and made of solid brass, designed to stay closed and keep you connected to the fish. Don't even think about making a trip to the canyon, or to any locations that holds tackle busting fish, without these battle-tested ball bearing swivels in your tackle box. The AFW ball bearing swivels come in all sizes ranging from #2 rated at 65lb test to #10 at 660lb test. The ball bearing snap swivels are available from #2 rated at 44lb test to #10 at 450lb test. Packages consist of 1 to 5 pieces (depending on size) as well as bulk packs of 50. Prices vary.

by Chris Grech

Shopping around for the holidays? How about a new conventional reel for that special angler in your life? Or maybe just for you?

by Chris Grech

It's that time of year again. Fall is winding down and winter is quickly approaching.