July/August 2021 Fishing Products Review

Filson’s Mesh Fishing Strap Vest.

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Filson’s redesigned Mesh Fishing Strap Vest combines extra gear-carrying capacity with breathability for warm summer days. The coil-zippered front pockets hold large fly boxes and are equipped with one-hand-operable snap-flap pockets to keep accessories close at hand. Pockets also feature grommets for drainage. On long summer days, anglers will appreciate the vest’s convenient water bottle pockets and large rear pouch for stashing extra layers or packing a lunch. The vest also includes nylon-webbing adjustable shoulder straps, rod holder and front-closure snap-tabs, plus a removable Australian sheepskin-shearling fly patch. Made from Filson’s dark tan, medium-weight eight-ounce 100 per cent cotton dry finish Shelter Cloth with polyester mesh and nylon webbing, it’s perfect for summer days on the water and fall fishing adventures. Filson’s Mesh Fishing Strap Vest is available in two sizes – regular and super.

MSRP: $185 USD
filson.com

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Garmin’s STRIKER Cast castable sonar.

Garmin’s STRIKER Cast castable sonar turns any Apple or Android device into a go-anywhere fish finder. It’s built for freshwater and saltwater, plus ice fishing too! Anglers can view fish and structure in crisp detail using the STRIKER Cast app. The STRIKER Cast works in as little as two feet of water down to 150 feet, wirelessly streaming sonar and water temperature data from up to 200 feet away. The fish finder displays easy-to-understand traditional 2-D sonar and ice fishing flasher modes. With the built-in GPS model, anglers can create detailed maps with one-foot contours and mark fishing hotspots using Quickdraw Contours – free, easy-to-use software that lets users instantly create and share personalized maps. The STRIKER Cast automatically powers on when floating in the water and turns off when it’s not. A 10-hour internal, USB-rechargeable battery runs for a full day of fishing.

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MSRP: with GPS $179.99 USD; without GPS $129.99 USD
garmin.com/marine

Orvis PRO BOA wading boot.

The new Orvis PRO BOA wading boot incorporates advanced wading boot technology. BOA lacing delivers even tension throughout the boot for a better fit and enhanced comfort, while its oversized heel-pull and instant lacing provides an easy on-and-off system. Orvis partnered with Michelin to create an outsole compound specifically designed for fly fishing. The Michelin Outdoor Extreme outsole offers better abrasion resistance and improved wet rubber traction, while its wider footprint adds stability. A unique lug pattern reduces shock. The outsole includes strategically placed locations for optional studs. A two-layer midsole absorbs shock and improves the “river feel.” Its OrthoLite 3D molded X25 insole design gives good arch support and stability. The boots’ PU upper eliminates seams, providing added strength and abrasion resistance. Scratch rubber at the toe cap and heel protects critical wear areas. The PRO BOA wading boot is available in men’s whole sizes seven to 14 (women’s equivalent sizes eight to 15.)

MSRP: $279 USD
orvis.com

Range Reels’ flagship Avail fly reel.

Range Reels’ flagship Avail fly reel covers any what-if scenario that could happen while out on the water. Every Avail reel is precision machined from a single piece of cold-forged, high-grade aluminum. The reel’s exclusive grooved saddle spool allows up to 50 yards more backing space than traditional fly reels, while allowing the line to flow off the reel effortlessly. A fully sealed carbon fiber drag features a slow start-up, protecting the tippet, but then effectively puts on the brakes on big fish. Hex screw fasteners ease maintenance and ensure long life without stripping. Spare spools are sold separately for quick line changes. The Avail is designed in Indiana and built through a Canadian partnership. Range Reels launched in 2021 as a companion brand to Walton Rods (waltonrods.com) – a high-quality US fly rod maker. From freshwater to saltwater, Range Reels backs its premium fly reel with a lifetime warranty. Available in three sizes: 3-4wt, 5-6wt and 7-8wt.

MSRP: Reel $219 USD; spare spool $105 USD
rangereels.com

Lighthouse Lures’ Mega Bite Goliath 20-ounce swimbait.

The Lighthouse Lures Mega Bite Goliath 20-ounce swimbait is gigantic! New for 2021, this 11-inch monster-sized swim bait easily reaches depths of 400 feet. It’s the perfect lure for strong currents and deep-water fishing. The ultra-heavy 20-ounce Mega Bite Goliath has proven highly effective for giant lingcod, halibut, rockfish, snapper and other large predatory fish of the deep. Mega Bite jigs are exceptionally durable. Each swimbait uses durable, soft plastic bodies for fish-after-fish longevity and a high-grade, ultra-strong hook for rock-solid hook-ups. The Mega Bite Goliath is available in Lighthouse Lure’s most popular colours – White Russian (UV) and Glow Hurricane – for outstanding visibility in deep, dark water. Anglers who love fishing deep-water giants should check out the Mega Bite Goliath; it’ll get your bait down to where the big fish lurk.

MSRP: $21.99
gibbsdelta.ca