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Birthday? Anniversary? Father's Day? Graduation? Christmas? Are you trying to find the perfect gift for someone who's obsessed with bass fishing? As one of the obsessed myself, I applaud the idea, but I also understand how difficult that project can seem. Once anglers get dialed in to their personal fishing approaches, they can become difficult for non-anglers to know what they want, or at least what they might like.

Sure, you could settle with a gift card from Bass Pro Shop or Tackle Warehouse. While no angler I know would be upset with that gift, it really does lack the personal touch of a thoughtfully chosen gift.

But, I'm here to help. As a lifelong bass guy and industry insider, I can assure you there are some items that will be universally appreciated by all bass anglers. Following is a list of my top 8, slam dunk, of-course-they'll-like/need-one-of-those, bass fishing gift ideas. And everything on the list is well under $200, and several items are less than $60.

1) St Croix Mojo Trigon Spinning Rod

St Croix Mojo Trigon Spinning Rod (Est. Retail $180.00)

New in the summer of 2023, the Mojo Bass Trigon series of rods from St Croix is doing something pretty unique. It seems that you can always count on St Croix to consistaently raise the bar in fishing rod design and development. At first glance you’ll notice the rods just look cool. Then you’ll say, wait, why isn’t the handle cylindrical like every other rod I own? Then you’ll pick it up and say, oooohhhhh. I get it. Their Trigon handle design has a rounded triangular profile which fits perfectly in your hand. Add in all the other high-end features and materials, like their premier SCIII carbon fiber blanks construction with fortified resin system for exceptional sensitivity and strength, and you have an exceptional, technique-specific line of rods at a shockingly reasonable price.

2) Daiwa Procyon MQ LT Spinning Reel

Daiwa Procyon MQ LT Spinning Reel (Est. Retail $179)

Everything about the Procyon is designed to be lighter and stronger. The one-piece body design reduces flex, which keeps gears in perfect alignment for a super smooth feel even under the load of a big fish, and reduced wear, for a long life of flawless service. Add to that, or should I say subtract from that, it features an Air Drive Rotor and tubular air bail which reduces overall weight and increases rigidity.

3) Halo Fishing KS II Elite Series Casting Rod

Halo Fishing KS II Elite Series Casting Rod (Est. Retail $169.00)

Halos’ KS II Elite series builds on the success of their original Kryponite series. The aggressive styling is backed up by real performance. The super light, sensitive blanks are made from premium, Japanese Nano carbon fibers and are fitted with zirconia-inserted, stainless steel guides for outstanding line management.

4) 13 Fishing Concept A2 Baitcast Reel

13 Fishing Concept A2 Baitcast Reel (Est. Retail $139.30)

Talk about aggressive styling, the Concept A2 looks like a stealth fighter. But those understated, slick looks are backed up by build quality and durability that will not disappoint. The Concept A2 boasts an Ocean Armor 2 treated, HD aluminum frame, a hardened brass drive gear, and a 25lb. Bulldog Drag System, which means it’s ready for any bass fishing challenge.

5) Costa Del Mar Men’s Blackfin Pro Polarized Sunglasses

Costa Del Mar Men’s Blackfin Pro Polarized Sunglasses (Est. Retail $142.00)

Costa glasses can range from about $100 to $300, but I really like this combo of gray frames with copper lenses, especially at that price of $142 (I can't guarantee how long this model will be available at this price. Follow the link and you can see all of the combinations currently available). Really good sunglasses always seem to justify their price once you’re out on the water using them. I have owned many, many Costa Del Mar sunglasses over the years and there’s a good reason I keep buying them. I’m always satisfied. They have a huge selection of styles, fits and lenses for everyone and every application. Personally, I opt for the polycarbonate lenses over glass because the difference in weight makes them a little more comfortable on the bridge of my nose.

6) Simms Solar Flex Guide Gloves

Simms Solar Flex Guide Gloves (Est. Retail $59.95)

I started wearing fishing gloves for sun protection about ten years ago. Of all the manufacturers and models I’ve tried over the years, I’ve only found one pair that not only does it’s job providing 50+ UPF, but also doesn’t compromise feel and sensitivity in my hands, is available in a size large enough for my giant paws, and most importantly lasts for more than a couple fishing trips. The entire palm and inside of the fingers is covered in super soft, water resistant goat leather. The Solar Flex Guide glove is my personal pick and one I’ve recommended to my friends.

7) Fishing Forward Outfitters Bass Phone Cases

Fishing Forward Outfitters Bass Phone Cases (Est. Retail $29.90)

Here is the perfect case for bass anglers. No, they aren’t waterproof like a giant Otterbox case, but aren’t most phones waterproof these days? This is a dual-layered case design with a strong, impact-resistant, polycarbonate outer shell, and a shock-dampening inner rubber sleeve, so it’s got you covered for most accidental drops. I know I’ve dropped my phone many times and it has protected it perfectly. Seven bass-y designs to choose from. Available for iPhones, Samsung Galaxy, and Google phones.

8) Fishing Forward Outfitters Performance High-Waisted Yoga Leggings

Fishing Forward Outfitters Yoga Leggings (Est. Retail $45.99)

Definitely not for everyone reading this, but maybe everyone at least knows somebody who would love these. These athletic-fit, high-waisted, yoga and workout leggings will take you from workout to store run to tournament morning in comfort and style. Designed with a double-layer, high waistband for comfort and confidence during the most extreme stretching and exercise. Durable, 100% polyester fabric construction looks great and is built to last.

9) Bonus: Personal Best: fishing and life

Personal Best novel (Est. Retail $9.99)

Okay, yes, this is a bit of a shameless plug. However, if you’re still reading this far into one of my articles, maybe you enjoy my writing and maybe you’d enjoy a longer form version of my work. Follow along behind the scenes of tournament bass fishing as the voice in this angler's head wrestles with highs and lows, unexpected dangers, true friendship, lies and scandals in pursuit of his personal best. If you’ve ever been a weekend tournament angler, you are going to find this very relatable.

In addition to print and digital, there is an audio book version available which makes for great listening on your next long drive headed for a tournament, trade show or sponsor meeting. 


And if you’re still not convinced, hows this for an endorsement?
"I sincerely enjoyed it. I would recommended it as a good model and example that you can touch perfection in what you love to do as long as you do it in a correct and pure way."
-Rick Clunn (4-time Bassmaster Classic Champion)

This article first appeared on Men's Journal and was syndicated with permission.

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