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Fishing Gift Ideas That Will Make a Splash

WriterAcademy Staff
ContributorAdam Cunningham
10 min read
 Tools and equipment for fishing.

Fishing gifts are the perfect way to show appreciation for the angler in your life. From quality gear to high-tech gadgets, there’s no shortage of thoughtful options that make time on the water even more enjoyable. In this guide, we consulted with our experts to gather fishing gifts that are sure to make a splash.

Fishing Gifts Under $50

If you’re looking for great fishing gifts that are budget-friendly, you’re in luck! We’ve reeled in a variety of options under $50 that any angler will love. Let’s dive in!

geckobrands Waterproof Lightweight Backpack

Why we chose it: This backpack is durable, comfortable to carry, and collapsible. It’s resistant to water, rain, sand, and snow, so your angler can keep their gear safe no matter the conditions.

Price: $19.99 - 39.99

Key features:

  • Comprised of 210D nylon
  • Exterior zip pocket
  • Interior hidden zip pocket
  • 2 D rings for item attachment
  • Padded shoulder straps

Magellan Outdoors 19 qt Aerator Dry Box

Why we chose it: This 2-in-1 aerator dry box was designed by top outdoors brand Magellan with durability and convenience in mind. It has interior and exterior storage for organizing fishing gear and your angler’s favorite baits.

Price: $44.99

Key features:

  • Great for stashing baits designed for trout, redfish, and flounder
  • Polyurethane, plastic, stainless steel, and ABS construction

Strike King Plus Cash Sunglasses

Why we chose it: Every angler needs a good pair of sunglasses to protect their eyes and help them see their gear and targets clearly on sunny days. These sunglasses are polarized and boast a modern design, making them perfect for any angler.

Price: $29.99

Key features:

  • Durable square frames with a logo on the side
  • Mirrored lenses
  • 100% UV protection

H2OX 3500 Ethos Soft Tackle Storage Bag

Why we chose it: This tackle storage bag is expert-approved and has plenty of space for the tackle your angler needs. Its soft sides and carry handle make it easier to transport and keep out of the way than clunkier traditional tackle boxes.

Price: $24.99

Key features:

  • Interior map pocket
  • 3 external pockets
  • Comes with four 3500 utility boxes
  • Made from 840D polyester and plastic

Best Gifts for Fishermen Under $150

For those comfortable spending a little more, these fishing gifts under $150 offer a great balance of quality and value. Your angler will love them!

Rush Creek Double-Sided 16-Rod Rolling Storage Rack

Why we chose it: This fishing rod storage rack holds up to 16 of your angler’s favorite rod and reel combos, has 360° rolling casters for easy transport, and locking mechanisms for storage. It also comes in 2 color options to match your other fishing decor.

Price: $99.99 - $119.99

Key features:

  • Double-sided design
  • Extra-wide side panels with built-in handles

Garmin STRIKER 4 CHIRP Sonar/GPS Fishfinder Combo

Why we chose it: This is a great gift for anglers who fish from boats. The high-sensitivity GPS antenna locates your position quickly and precisely and allows you to mark promising fishing spots, docks, boat ramps and other locations for future fishing trips.

Price: $139.99

Key features:

  • Convenient on-screen speed display
  • Built-in water temperature gauge
  • Waypoint map to easily view, mark and navigate locations
  • Fish Symbol ID helps you identify fish targets
  • AutoGain Technology helps reduce clutter to maximize targets

H20X Beach and Pier Cart

Why we chose it: This cart takes the heavy lifting out of fishing. It can easily carry your angler’s cooler, rods, and other equipment to and from beaches and piers, so they won’t have to juggle their items or make multiple trips.

Price: $149.99

Key features:

  • Measures 39 inches in length and 24 inches in width
  • Six rod holders
  • Holds a 48-ounce cooler

Lew's Laser TXS 6 ft 10 in MH Baitcast Rod and Reel Combo

Why we chose it: If your angler is on the market for a new rod and reel combo, look no further. This combo is lightweight and sensitive yet durable and has a dual-cast control system for precise control.

Price: $129.99

Key features:

  • 1-piece IM7 graphite blank
  • Lightweight SLP reel made with a graphite frame and side plates with 3 drain ports
  • MSB dual-cast control system with 4 disc-mounted brake shoes and an external click-dial magnetic brake
  • Zero Reverse 1-way clutch
  • 8 stainless-steel double-shielded bearings
  • Solid brass Speed Gears with Hamai CNC gear hobbing machines
  • Machine-forged, anodized aluminum spool

Unique Fishing Gifts

If your angler seems to have everything or you simply want to shake up your gift-giving game, check out these unique fishing gifts! They’re sure to put a smile on the face of any angler out there.

Mystery Tackle Box Pro Bass Fishing Kit

Why we chose it: This fishing kit is one of the best gifts for fishermen looking to take up freshwater bass fishing. It comes with baits, lures, tips, and instructions to help them get started.

Price: $29.99

Key features:

  • Hard baits, skirted jigs, spinnerbaits, soft plastics, and terminal tackle
  • Includes tips, tricks, and instructions to learn new techniques

Mister Twister Electric Fisherman Fillet Knife

Why we chose it: The adventure doesn’t end once the fish have been reeled in. This fillet knife is lightweight but features a heavy-duty motor and extra-sharp stainless steel blade to make processing every catch easier.

Price: $24.99

Key features:

  • Safety lock
  • Blade releases for quick and convenient maintenance
  • Comfortable handle
  • Durable, expandable, curly power cord

Gerber Scout Folding Knife

Why we chose it: Heavy-duty and ready for action: these were the tenets we held to when designing the Gerber Scout Folding Knife. You can’t predict what every adventure will bring, but whether you’re in the backcountry or the backyard, the Scout keeps you ready for it all.

Price: $69.99

Key features:

  • Grippy micarta handle
  • High bevel 440A drop point blade
  • Ambidextrous pivot lock
  • Pass-through frame
  • Glass breaker
  • Anti-rotation pocket clip
  • Lifetime limited warranty

Magellan Outdoors Inflatable PFD Life Jacket

Why we chose it: This life jacket keeps your angler safe on the water without all the extra bulk of traditional life jackets.

Price: $79.99

Key features:

  • Automatic or manual inflation
  • High-visibility inflation chamber
  • Fits chests between 30 and 52 inches
  • Includes a CO2 cylinder, a bobbin, and a clip
  • Approved by the U.S. Coast Guard

What to Get a Beginner Fisherman

Finding gifts for a fisherman who’s just starting out can be especially exciting because there are so many essentials they still need. To guide you, we’ve curated some of the best items to help them feel confident and ready for their first few trips out on the water.

Zebco Roam 10 Spincast Rod and Reel Combo

Why we chose it: This rod and reel combo is great for beginner anglers because it’s lightweight, pre-spooled with 10 lbs. line, comfortable to hold, and versatile.

Price: $39.99

Key features:

  • Fiberglass blank rod construction
  • ComfortGrip™ rod handle
  • 4 guides + tip
  • Reinforced graphite frame reel
  • Soft-touch reel handle knobs with a thumb button
  • 3 internal ball bearings
  • Left and right interchangeable retrieve

Mystery Tackle Box Elite Saltwater Fishing Kit

Why we chose it: If your beginner angler wants to master saltwater fishing, this gift is perfect. It has all the lures, tips, and tricks they need to get started.

Price: $49.99

Key features:

  • Comes with various lures
  • Includes tips, tricks, and instructions that will help teach you new techniques
  • For trout, redfish and flounder

Plano™ Ready Set Fish 3-Tray 188-Piece Tackle Kit

Why we chose it: This tackle box kit comes loaded with floats, hooks, swivels, and more to prepare your newbie angler for anything their fishing adventures bring.

Price: $19.99

Key features:

  • 3-tray tackle box includes a total of 188 pieces of tackle
  • Brass-bailed latch
  • Stringer and hook disgorger
  • Includes 24 each of size 4, size 6, and size 8 hooks
  • Includes 6 assorted floats, 18 assorted swivels, 24 assorted split shot, 18 worms, 24 assorted grubs, 12 assorted jigheads, and 12 assorted crappie jigs

H2OX Easy Stow Landing Net

Why we chose it: Help your beginner fisherman reel in their first catch with this durable landing net. These are used by anglers of all skill levels, but they’re great for building a beginner’s confidence and increasing their success.

Price: $39.99

Key features:

  • The rubber-coated mesh protects fish and prevents hook fouling
  • Folds for easy storage and transport

Have Fun Out There!

With so many thoughtful and practical fishing gift ideas, you're sure to find something that will make any angler’s day. If you’re looking for more fishing gift ideas that’ll help your angler reel in a trophy catch, check out the fishing gear and equipment available at Academy Sports + Outdoors!

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