It's almost black Friday which means most of us should be out fishing the day after Thanksgiving. But instead, many of us will get dragged to the store to give the economy a much needed boost. While Oprah might have her "favorite things,"that's got nothing on the Bonefish Flat's Christmas most wanted list. If you're wondering what gear you need to ask for, or what your significant other who is a saltwater fly fishing nut like me wants, than be sure to check out my list below.
1.
Scott S4S 8wt- You're probably saying, wasn't this on the list last year? Yep, it was, but I still don't have one. This is my favorite saltwater stick out there today. If you're a tarpon angler, try the 10 or 11 wt.
2.
Hells Bay Biscayne- This is the gift that separates the men from the boys and will solve the age old question, have you been naughty or nice this year. The newest edition to the Hell's Bay lineup sends shivers up my spine. What a beautiful boat and one that will have you chasing permit and tarpon around the Florida Keys. Check back here on the Bonefish Flat on December 26 to see how good I've been this year and keep your fingers crossed. The kids would love this.
3.
Costa 580s- If you don't have a pair of 580's yet, then I guarantee you there are fish out there you are missing. Plus, if you're fishing without them, than you probably don't look good. And who wants to get a great grip and grin shot of you and your bonefish with a pair of ugly shades. I recommend the Zane model in Green Mirrors.
6.
Scott S4S Poster- If you're a young buck, put this up in your dorm room. If you're an old married guy, hang it above your bed. I'm sure that a tailing permit will turn on your significant other. Or you could just hang it in your man cave like I would do.
7.
Simms Saltwater Cap- Gotta have something to cover your noggin in the scorching heat of the flats. This one has a poon on it, so you've got that going for you. I recommend the light grey color.
8.
Buff Black Fly Edition- Vaughn Cochran's signature black fly turned into a Buff. Everyone seems to be wearing one of these things now and why not. You get to pretend you're a real live bandit.
9.
Cliff Beast Junior- You've seen those really cool yellow fly boxes that the guides have on their boats. The ones chocked to the brim with beefy flies to help you catch your trophy bone. Why not get your own and tie some flies this winter. Order from the Uptown Angler in NOLA and tell them the Bonefish Flat sent you.
10.
Connect on Blu Ray- Last but not least, you're going to need a new video to last you through the cold winter. Especially if you hung that Scott poster above your bed. The folks at Confluence films put together some of the best fly fishing action available and Connect is there new film.
11.
Tapam the Movie: My friend Jan Bach Kristensen has put together an amazing film about fly fishing for tarpon from a float tube. Jan is an amazing photographer who has been featured in several publications including Fly Fishing in Saltwater. Be sure to pick up a copy of Tapam in Blu-Ray.
So there you have it. But as we head into the holiday season, let's try to remember the real reason for the season,count our blessings and try to get outdoors and do some fishing with our families.