By Steve Chaconas
Dude don’t get Dad another tie! He might wear it…only when you’re in town or when you mention it. He really dreads having to tie one on for you! It’s Father’s Day, put a bit of thought into gifts for the guy who was always thinking of you!
From humble beginnings in Texas in 1938, Academy has grown to over 300 full-line US sporting goods and outdoor recreation retail stores carrying both leading national and private label brands. Partnering with Jacob Wheeler, one of the top professional bass anglers, comfort meets functionality with Magellan Outdoors Men’s Pro Angler Tech Pants. These lightweight fishing pants, with 7 pockets, are made of a water-repellent blend of nylon and spandex for a stretchy fit that helps dad stay dry. The UPF 50 sun protection shields skin from UV rays, and the integrated fishing line cutter button makes these pants an essential part of dad’s fishing gear. academy.com
A leader in well-constructed commercial and sport fishing clothing, Grundéns introduces its Tough Sun Hoodie with breathable UPF 50 sun protection. Adding more protection, the crossover hood blocks sun rays. For cooling, the hood comes down. Sleeves stay in place with integrated thumb holes, protecting the backs of dad’s hands. For on and off the water durability, the Tough Sun Hoodie has been built with increased snag resistance, no matter where dad takes it, whether for travel or a hike in the woods to his favorite secluded fishing spot. Finished with HeiQ anti-odor, thermal regulating, and stain-release treatments, Tough Sun is easy to care for while being comfortable. It’s so tough, Grundéns gives a lifetime warranty on construction. grundens.com
Fish Monkey fishing gloves provide more than UPF 50+ sun protection. Errant hooks or fish spines and teeth are thwarted by Fish Monkey Gloves. Tough fingers, supple enough for casting and knot tying dexterity, and padded palms provide comfort and reduce hand fatigue with grip enhancing surfaces for any weather. Fish Monkey, the leader in quick dry breathable professional fishing gloves, offers several styles for any angler. The Half Finger Guide Glove provides complete sun coverage protection. The shorter Stubby Guide Glove protects hands while fishing. fishmonkeygloves.com
Kentucky Derby Triple Crown winner Secretariat’s legendary performance inspires performance outdoor products from Ariat. Known for comfortable footwear for various outdoor and work environments, Ariat created the ideal waterproof hiking boot, Traverse Mid H2O. Camping, hiking, or just going through the woods to get to dad’s hidden fishing hole, Traverse has a stable platform with great traction. Most boots create pinch points on the tongue and collar, but Traverse is mesh-lined with lightly padded Lycra. No bruised heels as Protective Tec-Tuff cradles heels and sides. Toes are safe behind a molded rubber protector. Feet are supported with Ariat’s ATS® Max technology for long outdoor adventures. The EVA midsole delivers excellent shock absorption. The Duratread™ outsole provides maximum wear resistance and grip. ariat.com
Either outdoors or indoors Kings Camo XKG Freyr Pant takes dad hiking in comfortable 4-way high-stretch technical fabric. Wet weather won’t slow him down. Water repellant protection sheds moisture and protects against stains. Pockets that make sense carry dad’s essentials. Articulated knees allow ease of movement, gusseted crotch adds comfort, and knife clip panels for outdoors activities set these pants apart from jeans. Excellent for everyday wear or activities requiring mobility. Constructed with comfortably blended Nylon, Polyester, Spandex material. Ideal for cool evenings into the cooler months. kingscamo.com
Tell dad to take a hike in Italian made Meindl MT2 Trekking Basic socks. Comfortable synthetic yarn keeps dad on his toes, providing exceptional breathability and moisture-wicking performance for light hiking in moderate temperatures. Ventilation channels allow feet to breathe when hiking, traveling, or for casual wear. Padded heel and toe areas provide all day comfort and wear longer. Toe area seams are pressure free, reducing irritation. Cuffs won’t leave marks but stay secure. Unless dad has two left feet, he needs socks anatomically designed for left or right feet, ensuring comfort and wear. No more bunching to make shoes uncomfortable. Perfect amount of stretch keeps Meindl socks in place. meindlusa.com
No matter the activity, dad needs to stay hydrated. Yeti, known for keeping hot beverages hot and cold beverages cold, has the perfect sized leakproof kitchen grade stainless steel Rambler 26 ounce water bottle. A unique TripleHaul handle comes off to access a shatter resistant spout for drinking on the go. To wash or refill, the entire lid can be removed. Of course, the double-wall vacuum insulation keeps drinks cold or hot. Several attractive colors. yeti.com
If an American made Gerber knife or multi-tool isn’t enough, give dad the perfect camping, cookout, or kitchen compliment. Founded in 1939 and based in Portland, Oregon, Gerber has proved their metal with innovative knives and problem solving tools meeting unique needs of specific activities. Gerber’s ComplEAT Take-A-Part Shears allow dad to easily prepare campfire, outdoor grilling, or kitchen specialties. Easy to clean and safely stored in a tough polyester webbing carrying case. Chef dad will love Gerber’s ComplEAT Take-A-Part Shears. gerbergear.com
Remember, if you give it, dad will use it, wear it, or eat it…make a good choice so he won’t think of you when he’s in line returning it
Potomac River Bassing in June
Water is the perfect bass fishing temperature. Whether winding small crankbaits or bladed jigs, low stretch Gamma Edge fluorocarbon snaps baits from grass to trigger strikes. Grass and wood are target areas.
Time to think about topwaters. Walking baits are perfect for sluggish post spawn bass and can be tied to 30 pound Gamma Torque braid. Poppers work too, but hollow frogs worked over thick grass on 50 pound Torque braid produce big fish.
As for other cover, pitching creature baits, tubes or jigs is also effective. Work outer edges at lower tides.
About the Author: Capt. Steve Chaconas is a Potomac bass fishing guide & freelance writer. Potomac river reports: nationalbass.com. YouTube channel NationalBassGuide.