As air temperatures approach 32 degrees and snow begins to fall, tackle shops shift to their winter hours and there’s a significant drop in angler participation. But chilly weather has never deterred hardy year-round anglers in the Northeast from getting their fishing fix. Winter headboats are making their first trips offshore, shore and wading trout fishermen occupy otherwise vacant parking lots and roadside pull-offs, and when safe ice takes hold, lakes and ponds are Swiss-cheesed by hardwater enthusiasts in search of winter honey holes. The well-dressed and overprepared angler thrives from December to March. Here are seven gift ideas for the fisherman who refuses to call it quits, regardless of the forecast.
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XTRATUF Ankle Deck Boot ICE
The lightweight, faux shearling-lined rubber upper is 100% waterproof, and the GlacierTrek Pro outsoles generate better traction on wet ice and slick surfaces while the removable EVA insoles provide cushion and shock absorption on these cold-weather boots. $140
AFTCO Coastal Layer 1/4 Zip
A perfect standalone shirt for crisp fall days or as a critical component to a winter layering kit, this lightweight, moisture-wicking fleece helps keep anglers warm through the coldest parts of the season. $49
YETI Cayo All-Weather Backpack
The weather-resistant, ultra-durable pack is built to protect your essentials from melting ice or sea spray. Adjustable straps keep heavier loads balanced, and an added ComfortComb mesh back panel provides an extra layer of cushion between you and your gear. Starting at $200
Available in 15-, 25-, and 35-liter models
Humminbird MEGA Live 2 XPLORE 10 CHO Ice Bundle
See beneath the ice with this hardwater-specific display that combines real-time sonar (in Live Forward/Down modes) on a bright, 9- or 10-inch touchscreen designed to minimize glare. The cold-weather cables and mounts are optimized for ice fishing, and LakeMaster mapping technology includes SmartStrike features, which highlight potential areas of activity to keep you on the fish. Starting at $3,500
OTW Waffle Knit Beanie
Featuring OTW’s classic striper logo, our waffle knit cuff beanie is made from soft recycled yarn for a warm, cushy fit wherever the winter fishing season takes you. $30
Huk Crewman Insulated Jacket
This fleece-lined hooded jacket is packed with 80 grams of synthetic insulation beneath a plush Cordura shell for a durable and ultra-comfortable layer that will keep you cozy on the boat or in the ice hut. $120
Nils USA Cordless Drill Auger
Portability and convenience make this auger a must-have for ice fishermen. It has a chromium steel head to repeatedly cut through thick ice without dulling, attaches to any 1/2-inch cordless drill, and includes a hand auger handle so you can keep fishing even if the drill battery dies. $180
Available in 6- and 8-inch models. Drill not included.