Jeff Gustafson’s Sponsors: The Brands Behind a Bassmaster Classic Champion

When Jeff Gustafson clinched victory at the Bassmaster Classic, he didn’t just put his name in the history books—he cemented his place among the elite anglers of the sport. Known affectionately as “Gussy,” the Canadian pro angler’s career has been marked by determination, skill, and adaptability. But behind every great angler is a team of dedicated sponsors who provide the support needed to compete at the highest level. Let’s shine a spotlight on the key brands backing Jeff Gustafson and explore how sponsorship impacts his success.

Jeff Gustafson: A Champion Angler

Jeff Gustafson’s rise to fame in the bass fishing world has been nothing short of impressive. Hailing from Kenora, Ontario, he grew up fishing the pristine waters of Lake of the Woods, honing his skills in one of Canada’s most diverse fisheries. Known for his finesse fishing style and deep-water prowess, Gustafson made a name for himself by mastering smallmouth bass tactics that many anglers struggle with.

His crowning achievement came in 2024, when he won the Bassmaster Classic, the pinnacle of competitive bass fishing. Gustafson’s win wasn’t just a personal milestone—it was also a historic moment, as he became the first Canadian angler to take home the coveted trophy. His success on the water has made him a sought-after ambassador for top-tier fishing brands.

Key Sponsors Supporting Gustafson

Sponsorships play a crucial role in an angler’s career, and Jeff Gustafson has the backing of some of the best brands in the industry. These sponsors not only provide financial support but also ensure that Gussy has access to the highest quality gear available.

Aqua-Vu

As a long-time partner, Aqua-Vu has been instrumental in Gustafson’s success by offering cutting-edge underwater viewing systems. Known for its real-time underwater cameras, Aqua-Vu helps Gussy get a closer look at fish behavior, structure, and habitat beneath the surface—critical information for making game-time decisions on the water.

Bagley Baits

Gussy’s finesse fishing skills are often complemented by his use of Bagley Baits, a brand known for its high-performance crankbaits and topwater lures. Bagley’s handcrafted balsa baits are especially effective when targeting both largemouth and smallmouth bass, making them a key part of his tackle arsenal.

Costa

When you’re on the water for hours, quality eyewear is a must, and Costa delivers. With their polarized lenses designed specifically for anglers, Costa sunglasses help Gustafson spot fish and structure more effectively by cutting through glare. The added comfort and eye protection are essential during long tournament days.

Mercury Marine

Speed, reliability, and performance are non-negotiable for a professional angler, which is why Gussy relies on Mercury Marine outboards. Whether he’s racing across a lake during a tournament or navigating rough waters, Mercury’s powerful engines ensure he’s always in the game.

Shimano

No angler’s success is complete without top-tier rods and reels, and for Gustafson, Shimano is the go-to brand. Known for precision engineering and durability, Shimano gear allows Gussy to maintain the perfect balance of power and sensitivity—key factors when fishing for elusive smallmouth bass in deep water.

How Sponsorship Impacts an Angler’s Success

Sponsorships are more than just logos on a jersey—they’re partnerships that fuel an angler’s career. For Jeff Gustafson, these collaborations provide several key benefits:

Financial Support: Competing in professional tournaments isn’t cheap. Travel, entry fees, and equipment costs add up quickly. Sponsorships help cover these expenses, allowing Gussy to focus on fishing without financial stress.

Access to Premium Gear: Being sponsored by top brands means Gustafson has early access to the latest and greatest in fishing technology. This gives him an edge over the competition by ensuring he’s always equipped with the best gear available.

Increased Exposure: Sponsors promote their anglers across various platforms, from social media to trade shows. This increased exposure helps build Gustafson’s personal brand, making him a recognizable figure in the fishing world. His growing popularity attracts more sponsorship deals, creating a cycle of mutual benefit.

Final Thoughts

Jeff Gustafson’s journey to becoming a Bassmaster Classic champion is a testament to his hard work, talent, and the unwavering support of his sponsors. From top-tier gear provided by Shimano and Bagley Baits to essential tools from Aqua-Vu and dependable performance from Mercury, these partnerships play a critical role in his ongoing success.

As Gussy continues to compete at the highest level, it’s clear that his sponsors will remain vital allies in his quest for more titles. To follow Jeff Gustafson’s fishing adventures and keep up with his latest achievements, check out his Instagram for updates and behind-the-scenes content.

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Announcing the Latest Custom-Painted Bait Collaboration with Greenfish Tackle: Exclusive SPRO RkCrawler Colors

Bass anglers and bait enthusiasts, get ready! The highly anticipated new round of custom-painted baits from Greenfish Tackle is here, featuring exclusive SPRO RkCrawler colors designed to elevate your fishing game. This collaboration has garnered a loyal following for its innovative designs and striking aesthetics, and this latest release promises to be no different. With the introduction of two stunning new colors—BOT Blue and Red Wave—SPRO and Greenfish Tackle are giving anglers even more reasons to get excited.

Introducing the Custom-Painted Bait Series

History of the Collaboration with Greenfish Tackle

The partnership between Best On Tour and Greenfish Tackle began as a passion project aimed at bringing unique, hand-crafted designs to high-performance fishing baits. Greenfish Tackle, known for its craftsmanship and attention to detail, has long specialized in creating custom-painted baits that look great and perform exceptionally well on the water.

Since the beginning, the collaboration has resulted in several limited-edition releases, with each round selling out quickly due to high demand. Anglers love these baits for their premium finishes and exclusive patterns that give them an edge when targeting highly pressured fish. This latest round of custom-painted SPRO RkCrawlers continues the tradition, combining form and function in a way that appeals to serious anglers and collectors alike.

Overview of the New Exclusive Colors: BOT Blue and Red Wave

For this release, SPRO and Greenfish Tackle have introduced two bold new colors:

BOT Blue

This color pattern features a subtle blue underbelly with a red/brown back for an easy target. Designed for clear to slightly stained water, BOT Blue excels in mimicking crawfish during pre-spawn and post-spawn periods when bass are actively feeding. The belly of the bait also features a pale green area to provide additional contrast and realism.

Red Wave

Red Wave, on the other hand, is all about making a statement in murky or stained water. Its fiery red body, complemented by dark stripes, imitates crawfish during early spring—prime time for targeting aggressive bass. The darkened back provides contrast that helps it stand out in low-visibility conditions, making it ideal for dirty water or overcast days.

Both of these new patterns are meticulously painted, ensuring every bait meets the high-quality standard that Greenfish Tackle is known for. The attention to detail and unique designs make these baits not only effective but also highly collectible.

Features and Benefits of SPRO RkCrawler

Design Elements and Functionality

The SPRO RkCrawler is already a favorite among anglers for its incredible design and functionality. Developed by professional angler Mike McClelland, this crankbait is built for tough conditions where a lifelike crawfish imitation can trigger big bites.

Key design features include:

  • Steep Diving Angle: This unique design helps the RkCrawler maintain bottom contact at depths of 9 to 14 feet, creating the kind of erratic action that bass find irresistible.
  • Wide Wobble Action: The bait’s wide hunting action closely mimics the movement of a fleeing crawfish, making it perfect for rocky bottoms and areas where bass are feeding heavily on bottom-dwelling prey.
  • Durable Bill Design: The strong, angled bill allows the bait to deflect off cover and rocks without losing action, increasing its longevity and making it ideal for fishing heavy structure.

Whether you’re fishing pre-spawn bass around rock ledges or working a deep point during post-spawn, the SPRO RkCrawler is designed to deliver consistent results. The new custom colors enhance its appeal by offering patterns that stand out in a variety of water conditions.

Target Fish Species and Conditions

The SPRO RkCrawler excels when targeting largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass—especially in rocky, shallow-to-mid-depth environments. Its natural crawfish profile makes it a go-to choice for:

  • Pre-spawn bass fishing: When bass begin staging near rocky areas in preparation for the spawn, the RkCrawler’s lifelike crawfish action can trigger aggressive strikes.
  • Cold-water conditions: Thanks to its wide wobble and ability to maintain bottom contact, it’s also highly effective during the late fall and early spring when water temperatures are lower.
  • Stained to murky water: The bold new color patterns make the bait an excellent choice in waters with reduced visibility, helping bass zero in on the lure even in tough conditions.

Availability and Purchasing Details

If you’re eager to get your hands on these exclusive custom-painted SPRO RkCrawlers, don’t wait too long. As with previous collaborations, stock is limited, and these baits are expected to sell out quickly.

You can purchase them directly from Greenfish Tackle, both online and through select retail partners. Due to the limited nature of this release, once these baits are gone, they’re gone for good. Anglers and collectors alike are encouraged to act fast to secure their favorites before the fishing community snaps them up.

Final Thoughts

The latest round of custom-painted SPRO RkCrawlers from Greenfish Tackle is a testament to the growing demand for high-quality, unique fishing baits that combine top-tier performance with eye-catching designs. Whether you’re an angler looking to up your game on the water or a collector seeking exclusive baits, BOT Blue and Red Wave offer something special for everyone.

With SPRO’s trusted RkCrawler design and Greenfish Tackle’s unparalleled artistry, this collaboration is sure to be a hit among bass anglers. Don’t miss your chance to own a piece of this exclusive release—these baits are destined to become staples in tackle boxes and prized additions to collections alike.

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Introducing the “How We Do-it On the Water” Video Series: Custom Tackle Modifications by Do-it Molds

Do-it Molds, a trusted name in the fishing industry, has launched an exciting new video series titled “How We Do-it On the Water”, aimed at helping anglers of all skill levels master custom tackle modifications. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a tournament pro, this series promises practical insights that can take your fishing game to the next level. Customizing your tackle is one of the most effective ways to adapt to changing conditions and outsmart finicky fish, and Do-it Molds is here to show you how to do it right.

About the “How We Do-it On the Water” Series

Goals of the Series: Educating Anglers on Tackle Modifications

The primary goal of the “How We Do-it On the Water” series is to educate anglers on the art of custom tackle modifications. While off-the-shelf lures and rigs can be effective, every seasoned angler knows that fine-tuning your tackle for specific conditions often yields better results. This series walks viewers through simple yet effective modifications that can enhance lure performance, increase hookups, and give anglers a competitive edge.

Do-it Molds has long been a pioneer in the DIY fishing tackle space, offering molds, components, and tools that allow anglers to craft custom jigs, sinkers, and soft plastics. With this video series, they’re taking things a step further by demonstrating how to optimize and tweak tackle for real-world scenarios on the water.

Platforms: YouTube, Do-it Molds Website, Social Media

The series is available on multiple platforms, ensuring anglers can access the content wherever they are. Full episodes are posted on YouTube and the Do-it Molds website, while shorter clips, tips, and behind-the-scenes content are shared on social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook. This multi-platform approach allows viewers to engage with the content in various formats, whether they’re looking for a quick tip or a full-length tutorial.

Key Topics Covered in the Series

Rig Adjustments for Various Conditions

One of the core focuses of the series is teaching anglers how to adjust their rigs for different water conditions. Whether you’re fishing clear water, murky lakes, or fast-moving rivers, modifying your tackle can make a huge difference in how fish respond. Some of the key rig adjustments covered include:

  • Altering jig skirts to match the forage of the lake you are fishing.
  • Adding powder paint to fine-tune your bait colors.
  • Modifying soft plastic lures by adding scent, trimming tails, or adjusting buoyancy for a more natural action.

By demonstrating these techniques on the water, the series provides a hands-on, practical learning experience that viewers can immediately apply to their own fishing trips.

How to Stay Connected

Subscription and Episode Updates

Staying connected with the “How We Do-it On the Water” series is easy. Anglers can subscribe to the Do-it Molds YouTube channel to get notifications whenever a new episode drops. Additionally, signing up for the newsletter on the Do-it Molds website ensures that you’ll receive updates about upcoming episodes, product releases, and special offers.

Do-it Molds also encourages viewers to engage by leaving comments, sharing their own tackle modification stories, and suggesting topics for future episodes. This interactive approach makes the series a community-driven initiative where anglers can learn not just from Do-it Molds experts, but from each other as well.

Social Media Handles and Links

For those who prefer bite-sized content, Do-it Molds regularly posts quick tips, sneak peeks, and episode highlights on their social media channels. Follow them on:

Instagram: @doit_molds

Facebook: @doitfishing 

YouTube: Do-it Molds

These platforms offer a great way to stay connected with the community, catch up on missed episodes, and get inspired by other anglers’ custom tackle creations.

Final Thoughts

The “How We Do-it On the Water” video series by Do-it Molds is an invaluable resource for anglers looking to take their fishing to the next level. By combining expert instruction with real-world demonstrations, the series empowers viewers to get creative with their tackle and fine-tune their approach for any fishing scenario. Whether you’re new to custom tackle or a seasoned angler looking for fresh ideas, this series offers something for everyone.

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A Technical Guide to Using Glide Baits with Forward-Facing Sonar: Bryan New’s Pro Tips

Glide baits have surged in popularity among serious bass anglers, especially in conjunction with forward-facing sonar. This pairing is a lethal combination, allowing anglers to find fish in real time and coax them into biting with the mesmerizing action of glide baits. Elite Series pro Bryan New is a well-known advocate of this tactic, offering valuable insight into how to fine-tune your glide bait game for maximum success. This guide will explore the intricacies of glide baits, forward-facing sonar, and Bryan New’s proven techniques.

Understanding Glide Baits and Forward-Facing Sonar

What Are Glide Baits, and How Do They Work?

Glide baits are a type of swimbait designed to mimic the natural swimming action of large baitfish. Unlike multi-jointed swimbaits that have a rapid, repetitive motion, glide baits feature a single-jointed body that produces a wide, sweeping side-to-side action. This slow, deliberate movement triggers strikes from big, often wary bass that are reluctant to hit faster-moving lures.

One of the key advantages of glide baits is their ability to stay in the strike zone longer. Because they glide in an exaggerated arc rather than a straight line, they present a tantalizing target that’s difficult for bass to resist. Pausing between retrieves allows the bait to suspend momentarily, mimicking a wounded fish—an irresistible signal to opportunistic predators.

Overview of Forward-Facing Sonar Technology

Forward-facing sonar (such as Garmin LiveScope, Lowrance ActiveTarget, and Humminbird MEGA Live) has transformed how anglers locate and target fish. Unlike traditional sonar that only shows what’s beneath the boat, forward-facing sonar offers a real-time view of what’s happening in front of you. This allows anglers to visually track individual fish and even watch how they react to a lure in real time.

When paired with a glide bait, forward-facing sonar helps anglers maintain the right presentation and depth, making it possible to adjust their approach on the fly. The ability to observe how fish are responding—whether they’re curious, neutral, or actively feeding—provides invaluable feedback for fine-tuning your technique.

Bryan New’s Techniques for Effective Glide Bait Use

Elite Series pro Bryan New has been vocal about his success using glide baits with forward-facing sonar, emphasizing precision and adaptability. Here’s a breakdown of his go-to tactics:

Using Cylinder-Style Drop Shot Weights

One of Bryan New’s signature techniques involves adding cylinder-style drop shot weights to his glide bait setup. These weights help him maintain precise depth control, especially when targeting suspended bass. By attaching a small, removable weight near the head of the glide bait, New ensures that the lure stays in the desired strike zone, whether he’s fishing over submerged structure or chasing open-water schools.

This approach is particularly useful in deeper water, where glide baits naturally tend to rise during the retrieve. The added weight counters this buoyancy, allowing for a more consistent presentation and reducing the likelihood of the bait drifting too high above the fish.

Modifications for Better Bait Depth Control

In addition to using weights, Bryan New also makes subtle modifications to his glide baits to improve their performance. For example, he may shave down the tail slightly to alter the bait’s glide distance or tweak the hook placement to fine-tune the lure’s balance.

These small changes can make a big difference, especially when dealing with finicky bass that follow but don’t commit. Adjusting the action to create a tighter or wider glide can trigger more aggressive strikes, particularly when fish are suspended and closely watching the bait’s movement.

Additional Tips for Mastering Glide Bait Fishing

Choosing the Right Bait

While there are countless glide baits on the market, Bryan New often relies on the SPRO KGB Chad Shad for its realistic profile and smooth gliding action. This bait stands out because of its lifelike design, which closely resembles large forage species like gizzard shad—a primary food source for big bass.

When selecting a glide bait, consider the forage base in your local waters. Match the size, color, and profile of the bait to what the bass are feeding on, whether it’s shad, bluegill, or even trout.

Adapting to Different Water Conditions

Water clarity plays a huge role in glide bait success. Glide baits are most effective in clear to moderately stained water, where their visual appeal can entice fish from a distance. In murkier water, opt for baits with added flash or a more pronounced side-to-side action to help bass locate them more easily.

Additionally, wind and current can influence the action of your glide bait. In windy conditions, it’s important to use slightly heavier gear or weights to maintain better control and prevent the bait from being pushed off course.

Final Tips from the Pros

One of the most important lessons Bryan New emphasizes is the value of experimentation. Every day on the water is different, and factors such as weather, water temperature, and bass behavior can all influence how glide baits perform. Don’t be afraid to make adjustments—whether it’s adding or removing weights, altering the retrieve speed, or even changing the bait entirely.

For those just starting out, Bryan recommends keeping things simple: start with a well-balanced glide bait, practice your retrieves, and learn to read your sonar. As you gain experience, you can begin experimenting with more advanced techniques like adding weights or customizing baits.

Conclusion

Using glide baits in conjunction with forward-facing sonar is a game-changing tactic that can help anglers target big bass with precision. Thanks to pros like Bryan New, we have a deeper understanding of how to fine-tune this approach for real-world success. Whether it’s adding cylinder-style weights, choosing the right glide bait, or adapting to varying conditions, mastering these techniques can elevate your fishing game to new heights.

With tools like forward-facing sonar offering unprecedented insight into fish behavior, glide bait fishing has become a truly interactive experience. So next time you’re on the water, give Bryan New’s techniques a try—you just might find yourself hooking into the fish of a lifetime.

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Highlights from the 2024 Bassmaster Classic Expo: Rick Clunn’s Commemorative Booth Steals the Show

2024 Bassmaster Cassic Rick Clunn

The 2024 Bassmaster Classic Expo was an event for the books, drawing tens of thousands of anglers and fans to celebrate all things bass fishing. This year’s expo delivered a unique blend of nostalgia, innovation, and star power, with legendary angler Rick Clunn’s commemorative booth taking center stage. From exclusive collectibles to heartfelt fan interactions, the expo buzzed with excitement. Whether you were there for the latest gear or just to brush shoulders with fishing icons, the 2024 expo didn’t disappoint. Let’s dive into the key highlights.

Overview of the 2024 Bassmaster Classic Expo

Held in Tulsa, Oklahoma, the 2024 Bassmaster Classic Expo was more than just a pre-tournament event—it was a fishing extravaganza that brought together enthusiasts, industry leaders, and pro anglers under one roof. With sprawling exhibitor spaces and lively demo areas, visitors got hands-on experience with cutting-edge fishing gear, apparel, and accessories. The air was thick with excitement as attendees roamed between booths showcasing everything from premium rods and reels to the latest sonar technology.

Key attractions included live seminars from top anglers, product demos in casting pools, and interactive games for kids, making it a family-friendly event. The overall atmosphere was electric, thanks in no small part to the lineup of fishing legends and innovators who brought their expertise and charisma to the event.

Rick Clunn’s Booth: A Commemorative Experience

The heart of the expo for many was Rick Clunn’s commemorative booth, which celebrated his monumental 50 years of competitive bass fishing. Clunn, a four-time Bassmaster Classic champion and a true icon of the sport, pulled out all the stops for his fans with a booth that was as much a tribute to his legacy as it was a treasure trove of exclusive memorabilia.

Limited Edition Collectibles

One of the major highlights was the range of limited-edition items available for purchase. Fans could get their hands on uniquely designed blanket-style hats, beautifully crafted with embroidered logos commemorating Clunn’s five decades in the sport. Perhaps the most sought-after pieces were the minted collectible coins, which featured Rick Clunn’s signature and a key quote from his career. These coins were produced in limited batches, making them a prized addition for fishing memorabilia collectors.

Another hot item was a line of exclusive topwater baits, handpicked by Clunn himself. Known for his mastery of topwater techniques, Clunn collaborated with lure makers to produce custom designs inspired by some of his favorite baits. 

Rick Clunn’s Interaction with Fans

What made Rick Clunn’s booth truly special was Clunn’s personal engagement with attendees. Throughout the expo, he could be seen signing autographs, posing for photos, and sharing stories from his storied career. Fans of all ages, from seasoned tournament anglers to youngsters dreaming of their first big catch, gathered around to hear him speak about his philosophies on fishing and life. His down-to-earth demeanor and genuine love for the sport were on full display, making the booth a standout experience.

Special Appearances and Honors

Another unforgettable aspect of the expo was the series of special appearances by some of bass fishing’s most legendary figures. The main stage was graced by Johnny Morris, founder of Bass Pro Shops, who shared stories of how he built a retail empire that fueled the passion of millions of anglers. Bob Cobb, the original producer of the Bassmaster TV series, was also present, offering reflections on how the sport has evolved over the years.

Perhaps the most nostalgic moment came when Bill Dance, complete with his signature orange and white University of Tennessee hat, took the stage to reminisce about his long friendship with Rick Clunn and their shared experiences on the water. These appearances not only paid tribute to the legends of bass fishing but also served as a reminder of how far the sport has come.

Other Noteworthy Booths and Innovations

While Rick Clunn’s commemorative booth was a highlight, the 2024 Bassmaster Classic Expo featured many other exciting exhibits and innovations. Emerging companies made waves by showcasing new products and gear innovations designed to enhance the angling experience.

One standout was the Gamakatsu Nano Alpha Horizon Head jigs designed and successfully utilized in Japan for the popular mid-strolling technique. Established brands like Shimano, Daiwa, and Berkley also revealed their latest offerings, from high-performance reels to custom soft baits tailored for specific fishing conditions. Attendees were particularly impressed by the selection of FFS minnows hitting the market as livescope and other technologies dominate the professional fishing scene.

Final Thoughts

The 2024 Bassmaster Classic Expo was a fitting prelude to one of the biggest tournaments in professional bass fishing. Rick Clunn’s commemorative booth stood out not just for its exclusive collectibles but for its celebration of a storied career that has inspired generations of anglers. Combined with appearances from legendary figures, cutting-edge gear innovations, and a vibrant atmosphere, this year’s expo proved why it remains a must-attend event for fishing enthusiasts.

For those who couldn’t make it, there’s always next year. But for now, anglers everywhere are already putting some of those new products—and inspiration from the pros—into action on the water.

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Best On Tour Gift Guide 2024 – Best Gifts for Bass Anglers

Whether you’re shopping for seasoned pros or hobbyists, these gifts will elevate their fishing game and keep them comfortable during those long days on the water. Here’s a breakdown of some perfect presents for the fishing enthusiast in your life:

AFTCO Reaper Sweatshirt

The AFTCO Reaper is perfect for anglers who need both warmth and stealth during those chilly early mornings or long days on the water.This isn’t your average sweatshirt! The AFTCO Reaper features ultra-soft 100% polyester microfleece fabric that will keep any fisherman cozy in cold weather. What sets it apart is its built-in face mask and neck warmer, perfect for protecting against the wind. With laser-cut underarm ventilation, quiet pocket closures, and a hood anchoring system, it’s designed with serious fishing performance in mind. Ideal for anyone who spends a lot of time outdoors, whether on the lake or out at sea.

Do-It Molds Flash Series Skirts

The Do-It Molds Flash Series Skirts are great for anglers who love customizing their jigs for the perfect presentation. These Flash Series Skirts from Do-It Molds are a must-have for any fisherman who wants to add extra flash to their lures. With pre-banded colors and Flashabou™ strands, these skirts make every jig more attractive to fish. Whether it’s for swim jigs, flipping jigs, or spinnerbaits, the added flash can help make all the difference in attracting fish. A great stocking stuffer for any fisherman who loves to tweak and fine-tune their tackle box.

Sunline Almight Sinking Braided Line

If you’re looking for a gift that will improve an angler’s performance, Sunline’s Almight Sinking Braided Line is an excellent choice. This unique braided line has a 50% higher specific gravity than traditional braids, helping to reduce line drift and bow caused by wind, offering better lure control and bite detection. Available in two colors for different water conditions (pink for visibility or olive for stealth), this is an ideal addition to any fisherman’s gear—especially those who fish in deep water with spinning reels and finesse tactics.

Sunline Camo Line Storage Bag

This is the ideal gift for the organized angler who needs a reliable, protective way to store multiple fishing lines. Keeping fishing line organized and protected is key, and this Camo Line Storage Bag from Sunline is a top pick. The padded bag protects lines from damage and harmful UV rays, ensuring longer-lasting performance. With adjustable dividers and elastic bands for securing bulk spools, it helps keep everything tidy, even on the roughest fishing trips.

Denali Kovert Tungsten Weights

Tungsten is known for its high density and sensitivity, and Denali’s Kovert Tungsten weights take it to the next level. With a smooth, polished finish that won’t fray your line and options for both flipping and drop shot weights, these are a must-have for bass anglers. The ultra-sensitive nature of tungsten lets you feel even the slightest nibbles, which can make all the difference on the water.

Gamakatsu G-Case 3000

Do you need a durable, customizable tackle storage solution?  The Gamakatsu G-Case 3000 is a premium tackle box designed for both freshwater and saltwater fishing. Made from durable plastic, it features customizable dividers, a hinged lid that creates a work surface, and a large handle for easy transport. It’s a top-tier storage solution that helps keep lures, hooks, and terminal tackle organized and easily accessible.

SPRO RkCrawler Crankbait Casting Rod

Anglers looking for a top-tier rod designed for precision casting need not look any further! For the serious angler, the SPRO RkCrawler Crankbait Casting Rod is a standout. Its 7’2″ medium action design is ideal for crankbaits, offering incredible sensitivity and accuracy. The Fuji components ensure high durability, while the full cork grip provides a comfortable casting experience. This rod is built to perform whether you’re fishing from a boat or along the shore. A fantastic gift for those who appreciate quality gear.

Gift Cards for Fishing Gear

The angler who has everything but could use a personalized shopping experience, can always use a gift card from one of their favorite brands.  If you’re unsure of what specific item to buy or if you want the recipient to choose their own gear, consider a gift card to their favorite outdoor or fishing retailer. This allows them to pick out exactly what they need, whether it’s a new rod, tackle, or accessories. Many outdoor stores offer gift cards in a variety of denominations, making it a flexible and thoughtful gift.

Whether you’re buying for a hardcore angler who loves high-performance gear or a casual fisherman who enjoys a relaxing day on the water, there’s something in this guide that will make their holiday special. From functional gifts like the AFTCO Reaper Sweatshirt and Sunline ALMIGHT line to thoughtful accessories like the Gamakatsu G-Case, or the SPRO RkCrawler Crankbait Rod, these items are sure to enhance any angler’s experience.

Happy fishing and happy holidays!

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Bassmaster Elite Series St Lawrence River 2024 Fantasy Picks

The ninth and final stop of the 2024 Bassmaster Elite Series season is at the infamous St. Lawrence River in Waddington, New York. We have seen several record-breaking weights the previous two times that the Elites have visited there. Before forward-facing sonar was as big of a deal as it is now, we saw anglers able to compete with largemouth on this fishery. The previous two times the Elites have visited there, however, the tournament launched from the city of Clayton which is only about 20 miles from the mouth of Lake Ontario where many of the big bags of smallmouth come from. This year the tournament is launching out of Waddington which is over 80 miles of river from the lake. This could give many other anglers a shot at competing knowing that there likely won’t be many anglers run to the lake, especially if it is windy. We will see finesse lures like drop shots, ned rigs, hair jigs, swimbaits, and neko rigs produce the most success for anglers.

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Bassmaster Elite Series Lake Champlain 2024 Fantasy Picks

We are one week away from the 8th stop of the Bassmaster Elite Series on Lake Champlain in Plattsburgh, New York. This is the beginning of the northern swing that consists of the final two Elite Series tournaments of the season. The Elites have visited Plattsburgh and Lake Champlain 4 times in the last 7 seasons. Each time it seems like there is a mix between largemouth and smallmouth that play a role. Lake Champlain is such a versatile fishery where an angler can choose from many different techniques to get the job done. We will without a doubt see anglers have success with finesse presentations like drop shots, ned rigs, neko rigs, and Damiki/strolling rigs, but we could also see more power fishing techniques play a role such as topwater baits, jerkbaits, and flipping and pitching jigs/creature baits. We will suggest two anglers per bucket based on their strengths, momentum, tournament history on Lake Champlain, and more!

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Bassmaster Elite Series Smith Lake 2024 Fantasy Picks

We are one week away from the 7th stop of the Bassmaster Elite Series on Smith Lake in Cullman, Alabama. While the Elite Series has never been to this destination, the Bassmaster Opens has visited there several times, the last time being in October of 2021. We will likely see topwater walking baits playing a role for schooling bass along with swimbaits, shakey heads, jigs, drop shots, and the “jig head/minnow” forward-facing sonar technique. Smith Lake is full of big largemouth, but the main species is spotted bass as they roam around eating blueback herring. We will suggest two anglers per bucket based on their strengths, momentum, tournament history on Smith Lake and other blueback herring/spotted bass fisheries, and more! Let’s dive into it!

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Bassmaster Elite Series Wheeler Lake Fantasy Picks

We are one week away from the 6th stop of the Bassmaster Elite Series on Wheeler Lake in Decatur, Alabama. The last time the Elite Series has visited this Tennessee River impoundment was in late April/early May of 2016. This will be a different fishery this time around as many of the bigger schools of bass will be on deep offshore structure. We will see anglers have success with lures such as deep diving crankbaits, big worms and jigs, drop shots, swimbaits, spoons, and hair jigs. And of course, we will most likely see the “jig head/minnow” with forward facing sonar play a role for suspended bass. We will suggest two anglers per bucket based on their strengths, momentum, tournament history on Tennessee River impoundments, and more! Let’s dive into it! Read more

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