Holidays are upon us, and coming up with gift ideas for the angler who has everything could be tough. Katie Johnstone and Jessica Suvak-Tran have teamed up with local Ohio fly shops Mad River Outfitters and The Backpackers Shop and a local Columbus company, Scioto Made, to come up with the perfect gift ideas. We love shopping local and supporting small businesses, we encourage others to do the same this Holiday season.
Katie Johnstone picks from Mad River Outfitters
1. FisheWear Leggings
FisheWear is known for their fun and unique leggings. Their leggings are made out of Italian fabric and are super comfortable to wear on and off the water. They can be worn under waders, wet wading and for so much more. They really are a must have! Local shop, Mad River Outfitters, has them in three different patterns: Troutrageous rainbow, floral fish and dolly vee.
2. FisheWear Wading Belt
The FisheWear wading belt is a great way to bring some fun and color to your waders! We have seen women on the water with these belts and they really do brighten your time on the water. Plus, they add a little fashion to your waders!
3. Simms Challenger Jacket
The Simms Challenger Jacket is a technical, waterproof shell that does great on cold, rainy and windy days. It features two interior pockets and three exterior pockets. The hood actually does a solid job when it is raining. It is a great jacket for the boat, but can also be worn under or over waders. It is quickly becoming my favorite jacket.
4. Patagonia Capilene Midweight Bottoms
The Patagonia Capilene Midweight bottom is a nice base layer under waders. The material is smooth and soft, which easily allows you to layer over them. They wick moisture and dry fast which is important for staying warm on the water. They also have a comfortable elastic waist band.
5. OWOTF Sun Shirts & Hats
We teamed up with a local Columbus company, Scioto Made, on OWOTF hats and sun shirts. We were excited to have some merch so people across Ohio can rep the group. We also created this merch as a way to raise funds. A portion of the proceeds come back to OWOTF and will be used for future events and guest speakers.
Jessica Suvak-Trans picks from The Backpackers Shop
1. Vedavoo Mainstream Daypack
Vedavoo was born in Scott Hunters garage where he taught himself how to sew on a classic sail sewing machine. Having grown up in Wyoming, gear he used left him wanting more. That's when he decided to design packs that were more comfortable, versatile, and easier to use in the field. All bags are made in the USA by the most badass staff. I love their Mainstream Daypack. Fold over top with dual compression, large main compartment with pleated internal sleeve, zippered face pocket, heavyweight stretch side pockets (holds beer perfectly), and it's made from cordura nylon and 18oz raft vinyl bottom. This bag is the perfect go-to bag for just about every situation. I adore this company and every little detail and personal touch they put into their product shows. I LOVE YOU VEDAVOO and I will shout it from the TETON TOPS.
2. Xtratuf Women’s Leather 6 in Ankle Deck Boot
No matter what the season or the occasion fishermen require XTRATUF performance while mending nets, maintaining engines or just enjoying life off-the-water. The Boatyard series is a 100% waterproof collection of leather work boots that provide traction, comfort and protection.
The leather version of the beloved Ankle Deck Boot is crafted of saltwater resistant leather that will wear to a fine patina over time. Built for coastal adventures on and off the boat these lightweight silhouettes sport the same XTRATUF non-marking, slip resistant Chevron outsole as their rubber counterparts.
This boot is my go-to before and after fishing shoe. It’s perfect to throw your tired feet into after a long day on the water. I currently own two pairs that I've purchased from The Backpackers Shop and am afraid that I may need more.
3. Smartwool PhD Outdoor
Smartwool PhD Outdoor Pattern Crew features their Indestructawool technology for enhanced durability, their 4 Degree elite fit system for a dialed, performance-oriented fit, and our Virtually Seamless toe for enhanced comfort. These women's hiking socks provide cushioning in leg and under foot for ultimate warmth and protection to help you stay comfortable during a full day of exploring the great outdoors.
I'm not joking when I say that I've tossed all my other socks and strictly wear Smartwool. The addiction of cozy, warm, non-smelly feet started since I bought my first pair at The Backpackers Shop. It's honestly a world of difference.
4. Orvis Ultralight Wading Jacket
Designed specifically to fit women anglers, the Women's Ultralight Wading Jacket offers solid protection against wind and rain that can be carried in a small daypack or even the Guide Sling Pack. Most wading jackets are heavy and bulky, but this new approach to foul weather protection offers more comfort, freedom, and a significant reduction in bulk. Combined with other components of the Orvis Ultralight Wading System, this is an extremely comfortable and streamlined approach to wading and weather. It doesn't have to be heavy to offer great waterproof and windproof protection.
This is my personal wading jacket bought from The Backpackers Shop and it's my go-to rain jacket for any outdoor activity. My favorite feature is how packable and lightweight it is. It’s currently on the sale at The Backpackers Shop and I’m afraid it won’t last long.
5. Free Fly Apparel
I don’t have one favorite item from Free Fly. It's all amazing. Anything you purchase you'll fall in love with. The Backpackers Shop carries the full line up of Free Fly items and it’s hard not to leave the store with all of it. Started by Anglers from their time on the water, they knew that the outdoor industry had a big problem: performance apparel was too complicated and too uncomfortable. That’s how the idea of Free Fly was born. After years of researching fabric blends, they decided to build a new kind of family business that celebrated life on the water. They quit their jobs together to create natural Bamboo apparel that flowed with them through their day, so they could focus on what matters — adventures outside with family and friends. Swing by The Backpackers Shop to purchase or just feel the goodness that Free Fly has to offer.
6. Goodr Sunglasses
This is such a small fun company. While fishing in Wyoming I wore a pair of Goodr Polarized Sunglasses and was able to easily spot fish in the water. The best part is these polarized sunglasses are $30 with a one year warranty. Originally made for endurance athletes, these sunglasses hug the face tighter making it harder for the sunglasses to slip down or off your face. The company is an absolute riot and has so much fun, all their sunglass names are amazingly goofy. Make sure to check out their website for some giggles and stop into The Backpacker Shop to find your perfect fit.
7. Fishpond Nets
I’m 89% sure that I catch 25% more fish now that I have a Fishpond net. I hope those percentages check out. I personally have the Nomad Mid-Length El Jefe Net. It’s the perfect size for lake run Steelhead and will officially make you the go-to fish netter while out on the water with friends.
Nomad River Armor edition nets are constructed with a core of carbon fiber and fiberglass, and an outer layer of woven DuPontTM Kevlar fiber and carbon fiber. The result is an extremely strong net with enhanced durability. This composition was designed with the boulder-hopping bushwhackers in mind. River Armor is available in the Mid-Length, Emerger, and El Jefe sizes.
We hope you find this little holiday guide useful. All Items mentioned can be found at Mad River Outfitters and The Backpackers Shop. We know this year has been tough and want to send everyone all the positive vibes and holiday cheers. Stay safe this Holiday season.
Tight Lines,
Katie Johnstone & Jessica Suvak-Tran
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