Goods & Gear

BY RANDY WOODS

Looking for a salty bit of crunch that actually helps the marine environment? California-based 12 Tides takes organically farmed ocean kelp from a small-scale regenerative aquaculture company and bakes them into tasty, protein-rich, gluten-free puffed chips. Using kelp for food is considered a “zero input” form of farming, requiring no pesticides or fertilizers, and having no impact on arable land or fresh-water resources. To help complete the consumption circle, 12 Tides also donates 1% of its proceeds to support restoration of endangered Pacific Ocean kelp forests. Available on three flavors: sea salt, chile pepper, and “everything.”

The collapsible hybrid Karve Kayak from Paddle North makes it easy to get out on the water with minimal bulk and set-up time. The 12’ model can be propelled either standing up, like a paddleboard, or sitting down, like a standard kayak. The larger 14’ model is large enough for two paddlers and can hold up to 600 pounds. Weighing just 32 pounds and made of military-grade, drop-stitch PVC, the Karve, when inflated, is remarkably rigid and durable, and moves efficiently through the water with speed and maneuverability; currently available for pre-ordering for delivery by late May.

No matter what sweet fishing spot you visit, you must protect your gear as much as you keep the location secret. This sturdy rod tube bag from Filson will surely tackle the job. The lightweight tube has enough room for up to six 9-foot, four-piece fishing rods, and the hard plastic case is covered in 500D Cordura ripstop nylon and can be accessed via a two-way coated zipper. The endcaps are also wrapped in padding for extra protection. The tough nylon-webbing handle and removable, adjustable shoulder strap makes it easy to carry to remote areas in sunshine or nasty weather.

There are very few energy sources in this world that emit water vapor as effluent; one is a space-age device called a fuel cell, based on technology similar to what was used by NASA to power the Apollo moon missions. Now, this super-efficient and environmentally friendly generator can be used to power your next boat excursion. Using liquid methanol and water as a feedstock, the EFOY Comfort fuel-cell system generates electricity as the methanol reacts to oxygen in the ambient air, which keeps your batteries charged and produces nothing more than water and a tiny amount of carbon dioxide. For added safety, the integrated charge regulator constantly monitors the charge status of 12- or 24-volt batteries, allowing the fuel cell to switch itself on automatically and off again once the battery is charged. $4,699 // available from Fisheries

For those living in the Pacific Northwest, there’s a communal feeling of togetherness in our connection to the region’s natural beauty, whether you live in the Evergreen State, the Beaver State, the Gem State, Big Sky Country, or the Last Frontier. To find a way to capture this shared spirit, Spokane-based outdoor apparel company The Great PNW created the Freestone Flag, depicting the area’s crystal blue waters, forest green woods, and sunset-tinted mountains on a black background. Made of sublimated polyester, the flag measures 3’ x 5’ and includes two heavy-duty grommets for hanging. Show you pride for the “Upper Left” by flying these attractive colors on your next boating trip. $29.99

For that special someone sharing your life topside, show them how much they mean to you with these nautical-themed, low-profile rings from Maggie Lee Designs. The Rope Knot ring, made of medium 14K yellow or white gold, features a classic full square knot of twisted rope, signifying your shared love of the open water. Customization is available to add a gemstone and sturdy bezel. Also, there’s a Rope and Anchor design, made of 14K yellow, white or rose gold, that can be customized with a gem set in the anchor loop. With either design, they’ll know you’re bound fast to their heart. Rings can be ordered in sizes 4-10. Rope and