SOLAR SAFETY

FISH WITHOUT FEAR FROM THE SUN’S NASTY UV RADIATION WITH THIS PROTECTIVE GEAR

BY THE EDITORS

IT’S NO SECRET the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation poses a sig nificant danger to anglers, even on overcast days—the adverse effects on the skin and eyes accumulate over time, ranging from cosmetic to disabling to deadly. Thankfully, blocking the sun’s harmful rays is simple: diligently apply sunscreen, wear proper sunglasses and keep your skin covered, even when it’s hot out. This new gear for anglers is designed for just that.

BRUSHLINE BUCKET Sunday Afternoons, www.sundayafternoons.ca

Key features: Lightweight, breathable and crushable; water- and stainresistant; mesh ventilation; adjustable sizing; integrated sunglasses holder. The promise: “Keep your head cool and comfortable.” safe for fish and coral; water-resistant; fragrance-free; safe for sensitive skin; won’t sting eyes. The promise: “Protects your body while preserving the ecosystems you love.”

WOMENS REEL ON LEGGINGS (US$70-80)

Huk Gear, www.hukgear.com

Key features: Moisturewicking, anti-microbial and quick-drying stretch fabric; side and waistband pockets; available in five sizes and eight colours. The promise: “Super-soft, comfortable and breathable.”

Lightweight, cooling, breathable and quickdrying polyester-spandex blend; perforated synthetic suede palm; cuff closure. The promise: “Release heat while providing durable grip and protection.”

REEFTON PRO ($340) Costa Del Mar, www.costadelmar.com

Key features: Polarized, scratch-resistant lenses; 100 per cent UV protection; adjustable nose pads; side shields; comes in three frame and six The promise: “Keep your frames on your face, your eyes on the fish.”

ISLAND HOPPER SHIRT (US$109)

Patagonia, www.patagonia.ca

Key features: Cotton and recycled polyester blend; cooling vents; ease of movement when casting; chest pockets; hemostats tab; hidden sunglasses cleaner. The promise: “Hot-weather essential with angling-specific features.”

SPF 15 SUNSCREEN LIP BALM ($7.95) Pelagic, www.pelagicgear.com

Key features: Specifically developed for anglers; protects and moisturizes lips in harsh environments; comes in four flavours. The promise: “Tested by the world’s top sport boat captains.”

SOL TACTICAL HOODY (US$119)

Skwala Fishing, www.skwalafishing.com

Key features: Designed for casting comfort; cooling knit fabric; stretch material in high-wear areas; scubastyle hood; three flush pockets. The promise: “Keeping you cool and protected from UV rays.”

C-TUG R

Made of UV-protected plastic, the C-Tug R cart (US$169.99) is designed to fit a wide variety of kayaks and canoes weighing up to 220 pounds. It features widthadjustable, 20-inch-long, non-slip rails, as well as rubber-tread wheels, stainless steel reinforced axles, and a kickstand. It’s easily disassembled for storage. Railblaza, 1-866-610-7931; www.railblaza.com

BLADE SHARPENER

Leatherman’s handy Blade Sharpener ($19.95) includes a carbide sharpener and ceramic hone for regular blades, and a fine-grit, diamond-coated rod for serrated blades. Impressively, it also lets you tailor how much material you want to remove from your blade, for both light and heavy sharpening jobs. Leatherman, 1-800-847-8665; www.leatherman.ca

RECHARGE

Deluxe Aerator

WOMEN’S ISLE SHIRT (US$74.95)

Simms Fishing Products, www.simmsfishing.com

Key features: Lightweight, woven polyester heather fabric; fast-drying; tailored for a feminine fit; sunglasses chamois; roll-up sleeves; zippered hip pocket. The promise: “Cut for ease of casting movement.”

HONCHO STRETCH UTILITY PANTS (US$79)

Aftco, www.aftco.com

Key features: Water-repellent, two-way stretch material; hand and back pockets; thigh pocket with invisible zipper; reinforced pliers pocket. The promise: “Clean aesthetics with ultimate functionality.” OC

Frabill’s portable ReCharge Deluxe Aerator (US$69.99) can turn any waterproof container into a functional baitwell. Equipped with a water-resistant gasket and anti-backflow check valve, it promises to keep bait alive lon ger. The rechargeable lithium battery offers 45-plus hours of use, making it ideal for shore fishing or fly-in trips. Frabill, www.frabill.com

QUICK SILVER

Available in two sizes and 12 colours, Williams newly redesigned Quick Silver ($6.99) is a proven winner for salmon, as evidenced by the earlier model’s four first-place showings in the Lake Ontario Chinook Classic. And though designed for salmon and trout, the spoon can be equally effective for pike and walleye. Williams, (819) 563-2115; www.williams.ca

BY GEORGE GRUENEFELD

BY MAX DICKINSON

BY GEORGE GRUENEFELD