Fishing for the perfect gift for Dad this Father’s Day? We’ve got a list of fishing must-haves for the Dad on your list.
This year, give Dad a gift that will make him smile on the water. These gift ideas are sure to put a smile on Dad’s face and inspire more time on the water.
The fishing gifts have passed the GearJunkie test, whether for superior quality, affordability, and usability. We’re sure you won’t go wrong with these Father’s Day gift ideas.
Fishing Gifts for the Angler in Your Life
Free Fly Bamboo Lightweight Hoody
Fishing hoodies have become a staple piece of gear for anglers around the world. Like all good fishing hoodies, this one offers sun protection (UPF 20) and elastic thumb holes to keep hands from getting burned.
This take from Free Fly mixes bamboo viscose and polyester fabric to help wick moisture on hot days and to help sleeves dry after handling fish. It comes in nine colors, so you’re sure to find something that’ll work. If you’re looking for something a little heavier and warmer, be sure to look at the Bamboo Crossover Hoody.
One of our testers has been using this lightweight hoody for spring fly fishing and loves the color and feel. The fabric is incredibly soft, and it feels great all day.
He can attest to the lightweight fabric keeping him cool and dry while hiking stream banks and fishing from a kayak. Plus, the crossover hood design fits tightly around the neck to keep the sun and bugs at bay.
Patagonia R1 TechFace Jacket
Fishing can require a decent amount of tromping through brush and trees, so equip the dad in your life with the Patagonia R1 TechFace Jacket. Similar to Patagonia’s Regulator fleece, the R1 sets itself apart for its abrasion and weather resistance. It is Fair Trade Certified and made from recycled polyester, spandex, Bluesign system, and fluorinated, durable water-repellent coating.
Our team has tested the R1 and the R2, and they recommend gifting the Patagonia R2 Techface Jacket (and the R2 TechFace Pants) if they’re looking for something a little warmer in nature. You can rest easy knowing the jacket can withstand more “type 2” fun without worry.
Both options come in an array of colors and are equipped with zipper pockets for security. They can also be worn for other outdoor adventures as well.
Dad will look good in town and be ready for rowdy adventures chasing fish with either the R1 or the R2 Techface Jacket.
Simms G3 Guide Waders
Gift the fishing dad in your life some new and improved waders with the Simms G3 Guide Wader. Simms says that for 2022, it updated the material and fit, making the G3 Wader 33% more breathable and 23% more puncture resistant than previous models.
This wader is proudly made in Montana with a proprietary GORE-TEX fabric package that includes patented front and back leg seams, built-in gravel guards, and an adjustable spacer air-mesh suspender system that provides unique fit options for each individual.
The waders also have a top-access zipper pocket, a reach-through fleece-lined pocket that functions as a hand warmer, and an integrated webbing attach point for a net — so he’ll be ready for Mother Nature and his next big catch.
Finally, the Simms G3 waders have a Microban antimicrobial finish that inhibits the growth of odor-causing bacteria to keep them stink-free.
Orvis Wader Mud Room
For dads who like to stay clean and organized, this Orvis Wader Mud Room is really helpful. This Mud Room folds out to work as a “floor” to stand on while changing. From there, he can wrap up wet and muddy boots and waders and then toss them in the car. Gone are the days of shoving waders into a plastic bag or messing up a nice duffel.
A few staff used the Mud Room on an especially muddy steelhead fishing trip this spring, and can confirm it’s a slick product that keeps things tidy.
The brand notes that it is not the proper way to store boots and waders long-term, so kindly remind Dad to take them out to hang dry once he’s home.
Orvis PRO Underwader Pants
The Orvis PRO Underwader Pants have a premium feel, with a high-pile fleece interior for warmth, stirrup straps to prevent legs from riding up, side zip vents for increased ventilation, and an athletic fit for style when worn outside of the waders in non-fishing environments.
Our team has fished, hiked, worked, and enjoyed campfires in these pants over the last year. The adventurers in your life will love their versatility as much as we do. New this year, Orvis also has a PRO LT version of these pants, which is a lighter version of the PRO that works well in milder temps.
Tacky Fly Boxes
If you’re shopping for someone who likes to fly fish, you won’t find better fly boxes than these. The difference is that the fly pad is made of silicone and doesn’t get torn up by hooks, so it should last a long time. They come in a variety of sizes.
If you’re unsure what to get, the Tacky Original Fly Box ($30) is a sure favorite. For a large box that carries a variety of fly sizes check out the Pescador.
Patagonia Swiftcurrent Expedition Waders
Described as “uniquely designed and burly” by one of the GearJunkie staff, the Swiftcurrent Expedition Waders are Patagonia’s most feature-rich wader offering that should get years and years of use from Dad. With their adjustable, quick-release suspender system and extended sizes, this wader is bound to fit anyone on your list. They feature an interior waterproof pocket, a handwarmer pocket with zip flaps, and anatomical booties.
While fishing this spring, one dad on staff noted how much he liked the suspenders. They are comfy and slide down to the hips to cool off on hot days or when he needed to use the bathroom. Designed for fit, mobility, and durability, these waders are sure to stand up to any task Dad can put them through.
Dermatone Reef-Friendly Mineral Sunscreen
Protecting Dad from the UV rays on the water or on the banks is important. So is protecting the waters he fishes from harmful chemicals. Lucky for us, you can do both with Dermatone’s Reef-Friendly Mineral Sunscreen. This sunscreen comes in a variety of SPF protection levels that the brand says aren’t thick or pasty. It has antioxidants to protect against his skin from early aging and provides broad-spectrum protection with some added moisturizer for hydration.
This version is TSA friendly and easy to pack, so he can rest easy even when a fishing trip takes him across the country or the world. It also comes in a stick version for easy application.
Orvis Chest Pack
Having quick access to gear while fishing can be crucial to Dad’s success on the water, so check out the Orvis Chest Pack. With 4 L of capacity, this chest pack has lots of pockets and features. And when we say lots, we mean lots.
It includes a tippet whippet docking station that can hold up to six spools, a large main compartment with top access, a zippered security pocket for a key fob, front and side mesh pockets, two external side pockets, and last but certainly not least, backwall slip pockets including one with a zinger/nipper pass-through port.
This pack is made from 100% recycled ECO CORDURA fabric, which should hold up to the abuse it’ll get year after year on the water.
O'Pros Driftless Dry Fly Fishing Net
For all his fly fishing catches, consider gifting the dad in your life with the O’Pros Driftless Dry Fly Net. In a unique twist, the 9-inch handle is made of a hockey stick shaft and is made from carbon and fiberglass. The bag is made of fish-friendly rubber and has a wide aluminum hoop. It also comes in two different bag depths (12 inches or 16 inches) to fit their needs.
You can add a carrying bag so he can access all the necessities in one. The brand says it is big enough to fit the net and a few rod tubes. O’Pros offers some larger net options if he needs them. And, be sure to check out the brand’s top-selling product, the 3rd Hand Rod Holder.
Bajio Caballo Sunglasses
Prevent the dad in your life from squinting through their next fishing trip with sunglasses by Bajio. These glasses fall under the maximum coverage category, and the frame is made from bio-based nylon, which Bajio says will stand up to years of heavy use.
The frame also has contact points on the nose and temples to keep them on his nose instead of in the water. Its polarized lenses and blue-light-blocking LAPIS technology work well both on the water and off.
Two GearJunkie team members have tried these, and they saw great clarity with their rose mirror lens. They come in multiple lens and frame options, so you can find the best-suited pair for the dad in your life.
Bajio is 100% carbon neutral and focused heavily on sustainability and fair trade labor — focusing on everything from cactus leather glasses cases to environmentally friendly shipping and packaging. You can rest easy knowing you’re buying quality products and supporting a business that cares about our oceans and our planet.
The Bajio Chelem are another great option for a Dad who loves to chase fish.
Patagonia Stealth Hip Pack
Made for the fly fisherman in your life, the Patagonia Stealth Hip Pack will hold 11L worth of gear to keep organized and ready. The brand says this pack is lightweight and water-resistant and offers enough space to keep fly boxes organized.
What’s more, the pack offers a number of zippered pockets on the belt strap to secure smaller items, and it also has multiple D-rings, docking stations, and sleeves. There are even magnets to keep flies, nippers, or hemos quickly accessible.
If you’re looking for a pack to gift for longer days on the water, Patagonia makes the Stealth Pack 30L with more space, yet it remains quiet and water-resistant for fly fishing endeavors.
Sea to Summit Big River Dry Bag
Whether the dad in your life spends time along the shore or on a boat, the Sea to Summit Big River Dry Bag is one piece of gear to have on hand to keep things dry. They also work for bikepacking, motorcycle touring, and any other adventures that involve water.
Made from 420D nylon fabric with a TPU lamination, this dry bag is waterproof and with its roll-top closure. Its oval shape keeps it from rolling around and it features a field repair buckle that can be replaced if damaged.
The Big River Dry Bag comes in all different sizes ranging from 3 to 65 L, as well as a multitude of bright colors, or black if they’re more into neutrals. A GearJunkie staff member tested it and appreciates the peace of mind whether she’s storing her belongings while stand-up paddling or transporting her camera through the Boundary Waters via canoe.
Garmin Instinct 2 Solar Adventure Watch
A GPS watch makes a great gift for any adventurer, and the Instinct 2 Solar helps Dad mark fishing spots, track the weather, and more. The latest Instinct smartwatch integrates solar into the watch face to extend the battery life.
Beyond fishing, Dad can use it to track his activities, GPS, heart rate, fitness, steps, stress, sleep, quality of sleep, altitude, weather, and more. In our tests, Garmin watches have proven to be rugged and easy to use. Read our review of the Instinct 2 Solar.
There are several sizes and styles, so you can pick something that your dad will love.
Custom Fishing Net
Give the one-of-a-kind fishing gift that will put a smile on their face. One GearJunkie editor noted, “I received a PrestonMade Vermillion net as a gift a few years back, and I love it. The fact that it is handmade and that my wife took the time to pick it out something unique for me was really cool. Plus, it’s gorgeous.”
Nite Ize Hitch Phone Anchor + Tether
Whether Dad spends his time on the water or in the mountains, losing a phone ruins the adventure. Enter the Nite Ize Phone Anchor + Tether to save the day.
This simple little contraption can save a phone and his day. Universal for any phone with a case, this is the perfect gift to give peace of mind to hikers, climbers, skiers, and people who spend time on the water.
The ultrathin Hitch Phone Anchor inserts between a phone and a case, allowing the small ring anchor point to feed through the phone case’s charging port. Its removable, coiled tether extends up to 24 inches, and the twist-to-lock function features two microlock double-gated locking carabiners.
Detachable microlocks let him attach it to belt loops, backpack straps, or to the coiled tether to create a cinching wrist strap.
Sea to Summit Folding Bucket
Be prepared for any situation with this little folding bucket. It folds down into a pocket-size package. And it expands into a 10L or 20L bucket able to hold water, tools, fish, or whatever else is needed.
Swiftwick Socks
If you’re going to go with a classic gift like socks, make sure they are awesome. Swiftwick makes a variety of options that work for any adventure. The Pursuit Hike collection offers solid light-cushion and medium-cushion options.
One of the GearJunkie editors has been testing these socks for a few months now on spring fishing trips and hikes. After several miles, they remain comfortable while tromping up and down the river banks. They have also proven warm as he’s stood in cold water casting to hungry trout.
Hydro Flask Lightweight Water Bottle
Hydro Flask makes ultra-popular insulated bottles for all kinds of adventures. Like others in the brand’s lineup, this lightweight bottle from the Trail Series keeps drinks warm or cold for hours. Anyone would be stoked to have one.
One of our staff, an avid fly fisherman, has started carrying the 21-ounce version in his sling pack. He opted for the smaller size due to the slim profile and lighter weight. It’s become the perfect way to have coffee or tea on cold mornings on the water.
Another one of our staff uses this lightweight water bottle for hiking and climbing trips when her heavier, 40-ounce Hydro Flask isn’t necessary.
