Open-Water Anglers Gift Guide

Freeloader — The ultimate bladed jig and spinnerbait trailer when fishing bass, walleye and pike. Deadly, too, on a jig and various rigs.

Ned BLT & Suspect Swimbait — Must-have finesse baits for bass, walleye, trout and panfish.

The Jerk — A versatile forktail minnow perfectly designed for jig and drop-shot presentations for bass, walleye, trout and more.

Heavy Hitter & Mayor — Premium paddletail swimbaits, each made out of its own unique material. With this dynamic duo on hand, an angler is well prepared for walleye, northern pike, lake trout, largemouth, smallmouth and striped bass adventures.

Creeper — A multi-species catching machine, this 2.5-inch curltail grub is as great for beginners to have as it is for experienced anglers.

Finesse fishing tactics are trending big-time for bass, walleye and other species, and the new VMC Finesse Football Jig, Swingin’ Neg Jig and Ned Rig Jig ($6.99) are the cream of the crop for fishing the Ned BLT, Suspect, Creeper and other subtle soft baits. 

Equally gift-worthy are VMC’s state-of-the-art RedLine hook series. For a finesse fishing package, bundle the Neko and Drop Shot ($8.99) hooks with some tungsten drop-shot, Neko and Half Moon Wacky weights ($6.49+). 

Anglers fond of using big baits and stout gear for largemouth and smallmouth bass, will love the the RedLine Heavy Duty Flippin’ ($12.99), Hybrid Wide Gap and Hybrid Worm ($8.99) hooks.

Delivering legendary Shad Rap action, but in a reimagined form featuring modern construction, the Shad Rap Elite ($19.99) is a must-have for anglers of all skill levels. With more durability and toughness, enhanced action, better castability, and advanced colour patterns and finishes, there’s a lot to like about these new leading-edge balsa cranks.

CountDown Elites ($18.49+) also make great fishing gifts and stocking stuffers. Again, being part of the Elite series, this latest generation of CountDowns have modern and rugged construction. They’re available in four sizes, spanning 1-1/2” to 3-3/4”, and come in 23 high-definition printing and metallic plating colour patterns. Unchanged is the precise 1-foot-per-second sink rate anglers have relied on for decades to sink CountDowns into the strike zone and catch fish.

Astute anglers knew it was only a matter of time before Rapala set their mind to creating the perfect bladebait. Enter the Rippin’ Blade ($14.99). Gift wrap a few of these red-hot, hard-baits for the holidays and their 2024 fishing season will go down in a blades of glory. 

The latest member of the Jigging Rap family, this “Magnum” version is all about making a big scene. At 2-3/4” and 1-1/8-ounces, it’s the ideal companion for live-sonar tactics for walleye, bass, pike and trout — but rest assured the Jigging Rap Magnum ($16.49) catches ‘em just as well cast, pitched or vertically jigged for those using traditional 2D sonar.

The OG Deep Tiny ($16.49) is a premium balsa, floating, non-rattling crankbait with a tight wobble, finesse-like action and 7-foot diving depth. An excellent stocking stuffer for bass anglers.

VMC expands its floating jig collection with the addition of a new #4 size Hover Jig ($7.99). Walleye, panfish and other live-bait eaters don’t stand a chance when there’s a Hover Jig is at the business end of a bait rig. 

You can’t go wrong giving walleye anglers some new jigs as presents. The Neon Moon Eye Jig ($3.79+), Hard Ball Jig ($4.79+), Bucktail Jig ($5.99+) and Hot Skirt Glow Jig ($6.49) are just a few reliable, fan favourites.

Blue Fox inline spinners are some of the most versatile lures anglers can use for bass, trout, pike and panfish, to name a few species. Vibrax ($7.49+) spinners are always a hit, but now anglers now have even more options on the water with the arrival of the Whip Tail Deep Runner ($3.99). Featuring a 4 to 5 foot running depth, a 30-degree blade that flutters on the fall and a VMC dress tail hook, there’s plenty to like about this deep-running inline.

Luhr-Jensen’s lures and trolling accessories are legendary on the Great Lakes, Canadian coasts and other big-water regions. The new Koho King Spoon ($8.99+) and Anchovy Roll ($12.49) lures will make great gifts for trout and salmon anglers. Likewise for the Kokanee Dodger ($15.49), and the new colours in the Jensen Flash Fly ($11.99), Jet Diver ($15.99+) and Dipsy Diver ($15.99) product lines.

Responding to angler demand, Rapala now offers its bright, custom-inspired colours in the Shallow Shad Rap ($14.49), Jointed Shad Rap ($12.49), Scatter Rap Tail Dancer ($17.49) and Scatter Rap Minnow ($16.49) collections. The Original Thunderstick ($8.99), The Original Thunderstick Deep ($8.99), and Original Hot ’N Tots ($10.49) also get six new custom colours in all six available sizes. From Hot Blueberry Muffin to Glow Mixed Veggies.

Anglers preferring a more natural paint job will love the realistic, baitfish-inspired finishes, like Bleak and Baby Aspius, added to the Rippin’ Rap ($11.99) and Jigging Shadow Rap ($16.49) collections.

Although only recently released, Rapala Tackle Trays ($14.49+) have already won over legions of fans. The Open Foam model is ideal for organizing jigs, hooks and rigs. But this is just one example of several other tray configurations available in 3600 and 3700 sizes from this impressive product series.

SmartHub Magnetic Tool Holders ($19.99+) are perfect for tool and tackle organization in the boat, fishing kayak, tackle room and ice house. Holders feature tool storage drop-in slots with magnetic backers, tool hang hooks on either end and lure storage perimeter holds for hanging baits. They come standard with a SmartHub connector and are available in either a 2- or a 4-tool slot size.

For many anglers, getting fresh line is the best fishing gift. Sufix’s fishing line collection covers all the bases when it comes to fishing in Canada. If needing gift inspiration, check out the new braided ProMix with super colour retention($16.49), Recycline Monofilament ($12.49+) and Advance Monofilament ($17.49+).

2. GREAT FISHING GIFTS BETWEEN $20 TO $50

NEW PXR MAVRIK 110

The PXR Mavrik 110 ($22.99) is loaded with innovative fish-catching technologies. A tungsten weight system allows for ultra-long, precise casts. On the retrieve, this neutrally buoyant jerkbait has a hard-cutting, semi-erratic action, then suspends, head-down position on the pause. PXR stands for Precision Xtreme, and there’s no denying this dynamic jerkbait is Xtremely gift-worthy.

The 832 Braid / Holiday Special ($27.99) features a limited edition 2023 Rapala Original Floating lure and 150 yards of the best braid on the planet. Get this festive fishing bundle now while supplies last.

Rapala’s predator lures are built-tough, and engineered to attract and trigger strikes from the even the most wary predators. Three top choices are the Super Shadow Rap ($22.99), X-Rap Otus ($24.99+) and X-Rap Haku ($35.99).

The SmartHub Line Spooler ($24.99) makes quick work of adding fresh line to spinning and baitcasting reels. A spring-loaded line tension control knob ensures smooth, even line delivery. Adjustable pivoting base, integrated line cutter and included SmartHub Flat Mount are other features of this great holiday gift option.

Rapala’s world-renowned fillet knives always make great gifts. The Fish ’n Fillet knives ($28.99+), 6” Fish Pro Fillet ($31.99), Presentation Fillet Knife ($48.99) and 5” Folding Fish Pro Fillet ($36.99) are a few great blades to choose from. Bundle the knife with a Fillet Glove ($29.99) for added finger and hand protection.

Rapala’s collection of fishing tools offer plenty of options for stocking stuffers or holidays presents. Three fan favs are the Mag Spring Pliers ($45.99), Precision Line Scissors ($25.99) and Retractable Lanyard ($26.99+). 

The Rap Patch Trucker  ($29.99), Flexfit Classic Mesh Back and Vertical Rapala Caps are always popular picks of anglers of all ages. The Hooded UV Shirt ($49.99) is another winner and designed with sun safety and comfort in mind.

If looking for something other than apparel, check out the 18/8 stainless steel thermal Camp Mug and gift box ($29.99) and comfy cotton terry velour Fish Whisperer Beach Towel ($29.99).

3. $50+ FISHING GIFT IDEAS

THE R12 COLLECTION OF LITHIUM-POWERED FISHING TOOLS

The R12 Series of fishing accessories are powered using the same Lithium ION 2Ah battery and make great holiday gifts. The collection includes the R12 Heavy-Duty Lithium Fillet Knife ($199.99), R12 Lithium Spotlight Lantern ($84.99) and R12 Lithium Aerator ($84.99).

Well, get them a new Pro Guide net and their fish landing experiences are sure to improve. Available in medium ($59.99) and large ($79.99) sizes, Pro Guide nets feature durable, rubberized, fish-friendly mesh, soft grip ergonomics and retractable, quick-lock handle. 

Looking for something more compact? Take a look at the Single Handed Net ($27.99).

The Source F1 rod and reel spinning combo ($89.99) is an excellent pick for anglers getting started freshwater fishing or those looking to add another set-up to their collection. This 7’1”, medium powered, graphite rod comes paired with a reliable, smooth spinning reel. Include some 6- or 8-pound Sufix Advance Monofilament ($17.49) and they’ll be all set to start catching bass, walleye, panfish and more. 

The recently released high-performance Meta casting and spinning rods ($169.99+) have become an immediate hit with bass anglers. Metas are signature rod series of none other than legendary, elite bass angler, Gerald Swindle. Crafted to the highest standards, G-Man’s Meta rods deliver the goods.

A compact, portable 4-piece travel rod is an ideal holiday present for adventurous anglers. Good picks include Omen Quest Travel spinning rods ($159.99), and Fate Quest Travel casting and spinning rods ($119.99+).

Crafted with high-quality composite blanks and moderate tapers, the 7’6” and 8’6” telescopic Omen Gold Trolling rods ($164.99) are perfect for various trolling tactics involving crankbaits, spinner rigs, spoons and bottom bouncers.

Omen Gold spinning rods ($164.99) feature models designed for fishing all of the most popular walleye techniques. From bait-rigging to finesse jigging, slip-bobbering to Jigging Rap snappin’, Omen Golds won’t disappoint.

Omen Musky casting rods ($259.99) are sure to please anglers who want a purpose-built rod loaded with features. Built-tough and precision made to fish today’s most popular predator presentations.

Many panfish rods lack sensitivity and have poor blank performance. Not so with the responsive, performance-driven Omen Panfish/Trout Spinning Rods ($139.99+). With models ranging from a 5’6” ultra-light to a 7’ light, these are the consummate spinning sticks for yellow perch, crappie, sunfish and, yes, small trout as well.

Boasting characteristics seen in elite-level rods, Defy Black Gen II rods ($79.99+) are unrivalled in their price category. 

The Blackout 7’1” medium spinning rod and 7’3” medium-heavy casting rod ($99.99) are a deadly duo for fishing a range of techniques for walleye, bass, pike and more.

With 21 models to choose from, Fate V3 spinning and casting rods ($129.99) provide plenty of options for fishing a variety of techniques. Featuring PVG36T blanks and an Evolve Soft Touch Air Foil Carbon grip, these rods offer incredible sensitivity, outstanding feel and stellar all-round performance.

The Omen Black Gen IIIs ($164.99+) is one of 13 Fishing’s best-selling rod series. With lengths, actions and powers covering fishing techniques both current and emerging, every stick in this tournament-proven series features Japanese 36 Ton Toray blanks with Poly Vector Graphite technology. Translation — Lighter and more sensitive without sacrificing durability. Smiles upon unwrapping guaranteed. 

Durable, sensitive PVG24T graphite construction, Evolve Custom reel seats and EVA handles are just a few features of the Defy Saltwater spinning rods ($159.99+), which are crafted with saltwater anglers in mind.

The Origin F1 and O1 ($104.99+) are loaded with 13 Fishing’s upper-tier baitcasting reel technologies (Arrowhead Line Guide, Magnet Control System, etc.). This competitively priced collection delivers incredible operation and reliability. 

13 Fishing’s casting reels always deliver high value and innovative features for effortless, dependable operation. Three bulletproof baitcasters to consider are the Inception G2 ($229.99), a tournament-ready casting reel built in collaboration with Gerald Swindle, the Modus SZ2 ($219.99) and Modus C2 ($179.99).

The Source F ($69.99) delivers incredible capability at an amazing value. Also worth considering are the Kalon A, O “Blackout”, C and Radioactive spinning reels ($89.99+), which provide smooth, dependable performance and many advanced technologies, including Slide Drag and Glide Oscillation systems, CNC Cut Drive Gears and Instant-Stop anti-reverse.

If shopping for an angler with champagne taste, check out the new AL13 ($254.99), Axum ($214.99) and Aeros ($194.99) spinning reels.

Owning quality outer wear is essential for keeping safe, dry and comfortable when the conditions take a turn for the worst. Cold winds, rain, sleet, boat spray are no match for Rapala’s rugged, waterproof and breathable outer wear collection, which is comprised of the Rapala Pro Rain Jacket ($354.49) and Bibs ($354.49), as well as the Rapala Rain Jacket ($269.99) and Bibs ($269.99)

The above items, along with hundreds of other great fishing lures and other gear, are available at rapala.ca.

Stay tuned for our annual Black Friday sale starting November 24th offering you the best deals of the year!