Think beyond a box of chocolates and flowers this Valentine's Day and start thinking about making her next day on the water better. We asked our very own Courtney Despos (Director of Education) and Katrina Brisbin (Marketing Assistant & Content Creator) what pieces of gear make their days on the water more enjoyable and what they'd like to see wrapped in red ribbon this Valentine's Day.
SIMMS Women's G3 Guide Z Stockingfoot Waders
The G3 Wader line from SIMMS sets the industry standard for breathability and durability. What sets these waders apart is the innovative side-zip design. Katrina notes, "Getting waders on and off is always a chore, especially in the middle of the day when nature calls. The side zipper makes these breaks a lot more manageable. I love these waders."
Simms Women's Flyweight Wading Boot - Vibram
Women's specific, lightweight, and hard-charging, the Women's Flyweight® Boot provides support and traction for sure-footedness in mossy, rock waters. Katrina noted "I love how lightweight these boots are. My legs are noticeably less fatigued at the end of the day and I can concentrate on my fishing...instead of my feet."
Orvis Helios 3D Fly Rod - Blue Edition
Orvis recently released a Blue Edition of their staple do-it all fly rod - The Orvis Helios 3D. Courtney says this about the Helios 3D. "It's the perfect rod with a comfortable grip size for women’s typically smaller hands. The Helios 3D loads easily, is accurate, and is ready to handle fishing in all weather conditions. It's Responsive with a sleek look! Can't go wrong with the Helios 3D!"
With toasty insulated internals and a sleek, stitchless-quilted design that syncs perfectly under waders, the ExStream Jacket bundles up without the bulk. According to Courtney, the Women's ExStream Jacket is "Cute, comfy, perfect mid to outer layer that keeps me warm throughout a winter day on the water."
Durable and semi-structured travel cube keeps fishing tools and essential gear organized and protected. While the GTS system is designed for bigger fishing travel trips, Katrina loves utilizing the GTS Padded Cube for her weekend trips to the water with her family. "Organization is the key to my success on the water and this padded cube helps me stay prepped and ready for our next trip."
Courtney is a big fan of the Nomad Mid-Length Net. A HUGE FAN. Here's her take on the Mid-Length Net: "The longer handle and larger basket translate to easier scooping and landing of hooked fish. I like slipping it between my hip pack and my back so it can sit straight up and down or at an angle. This keeps the net out of the way while it's still accessible. An absolute must-have."
Simms Women's BugStopper Legging
Functional, fashionable, fishy leggings for on-water adventures when you need protection from biting bugs. Like Katrina says - "Leggings are life."
The new Orvis Hydros Reel is a tried and true performer and the new Matte Blue color is the "perfect match for your Orvis Helios 3D" according to Courtney.
Fishpond Tacky Pescador Fly Boxes
The all-new Fishpond Tacky Pescador Fly Boxes have been a welcome addition to Katrina's fly fishing pack. "There are a lot of fly boxes that hold a wide range of flies, but none of them have the same ability to be both waterproof and easy to use. I'd recommend this fly box to anyone."
Fishpond Thunderhead Submersible Lumbar
The Fishpond Thunderhead Submersible Lumbar Pack is a go-to piece of fly fishing kit for Courtney. Check out Courtney's take on her favorite fly fishing pack: "Women tend to be more petite, so waterproof matters. What is knee height for many men, is hip/waist height for many women oftentimes. I have fished this pack for multiple years and only upgraded because I wanted the new colorway. A cross-body strap creates comfort. The pack easily swings around your hips for a quick fly change or adjustment."
Fishpond Headgate Tippet Spool Holder - Lichen
What pairs well with the Fishpond Thunderhead Submersible Lumbar Pack? The Fishpond Headgate Tippet Spool Holder and it's a must-have accessory for Courtney on the water. "I'm not a fan of letting my tippet swim around my pack without being organized. The Tippet Spool Holder keeps my tippet organized and easily accessible so I can change rigs quickly and easily."
The Rambler® 18 oz. Bottle is a necessary addition to your morning hikes, days on the water, and daily commutes. Katrina notes that the "New Rambler with the Chug Cap makes drinking out of my Rambler actually enjoyable."
Scott Florida Marine Chart Mesh Hat
A trip to Key West would be cool for Valentine's Day. If that's not in the cards, this hat from Scott would "serve as an excellent I.O.U." according to Katrina.