Mill Scale Metal Works Yakitori Grill

Don’t know Mill Scale Metal Works? You should. Brothers Matt and Caleb Johnson are self-taught welders who have spent the last decade building custom pits and smokers for some of the biggest names in barbecue out of their shop in Lockhart, Texas. They’ve garnered worldwide attention for their fabrication of the highest-quality restaurant-grade smokers, and the Yakitori represents their desire to bring the Mill Scale brand to the everyday grill man. The Yakitori is a Texas take on a traditional Japanese grilling style. The multi-level grill offers superb heat control, as each rack can be moved to a higher or lower position for searing, resting, or slow roasting. Its quality construction promises season after season of use. With the Mill Scale Yakitori Grill, you can retire your backyard clunker and step up to big-league barbecuing.

$1,560 (millscale.co)

Loon Outdoors Tying Mat

Always putting their best foot forward for the avid fly tier, Loon Outdoors has done it again with their newly released tying mat. It’s the perfect solution for those of use who feel like they spend more time at the vise searching for misplaced tools and materials rather than tying flies. Neatly divided magnetic compartments keep hooks, eyes, and beads in place—and tools and materials organized. Its silicone construction is easy to clean, and UV resin and glues peel away, ensuring a tidy, mess-free working surface. 

$35 (loonoutdoors.com)

Umpqua Deceiver HD Big Game Fluorocarbon Tippet Pink

Really? A pink fluoro leader, you say? Yes, indeed, says Umpqua. The science behind Umpqua’s new tippet material points to unparalleled subsurface invisibility; red is the first color in the water column to disappear, and pink, being the lightest shade of red, disappears fastest. Furthermore, the experts at Umpqua explain, when standard fluorocarbon gets nicked, kinked, or abraded, these imperfections can stand out underwater like a neon sign to our wary quarry. The pink additive greatly diminishes this fluorocarbon trait. When a stealthy presentation is key, consider Deceiver HD Big Game Pink another weapon in your arsenal. Available in 8-pound to 40-pound.

$14.99-$29.99 (umpqua.com)

Gerber Truss Multi-Tool

Better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it. This old adage certainly applies to a good multi-tool, especially when it comes to equipment malfunctions in remote areas. This all-inclusive unit combines 17 tools in a tough and compact yet ergonomic design. It includes spring-loaded pliers, locking-blade folding knife and saw, Phillips and flathead screwdrivers, bottle opener, and much more. We’ve used this tool countless times to service reels while traveling, and have even used it to de-hook unfortunate fellow anglers. The redesigned Truss solves many of the design issues that plagued its predecessor, the Suspension. While there are many capable multi-tools on the market, the price point, compact size, and weight—combined with Gerber’s trusted name for quality and craftsmanship—make the Truss a solid tool.

$60 (gerbergear.com)

Orvis PRO Waterproof Sling Pack 14L

The PRO line of products from Orvis continues to impress, and the PRO Waterproof Sling Pack is a great choice for wading anglers or for traveling anglers in search of a collapsible bag that can serve as both boat bag and wading bag. We used every bit of this bag’s 14 liters of space when carrying it as a boat bag in Belize and Mexico earlier this year. And when using it to stalk flats, its ergonomics, durability, and total protection against water made us true believers. Much like the Orvis PRO Waterproof Roll Top and Waterproof Backpack we’ve previously reviewed, this pack is virtually bombproof. It’s made from 840-denier ballistic nylon and coated with .1 millimeter waterproof TPU on both sides of the fabric. It has a submersible No. 10 TIZIP waterproof zipper; you can hold this pack underwater and it won’t blow out. The generous opening allows extreme ease of access to sort through our typically overstuffed pack, and the interior hanging pocket is a great spot for leaders, tippet spools, cash for tips (and small entrance fees at Belize’s Bacalar Chico National Park), and other small items. We used the outer pocket for our cell phone, keeping it protected but allowing easy access when we wanted to snap a photo. The strap is the most comfortable we’ve ever used—there’s 10 millimeter foam padding in both the strap and the pack’s back panel. The recessed tippet holder, fly patch, and water bottle pocket with retention leash are easy to access. The design and engineering that went into this pack are evident.

$279 (orvis.com)

Free Fly Elevate Hoodie

This new hot-weather sun hoodie from Free Fly balances breathability and sun protection in a shirt that’s a little heavier and more durable than Free Fly’s Bamboo Lightweight Hoodie but still light enough for hot days on the water. The shirt’s material—83 percent polyester, 11 percent Tencel, and 6 percent Spandex—is soft and smooth against the skin and offers UPF 30 sun protection (for comparison, Free Fly’s Bamboo Lightweight Hoodie is UPF 20). Without question, our favorite feature is the innovative hand cuff for sun protection. Unlike the majority of shirts that have thumb holes/loops that allow the cuff to ride over part of the back of the hand, the Elevate hoodie has a thin fabric loop that goes over the middle finger (or whichever finger works for you), pulling the cuff snugly over most of the back of the hand and providing the highest level of sun protection we’ve seen without gloves. Unlike gloves, however, this design allows an open palm and greater tactile sensation for handling line. We think this shirt’s hand cuff is going to be a game-changer in performance fishing-apparel design. The crossover hood provides total sun coverage and is fitted, although the fit leaves room for a cap. It has a slim fit through the body, but there’s room to move.

$88 (freeflyapparel.com)

Bote Inflatable Aero Bag Toss Classic

The Aero Bag Toss is a fresh take on the classic game that goes by many names. The rules are the same, but the boards are not. Bote has made the game portable and storable by using the same technology they use for their inflatable paddle boards. They’re easy to air up with the included pump—and very sturdy. Great for tailgating or truck camping. The price point may be higher than other versions of the game, but these boards are very cool and can go anywhere. $399 (boteboard.com)

(Affiliate Link: https://bit.ly/3UUUM8W)

Costa PRO Series Sunglasses

Costa Del Mar has taken a leap forward with the PRO Series line of sunglasses, which feature multiple design improvements that address problems anglers face with fit, fogging, and durability. Sweat, sunscreen, and heat stay off the lenses with the help of adjustable nose pads, eyewire drains in the frame below the lens, and sweat management channels along the inside of the temples. The PRO series, which covers a line of multiple popular Costa frame designs and lens options, also has an improved Hydrolite material in the temple that’s supposed to be more durable. We’ve been testing a pair of Reefton frames for several months, and we like the suite of design improvements designed to keep the lens clear of fog and sweat so we can see more fish. It takes some time to get used to the new nose pads, but once you get them dialed in, the design is effective in keeping your fish vision clear. We also tested a different frame with the low-light Sunrise Silver Mirror lens and found it exceptional for seeing into the water on overcast days and during crepuscular periods.

$284 (costadelmar.com)

Fishpond Stowaway Reel Case

We have been long-time fans of Fishpond’s innovative products, which always put a premium on durability and quality. The Stowaway Reel Case is certainly no exception. With an impact-resistant bottom and cushioned interior, it will keep up to ten reels protected in transit. The removable padded dividers allow you to set up any configuration to accommodate anything from fly boxes to camera equipment. With a cool, ergonomic rope handle, it’s easy to carry and transport. We even use it to keep our reels and spools stored and organized back on the home front.

$99.95 (fishpondusa.com)

Lansky Diamond/Ceramic 4-Rod Turn Box Knife Sharpening System

Boat, field, or kitchen—your knives need to be sharp. Lansky offers a simple, affordable solution that anyone can use to hone an excellent edge. The Lansky Turn Box is a wooden block drilled with four holes that forms the base of the sharpening system. Turning the cap of the box dispenses four 5-inch rods—two medium diamond rods (600 grit) and two fine ceramic rods (1,000 grit). The holes are drilled to accept the rods; one set of holes places the rods at a 20-degree angle while the other places them at 25 degrees. In general, use the 20-degree angle on your kitchen knives. The 25-degree angle will create a more durable edge on pocket knives and hunting knives. Use the diamond rods first. Hold the knife perpendicular to the wooden base and draw it down the rod while pulling it toward you to the tip. Twenty or 30 laps on each side of the blade should suffice for all but the dullest knives. Then replace the diamond rods with the ceramic rods. Fifteen or 20 laps will polish the blade to finish the job. We’ve used this sharpener on very small pocket knives as well as our large kitchen knives with impressive results. At just over 10 ounces and under 10 inches long, the Lansky Turn Box stows easily for travel.

$51.99 (lansky.com)

The Bitter Truth Cocktail Bitters Traveler’s Set

Originally, bitters were the essential ingredient that distinguished cocktails from other mixed alcoholic drinks—most notably the Old Fashioned and the Manhattan—giving them balance, flavor, and complexity. Since 2006, Munich bartenders Stephan Berg and Alexander Hauck have been producing a variety of bitters to mix historical cocktails true-to-recipe. The Bitter Truth Cocktail Bitters Traveler’s Set gives you a smattering of their finest offerings—Aromatic Bitters, Celery Bitters, Creole Bitters, Jerry Thomas Bitters, and Orange Bitters—along with a Recipe Booklet—to let you take your mixology show on the road. All very handsomely packaged in a retro tin. Makes a great gift for the home cocktailer at a very modest price.

$19.99 (the-bitter-truth.com)

Kona Fly Fishing Hooks

Kona has come up with a full complement of hooks suited to tying a variety of flies for virtually any saltwater angling scenario or species. The BIg Popper Hook has a kinked shank to reduce twisting inside large foam bodies or streamers. The Big Game Hunter is a short-shank streamer hook—ideal for Game Changers and variety of tarpon fly designs. The Universal Strong Streamer is a great choice for bonefish and permit flies, and we love the Xtra Strong Stinger for redfish patterns on the Gulf Coast. All of Kona’s saltwater-specific hooks boast ultra-sharp, high-carbon steel and a resistant black nickel finish, ensuring fantastic strength and durability. $8.50-$13.50 per pack (konafishingproducts.com)

Trxstle CRC System Fly Rod Carrier

Designed and engineered by guides in Helena, Montana, Trxstle has developed an original and convenient roof-rack system to house and transport your fully rigged fly rods with unparalleled protection and convenience. It mounts to any vehicle’s roof rack with adjustable mounting lengths, and inner-suspension rod liners and reel padding ensure your equipment is shielded from the harshest elements and traveling conditions. The carriers are easy to take down and double as portable rod-carrying cases. With such thoughtful design and convenience, it’s no surprise Trxstle quickly found a dedicated following with their original version. Scheduled for release in the coming months, Version 3 promises several key hardware upgrades. We can’t wait.

$499 and up (trxstle.com)

Beulah Opal

A small rod company that has traditionally been know for its intermediate-priced rods has pushed into the high-end category with the new Opal series. The rod is a deep blue with blue and silver thread—quite handsome at first glance. When casting, the first thing you’ll notice is that it tracks very well and is definitely a big improvement from Beulah’s earlier saltwater models. Not as fast as expected, but fast enough to make easy casts for distance while preserving delicacy and feel at the tip. The designer had roosterfish on his mind when working on the Opal series, as this one includes a strong butt section for lifting fish. The cork and fighting butt are also tastefully done, completing the attractive look. Not a bad choice for a limited budget. A fine rod for less than $800 is not easy to find these days.

$750 (beulahflyrods.com)

10 must have flies for saltwater fly fishing

La Vida Seis

Reflections from the Mill House Podcast

The post Fly Fishing Gear – Summer 2023 first appeared on Tail Fly Fishing Magazine.

The post Fly Fishing Gear – Summer 2023 appeared first on Tail Fly Fishing Magazine.

Seventy2 Pro Survival System

After the year we just experienced, there’s never been a better time to invest in security.

The Seventy2 Pro Survival System by Uncharted Supply Company is a survival kit that contains food and water plus everything else two adults would need to endure harsh conditions for 72 hours. Given that things are not as they were, we feel being prepared for anything is no longer overdoing it. There is also a one-person Seventy2 Survival system, but if you have the space and the need, we recommend the two-person Pro kit.  If nothing more, a solo user gets 144 hours. (unchartedsupplyco.com)

$595

RCI Optics 2nd Light Midnight Gunmetal / Copper Sunrise Gold Mirror H780

RCI is a Florida-based company that manufactures quality optics that boast UV protection as well as infrared protection. Their theory is that infrared light can cause the anterior chamber of the eye to heat up, and therefore dry out faster than when wearing other lenses. Without getting into that debate, the color of the Copper Sunrise lenses are perfect for tannic water and seeing tarpon lumber about in low morning light in the back country this spring.  (rcioptics.com)

$295

GoPro Large Tube Mount

If you have ever struggled with getting the shot and keeping everything organized (and not in the water) amid the chaos that ensues when a big fish is hooked, this is a possible solution. You no longer have to use a zip-tie to secure your floating handle to your poling platform or your craft’s grab rails. The GoPro large tube mount fits most poling platforms and most hand rails. It even fits on the roll bars of a Jeep. Wherever you put it, count on it helping you capture unique perspectives of your spring fishing adventures. (gopro.com)

$39

Simms Dry Creek Simple Pack – 25L

Planning on doing some wading, or do you just need a good functional dry bag?  Either way, the Dry Creek Pack in 25-liter size is perfect for most situations. Waterproof zipper on the outer pouch giving access to small items like phones, flies and snacks. The larger storage compartment is surprisingly accommodating for more than you might expect. Nice details, like the padding in the straps, make it a fairly comfortable backpack for a day trip. (simmsfishing.com)

$139.95

GoPro Zeus Mini

Whether stringing up fly rods in predawn darkness, lighting up dark boat hatches, or a late-night tying session, GoPro’s Zeus Mini is as versatile as it is powerful. Waterproof down to 33 feet and mountable with a clip or magnets (it firmly sticks to anything metal in your boat), the Zeus Mini can shed light on any situation. Once in place, a strong 360-degree swivel allows you to choose the angle of illumination. With four brightness settings ranging from 20 to 200 lumens and a rechargeable battery that lasts up to six hours, it can handle anything you throw at it. (gopro.com.)

$69.99

Lacrosse Alpha Muddy Mid

As anglers we spend a lot of time in wet places—boat launches, riverbanks, marinas, wet grass, rainy days. That’s not going to change. Built with the premium, waterproof rubber and neoprene interior Lacrosse is known for, the Alpha Muddy Mid is perfect for anglers on the go. They slip on and off easily, making them perfect for throwing on while launching the boat and then tossing in a hatch until you get back. They’re also every bit as comfortable as they are durable. After a day of fishing you’ll want to wear them while walking the dog, finishing up the day’s chores, or bellying up to the bar. (lacrossefootwear.com)

$110

Garmin inReach Mini

The Garmin inReach Mini is a compact satellite communicator that sets the standard for lightweight offshore or backcountry communication. At 3.5 ounces it’s the lightest two-way satellite communicator on the market. Its two-way messaging is very reliable, and the SOS signal is constantly checked by Garmin’s search-and-rescue monitoring center (subscription required). Throw in weather reports, route-tracking, location, and altitude display, and the inReach mini is a powerful tool whether you’re deep in the Everglades or need a reliable backup for your phone in the boat. (garmin.com)

$349.99 + Subscription Plan

Trayvax Original 2.0 Wallet

Wallets are highly personalized items. If your concept of a wallet is something simple, durable, protective, and small, the Travax Original 2.0 wallet fits the bill.  While its price and size are diminutive, its function is not.  It fits just the right amount of cards, has a built-in cash clip, pry bar, and bottle opener, and fits easily into your front pocket. It has built-in RFID protection and will likely outlast you. It’s sourced and built in the US, and patinas with time, making it more of an heirloom with each use. (www.trayvax.com)

$34.99

Sea Frogs Underwater Housing

Underwater photography equipment doesn’t have to be the price of a used car. If you’re searching for a solid housing that allows you to use your mirrorless or DSLR kit, provides more protection than the zip-seal bag variety, and doesn’t bankrupt you, check out the Sea Frogs line of underwater housings. They make housings for several brands, ranging from Canon to Olympus to Fujifilm, and average in price from $400-$700.  You’ll pay a bit more for different ports depending on your needs.  We’ve found them to be impressively beefy and well manufactured.  The set up and trial run took a bit of getting used to, but after a few runs the operation became second nature.  The feedback provided by the buttons, dials and shutter release is affirmative and pleasing.  If you’re interested in underwater photography, this is a great place to start. (seafrogs.com)

$400-$700

AxisGO Waterproof Casing for iPhone

The optics improvements in modern smart phones have made them the camera of choice for outings and everyday use on the skiff. After losing phones to saltwater for years, we discovered the AxisGO casing for iPhone, which has been a true game changer.  Protects the phone from water damage while allowing full functionality.  Has limited accessories but there’s a 6-inch dome available to up your photo game when landing and release fish. (aquatech.net)

$199

Buzbe Colony 28 Modular Tackle Box

While storage and organization seem a Sisyphean task, this little gem might help. It’s designed for both traditional lures and fly storage, but what makes this box unique is the ability to adjust its modular units. They’re like Lego blocks on the bottom and snap into place. It feels a bit like Tetris trying to get the configuration right, but once they’re set, you get durable and dry storage both on and off the boat. It’s a bit heavy, but that’s the tradeoff for heavy-duty construction, industrial-grade plastic, and thick rubber gaskets. Built to last and about the size of a standard laptop at 14 x 9 inches. (buzbe.com)

$39.95

The post Saltwater Fly Fishing Gear Guide first appeared on Tail Fly Fishing Magazine.

The post Saltwater Fly Fishing Gear Guide appeared first on Tail Fly Fishing Magazine.

Loon Outdoors UV Infiniti Light

This UV light is powerful enough to cure fly after fly in seconds, and when it runs out of power there’s no need to fumble around looking for batteries because you can recharge it using any standard USB cable. Before long tying sessions you can check the light’s power status using the power level indicator that’s integrated into the on/off switch. Throw in Loon’s unconditional guarantee and you have the last UV light you will ever buy. (loonoutdoors.com)

$60.00

Regal Medallion Vise

The Regal Medallion is a perfect example of the old adage, “Buy once, cry once.” Just open the jaws, insert the hook, and start tying. There’s nothing to adjust. When using the Regal Medallion you don’t think about it, which is exactly how a vise should be. You can tie 8/0 streamers for arapaima down to size-22 midges for trout. The jaws are solid, and the heavy base keeps the vise firmly planted on your tying desk. The Medallion series comes with a choice of six different heads, so you can pick the one best suited to your tying style. (regalvise.com)

$275

Petitjean Magic Heads

The work of Swiss fly fishing innovator Marc Petitjean is nothing short of genius, from his cutting-edge vises to his tying tools and accessories. Magic Heads are soft, clear plastic cones that you tie just behind the eye of the hook. Pushed back, they create a soft bullet head that will push water. Flipped forward, they act as a swimming lip, zigzagging your fly through the water like a terrified baitfish. The largest size will accommodate flies sizes 1/0 to 4/0. (petitjean.com)

$6.95

Renzetti Ruby Tipped Bobbins

Next to a good vise, a good fly tying bobbin is among your most important tools. And there’s nothing more frustrating than to have your thread repeatedly cut by a burr in the tube. Renzetti’s ruby tipped bobbins feature an industrial ruby inserted into the tube that will keep the thread moving smoothly and ensure that your thread never gets cut. Available in two saltwater sizes. These bobbins will last 25 years of continuous use. (renzetti.com)

$22.95

Norvise Automatic Bobbin Kit

If you’ve attended a fly fishing show within the last 25 years, you’ve likely watched Norm Norlander spin out Woolly Buggers at breakneck speed on his rotary Nor-Vise. His automatic bobbin is a noteworthy contribution to fly tying as well. The bobbin features a self-winding arbor that simplifies thread management. The bobbin retracts automatically to the proper position and then hangs suspended from the fly where released. This results in faster, better fly tying. These bobbins work particularly well with rotary vises. You can purchase the automatic bobbin separately, but first-time owners are encouraged to get the kit, which includes three extra spools (required for use with this bobbin), which hold between 50 and 500 yards of thread, depending on the thread diameter. (nor-vise.com)

$95.00

Wapsi German Ice Tempered Fly Tying Scissors by Wasa

Good scissors are critical to good fly tying, particularly when trimming deer hair heads and synthetic materials. Scissors that can handle such work well are few and far between. These scissors, manufactured in Solingen, Germany, are 4 ½” overall with double serrated fine-tip blades of 1 ¾” that will more than get the job done. (wapsifly.net)

$69.00

ThinOptics Readers

Unless you never tie a fly smaller than 4/0, you’ll eventually need a pair of readers. ThinOptics combines the world smallest readers with a number of carry options, including cases small enough to fit on your keychain, in your wallet, or on your phone. They’re inexpensive enough that you’ll want several pair, including one for your fly tying kit. We take ours fishing for when we need to tie on flies, repair leaders, or for any task that requires near vision. Readers come in four lens strengths and six frame colors. (thinoptics.com)

Starting at $19.95

Hareline Dubbin Bling Rabbit Strips

Winner of the International Fly Tackle Dealer’s (IFTD) Best in Show Award for 2019 in the category of Fly Tying Materials, Bling Rabbit Strips incorporate solid and holographic colors attached to the hide. The synthetic material gives rigidity to the strip, reducing the chance that the material will foul when casting. These strips are sure to enhance the look and performance of any saltwater pattern that calls for a zonker strip (think Tarpon Bunny). (hareline.com)

$5.90

Dr. Slick Hook File

In truth, all of us here at TFFM use chemically sharpened hooks. If we ding a hook point, we throw the fly away and get a fresh one. However, we realize not all anglers are like us and that most probably still use stainless steel hooks (as we all did at one time). If you use stainless steel hooks (or plated carbon steel hooks that are not chemically sharpened) you need to carry a hook file. This option from Dr. Slick is portable and economical. Constructed of stainless steel, it comes in two sizes, 4” and 6”. The 4” model has a medium side (300 grit) and a fine side (600 grit). The 6” model has a heavy side (150 grit) and a medium side (300 grit). (drslick.com)

From $11.95

Umpqua DreamStream Plus 7-Piece Tying Tool Kit

Despite its freshwater name, this is a quality fly tying tool set with nice machining, etched parts for no-slip grip, great hand feel, and a cool blue color. The set includes, bobbin, bobbin threader, bodkin, whip-finish tool, hackle pliers, hair stacker, and 5” scissors. These tools are built to last a lifetime of tying, and even if they don’t, the entire set is under $80. Everything you need including a carrying case. (umpqua.com)

$79.99

Just Add H2O – Fishient

Fish Scale Synthetic Wing and Tail Fibers

We particularly like this product because it’s a blend of synthetic fiber with just the right amount of flash. The pearly twisted flash and crimped nylon simulates the scales of baitfish and makes your flies irresistible to the predator. (fishient.com)

From $6.50

ProLite Electronix Professional LED Light Kit with Magnification Lens

The most versatile lighting system we’ve encountered so far. This 220 lumen CREE LED can be used with provided base, clamped to a bench, or mounted right to your vise stem. Accommodates any position because the light and magnifier (2X general/10X spot magnification) are on independent arms offering infinite combinations when tying. Available through numerous retailers.

$119

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The post Gear Guide – Fly Tying first appeared on Tail Fly Fishing Magazine.

The post Gear Guide – Fly Tying appeared first on Tail Fly Fishing Magazine.