Game & Fish Father's Day Gift Guide

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While Mother’s Day gets the most attention, fathers are spotlighted each June for the things they do for their families. Finding the right gift for a dad is difficult for many people, so the Game & Fish staff collaborated to create a list of gifts that will make any outdoorsman giddy. 

Lew's Custom Pro Gen 3

If ever there was a baitcasting reel with an easy button for hassle-free casting, it’s the new Gen 3 version of the Lew’s Custom Pro. Lew’s touts the new ParaMag ITB (Inertia Transfer Braking) of the Gen 3 as the highest quality cast control on the market. It is a fully magnetic frictionless brake that uses no centrifugal brake shoes to slow the spool. Instead, within the sideplate of the reel is a series of radially aligned magnets that deploy outwardly as the spool rotates. The bronze finish of the reel frame is easy to pick out in a crowd of baitcasters. It has an extremely low profile that fits deep in the hand. Weighing a mere 5.6 ounces, the downsized Custom Pro rivals some of the finest BFS reels on the market. MSRP: $279.99

Lew's Custom Pro Gen 3

Cigars International Herf-a-Dor Travel Humidor

Smoking your favorite cigar while on the go can be challenging. Protecting them from being crushed and drying out during travel is a snap with the Herf-a-Dor Travel Humidor. The cases’ reinforced ABS frame lined with foam cushioning makes it crushproof and airtight. The humidification devices also ensure freshness. The case is available in four sizes, which will accommodate five stogies to 40. MSRP: $19-$55

Cigars International Herf-a-Dor Travel Humidor

Wiley X JAKL Frames

The one-stop shop for outdoor eyewear is Wiley X. Constructed from the toughest non-metal material available—Triloid nylon—the lightweight JAKL glasses feature dual-injected rubber nose pads and temples for all-day comfort on the water or in the field. The frames come with different colored standard lenses with 100% UVA/UVB protection that can be swapped out to meet the current conditions. Wiley X can also make prescription lenses to fit into the frames. MSRP: $140-$210

Wiley X JAKL Glasses

Abu Garcia Veritas Spinning Rod

The Veritas, a Great Buy award winner in our annual Tackle Test gear reviews, is a familiar name among Abu Garcia’s rod lineup, and the improvements to the latest iteration of the spinning series are impressive for its price. It is surprisingly lightweight and sensitive given the price, rivaling some more pricey competitors. There are six spinning models in the revamped Veritas line, from lengths of 6 feet 6 inches to 7 feet 6 inches in assorted actions. MSRP: $99.95 

Abu Garcia Veritas Spinning Rod

KUIU Brawley Canvas Jacket

Perfect for the hardworking and active father, the KUIU Brawley Canvas Jacket features super durable Toray four-way stretch canvas to create a jacket that can tackle just about any situation. The double panel overlay across the elbows gives added strength and durability, while the water-resistant treatment keeps you dry. Functional hand pockets and a chest pocket help carry everyday items and keep them close at hand. MSRP: $199

KUIU Brawley Canvas Jacket

Plano Rustrictor AW 2 52-inch Wheeled Gun Case

Firearms’ greatest enemies are rust and corrosion. The Plano Rustrictor All-Weather Gun Case protects firearms from the environment with its impenetrable construction, dual-stage lockable latches and Dri-Loc seal, creating a watertight, dust-proof shield. While great for storage, the case is also travel-friendly with a pressure release valve for equalizing pressure through temperature or altitude changes. Two carry handles and wheels make transportation easy. MSRP: $230

Plano Rustrictor Gun Case

H20X 3700 Ethos Soft Tackle Bag

The tackle bag is designed for both durability and convenience, featuring a sturdy construction made from 840D polyester and plastic. It includes five 3700 utility boxes to keep his gear organized, along with three external pockets for additional storage. The interior of the lid flap has a handy map pocket, and reverse zippers add a sleek, functional touch. MSRP: $49.99

H20X 3700 Ethos Soft Tackle Bag

Yeti Drinkware

Built for sipping in stealth and style, the Yeti Flask is a throwback way to carry spirits discreetly. Constructed from durable single-wall 18/8 stainless steel, the flask is leakproof and tough enough for any outing. The flask holds 7 ounces of spirits and comes with a funnel for easy refills. MSRP: $50

Made to be the ultimate drinking companion, the Yeti 10-ounce Lowball tumbler’s double-wall vacuum insulation will keep hot drinks hot and cold drinks cold longer than standard drinkware. The cup pulls double duty as a cocktail cup in the evenings and a coffee mug in the morning. The Magslider Lid and Lowball are both dishwasher safe for easy cleanup. MSRP: $25

Yeti Flask

Yeti Lowball Tumbler

LiveTarget Sardine Swimbait

The new LiveTarget Sardine Swimbait is a must-have for every saltwater angler. The profile is an exact match to use when the baitfish arrive at their in-shore spawning grounds. The oscillator is dialed to a tight flicker action. Put away your cast net. Comes in 3 1/2- and 4 1/2-inch sizes. MSRP: $10.99

LiveTarget Sardine Swimbait

Sitka Radiant Sun Hoodie

Whether out scouting game or a day on the water, the Sitka Radiant Sun Hoodie keeps you comfortable while providing sun protection for long days outdoors. The airy knit is fortified with UPF 50+ sun protection, wicks sweat, dries fast and wears like a cool breeze. The sleeves sport scalloped extensions to cover hands for additional sun protection, while the included thumbholes prevent sleeves from riding up. Comfort is king with its forward shoulder hems and three-panel hood, while the Polygiene Odor Control Technology reduces body odors. MSRP: $75

Sitka Radiant Sun Hoodie

Kings Camo XKG Leg Gaiters

A criminally underrated piece of gear, leg gaiters make an outstanding gift for outdoor enthusiasts. The XKG Leg Gaiters from Kings Camo are built to withstand abuse and protect users from any terrain with three-layer four-way stretch tri-laminate construction, reinforced lower legs, reinforced boot buckles, double-riveted boot lace hooks, top closure buckles and velcro front closures. MSRP: $79.99

Kings Camo XKG Leg Gaiters

Spro Flappin’ Frog 65

June is made for topwater-frog fishing all across bass country. Spro’s Flapping Frog 65 provides topwater buzzing action and is extremely durable for when you search for bass in the heaviest cover. Made of TPE material for durability and smooth casting. The 65 weighs 5/8 ounces and features a 4/0 Gamakatsu hooks with Nano Smooth Coating. Choose from a dozen colors. MSRP: $11.99 

Spro Flappin’ Frog 65

Benchmade Knives

Whether the camp cook or backyard BBQ extraordinaire, the Benchmade Station Knife can tackle any culinary task. Made with CPM-154 stainless blade—one of the highest quality blade steels in the world—the knife offers premium edge retention and corrosion resistance. The Maple Valley Richlite handle complements the overall aesthetic. This workhorse combines the power and exceptional quality of Benchmade’s proprietary SelectEdge technology for an excellent cut. MSRP: $340

For daily tasks at home or outdoors, the Bailout knife from Benchmade expands the brand’s Bugout series with a more tactical feel and knife. The robust knife’s blade is constructed with CPM-S30V Stainless Steel (58- 60HRC), measures 8.12 inches when open and weighs 2.05 ounces. The tip-up, mini deep carry clip allows for discreet carry, while the Ranger Green Grivory handle gives a great, tactile grip for ultimate control. The knife opens with a thumb flip and closes easily with its AXIS blade lock. Benchmade offers its LifeSharp service, where it will resharpen your Benchmade knife to a factory edge for free for the life of the knife. MSRP: $300

Benchmade Station Knife

Benchmade Bailout Knife

Old Town Discovery 133 Sporting Canoe

Versatile and lightweight, this watercraft is built for strength, stability and adaptability. Paddle tandem, solo, or even outfit it with an electric motor with ease. A three-layer hull and keeled design delivers stability and impressive load capacity. It’s an ideal choice for hunting, fishing, or outdoor exploration. MSRP: $1,399 

Old Town Discovery 133 Sporting Canoe

Meindl Footwear

For more than 300 years, Meindl has produced some of the finest outdoor boots in the world. Now available in the U.S. through Meindl USA, the company continues its legacy of high quality and unparalleled comfort. Heralded as its most versatile, all-season insulated hunting boot, the Comfort Fit Hunter boots are bombproof with a full-grain Nubuck leather construction and Vibram Multigrip 6.0 outsole. Fully lined with 400-gram Primaloft Gold insulation and Gore-Tex, the boots keep water out and warmth in from opening day until the first blizzard. The Comfort Fit Hunter boots sport more room in the toebox while cupping the heels snugly for a near-custom fit and feel. MSRP: $350

The boots may make the hunter, but the right socks make all the difference during long days in the field. Meindl’s MT6 Mid-Weight Merino Wool Socks are made with the same care and quality as the boots. These socks feature a two-layer construction that combines just enough Merino wool for soft, moisture-wicking and odor-absorbing benefits and an organic bioceramic yarn that helps wick away moisture and regulate the temperature of your feet. Anatomically designed to fit the right and left foot, the socks deliver a better fit without extra fabric that bunches and causes hot spots. MSRP: $25

Meindl Comfort Fit Hunter Boots

Meindl MT6 Mid-Weight Wool Socks

Ducks Unlimited Shotgun Shell Whiskey

In an homage to American hunters, Ducks Unlimited partnered with World Whiskey Society to create a one-of-a-kind collector’s item with the Ducks Unlimited Shotgun Shell single-malt whiskey. With notes of oak, dark fruit, cocoa, chocolate, walnut, honey and allspice, the whiskey finishes with a subtle hint of smokiness. Inspired by a shotgun shell, admire the bespoke, red-fluted glass bottle and the custom engraving on the cap, encapsulated in a gun barrel-inspired metal tube case. MSRP: $120

Ducks Unlimited Shotgun Shell Whiskey

Savage Gear 3D Bluegill LT Swimbait

Bass are well aware when bluegills are spawning in the summer. So are anglers. Savage’s realistic 3D Bluegill line-through swimbaits are designed from a 3D scan of a real bluegill, with photo-print colors and details from an actual fish. The line-through has top and bottom hook options for better hookups. The six-inch lure comes in four “panfishy” colors: Female Bluegill, Male Bluegill, Tilapia and Crappie. MSRP: $24.99

Savage Gear 3D Bluegill LT Swimbait

Primos Custom Box Call

Fathers who live and die to hunt wild turkeys will love the Primos Custom Box Calls. With the choice of a cherry or maple paddle, diamond or weave patterns, four turkey scenes and up to five custom text areas. Primos’ Themed Custom Box Call offers three themed box call 3D scenes, Mossy Oak Gamekeeper, Veteran Honoring Scene and the new We the People inspired theme. Fathers will appreciate the custom touches and the high-performing sound quality of Primos’ game calls. MSRP: $150

Primos Custom Box Call

Shimano Vanford 2500 HG Spinning Reel

The design of the new Shimano Vanford, the Editor’s Choice winner in Tackle Test, reflects the increased demand for spinning gear in bass fishing due to the finesse tactics associated with live sonar. Featuring a lightweight frame designed for agile movements and a bail that engages quickly, it’s ideal for the start-and-stop techniques used with a jig-head minnow in open water. But you don’t have to be a forward-facing-sonar angler to appreciate this perfectly balanced reel. The Vanford is offered in six sizes, from a diminutive 500 to a giant 5000. The 2500-series, a size commonly used for bass fishing, weighed 6.2 ounces and had a gear ratio of 5.8:1.MSRP: $249.99

Shimano Vanford 2500 HG Spinning Reel

Okuma X Series Baitcasting Rod

Once in hand, it becomes evident the X-Series is more than a pretty face. Not only is the rod amazingly lightweight, it also has a satisfying quickness at the tip when hurling a 3/8-ounce bladed jig toward a lily pad field. Winner of the Editor’s Choice for baitcasters in Tackle Test, there are six rods in the casting series, ranging from 7 feet to 7 feet 6 inches in various actions. (The X-Series also includes five spinning models.) At Tackle Test, we tested a 7-foot, medium-fast model that touched all the proper flex points for its designated action. MSRP: $279.99

Okuma X Series Baitcasting Rod

Huk Kona 9-Inch Shorts

The newest addition to Huk’s premier lifestyle collection, the Kona Short delivers casual comfort in an elevated five-pocket design. This style essential is made to move with a subtle stretch and elastic waistband, available in both a 6-inch and 9-inch inseam for the perfect fit. The Kona Short also features a stealth-zippered leg pocket ideal for stashing small essentials, plus is 50+ UPF for sun protection. MSRP: $60

Huk Kona 9-Inch Shorts

Kifaru Deluxe Bino Harness

The days of rummaging around your hunting pack for your binos are over. The Deluxe Bino Harness from Kifaru delivers an easy and hands-free way to carry and store your optics. After identifying the shortcomings of other similar bino harnesses, Kifaru eliminated loud magnetic closures, limited and small pockets, and the inability to navigate apps hands-free. Operated with just one hand, the bino harness uses an adjustable hood, six pockets and MOLLE on the front and bottom to attach accessories. With the hood open and hooked around the bottom, a small pocket secures your phone for using navigation apps without your hands. Minimal 1-inch Rhodesian-style webbing offers different ride heights and allows for a low profile to comfortably ride under a hunting pack. The pack is available in three sizes to fit most binos available and comes with a pouch for a rangefinder and an accessory pouch. MSRP: $239

Kifaru Deluxe Bino Harness

Nomad Outdoor Short-Sleeve Button-Downs

Nomad Outdoor’s Hollis and Huntley button-down shirts have options for hunting, fishing or casual wear. They offer four-way stretch and ventilation to keep you comfortable in hot weather, along with UPF 30+ sun protection. Comes with a built-in interior wipe for sunglasses, shooting glasses, fishing glasses or other eyewear. The Hollis line is made from a lightweight, high performance blend of polyester and spandex and is available in Moss and Khaki plaid patterns. With pearl snaps, classic cowboy-style yoke at the shoulders and back venting these shirts were designed to look good without being too flashy. The Huntley line comes in Overland Trek tan and Moss green. Made from a lightweight and ultra-soft cotton, polyester and spandex fabric blend. Turkey-hunting themed patterns in the Huntley line include Harbor Mist Turkey Tracks, the striking Leafy Acorn camo pattern, and the Flying Tom pattern with subdued images of a gobbler in full flight.MSRP: $60 (Hollis); $65 (Huntley)

Nomad Outdoor Short-Sleeve Button-Downs

Real Avid Master Gun Workstation

Just about any hunter or shooter will enjoy the one-handed operation of the Real Avid Master Gun Workstation for firearm maintenance, repair, customization and optics mounting. The Quick Adjust Shuttle allows for precisely positioning of the gun, while the Gun Gripper technology secures the firearm via the stock or barrel. Featuring built-in storage and Smart-Assist™ Accessory compatibility, this Workstation is perfect for cleaning and maintaining all long guns. MSRP: $200

Real Avid Master Gun Workstation

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