For the budget-conscious shopper with a fly fisher in their life: it’s tough finding affordable gifts in the era of $1,000 fly rods and $200 nippers. That said, I think we can still do a damn good job with this one.
This list is perfect for the last-minute gifter looking for stocking stuffers, cheap holiday wares, or small surprises that show your fly fisher you approve of their obsession. Without further ado, let’s get into it.
30 Rainier Beers – I’m bringing back the deal of the century. Found at any participating PNW Costco for around $20. You can’t beat it—but you can drink them all in one sitting with the right friends (responsibly).
Loon Classic Nippers – You can never have too many nippers. In fact, I lost a pair just a couple of weeks ago. Beat the curse and gift them a fresh set.
Loon Rogue Forceps – These are my favorite forceps, and they haven’t done me wrong yet. They clip onto your pack and just won’t quit.
Fishpond Swiftcurrent Thermometer – Every angler needs a thermometer in their kit. Use it to predict hatches, check water temps to gauge steelhead activity, or make sure conditions are safe for the fish.
A Good Read from ThriftBooks – ThriftBooks offers used books at an amazing price point. Here are a few of my all-time favorites:
- Steelhead Water by Bob Arnold
- Steelhead Fly Fishing by Trey Combs (the steelheading Bible)
- Sex, Death, and Fly Fishing by John Gierach
- Big Two-Hearted River by Ernest Hemingway
- Spey Flies: Their History and Construction by John Shewey
Oros Strike Indicators – These are my favorite bobbers on the market because they install and uninstall easily while staying in line with the leader. Fewer tangles and excellent visibility make them an Amazon favorite. I like grabbing both fluorescent and white versions to build a hybrid indicator—half white, half fluorescent.
Merch from Their Local Fly Shop – Support the local shop. Hats, tees, fly boxes—whatever. These always make great gifts and help keep small businesses alive.
There Ya Have It
By no means a comprehensive list, but I think we got pretty damn close. These are some of the best gifts you can grab quickly and easily, and they’re guaranteed to impress. Expect a similar list next year with gifts under $50 to account for inflation and tariffs.
Until then—happy holidays.
—T
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