The right gear for a successful season
If you like to fish then it’s a fair bet you spend a lot of time in your boat. And that means that you probably pay a lot of attention to how your boat is rigged, since little details can really make a big difference – especially if you’re on the water a lot.
Just in time for the coming season, we bring you a quick look at 10 of the best new fishing accessories on the market today. Whether you’re targeting walleye or wahoo, it’s important to head out with the right stuff and we’ve made it simple with these great fishing accessories that anyone can appreciate, from weekend warriors to top tournament pros.
Cannon Optimum Electric Downrigger
Control your trolling depth precisely with Cannon’s Optimum electric downrigger. Wireless integration allows up to four downriggers to connect wirelessly to the Cannon mobile app for remote operation, including Cannon’s All Up feature which raises all downriggers simultaneously at the touch of a button. Precision controls include up to five depth pre-sets, bottom tracking to keep baits at a pre-set depth above bottom, and positive ion control to reduce electric energy fields that can disturb fish.
Minn Kota Ultrex with i-Pilot
Minn Kota’s Ultrex bow-mount electric trolling motor combines the company’s most intuitive steering system yet with GPS-enabled automatic boat control for unrivaled precision and ease of operation. Just tap the foot control pedal to activate Spot Lock and hold the boat in place while automatically compensating for wind or currents. Features include a 52-inch shaft, 80 pounds of thrust, 24-volt operation, a multi-function foot pedal, a heading sensor and the I-Pilot Link GPS system.
Garmin GPSMAP 1242xsv
Garmin’s GPSMAP 1242xsv is a highly sophisticated multi-function display that combines GPS mapping with the company’s SideVu, ClearVu and traditional CHIRP sonar in a single integrated unit. The 12-inch WXCA high-resolution display renders maps and fish finder imagery in clear detail while providing a traditional keypad interface for improved operation when wearing gloves or with wet hands, while keeping the screen clear of finger marks. Preloaded with US LakeVu HD maps and Blue Chart g2 digital cartography, the unit can be mounted on a bracket or flush-mounted directly into the boat dash.
Frabill Trophy Haul Net
Featuring a large 18-inch by 21-inch hoop size and Frabill’s 14-inch deep, tangle-free mesh to eliminate hook snags, the Trophy Haul net represents the highest quality landing nets made today. The corrosion-resistant handle slides for storage then locks in place when ready to use. The asymmetrical flat bottom keeps fish from escaping while keeping them readily accessible for easy unhooking. Larger models with 21-inch by 24-inch and 24-inch by 27-inch hoops are also available.
Plano Magnum Tackle Box
Plano’s Magnum two-sides tackle box has been a standard among serious anglers for years and it’s easy to see why. Double-sided storage provides up to 19 compartments per side for superior tackle organization and control, while see-through DuraVision lids make it easy to find what you’re looking for. Made in the US, the Magnum features a sturdy top handle for easy transport and brass latches for the ultimate security.
RAM Electronics Mount
Trying to fit a large multi-function display on the dash of some boats can be a challenge, and especially getting the screen exactly where you need it. RAM’s universal double ball electronics mount makes it a snap to safely and securely mount electronics where they’re needed, while requiring less dash footprint than a coffee cup. Made of powder-coated, marine-grade aluminum for durability and reliability in the most demanding environments, RAM mounts are used by more pro anglers than all other mounts combined.
Bert’s Adjustable Rod Holders
The twin double-mount rod holder kit from Bert’s Custom tackle makes it a snap to install rod holders exactly where they’re needed. The kit includes four ratcheting aluminum rod holders and a pair of 17-inch mounting tracks for easy gunnel installation. Five vertical ratcheting positions through a full 90 degrees of motion allow numerous rod setting options. Made in the US.
Ranier Telescoping Boat Hook
Ranier’s premium telescoping boat hook is invaluable when docking on rough windy days. Expandable up to 98-inches in length, the Ranier premium boat hook is made from corrosion-resistant marine-grade aluminum with a reinforced nylon head for extreme durability. Weighing less than two pounds, it’s easy to handle and easy to stow in any rod locker. Never buy another boat hook again.
Tempress ProBax Orthopedic Boat Seats
Save your back from the pounding that goes with serious fishing in all weather conditions, and upgrade your boat with ProBax Orthopedic high-back boat seats from Tempress. Engineered with input from spinal surgeons and ergonomic seat experts, these easy-to-install seats fit standard 5 ¼” x 5 ¼” mounting plates or pedestals. Made from UV- and abrasion-resistant, 30-ounce marine-grade vinyl that shields against stains and mildew, ProBax seats are ABYC H-31 compliant to exceed the highest standards for safety in boating. Made in the US.
Accon Flush-Mount Cleats
One of the easiest and best upgrades any angler can do on their boat is to replace the standard boat cleats with retractable ones from Accon Marine. Their 202-Series pop-up boat cleats fold flush into the deck when they’re not in use, making it impossible for them to snag stray fishing lines, rod tops or the landing net. Just push the cleat flush into the deck to stow, then push it again to deploy for immediate use. Made from 316 stainless steel for extreme strength and durability, Accon’s retractable cleats mount with four stainless steel screws and come with a cut-out template for easy installation.
We are committed to finding, researching, and recommending the best products. We earn commissions from purchases you make using the retail links in our product reviews. Learn more about how this works.