Father's Day Gifts for the Fishing Fan

As the weather turns warmer and fishing season begins, a dad's thoughts turn to fishing. As he puts up the "Gone Fishing" sign on his door, check out these ideas for your fishing-loving dad.

Just for fun, buy your dad a bag of Fisherman's Friend lozenges. These little gems have been around since 1865, when fishermen would take these along on voyages to ward off coughs and cold symptoms. Now available in drug and grocery stores, make sure your dad stays healthy as fishing season begins.

Cabela's is a fisherman's dream. From fishing boats to bobbers to fly-fishing gear, this store is a fisherman's heaven. I recently gave my own father a gift certificate for the store, which can be used in person on on-line. He loved the option of buying whatever he wanted. Your dad will be able to find the top of the line, most up to date gear here. (Some stores even have built in aquariums so that dad can see what fish look like on the other side of the water.)

A first aid kit isn't the most feel-good present around, but it may really help your dad to feel good when mishaps occur on the boat or shore. This inexpensive model at Walmart includes everything your dad needs to help heal blisters and cut hands. It also includes an emergency blanket, glow sticks, and waterproof matches in case (God forbid), your dad's fishing expedition runs into trouble.

The glare off the water can be brutal on your dad's skin. Put together a gift basket which includes a good sunscreen with a high spf (sun protection factor) like this waterproof sports brand, a funky Greek fisherman's hat, or a hat that keeps both the sun and insects away (found at sporting goods stores.) Add a few colorful bobbers and packages of multi-colored plastic worms, and you have a unique basket designed especially for your special dad.

There's nothing harder than working fishing gear with cold and wet hands. (And for us whimper fisherpeople who don't like to touch squirming worms or flailing fish.) Fishing gloves make a great Father's Day gift. Try these models, which include fingerless varieties, and the waterproof, windproof types.

Even if your dad enjoys the great outdoors, it's sometimes pleasant to bring the amenities of the twentieth century on a fishing trip. These specialized marine coolers are designed for water use, and are resistant to warping, fading, dents, peeling, and rusting. They can also withstand repeated exposure to harsh sunlight and the elements. With the lid closed, it also makes a great extra seat on the boat!