Fish Headed Fans


"I don't think these bass fish hats will be big sellers..." - Rod Bender

Photo: Fans line up outside of Fishboy HQ for the release of the latest fishing t-shirt from the creative team at Fishboy.com

Red Neck Fish Finder - Gift Item


Here is an interesting and funny gift item for the fisherman in your life - The Red Neck Fish Finder wall plaque!

Nifty little fly tying helper

Durable multi-purpose tool for handling flies made of ABS plastic. Has hook eye cleaning needle and threader.
Around $14 online.

Now here is a nifty little stocking stuffer for your favorite flyfisherman! Think kindly of the times he is around and push over a piece of that coal and squeeze in one of these handly gadgets!

The C.F. Design 3-in-1 Tweezer handles a few common problems when dealing with flys, fly tying and of course fishing. The business end of the tweezers is a ABS plastic tweezer that can grasp hold of a fly without one catching ones skin in the sharp hook. Inside the tweezer is a convienent threader used to pull fishing line through the tiny eye of the fly hook.

Also included is a hook eye "cleaner" for clearing your fly's hook eye of any debris or matter which might prevent you from getting the fishing line through.

That's it. It doesn't do a whole lot but what it does it does well and all in a nice small, lightweight package. Once get one of these fly fishing gadgets you'd be surprised by how many times you actually use it in the field and even at home at the fly tying bench. I got my partner Paul at www.fishboy.com one last year and he lost it and trys to steal mine every time we go fishing.

Make sure you attach yours to your fishing vest with the included key chain "chain".

Crocs - Ugly As Hell But Heaven For Da Feet

When I first laid eyes on a pair of Crocs they were at the airport on the feet of my fresh from Florida parents. I couldn't help laughing at them because they were so ugly. My Mom was wearing a pair of bright pink Crocs and my Dad a pair of "oh so manly tan" ones. I can just see the salesman saying "wait sir we can fit you into a pair also, do you like black or tan".

I thought it was a joke or maybe some street hustler took them for their money like the peddler in who sold Jack a few beans for a cow. Now keep in mind this was a few years ago and up here in Maine fashion comes slow. We tend to embrace the practical over the flashy, fashion of the moment. If it is from LL Bean usually that's good enough for us and besides if it fails after 10 years of wear we can get a free replacement because we expect clothes to last and last and not go in and out of style every season.

Back to the Crocs, I've since seen quite a bunch of Crocs around on just about every age from toddler to senior citizen, in every color imaginable and in every season. Some kids don't ever seem to take them off.

The reason is that beyond the outlandish colors these sandals come in (and the clunky clown show look to them), deep down they are extremely practical and comfortable. They are feather-light, soft and squishy and they breath. Also, very importantly here on the coast, they are waterproof. You can easily take them kayaking or sloshing around in the garden or woods.

So yes, they look absolutely ridiculous on a non-circus individual but its function over form. For people who are on their feet all day, people with foot problems, people with sweaty feet or someone looking for waterproof sandal these Crocs are perfect.

Now on the downside I've seen a lot of "Croc Abuse" going on. Because these shoes are so comfortable some people don't take them off even when a different kind of shoe would make more sense. For example I've seen people climbing the trails in Acadia National Park in their Crocs. I've seen kids running around the playground in Crocs. Kids playing sports in Crocs. (And kids falling on their faces in Crocs).

Crocs are good for general walking but they don't have the ankle support needed for hiking and they don't have the traction for tearing around the playground or climbing slippery rocks. Wearing the wrong footwear can lead to serious injury and falls. Also Crocs are a casual shoe and have no place at fancy restaurants or night clubs!

So be warned! Once you try Crocs you might never want to wear another shoe even to the point of endangerment! (Both physical and social!)

The reviewer comes clean:

I admit it. I've wore ugly shoes for the sake of comfort. Back at the university I wore Doc Martin's. (A lot of people did and still do - in fact they are the standard issue shoe of the punk "alternative" uniform). Anyway they looked like Frankenstein shoes. But they were roomy and comfortable.

Is the Original Lazy Fish Corkscrew worth the price?

About six years ago I was visiting Newport R.I. -- after a lovely day of touring the grand old mansions of the Vanderbilt’s and friend with their pre-income tax lavish lifestyle I happened upon the coolest corkscrew I ever laid eyes upon. Especially since my business (www.fishboy.com) deals with all things fish.

It was the Original Lazy Fish corkscrew. It’s awesome. Closed it looks like a shiny chrome fish. Open it resembles one of those robot grabber claws you had when you were a kid.

Plus it works even better than it looks! You simply screw the corkscrew end (the fish’s mouth) into the cork. Grab hold of the fish’s tail and pull. The compound lever action in the design of the fish corkscrew multiplies your effort and the cork pulls out with ease. Plus it makes a really cool "plop" sound as the cork pops out of the bottle. The fish corkscrew makes opening up wine bottles fun and it surely impresses any guests you may have in attendance.

The only downside of the Original Lazy Fish version of this corkscrew is its cost. It’s an imported item and can cost $40 to $50. But since the fish corkscrew design is based on a product from 100 years ago, there are other versions on the market.

Franmara Pisces Multi-lever Corkscrew

For a while the Original Lazy Fish Corkscrew was hard to find. I don't know if the company went through some restructuring, stopped importing them for a while or what but I had a hard time finding them for my store. I was also hoping to find a less expensive version of the Original Lazy Fish to offer my customers on Fishboy.com and along comes The Pisces from Franmara.

The Pisces is pretty much indistinguishable from The Original Lazy Fish Corkscrew. It looks the same and opens bottles the same. It even seems to be made of the same materials. The only difference is the packaging and most importantly the price. By choosing the Pisces over the Original Lazy Fish you can save yourself at least 20 bucks.

The only downside that I can see is that the Original Lazy Fish is available in colors and the Franmara Pisces Multi-lever Corkscrew only comes in classic chrome.

The Perfect Fly Fishing Gift


Above: This Fly Reel Birdhouse makes a unique gift for the fly fisher in your life. Available from Fishboy.com


There is a fly fishing gift out there perfect for your budget and perfect for your loved one, too! The greatest news is that you can purchase a fly fishing gift for anyone at great prices just by browsing around online.

When you know someone closely and you happen to know that this person has everything he or she needs for fly fishing, there is a wonderful selection of fly fishing accessories available. Or perhaps he or she has everything they need—but they really want a new fly fishing vest. A fly fishing vest is a great fly fishing gift. Especially for the fly fishing enthusiast, and those who are just starting our and beginning to collect fly fishing gear.

There are virtually hundreds of different kinds of flyfishing gifts—so how do you know which fly fishing gift to purchase? Especially if you do not go fly fishing yourself, it can be a confusing choice to make.

Basic lures are always a great idea, as well as fly fishing knots, fly fishing flies, reels, rods and even those super classy flyfishing gifts like new rod cases. The good news is that there are so many flyfishing accessories available that we know you will find something.

If you really cannot think of anything else, no other fly fishing gift, that your loved one will like, you can always purchase things like key chains, t-shirts, hats, bumper stickers and such.

Lastly, if you know exactly what you want but it seems to elude you at every turn—browse around online, there are so many in stock items perfect for a fly fishing gift. And your ideal fly fishing gift will absolutely be among the wide selection of fly fishing merchandise.

You will be able to find a fly fishing gift for anyone at all when you search online. No matter what skill level and no matter how often or how little he or she goes out fly fishing. You will certainly find a fly fishing gift your loved one will be pleased with when you look in the right places.

La Quiceanera Party Tips

A customary reception

Similar to a wedding reception, quinceañera parties have three parts. There is a presentation of the girl and her court, a dinner, and a party with dancing. The exact order and style of the presentation ceremony varies from country to country.

Sylvia Solheim of Quinceanera-Boutique.com remembers her daughter’s quinceañera, saying, “For my own daughter, we wanted her quince to be focused on the religious aspect of the celebration. We did all of the recognition of her leaving her childhood at the mass. But at the reception, it was just fun. A family can choose customs that have meaning for them and those are the customs they should follow.”

Send this free eCard
Send this eCard !


A new pair of shoes

In general, during the program, the quinceañera, her court of honor, her family and padrinos will be presented to the guests in a short, but very symbolic, ceremony. Her godparents might hand her a scepter to replace the bouquet of flowers she left at the altar that morning. She might be given a Bible, rosary and other gifts that were blessed during the mass service.

During some presentations, the father helps the quinceañera change from the flat shoes she wore to the church to her first pair of high heels, another symbol of her leaving childhood and becoming a young woman. Of course, her first dance as an adult is with her father, traditionally a waltz. “Sobre las Olas” and “A Ritmo de Bals” are both popular choices.


Send this eCard !


The court waltz

In the past, the father/daughter dance was followed by a choreographed dance of the entire court of honor, usually another waltz. That happens less often now, but the practice is still popular in some areas.

“Some churches might not allow the girl to do everything she wants to during the mass, like the coronation ceremony. Move those elements to the party, which is much more flexible than the church service,” says Isabella Wall of Bella Quinceañera, who works with 100s of quinceañeras each year.

During the evening, the girl’s parents and godparents toast the quinceañera, commenting on her new adult role, her growing faith or their pride and love for her.

Send this free eCard
Send this eCard !


The last doll and the first dance

Some girls also receive their “last doll” at the party, while others receive that gift during the church service earlier in the day. Certainly, there are thank-you toasts, made by both the girl and her parents.

In the past, quinceañera traditions put emphasis on the girl’s father. He walked the girl down the aisle, had the first dance with her and made the evening’s toasts. Other options are sometimes replacing that tradition: having both parents escort the quinceañera down the aisle or making the toasts. If a girl’s father has passed away or lives away from the family, it’s common for the mother or an older brother to complete all of the usual fatherly duties.

Send this free eCard
Send this eCard !



Olivia Flores Alvarez is the editor of BravoHouston!, an arts supplement to the Hispanic weekly newspaper Semana News. She regularly covers Latinos in entertainment for other Texas based publications, including the Houston Press newspaper and OutSmart Magazine. Olivia is also a contributing reporter for the KPFT Evening News, a Pacifica radio network affiliate.


Article Source: QuinceGirl Quinceanera

A Buddy Invites You On A Fishing Trip - Do you have to bring a gift?

----------------------

Bottom line: A friend invites you out on his new boat for a fishing trip if you wanted to be invited again you better offer to help pay for gas, bring the food and beer and you should follow it up with a fun gift to remind your friend to pick you instead of one of the other guys panting to get a free boat trip. No one likes a freeloader.

----------------------

Do you have to bring a gift?

At its best, a birthday, graduation, or wedding gift is a token by which the recipient — usually someone you love, or at least know and like a lot — will remember you fondly. But what about when invitations arrive from very casual acquaintances? At these times, even the most generous among us have asked ourselves, "Do I really, really need to buy a gift?"

Happily, there's a simple rule that seems to be universally accepted by etiquette pros: "If you go to the event, you're obligated to bring a gift. If you don't go, you can nicely send regrets and there's an end to it," says Peter Post, a director of the Emily Post Institute and the author of Essential Manners for Couples.

As with all good rules, there are exceptions. With a wedding invitation, even if you decline, you should still send a gift. "Typically, you're not invited to a wedding unless you know the people well," says Post, so you should want to give something; not doing so would make too obvious a statement. This does not include those occasions, he adds, when "you get an invitation and you think, What on earth is this about? I hardly know this person." You can't help thinking someone's just fishing for gifts, and you don't want to bite. Post's proclamation: There's no reason to feel a bit of guilt about not sending a present to a virtual stranger.

Then again, what do you do if you're invited to your best friend's daughter's three bridal showers this summer? Even if you go to them all, says Post, "there's absolutely no need to bring a gift to more than one. In fact, we suggest that brides don't put people in this position." If you do multi-fete, don't feel awkward; your friend and her daughter will know you've given your gift. But if the courage of your convictions fails you, you could bring a small token — or send regrets.

The Ultimate Angler Knife Makes The Perfect Gift


The Trident's "Groove" features allows the angler to cut line without openning the knife!

Impressions: The team at SOG did right with the Trident TF-1 TiNi. Though it looks like an ordinary knife, this folding knife is quite impressive. SOG includes features that outdoorsmen, especially anglers, will surely find handy such as the TiNi coated blade, SOG Assisted Technology (S.A.T.), and the noticeable and unique Groove. The Trident weighs in very nicely and has a good size handle for both small and large hands. In addition the knife has a locking feature that keeps the blade from accidentally coming open, and another mechanism to keep the sharp blade from closing when flipped open for use.

Groove: This innovative feature is what sets the Trident apart from others. The patent pending Groove system is built into the handle and makes use of the closed blade and a slot in the handle, cutting just about any type of line such parachute cord, rope, and fishing line including braided and super lines.

The Groove was first developed after Navy SEALs thought open blades were too dangerous around fragile equipment and other fellow members. After puncturing a military inflatable boat and damaging other equipment when cutting ropes with an open blade, SOG then designed this effective safe system. Now the Grooveâ„¢ sheath is not only used on the Trident but many other SOG knives as well.

S.A.T: SOG Assisted Technology (S.A.T.) was designed to help one open the knife easily and quickly, no matter if the person uses his/her right or left hand. The patented mechanism works with a constant force that opens the blade and a variable force that wants to close it. That means when someone opens the Trident the force to open is greater than closing which will spring open the knife virtually on its own.

Field Tests: I once read a survey somewhere about what one thing you would like to have with you if you're stranded in the wilderness, and someone answered a durable pocket knife because it's a tool they can rely on to cut, scrap, dig, and many more things that pertains to one's survival. Though I hope I would never end up in a situation like that, I have to agree with that statement. A knife is important, and even more important is a knife that's high performing and extremely reliable. We tested the SOG Trident while fishing and camping at Lassen National Park, on local lakes, and on the Pacific Ocean while targeting salmon, albacore tuna, and rockfish.

The Blade: Aside from useful features the blade is what makes or breaks a knife. Without a quality blade any knife would be a useless tool. The Trident folding knife has an outstanding blade that’s ground out of high-grade AUS8 stainless steel flat stock. We used the Trident on the water, fresh and salt, and while camping carving marshmallow sticks, gutting fish, and cutting other miscellaneous items, the blade never gave in and is sharp cutting without difficulty. The Trident blade remained solid and sound throughout our tests and never failed on us once. The stainless steel blade on the Trident model is all the same but the TF-1 test unit has a black Titanium Nickel coating on it. There is a slight downside to a coating because over time it’s sure to become scratched even though TiNi is a very tough material. Even if the coating can be damaged after prolong use and abuse, this is the model that anglers should use because the TiNi coating not only adds surface hardness but also increases the blade’s resistance to corrosion.

Ergonomics: The Trident folding knife holds nicely in your hands. The glass-reinforced Zytel handle is long enough for both large and small hands, and patterned with non-slip for a sure grip. In addition SOG molded the handle with proper curves and positioned the ridges on the handle and on top of the blade for a better hold, even when your hands are slimed by the fish. Application: To an angler a pocket knife is very important and can serve many purposes. One very obvious application is cutting fishing line. The blade is sharp and will cut fishing line in an instant. We tried cutting both slick lines such as mono and fluorocarbon and also braided line. With the blade flipped in the open position it easily sliced the braided line with either the serrated or fine edge section of the SOG Trident blade. With monofilament fishing line the blade doesn’t grab onto the line like it did with braided, so in order to quickly cut slippery line you must fold the line over the blade or carefully apply a quick slash - this goes for all knives. The Groove™ system does the same thing but allows you to cut with the knife in the closed and locked position. We found the Groove™ very handy and we were able to apply this feature on cutting line in a hurry, and without the fear of stabbing fellow anglers or damaging other nearby equipment. Aside from cutting fishing line with the Groove™, anglers can use the SOG Trident to cut rope. In an emergency you will want a blade with a sharp edge that can quickly get you away from danger such as rope wrapped around the prop and you’re about to be washed ashore or even rope wrapped around a fellow angler. Opened, the SOG Trident cuts rope very well above and underwater as we tried both of these scenarios. The Groove™ system can be applied to cutting only those items that can fit in the slot, so most rope is out of the question and best cut with the Trident in an open position.

Conclusion: Having the right blade can mean life or death for some, especially to an outdoorsman whom relies on a knife that’s used for survival purposes. A quality blade, solid construction, and useful features are key specifications one should consider when buying a pocket knife. The SOG Trident TF-1 has these characteristics and more. It is truly a high performing folding knife that one can trust to have at hand. The Trident has effective features like the Groove™ system allowing anglers to cut fishing line without opening the blade and the SOG Assisted Technology (S.A.T.) that swiftly opens the blade no matter which hand you use. The blade is ground out of a tough stainless steel and the TF-1 model is even more durable with its Titanium Nickel coating. The SOG Trident is a blade that inspires confidence to help you get the job done right.

Available Here

Need a fishing gift for Steve Jobs?


Mac Daddy Fishing Lures offers a million dollar fishing lure! Crafted in just over 3 pounds of glimmering gold and platinum, then encrusted with 100 carats of diamonds and rubies (4,753 stones to be exact). This extraordinary Big Game Lure is over 12 inches in length. It’s truly the most stellar of all MacDaddy’s jeweled flies and lures!

STATISTICS
Approximately 100 cts. Diamonds and Rubies (4,753 stones)
Over 3 pounds of platinum, 14-k and 18-k gold
Over 12 inches in length

----

About Mac Daddy Fishing Lures - More Than Just Another Fish Story

There is nothing greater than the adrenaline rush one feels when casting a lure into the water, except perhaps, that moment when the fish bites and you get to experience the unparalleled exhilaration of reeling it in! We created this outrageous line of men's gifts for those who dare share our passion for living life to the fullest. There is an indescribable feeling you get, when you take your solid gold - diamond encrusted fishing lure, methodically tie it to your line, and cast it forth. There is only one way to find this feeling...order up an original MacDaddy lure today to catch it!

If the experience itself isn't enough, you come away with a commemorative photo, a wonderful memory, and a great fish story that can be told for years to come. That is what we are all about...helping to create those wonderful rocking chair stories, and perhaps more importantly, being a part or bringing out the "child" in those of us who have forgotten that life is supposed to be fun!

So what IS MacDaddy's anyway?


MacDaddy's Fishing Lures, Inc. is dedicated to manufacturing and distributing the finest line of gold and diamond fishing lures in the world. With over 40 years of combined experience in the areas of jewelry design, manufacturing, distribution, sales, public relations and marketing, MacDaddy's is excited to offer a line of fly fishing gifts that are sure to ignite the imagination of sports men, women and children worldwide.

An Avid fisherman himself, MacDaddy has been fishing for as long as he can remember. He caught his first fish while sitting on is daddy's knee, and made his first fishing lure out of copper at the age of nine. As a result of the simple "family values" instilled in him while fishing...values like passing time with family and friends, and sharing stories with loved ones...he also introduced his favorite pastime to his sons, and his love for fishing has been a guiding light in this new venture.

MacDaddy's Products

Using precious metals and stunning jewels, MacDaddy's sterling silver lures are carefully crafted following the strictest manufacturing standards. Currently, there are five product lines available, ranging in price from $40.00 to $1,000,000.00. There is something for everyone, whether you are looking for that perfect "one of a kind" gift, or you are a sportsman or woman who would like to spoil yourself. There is nothing like a MacDaddy's lure or fly.

The MacDaddy's product line includes:
Number 1 Engraved Lures The #1 Engraved Series of Lures. Crafted from sterling silver and plated with 14-karat gold and personalized with an engraved inscription, these lures are the perfect gift item for that hard-to-buy-for person in your life. They come packaged in a specially designed gift card.

Solid Gold and Diamond Fishing Lures Solid Gold and Diamond Fishing Lures. Crafted from solid 14-karat gold and diamonds, these lures are perfect luxury gifts for the affluent sport fisherman... or may be used as an elegant piece of jewelry, a unique key chain, or as a cherished keepsake displayed in an extraordinary shadow box (also available as part of MacDaddy's product line).

Sterling Silver / Gold-Plated Fishing Lures with CZ's Sterling Silver Lures / Gold-Plated Fishing Lures with CZ's. These lures look just like the original MacDaddy's Solid Gold and Diamond Lures, only they are manufactured from sterling silver, then 14-karat gold-plated and set with cubic zirconia (CZ's) instead of diamonds.

Custom orders are available upon request. A variety of different gemstones may be specified, along with specific initials (i.e. TLC), short names (i.e. Mac), corporate logos, or a personalized message.

Jeweled Flies Jeweled Flies. Offered in a variety of gemstones, including diamonds, rubies and sapphires, these jeweled flies are truly worthy of being called "works of art". The original fly patterns are tied by Master Fly Tiers.


MacDaddy's Specialty Items
The Million-Dollar Tackle Box. The ultimate luxury item for the "man who has everything", this elegant tackle box includes a variety of Solid Gold and Gemstone Lures, Solid Gold and Diamond Lures, Jeweled Flies, and an assortment of precious metal and gemstone salt water lures, all housed in a stunning box crafted from fine exotic wood. Please call us for a private showing (805) 234-4789

Extraordinary Shadow Boxes. Designed to display MacDaddy's lures, fly fishing tacle and other sports gifts, these elegantly crafted boxes also have room for an accompanying photo. The perfect item for commemorating a special fishing trip, or for simply displaying a series of lures


MacDaddy's Vision

MacDaddy's mission is three-fold: 1) Promote fishing, 2) Promote joy in life, and of course, 3) Manufacture, distribute and sell the finest fishing lures in the world.

In keeping with these goals, we have plans to sponsor fishing awareness campaigns, as well as fishing tournaments intended to benefit children. A portion of the proceeds from these events will help fund additional adventures.

Quite simply, we believe MacDaddy's Fishing Lures is an idea whose time has come and we are passionately dedicated to bringing this dream to fruition!

FOR MORE DOWN TO EARTH FISHING GIFT IDEAS VISIT WWW.FISHBOY.COM

Creative Kid Birthday Cakes - Edible Cake Toppers

Here's a great idea that will save you time and make your cake look like a professional made it just for your child's party.

You can find edible cake toppers to fit just about any kid birthday party theme. And edible cake toppers are colorful, fun and the perfect way to make your child's birthday cake look terrific without requiring a lot of your time. It's the perfect way to get just the right kid birthday cake design.

Kid's Birthday Cakes - Bake Your Own Cake

If you've got the time, bake your own cake, add frosting, and then use an edible topper that fits your theme. This is a very easy way to get in a little kid birthday cake decorating to add the final touch.

And with a do-it-yourself cake decorating kit you can add even more decorations by adding sugar theme characters, mini-toys, theme candles, edible sprinkles and all sorts of other goodies to give your easy creation that professional look.

Kid's Birthday Cakes - Ready Made Cakes

So you're really pressed for time but you want to at least create your own cake decorations...

Pick up a frosted cake at your favorite bakery, and then use an edible topper that fits your kid birthday party theme.

Add sugar characters, mini-toys, theme candles, edible sprinkles and what ever else you want to give your child's cake that personalized look that will make you the envy of your neighborhood.

Kid's Birthday Cake Design

There are do-it-yourself cake decorating kits for most birthday themes that include just about everything you might need to put together a cake you can be really proud of.

These kits usually include your theme's edible cake topper, theme goodies, sugar characters and much more.

You want your creative kid birthday cake to be fun, exciting, colorful and delicious. And when you bring out your cake you want everyone to say "wow."

With edible cake toppers and do-it-yourself cake decorating kits, your kid's birthday cake will be a big crowd pleasing hit.

And no one will suspect that you didn't make it all from scratch... Unless you want to let them in on your secret to success.

Now that's the way to save time and money and still present an award winning kid birthday cake.

A Sweet Wish !
A warm B'day message for your friends/ family/ bro/ sis/ loved ones.


Send this free eCard
Send this eCard !

Gift Idea's for Thirsty Outdoor Activities


It all started with a simple hiker's bottle. Today, the SIGG bottle has acquired cult status.

The world's best aluminium drink bottle comes with a taste-neutral internal coating, is the only bottle resistant to fruit acids and isotonic drinks and is absolutely leak-proof, even with carbonated drinks.

Suitable for hot or cold liquids, the Sigg collection of drink bottles are of the best Swiss quality and have been sought after for nearly 100 years.

While the SIGG bottle may look much like any other, it in fact packs a lot of high-tech. SIGG bottles are extrusion-pressed from a one-piece aluminium block, which results in uniform, seamless walls.

Gifts For the Outdoor Lovers in Your Life

The holiday seasons are near, and family members are already asking, "What do you want for Christmas?" Oh, to be a kid again with my Christmas wish list! Is there someone on your holiday gift list who loves the outdoors and could use some new piece of camping gear? If so, here are some ideas that may help you finish your holiday shopping.

For those new to camping

Sleeping bags - the first consideration for all beginning campers is having a warm and cozy place to sleep. Don't skimp on quality, and if you're buying for a kid, buy them an adult bag, because it will probably last them for many years to come.

Sleeping pads - if they've already got a sleeping bag, or if you can afford to spend a little more on presents, get them the next camping item they'll want that will improve the quality of their sleeping outdoors.

Quality Water Bottles - Everyone can use one of these cool stylish water bottles from Sigg. One even includes a cup.

Tents - next on a basic camper's checklist will likely be a tent. Give consideration to the number of people they'll be camping with to determine the size. And if they're backpackers, look specifically for lightweight 1 or 2 person tents. Otherwise look in the category of family tents.

Cook stoves - food always tastes good when it is cooked outdoors. Consider a 2 burner propane stove. They're easier to use, produce a hotter flame, and are more compact than typical fuel stoves. If they've already got the stove, maybe they could use a carrying bag, one that also holds two propane bottles.

Lanterns - again, campers are migrating to the propane models versus the fuel lanterns. Flashlights are nice for emergencies, but can get rather expensive with the cost of batteries when used for prolonged lighting.

For those with new families

Family tents - your kids have grown and now don't have enough room in their 2-person tent for themselves plus the new family member. Get your kids a bigger family tent so that they can share with their kids the same wonders that you introduced them to.

Cooking utensils - as the family grows, so too do the needs to prepare larger meals. You can never go wrong by giving utensils that will gladly be used by those who delight in the art of outdoor cooking.

Outdoor clothes - we all know how fast kids can go through clothes. You grandparents will be doing your own kids a favor should you consider giving the grandkids some special clothes for future summer adventures: jeans/shorts, hiking shoes/boots, rain gear, day packs, or SPF clothing.

For those with everything

Screen rooms - a nice luxury that can be a life-saver in buggy locations is a screen room that allows you to relax outdoors away from pests and out of the sun.

Portable grills - great for camping, tailgate parties, and picnics. One of these would be appreciated by any outdoor chef.

Swiss Army knives - what else needs to be said? These knives are synonymous with camping.

Shower bags - these inexpensive black plastic bags are a blessing when camping somewhere without hot showers.

Dutch ovens - for the gourmet in your family, these make great presents for anyone who loves to bake and wants to try it at the campground.

Need more ideas?

Time to go shopping! How many times have you gone shopping not knowing exactly what to get someone and while walking down the street you looked in a shop window and said, "Wow, that would make a great gift for ...." I've given you some ideas above, which may or may not satisfy a person on your gift list. Either way, if you know they love the outdoors, you probably won't go wrong by getting them something they will use for outdoor recreation. With that in mind, it's time to go window shopping online. Maybe you'll find that perfect gift for an outdoor lover. To check out a great variety of online camping gear stores, like REI, Campmor, Cabela's, L.L.Bean and many more less known and obscure stores.

Gift ideas for those on the go

By Sal Ruibal, USA TODAY
Holiday shopping for action/adventuresports enthusiasts may seem to be an easy task. There are now thousands of gift possibilities for the adrenaline-driven jock on your list, but sifting through that mountain of gear is tougher than climbing El Capitan.

Fear not: Throughout the year we've kept our eyes peeled for the best and coolest products and tested as many of them as we could get our hands on. And, you can check out other USA TODAY gift ideas in our "In the Bag" blog.

Electronics:

Before you head out the door for you next adventure, take a peek at the Oregon Scientific WeatherNow Station ($169.95, Oregonscientific.com.). Just plug in the desktop unit and you're receiving regional data from the MSN Direct Weather Data Service. It displays the current regional four-day forecast as well as weather warnings, watches and advisories.

Music-on-the-go is a booming business, even in the great outdoors. Manufacturers have become quite creative in devising new ways for you to take your tunes on the trail, the slopes and the road.

Oakley has been a leader in this market with its popular Thump series of MP3 player-sunglasses. The latest version, the no-wires Thump Pro ($349-$249, Oakley.com), is more compact, made of sweat-resistant materials, has interchangeable lenses and can hold 240 songs in its 1-gigabyte configuration. Content-wise, the Thump Pro is iPod m4a-file (CD transfer) compatible and has AudibleReady software for e-books and podcasts.

We like the Thump Pro because its ear speakers swivel out, giving the user more control over ambient sound. That's important for runners, road cyclists and other athletes whose safety depends on being aware of their surroundings. Ear-bud speakers may have concert-hall sound, but that's not always the smartest way to travel.

Burton's Audex line of snowboard gear is the leader in on-snow tunes, with MP3 compatible parkas, helmets and packs. The Audex Apres MP3 Jacket ($359.95, Store.burton.com) not only comes with its own player, it has snazzy faux-fur trim on its hood.

If you're more interested in hearing your performance numbers, the Motion Lingo ADEO Fitness Trainer ($149, Motionlingo.com) combines GPS technology with audio software that audibly "tells" you how fast you're biking, running, walking, blading or skiing. You can combine it with an MP3 or iPod to get your stats while you groove.

All that music will stop if you can't recharge your gear in the wilderness. That's why Brunton made the new Brunton Solaris 6 and Solaris i6 lightweight foldable solar panels ($129, Brunton.com.) They are ideal for charging satellite phones, video and digital cameras and cellphones. The i6 model, out Dec. 15, can also charge iPods and MP3 players.

Wheels:

Finding a shiny new bicycle under the tree is a holiday tradition, even for grown-up boys and girls. Bike makers have been busy coming up with some dandy models for 2007 that feature the creative use of carbon fiber technology. The bottom line is a bike that's stiff enough to win a sprint to the next stop sign while also being comfortably compliant. In English, that means fast and comfy.

We rode the new Specialized Roubaix ($7,100-$1,900, Specialized.com) and Cannondale System Six ($8,000-$3,400, Cannondale.com) road bikes and they delivered as promised. Yes, that is a lot of money, but a bike that is comfortable is a bike that will be used more often. The garages of America are filled with unused, uncomfortable bikes. Specialized has taken the comfort concept a step further and is training bike shops to properly fit customers to their highly adjustable bikes.

The Ibis Carbon Mojo (complete bike $3,299-$5,399; frame only is $1,899; ibiscycles.com) is a sculpture that goes really fast on mountain bike trails. The colorful dual-suspension Mojo marks the return of the venerable, yet funky, Ibis brand to the marketplace. Carbon fiber was a gutsy choice for a company whose place in bike history was made with beautiful steel and titanium bike frames, but a 60-day waiting list for the Carbon Mojo is proof that founder Scot Nicol still knows what works on two wheels.

If you're looking for an inexpensive, cool, fun and easy to ride bike, go for the old-school Electra Amsterdam ($550, Electrabike.com), a 3-speed commuter/coffee/errands bike that's comfortable and stylish — just not fast.

Apparel:

Few items of sports clothing must perform as many tasks as mountain bike shorts. They must provide a comfortable platform for the rider's most sensitive parts, protect the hips and thighs from crashes, keep the lower body warm or cool and serve as a storage area for glasses, tools and food.

Hoss Ponderosa shorts do all that and look cool, too. If the Cartwright boys rode mountain bikes instead of horses, they'd wear Ponderosa shorts.

Hoss gear is also less expensive than most MTB shorts. The single-color version sells for $49.95, while the stylish camo print shorts go for $54.95 (hossmtb.com). If you're a Clydesdale-class rider, you'll have to pony up an extra $5 for XXXL.

The Ponderosa's seven pockets can carry a lot of cargo and strategically placed stretch panels provide comfort on long rides.

Over the years, we've also been impressed with the New Zealand Merino wool clothing made by Ibex. This year, we like their machine-washable Ibex Neck Gaitor ($30, Ibexwear.com). The neck gaitor is a great item to stash in a backpack for blustery days or some triple-lutzes on a frozen pond.

One of our favorite new items is the Patagonia Manuka fleece-lined flip-flop sandal ($85, Patagonia.com). The feel of fleece between your toes is sublime and the perfect thing for quick trips to the back porch for kindling or commuting to the hot tub. The Manuka is available in both men's and women's sizes.

Dryzone shoe and booth dryers ($14.99 for shoes, $20 for boots, Dryzoneusa.com) are handy items for wet weather conditions. The unique, heat-free dryer is the shape of a shoe insole and consists of "beanbags" filled with moisture-absorbing crystals. The bags are inserted into each shoe and, overnight, absorb moisture. The bags are easily regenerated after three or four uses by heating them in a microwave or on a heat register.


Skate:

Longboarding is the biggest trend in skateboarding and you don't have to be a dude-spewing grommet to have fun with it. We suggest the Loaded Vanguard Bamboo longboard ($298, loadedboards.com), a great all-around board for multiple surfaces.

If you want to introduce a friend to the longboard scene, pick up MAKE YOU sMILE($24, loadedboards.com), a DVD from skate film auteurs Adam Colton and Adam Stokowski, a.k.a. Adam Squared. It includes full-length versions of the pair's web films and eight new films.

Stocking stuffers:

Adventure Medical Kits (amkdealer.com) offers a wide line of emergency kits that range from an $18 back-pocket model to the $100 Outfitter, which organizes hospital-quality tools and supplies by type of injury and includes instructional cards and a first aid guide that enable a novice or pro to be an effective first responder to an emergency ... Knog has extended its line of excellent LED lights that work for both bikers with the Toad and Bull Frog ($28-$32, knogusa.com), five-LEDs units that light up the trail behind and ahead of you. ... ProBar ($2.99, theprobar.com) blends 15 natural whole foods into a yummy bar that makes on-the-run nutrition a real meal. Check out the Koka Moka. ... SportLegs ($26.95, Sportlegs.com) is a supplement that actually works and won't get you kicked out of the Tour de France. Made from calcium, magnesium and vitamin D in vegetarian capsules, SportLegs helps regulate lactic acid production, so your muscles produce only as much as they need to perform their very best. ... Anke Wilken was worried that her cycling-crazed husband was losing interest in romance, so she created the Cyclepassion photo calendar ($34.95, worldcycling.com). The poster-sized photos of female glamor models, sinewy male cyclists and amazing race scenery is sexy without being sleazy. ... Cats and dogs hate cancer, too. Get them Livestrong pet collars and leashes ($12-$14, laf.org) in yellow and black.

Birthday Party Themes Within A Budget

Involve the birthday child when choosing a birthday party theme. Don't get hung up on particular television shows or movies. It's much easier to plan a "cowboy" party than a "Cowboy Bob" party! In addition to buying plates, napkins, and cups, it's fun to have some of the party decorations be homemade. If your child is old enough, let them help make and plan the decorations for the party theme.

Find some music to play while the guests are arriving. In addition to games and prizes, think of an activity the kids can indulge in at the end of the party. A craft that the kids can easily finish at home or within a few minutes can be a nice way to have the kids wind down a bit.

Out Of The World Birthday Celebrations !
Sparkling 'Birthday Wishes' for your friend/
sweetheart/ family/ loved one on his/ her special day.



Send this eCard !



A Wish Wrapped With Love !
A beautiful, warm 'Birthday Wish' for
your friend/ best friend/ sweetheart/
family/ loved ones that's sure to make him/ her feel special.


Send this free eCard
Send this eCard !

Catch. Release. Repeat.


"A trout is too valuable to be caught only once" Lee Wulff.

Def: Catch and release is a practice within recreational fishing intended as a technique of conservation. After capture, the fish are unhooked and returned to the water before they are totally exhausted or further injured. Using barbless hooks, it is often possible to release the fish without removing it from the water (a slack line is frequently sufficient).

-----

In the old days if you caught a fish it was yours God Dam It! Whether you ate fish or not that fish wasn't going back into the water. You either chopped it up for chum, gave it to the cat or buried it in your garden. You caught it, you kept it.

But times have changed. People today have a greater respect for the natural world and the dwindling natural resources of water access and healthy fish stocks. Overfishing creates terrible fishing conditions for all fishermen. Its simple, if there are less fish in the water everyone is going to catch less. And isn't the surprise of catching fish where the fun is in fishing?

Of course not everyone has been enlightened to the concept of catch and release. But its gaining converts. The first official use of catch and release in the U.S. occured in Michigan in the early 1950s as a way to reduce the cost of restocking hatchery-raised trout. Typically what happens in non-catch and released managed waters is the states take your fishing license fees and pay to restock fisheries with little fish. These fish are then typically wiped out in a single fishing season and then the state has to restock.

Fishermen acustom to fishing in catch and release waters are usually catching much older and larger fish. Which certainly increases the pleasure value.

Try catch and release and you will be rewarded in better fishing waters and you will be protecting fish populations for your grandkids.

Effective catch and release fishing techniques avoid excessive fish fighting and handling times, avoid damage to fish skin, scale and slime layers (that leave fish vulnerable to fungal skin infections) by nets, dry hands and dry surfaces, and avoid damage to throat ligaments and gills by poor handling techniques.

Some tips: Use barbless hooks to reduce injury and handling time. Using strong tackle, to minimise fighting times, use needle-nosed pliers to aid unhooking, leaving fish in the water during the unhooking and release process, to avoid any handling, use specially designed catch and release landing nets, avoid touching fish with dry hands and don't have the fish out of water for more than 30 seconds.

The next best thing to practicing catch and release yourself is to promote catch and release to other fishermen. One way to do this is by wearing "Catch. Release. Repeat." t-shirts and hats. Fishboy.com sells a nice selection of short and long sleeve "Catch. Release. Repeat" shirts as well as hats.

Spring Leads to New Fly Fishing Gift Ideas

Spring is finally here! It is time to gather up your fishing rod, tackle box, and other fishing gear and wade on into the waters. And if the waters are still a little too chilly for wading, it is perfectly fine with us if you decide to float on into them atop a pontoon boat, instead!

Know that even as warm weather approaches, the waters are staying chilly. And if you plan on treading out into it, you are going to need a good pair of fly fishing waders. We have a variety of fly fishing waders that will help you stay warm and dry while out in the waters. Whether you plan on going only ankle deep or chest deep, we have the write fly fishing waders and boots to suit your needs.

Many more people are starting to understand the fun and therapeutic process of casting into a river or other body of water (and many people are seeing how much more fun it can be when they are comfortable and have the right gear, like fly fishing waders, a good rod, etc).

As with most things, along with the growing popularity, there has also been a growing improvement of equipment. It is possible to find some very fancy reels, rods, and other accessories these days.

And it is not just the fishing equipment that has improved, but the fly fishing apparel, as well. Fly fishing apparel for all the seasons, whether it is warm or cold, wet or dry, has improved. Now you can find fly fishing apparel that will keep you feel comfortable no matter what the weather is. It is important to stay comfortable so that you can better concentrate on the "cast" at hand.

Of course, the same basic supplies and fly fishing apparel that worked years and years ago will still work today. After all, the fish have not changed that much, right? Perhaps the number of fish has decreased, rather unfortunately, but at least our understanding of fish has improved.

We now have a great deal of flies and fishing lures that attract fish better than ever before, when paired with a good fisherman. Everyone knows that it is not the equipment that catches the fish, but the fisherman!

Perfect Gifts For The Fly Fishing Enthusiast

There is a fly fishing gift out there perfect for your budget and perfect for your loved one, too! The greatest news is that you can purchase a fly fishing gift for anyone at great prices just by browsing around online.

When you know someone closely and you happen to know that this person has everything he or she needs for fly fishing, there is a wonderful selection of fly fishing accessories available. Or perhaps he or she has everything they need—but they really want a new fly fishing vest. A fly fishing vest is a great fly fishing gift. Especially for the fly fishing enthusiast, and those who are just starting our and beginning to collect fly fishing gear.

There are virtually hundreds of different kinds of flyfishing gifts—so how do you know which fly fishing gift to purchase? Especially if you do not go fly fishing yourself, it can be a confusing choice to make.

Basic lures are always a great idea, as well as fly fishing knots, fly fishing flies, reels, rods and even those super classy flyfishing gifts like new rod cases. The good news is that there are so many flyfishing accessories available that we know you will find something.

If you really cannot think of anything else, no other fly fishing gift, that your loved one will like, you can always purchase things like key chains, t-shirts, hats, bumper stickers and such.

Lastly, if you know exactly what you want but it seems to elude you at every turn—browse around online, there are so many in stock items perfect for a fly fishing gift. And your ideal fly fishing gift will absolutely be among the wide selection of fly fishing merchandise.

You will be able to find a fly fishing gift for anyone at all when you search online. No matter what skill level and no matter how often or how little he or she goes out fly fishing. You will certainly find a fly fishing gift your loved one will be pleased with when you look in the right places.

Buying Kids Fishing Equipment

MAKE CHRISTMAS MERRY FOR THE YOUNG ANGLER IN YOUR FAMILY
PRACTICAL GIFT ADVICE FOR PARENTS

KETCHUM, OK -- Young people often ask Santa to bring them fishing tackle -- rods, reels, bobbers, line, hooks and lures. Parents, particularly those who are not anglers themselves, might wonder. Is their child old enough to fish? Is the fishing tackle safe, or age-appropriate?

Hooked on Fishing International (HOFI), which annually sanctions more than 700 Kids All-American Fishing Derbies across the U.S., has prepared a few tips for parents and Santa.

* The ideal starter fishing set for kids is a "combo" package with a matching rod and spin-cast reel. The youngest little anglers love to learn on rod and reel sets endorsed by their favorite cartoon character.

* Will your child be able to cast the rod and reel? This depends on the child, of course, but HOFI recommends that you go ahead and authorize Santa to put it under the tree. Like a child grows into a pair of jeans, yours will learn to use the rod and reel and eventually cast like a pro. A shorter rod is easier to handle than a long rod and a good rule of thumb is that the rod should be no taller than the child.

* Another great gift idea is a personal tackle box for your young angler, especially one that's pre-loaded with sinkers, bobbers, plastic minnows, a stringer and such.

* And, for the older child with more advanced skills, a new lure can make great a stocking stuffer.

* To make sure Santa brings the exact item or items on your child's list, take the child to a well-stocked fishing department, like Wal-Mart's, so the young person in your family can point out the items he or she wants Santa to bring.

Gordon Holland, HOFI executive director, cited a recently released study from the Sporting Goods Manufacturing Association. Between 1990 and 2000, according to "Teens & Sports in America", an average of 6.5 million children from 12 to 17 participated annually in freshwater fishing, making fishing the most popular outdoor activity with teens. "We still have a lot of work to do," said Holland. "The SGMA report notes that the next big bulge of consumers -- more than 70 million -- are under the age of 18, which means we will need to introduce the fishing experience to lots of new kids in the years to come."

Gift Idea For Hunters


Having trouble finding a great gift for your hunting fanatic brother-in-law? How about one of these cool SHOTGUN SHELL BIRD HOUSES?

These are not only decorative - with a hand-painted resin construction but fully functional with back doors for easy cleaning, side ventilation and bottom drainage holes.

The photos don't do this item justice, they really are breathtakingly beautiful. Who ever does the painting on these items is amazing.

More info and selection - click here

My Favorite Fly Fishing Gifts


I've been fly fishing for about 20 years now, which means I've received about twenty years worth of fly fishing birthday and Christmas gifts. Some of these fly fishing gifts have been great, others have been ho hum. My all time favorite fly fishing gifts of course have been the big tickets items - a great new rod or plane tickets to some great fishing spots. But those are easy. Who could argue with a new rod or more time on the water? The following are some of my fly fishing favorite gifts in the typical gift price range.

1. One gift I really treasure is my Silver Angler watch. I where it on the days I can't fish. It reminds me of fishing and helps me make it through the 9 to 5. The Silver Angler is a classy good looking watch with a Its costs around $75 for the Silver Angler or you can get the less expensive Regular Angler with rubber strap for around $60.

2. Speaking of watches, I receive another great watch the Angler II Watch - This was an amazing gift! Imagine a watch designed with anglers in mind! This watch has it all - made of SOLID aluminum, the Angler II can withstand even the most extreme adventurer. The handy moonglow electroluminescent dial light lets you see the time, in all conditions. Water? Tsunami? They're no problem at all with 3 ATM (100 feet) water resistance. Gettin' cold? Gettin' hot? Check the temperature with the thermometer on the back (F and C). With the integrated hook sharpener, there will never be a dull moment (or hook). Need a snip? Attached nippers will take care of that. And with the additional LED Flashlight and compass you'll be able to find your way back to the tent - in the dark! All of these features in one tool/watch that can clip on to your fishing vest. Now that is one cool gift. Expect to pay $80 but for that special fly fisher, it's worth it. The Angler III is also available - it has a few less features and is priced under $65.

3. Fifty Places to Fly Fish Before You Die - This is a great book for day dreaming about my next fly fishing adventure. offers 50 short takes on the ultimate fly-fishing destinations in this beautifully photographed and nicely packaged volume. Each locale comes recommended by an avid fisher; for example, the founder of Frontiers Travel, Mike Fitzgerald, and his son, also named Mike Fitzgerald, suggest fishing for Atlantic salmon at Laxa I Adaldal in Iceland. Fly-fishing instructor Cathy Beck leads Santella to the thrill of catching snook off Boca Paila in the Yucatan. And Sweetwater Travel founder Jeff Vermillion describes the excitement of fishing on the Ponoi River in Mongolia for taimen ("the world’s largest almonid, capable of reaching 70-plus inches in length and more than 100 pounds"). In Europe, Simon Gawesworth tells Santella about the trick to fishing brown trout on the River Test in Stockbridge, England, where wading is forbidden. The book also highlights more traditional (though no less exciting) trout fishing destinations, such as the Bighorn River in Montana and the Green River in Utah. With its elegant descriptions, gorgeous photos and practical information on accommodations and equipment, this book is a dream travel guide for avid fly-fishers. Available at online book sellers.

4. My Nomad Fly Fishing Journal - This little journal is great for keeping track of all my fishing trips. And the pages are waterproof. I got this a few years back and have since purchased a refill. My old journal is in the library for reference. Nomad Fly Fishing Journals are compact writing journals that let anglers keep notes on their efforts. They can note the fishing conditions, which flies worked the best, who the fished with and notes on what they should do differently next time. Expect to pay $25 for the journal and waterproof case. Refills run about $10.

5. My Frequent Flyer T-shirt from Fishboy - I love this shirt. I got it a few years ago and it still looks good. Whenever I wear it I get compliements and its a good way to find fellow fly fishermen.

So there you have it. My top five favorite fly fishing gifts. Now if someone wants to buy me a vintage bamboo fly rod I wouldn't turn it down!

- Rod Bender

Gifts for the Outdoors Girlfriend

Whether you’re buying for the holidays, birthdays or special occasions, girlfriend gift ideas can be hard to come buy. Here’s a list of top gift ideas.

Girlfriend Gift Ideas

Unless this is your first girlfriend, I’ll assume you know jewelry tops the list of best girlfriend gift ideas. That being the case, we’ll skip to non-jewelry ideas you can afford. You can find all of these gift ideas online by just searching for them on your search engine of choice.

1. FishGirl shirts - These fun shirts are design with the outdoor women in mind.

2. Down Memory Foam Slippers – Slippers? Yes, but not just any slippers. It is winter and she needs something comfortable and warm. The slippers conform to her feet and are made with duck down. They are super warm and, unlike other slippers, can be worn both indoors and outdoors. Expect to pay $45 or so with online retailers.

3. Eyesseuse – The grind of daily life can get her in a bad mood by the time she comes home. This, of course, is bad news for you what with the headaches and all. The Eyesseuse comes to the rescue. The device is worn over the eyes like ski goggles. The device then applies heat, pulses and air pressure to the area around her eyes. This promotes blood circulation and relieves stress around the eye area. Essentially, it is a massage for her eyes and she’ll be feeling chipper in no time. Expect to pay in the range of $50 for this gift.

4. Nomad Writing Journals – If she loves the outdoors or traveling, Nomad Writing Journals make great gifts. These journals are tailored to activities such as travel, fly fishing, bird watching, backpacking, camping, rock climbing and so on. They come with or without a case and provide writing space as well as cues for writing down important information. A great keepsake for her to preserve travel and outdoor experiences. The journals cost as low as $9.95 without waterproof case and $25 with case.

These girlfriend gift ideas should give a good starting place for buying your girlfriend gifts. Just don’t forget the jewelry!

Fly Fishing Christmas Presents

Coming up with fly fishing gift ideas is a surprisingly simple task. Here are a few fly fishing gift ideas that will make great Christmas presents.

Fly Fishing Gift Ideas

Fly fishing is much more than just a rod, fly, water and fish. Don’t scoff. This is true and gives you plenty of fly fishing gift ideas for Christmas presents.

1. Wading Staff – Picture it in your mind. A clear, green river flowing through majestic trees. The sun filtering through the leaves of the shadowy banks. A fly fisherman wading out into the stream…slipping and falling on his butt in the water. Ahhh, it was going so well! A Fly Fishing Wading Staff can keep derrieres dry by giving you something to support yourself while walking across wet rocks and slimy things in the deep. Typical staffs retract into a shorter stub for easy packing. Expect to pay between $40 and $60 for something of solid construction. A great fly fishing gift.

2. Quick Seine Nets – Ask a fly fisher about how to pick the best fly for a location and you’ll get a lecture on nymphs. By nymphs, I mean the insects, not the randy historical figures. With fly fishing, insects tell the story on rivers. The Quick Seine Nets are tailored to help fisherman quickly and easily analyze the insect population at a fishing spot. The nets act like a sieve in the water and let you scoop up the local insect population. The size of a racquetball racket, you can free hand them or attach them to your fish nets. Quick Seine Nets come in a few sizes, but cost no more than $25. Just plug the name into a search engine to see the selection.

3. The Trout King – This book is the equivalent of the Shootout at the O.K. Corral for fly fishing enthusiasts. The story revolves around a fly fishing tournament in an out of the way location. The undefeated local angler goes against an out of town visitor. Both hate to lose. The friendly competition turns serious and the pages just start flipping buy. You can buy it online at any bookstore for $15 or so.

4. Nomad Fly Fishing Journals – Nomad Fly Fishing Journals are compact writing journals that let anglers keep notes on their efforts. They can note the fishing conditions, which flies worked the best, who the fished with and notes on what they should do differently next time. You can click the link at the bottom of this article to see the journals and expect to pay $25 for the journal and waterproof case.

Frankly, it is pretty hard to go wrong when buying fly fishing gifts. Any of the above fly fishing gift ideas will make great Christmas presents.

Hunting Gift Idea - Stag Salt & Pepper Shakers

Gives a whole new meaning to the term "Hunting Season". Season your venison with these great stag deer head salt and pepper shakers. These stags will add a touch of luxe-lodge to any dining experience.

Spice up the venison burgers in style!

Get Them A Fly Fishing Journal

Great gift idea - a fly fishing journal so they can keep track of their trips. Let's face it fly fishing is addictive. Once you start, you'll never stop. Whether you are going to the local water hole or to Alaska, you should use a fly fishing journal to keep track of your sessions.

Fly Fishing Journals

Fly fishing is more than just fishing, it’s a peaceful, surreal activity. For many, there is almost a meditative quality to casting. For avid fly fisherman, fly fishing trips to locations such as the Battenkill River in Vermont, Green River in Utah and Letort in Pennsylvania are a must. Of course, the possibility of trips to Argentina, Alaska and other exotic locations can make ones eyes glassy. For many, however, past fly fishing experiences fade from the memory with time. If you had keep a fly fishing journal, this doesn’t have to be the case.

There are famous instances of people keeping journals throughout time. Of course, Anne Frank’s Diary is the best example. In her diary, Anne kept a running commentary of the two years her family spent hiding from the Nazis. While your fly fishing sessions will hopefully be more lighthearted, keeping a journal will let you remember them as the years pass.

A good fly fishing journal combines a number of characteristics. First, it should be compact. Second, it should have a water-resistant pages and a case to protect it from the elements. Third, the journal should contain blank areas to write your notes. Fourth, the journal should contain cue spaces to remind you to keep notes on specific things. Cues should include:

* Who you went fishing with,
* The weather conditions,
* The fishing conditions,
* The flies you used, what worked and what didn’t,
* What you caught, and
* Lodging and places to eat,

As time passes, your fly fishing journal can be used as:

* A guide for you or friends that return the same location,
* Information on gear and flies to take,
* Memories to reflect upon years later, and
* Something to pass on to your children and grandchildren.

Keeping a fly fishing journal only requires a few minutes of writing. You can fill it out on the ride home or during a break. As time passes, your journal will become a collection of incredibly valuable fly fishing information. Imagine the look on a friend’s face after they mention going on a trip and you whip out your journal for the spot!

Making Gift Baskets for Outdoormen

Making Gift Baskets - Fun, Unique and Easier On the Budget!

Christmas, birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, baby showers, going away to college ... the list goes on. Some people even buy a gift for each of their children’s teachers for Christmas, Valentine’s Day, and at the end of the school year. Can you imagine how much that costs?

There is no doubt that gift-buying can wreak havoc on your wallet. Making gift baskets can ease the burden and be fun at the same time.

The Simpler The Better

Gift baskets do not need to be intricate, expensive or time-consuming. In fact, the simpler they are the more appreciated they usually are. Making gift baskets is a simple way of becoming a thoughtful and unique gift giver. All you really need are a basket, some attractive wrapping paper and liner for the basket, a little ribbon, and a few other miscellaneous items.

When you are making gift baskets, you’ll want to consider who the basket is for and what the occasion is. You'll also need to think about what type of basket would be most appreciated by them.

For instance, if a friend is a fisherman, hunter, camper, hiker, climber, paddler or into any other type of outdoor activity you'll want to include some little tools and accessories that pertain to their activity. Maybe some playing cards with sports fish on them. Maybe some little items for their car Or a small pocket knife or survival tool. The focus of the basket could be a funny t-shirt or hat. Of course you'll want to have it all contained in a unique and useful container like a small tin tackle box.

Not only have you given a gift that he’ll appreciate, but it will also be one she can make use of immediately.

A Win-Win-Win Gift

The cost was minimal, he’ll know you put some thought into it, and your creativity will be admired by all. A win-win-win gift, to be sure. And once you get the hang of it, making gift baskets will seem more natural than going out and buying one big expensive item as a gift.

For example, notebooks are something that people of all ages use. Kids use them for drawing and doodling in while adults use them for making lists and keeping notes. Almost every woman I know carries a small notebook in her purse. For the outdoorman try a journal either fishing, hunting, camping, hiking or whatever outdoor activity there is a journal available.

Camping / Hiking Gift Idea


GSI Outdoors
Micro Table
18.4 oz, 11.25" x 15.5", $22

Made from sturdy aluminum, GSI’s Micro Table is just enough table to keep dinner out of the dirt or sand, and the perfect height for camp-chair cooking. Prep your food, rest your plate and cup, or light your lantern and play a game of cards on the Micro Table. Just unfold the table and insert the included rods, and you instantly have a stable surface. The table folds up and slips into a compact stuff sack for easy transport and storage.

See it here

Special Man Gift Ideas

Do you need a gift idea for the special man in your life? To find the best gifts, think about his interests. Does he love baseball? Bowling? Playing on the computer? Camping? Playing Poker? Think about his interests, and click out our gifts by type section. We've listed dozens of hobbies and interests, and dozens of great gifts.

If we've missed his interests, you'll have to do a little thinking. Does he work too hard? Get him a thoughtful gift for his desk at work or for his car during his commute. Does he work out every day? Gym clothes and workout gear makes a great gift. Even if he "has everything", there are still some great gift ideas out there!

Hiking Gift Ideas

Hiking Gifts

When looking for great hiking gift ideas, it's a good idea to remember keep in mind the area in which the gift recipient will be hiking, if you can. Hiking in the desert Southwest is much different than hiking in Michigan or Maine! There are still some gifts that are great regardless of where the hiking is done, such as trail guides, water purifiers, and general camping gear. We've listed some great gifts below - let us know if we've missed any!

Outdoorsmen Gif

Camping Gift Ideas

A great camping gift for the outdoors lover in your family will make him/her happy, and make you the hit of the party! Camping gift can range from cheap ($3-$10 for camping food and small camp supplies) to the expensive ($500 or more for high quality gear).

If you know the gift recipient loves camping but little else specific information, a safe route to take is by buying gear that everyone uses. Camping food, camp gear such as stoves, lanterns and water purifiers make excellent gifts in these circumstances. Books (and magazine subscriptions) also make great gifts. A trail guide for an area near where the recipient lives is always appreciated.

Check out the gifts we've listed below - if you know of any great gifts we've missed, let us know!

5 Steps to Finding the Perfect Birthday Gift

Your loved one's birthday is coming up soon, so you decide this birthday will be different. No more "usual" birthday gifts. You want to do something special and give a gift they will actually treasure, or at least use on a regular basis. Below are five steps to help you pinpoint that perfect birthday gift.

Step One: Determine the Season

When shopping for a birthday gift during spring, find a gift that fits the spring season. A winter coat or pair of skis probably wouldn't be best in April or May. However, pastel-colored jewelry for a mother, girlfriend or sister would be great if she likes jewelry. Or, for the wife some colorful lingerie or a beautiful leather handbag might do the trick. A set of knives for the kitchen can make a great birthday gift any time of the year.

Step Two: Giving a Collectible Gift

Collectibles make great birthday gifts for those who enjoy antiques or unique items. Find out what your friend enjoys collecting and give a collectible gift that will add to their collection. To go a step further, ask to see their collection and then find an item they do not have or a gift that will complete a set for them. You might be surprised at the things people collect. They will appreciate your thoughtfulness!

Step Three: Give a Hobby Gift

Another great birthday gift is one that enhances their favorite hobby or past time. If the recipient enjoys listening to music, visit an electronics section of your favorite Web store to find a unique CD player or other music-related gift. If they enjoy watching movies or television, there are many electronics products to make entertainment more enjoyable than ever. Other hobbies might include gardening, fishing, hunting, playing an instrument, sports, sewing, crafts, etc.

Step Four: Shop around for Better Gift Value

With the Web, your resources for finding a great birthday gift are multiplied greatly. You can search online gift stores for fabulous products while also saving time and money. Sometimes you can even find great gifts at wholesale prices. Wholesale gift products can be provided online because the overhead costs for a Web store is much less than a "brick and mortar" storefront, and the middleman is sometimes eliminated with Web stores. These types of gift stores are able to offer more gifts at lower prices. Make a list of birthdays in advance and shop early for the best possible gift value. Also, leave plenty of time for shipping the items so your loved one will receive their gift on time.

Step Five: Don't be Afraid to Give Useful Gifts

Never assume that because someone already owns a cell phone, they wouldn't like to have another one. If someone already has a certain type of jewelry, it doesn't mean they don't want more jewelry. Birthday gifts can be practical as well as thoughtful. For example, your friend mentions getting a new cell phone with all the latest features. You find the perfect cell phone with an affordable calling package. Instead of buying something they can't use, you give them a gift certificate for the new cell phone and their first couple of month's calls.

Another example is if your friend owns a pet such as a cat, dog, bird, fish or horse. You can find gifts to help with the care of their pet. Your gift might be a new saddle or set of grooming tools for their horse, or a new training video for their dog - the possibilities are endless.

Shopping for that perfect birthday gift doesn't have to be stressful. Show you care with a personalized gift and help make your loved one's birthday the best one yet!

A Special Gift !
Send this warm and bright wish to your sweetheart/ loved one.



Send this eCard !



With Lots Of Love !
Make her/ him feel extra special with this beautiful wish.



Send this eCard !

What Does Your Birth Date Mean For Your Love Life?

Your Birthdate: November 6

For you, love is a natural progression from friendship. You are almost always friends first.
In love, you are loyal, steady, and honest. You are not a cheater or even much of a flirt.
You are likely to stay friends with your ex... and open to rekindling something in the future.

Number of True Loves You'll Have: 4

Number of Times You'll Have Your Heart Broken: 5

You are most compatible with people born on the 6th, 15th, and 24th of the month.




Peck A Birthday Wish !
Wish your friend/ dear one a day packed with
fun and joy on his/ her B'day with this cute message.



Send this eCard !



A Birthday Wish !
A floral Birthday wish for someone who brings
joy by just being himself/ herself.



Send this eCard !

Birthday Party Desserts

At birthdays, everybody expects to see the birthday cake at the end of the meal. But if you want to make a change or serve other desserts in lieu of a birthday cake, there are many more birthday party desserts you can try. Here is a list of birthday party desserts, besides the standard cake:

Cupcakes – Cupcakes can be a wonderful substitute for the tried and true traditional birthday cake. Stack several of them in tiers or decorate individual cupcakes with letters or a birthday theme.

Peanut Butter Wontons – These aren’t your traditional wontons. Filled with peanut butter and deep-fried, peanut butter wontons are marvelous with a chocolate sauce.

Cake Ice Cream Cones - Bake cake mix in a muffin tin. Serve the cake, covered with frosting and sprinkles, in ice cream cones.

Snowball ice cream- Desserts are twice as fun when the guests get to make it themselves. Throw ice cream ingredients into a snowball ice cream maker, let the guests toss it around, and you’ll have a dessert ready in 20 minutes.

May All Your Wishes Come True !
For your dear friend/ loved one on his/ her birthday.



Send this eCard !

Birthday E-cards for Teachers

Loving Wishes !
Make your Teacher feel special with this cute 'Teacher's Birthday' ecard.



Send this eCard !

Birthday Gift Baskets

Looking for birthday gift tips? A fun birthday gift basket can be designed for any age:

  • For the younger child, you could include bath toys, fun soaps and similar items.

  • For almost any age, a gift certificate for movie rentals, a bag of popcorn plus other snacks will be popular.

  • A birthday gift basket for a college student might include special toiletries or snack food items that are dorm-friendly.

  • If the student is living off-campus, some friendly meals are often a welcome gift. Cook up some of their favorite dinners and freeze them for later use.


Anti-Aging Kit !
A fun 'Birthday Gift' for your friend/ family/ loved one.



Send this eCard !



Bunch Of Tulips !
Wish them loads of happiness and sunshine.


Send this free eCard
Send this eCard !

Cute Birthday E-cards

Show You Care...
A cute way to show your love and appreciation for your friend/ loved one on his/ her special day.



Send this eCard !


A Birthday Tale !
Sweet wish for your friends/ loved ones/ kids/ grandchildren.



Send this eCard !

Simple Tips For Sending A Birthday E-Greeting Card As Gift

While signing and sending birthday greeting cards to people you know should be a simple task, there are still some basic etiquettes you should follow. If you’re unsure of what the decorum is, these etiquette guidelines for birthday greeting cards will help make sure you don’t commit any social faux pas.

  • Do always sign your name and write a brief note when sending birthday greeting cards to friends.
  • Don’t sign your last name if the birthday card is going out to someone you know well.
  • Do mail birthday greeting cards to the office if it is for a business associate.
  • Don’t forget to use more discretion when considering an off-the-wall or humorous card for a boss or supervisor.
  • Do send a belated birthday card rather than forgoing one completely just because you’re just a few days late.
  • Don’t send a religious card unless you are sure it is appropriate for the birthday recipient’s beliefs.


A Birthday That's Big On Fun !
Send this cute ecard to friend/ loved one and make him/ her feel special.



Send this eCard !


A Joyful Birthday Wish !
A special B'day wish for a loved one who makes everyday seem bright and beautiful.



Send this eCard !