Berkley Powerbait Drip Minnow 3″
Realism of plastic minnows just took a giant leap forward. The Berkley Powerbait Drip Minnow features high-definition true colors, molded scale patterns, glitter flecks that mimic real fish, realistic eyes and even internal guts that are visible on translucent color patterns. If these minnows looked any more real, they’d start gasping for air and moving their gills. The bait’s body tapers to a “drip” shaped tail that doesn’t require much speed to get a good thumping movement and moves easily when twitched or shaken. MSRP $11 for a pack of 6.
Huk A1A Pro Shorts
A good pair of shorts has deep pockets to hold your gear. It’s really got to stretch if you are using it for fishing, since you might be bending over to net a fish, spread wide to brace yourself as a fish hauls off a ton of drag or standing tall against water spray, sweat and the occasional smear of fish slime. Huk’s A1A Pro Shorts are purpose built for the angler, yet nice enough to pair with a shirt to go out on the town. The A1A Pro Short is breathable for hot summer days and has built-in 30 UPF protection. Great fit and top of the line comfort. MSRP $75.
1 Standard Dock Shooter
Want a jig with a whole lot of features built in? Check out the 1 Standard Dock Shooter. Dock shooters and jig-casting enthusiasts will love this lure. It comes in either a 1/8- or 1/16-ounce size in seven different colors. The line tie turns a very wide 60 degrees, allowing for better angles when casting or shooting docks. Catching lots of fish or making many casts tends to wear out and pull-down plastic trailers. To take care of that issue, the Dock Shooter comes with a spring wire molded into the head that helps hold any plastic in place for longer use. A super-strong, black-nickel hook ensures you can pull fish out of heavy cover. MSRP $5 for a pack of 3.
Wavy Label The Papi Sunglasses
Need some polarized fishing sunglasses that don’t break the bank, help you spot fish and are comfortable enough for all-day wear? Check out Wavy Label, a U.S. brand. The Papi is great for bright days on the ice or water. The lenses are injection molded and tested to ANSI Z80.3 safety standards including drop-ball impact. They come with a lifetime warranty. Save your proof of purchase, pay a flat $30 fee, and you’ll be sent a new pair. That’s good peace of mind for anyone who has lost or scratched an expensive pair of other sunglasses and paid full price for a replacement. MSRP $70 for polycarbonate, $120 for glass.
CrappieNOW columnist Scott Mackenthun has been writing about fishing since 2005. He is a fisheries professional, father, and avid angler when he’s not writing about his time on the water. He can be reached at scott.mackenthun@gmail.com
