This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2016, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
As Christmas approaches, the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources came up with a good list of 10 possible gifts for the angler on your list that could be especially helpful for those who might not fish often.
Here is the list:
1. Fillet knife: This specialized knife is designed to fillet fish, providing a good meal.
2. Fishing Pliers: These tiny pliers help anglers remove hooks from fish they want to release and are handy for other uses in the field.
3. Lures: Lures for trolling or spin casting make great stocking stuffers, but can be difficult for novices to pick out.
4. Utah State Parks Annual Pass: Anglers who often fish at state parks such as Deer Creek, Rockport, Scofield, Willard Bay or Jodranelle might appreciate a year free of day-use fees. For that matter, a federal lands annual pass for national parks and U.S. Forest Service areas such as Flaming Gorge or the Uintas is also a great gift.
5. Rods and reels: Many anglers have worn out rods and reels. It's best for novices to go to a specialty tackle shop to make this purchase.
6. Fish finder: These sonar devices, which locate schools of fish, are popular with boat and ice anglers.
7. Float tube: This is a more expensive item, but could make a great gift for an angler who likes to get to places off the shoreline of lakes but might not be able to afford or store a large boat.
8. Fishing license: An annual fishing license is, to coin a phrase from Christmas Vacation, a gift that will keep on giving for the entire year.
9. Ice fishing gear: An augur, ice shack or specialty rod are all appreciated for those who enjoy getting out on the ice.
10. Gift card: This is the gift for those who want to give a fishing gift but are not comfortable picking it out. Make sure the store where you purchase the card sells fishing gear.