Let us make one thing clear: If your Dad is expecting a gift this Father’s Day, he does not need another tie or a “World’s Best Dad” coffee mug. What he does need, if he’s a boater, is gear. We boaters are forever in search of the latest gear or gadget that can improve our experience on the water. So do your Dad a favor and take a look through our 2023 Father’s Day Gift Guide. Whatever you pick, odds are it will put a smile on his face.
Electronics
MPro-A1006
The MPro® six-channel amplifier is a high performance 100W x 6 RMS @ 4 ohms marine amplifier to power today’s high SPL speakers.
Siren 3 Pro
The Siren 3 Pro enables boaters to remotely monitor their boats’ location, engine, bilge, battery and more. Control lights, A/C and other systems right from your smartphone.
Garmin InReach Mini 2 Marine Bundle
Make sure Dad stays in touch when cruising outside of cell range with the inReach Mini 2 Marine Bundle from Garmin. This is a satellite communication and navigation device with two-way messaging and SOS capabilities bundled with a helm mount. In an emergency, Dad can trigger an interactive SOS message to the Garmin International Emergency Response Coordination Center. The inReach Mini 2 also automatically records activities and passively stores routes traveled. The TracBack features can guide him back to the point of origin. Measuring 4 inches tall by 2 inches wide, the IPX7 waterproof-rated device wirelessly pairs with Garmin GPSMap series chartplotters and the quatix 7 series marine GPS smartwatches. The bundle includes an internal, rechargeable lithium battery and 12-volt power cable. $449.99, with satellite plans as low as $11.95/month; garmin.com
Kicker KMXL Horn-Loaded Coaxial Speakers
If Dad likes to play tunes onboard, he’s going to like Kicker Marine Audio’s new KMXL horn-loaded coaxial loudspeakers. These incorporate several unique features, including a proprietary high-frequency horn design that provides smooth and easy listening, even at extremely high volumes. The series includes 6.5-inch round, 8-inch round and 6×9-inch oval loudspeakers that can be installed in traditional onboard coaxial speaker mounting locations. Featuring RGB LED lighting, the KMXL’s hardware is forged from rustproof 316L stainless steel for years of enjoyable use. Neodymium magnets in the motor assembly provide tremendous power, while being extremely light weight. Starting at 649.99; kicker.com
Scanstrut Flip Pro Charger
If your Dad likes to take his mobile phone on the boat to connect with family, friends and colleagues while afloat, get him the Flip Pro from Scanstrut. It provides super-fast re-charge times for cell phones and tablets on the boat. Featuring USB-A and USB-C charging ports, the IPX4 waterproof-rated Flip Pro kicks out 36 watts of charging power with a 12-volt DC system. The spring-loaded cap remains tightly closed to protect the ports. When charging, it quickly locks open to protect cables. The install hole matches standard USB sockets for easy retrofit. $31.99; defender.com
SPOT X
Prudent seamanship dictates that Capt. Dad has a way to contact help when outside of VHF and cell phone. That’s why he’ll appreciate the compact, portable and waterproof SPOT X. This device can serve as a stand-along two-way satellite messenger, as well as the 24/7 search-and-rescue services in case of a boat emergency or distress situation. This SOS feature also enables you to message back and forth about the nature of your emergency, and receive confirmation when help is on the way. In addition to the stand-alone functionality, Dad can also wirelessly connect to his smart phone to the device via Bluetooth and the SPOT X app to convert his phone into a sat phone. SPOT X provides Pops with a personal mobile US phone number so others can message him directly from their cell phones or other SMS devices at any time. $249.99, plus a service plan starting as low as $11.95/month; findmespot.com
Lowrance HDS Pro Series
If Dad like to fish, he’s a prime candidate for a Lowrance HDS Pro series MFD on Father’s Day. Available in 9-, all-new 10-, 12- and 16-inch high-resolution displays, the HDS Pro series features built-in ActiveTarget 2 Live Sonar and ultra-high-definition Active Imaging HD sonar, as well as chartplotting. These MFDs also lie at the heart of the Lowrance Ultimate Fishing System, offering full networking that includes trolling motors, autopilots, engines, radar, communications, and PowerPole shallow water anchors. Active Target 2 provides real-time imagery of fish movement and structure. Active Imaging HD sonar includes Lowrance chirp sonar, SideScan and DownScan Imaging. In addition, FishReveal SideScan view is now available with a new S3100 Sonar module. Starting at $2,099; basspro.com
Power-Pole Move Trolling Motor
OK, here’s a big gift for Dad—the Power-Pole Move, the first saltwater-grade trolling motor featuring a brushless motor. It’s available in two bow-mount series: the PV series with a pivot mount, and the ZR series with a scissor mount. Great for freshwater, as well as salt, Move trolling motors are virtually silent and deliver power at low rpm, resulting in 30 percent more thrust, as well as 30 percent greater efficiency than brushed trolling motors. The GPS-guided motors incorporate a variety of wireless controls for the steering, power and feature activation. This includes a wireless ReelFeel foot pedal that’s mountable anywhere. The PV series is available in 45-, 52-, 60- and 72-inch shaft lengths, while the ZR motors come in 45-, 52, and 60-inch versions. Both series are available in black or white. Starting at $4,999.99; tacklewarehouse.com
Raymarine Axiom 2 Pro MFD
Dads who love to cruise and/or fish will appreciate a Raymarine Axiom 2 Pro multifunction display this Father’s Day. Axiom 2 Pro is the most powerful MFD ever developed by Raymarine, with a six-core processor and intuitive LightHouse 4 operating system. Available in 9-, 12- and 16-inch sizes in two variations, the Axiom 2 Pro S includes embedded high-chirp sonar perfect for premium cruising (starting at $2,749.99, westmarine.com). Available in the same sizes as the Pro S series, the Axiom 2 Pro RVM is engineered for the avid angler. These models feature all-new RealVision Max 3D sonar that combines chirp DownVision, SideVision and RealVision Max 3D. Starting at $2,749.99 and $3,099.99 respectively; thegpsstore.com
X2Power Lithium Batteries With Bluetooth
Help the boating Dad in your life make the switch to lithium marine battery technology by giving him one or more of six new and upgraded models from X2Power. These 12- and 36-volt lithium lithium-iron-phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries marine batteries now feature Bluetooth integration. When paired via Bluetooth with the X2Power app, Dad will get an accurate look at the battery state of charge and performance. Weighing 50 percent less than comparable lead-acid batteries, the new models carry a 10-year free replacement warranty. The 12-volt batteries come in 9, 12, 20, 35, 50, 75 and 100 amp-hour model; the 36-volt offers 40 amp-hours. Pricing ranges from $249.99 to $1,099.99; x2powerbattery.com
ECOXGEAR SoundExtreme SE26 Soundbar
Soundbars are a great way to get the beat on fast in any boat and their convenient installation is one of the attributes Pop will appreciate. The SoundExtreme SE 26 ($399.99) comes with pipe brackets for hanging and a bracket base for bulkhead mounting. They are so popular some companies make other accessories for them. Eight water proof speakers play homage to the high, midrange and lowest bass sounds and bluetooth hook up is fast and automatic. Put one on your boat, one on your golf cart and one on your UTV and link them altogether to play the same music simultaneously. ecoxgear.com
Safety Gear
ACR ResQLink AIS
We want Dad safe. You want Dad safe. Dad wants Dad safe (even if he won’t admit it!). For Father’s Day 2023, get him an ACR ResQLink AIS. This PLB not only sends out 406 MHz and 121.5 MH satellite and homing signals, it also transmits an AIS signal. That means Dad gets both global and local means of signaling for help. Additionally it offers a man overboard alarm via AiS, and features an LED and IR strobe–these get the attention of rescue responders. Return Link Service confirmation. $499.95; acrartex.com
Fishing
Shimano Terez BW Fishing Rods
The saltwater angling Dad in your life will love one or more of Shimano’s Terez BW series of 27 fishing rods. This series features models for the offshore specialized techniques of high-speed trolling, slow trolling, deep-dropping, swordfishing, bottom fishing, and live-bait fishing. Shimano constructed the Terez BW blanks utilizing premium rod. Technologies includes Hi-Power X, Spiral X and UD Glass blank construction with componentry from AFTCO, Fuji and Winthrop. Slick Butt models incorporate Fuji DPS-H reel seats while Uni-Butt models are sold as blade-only, allowing anglers to customize rods to meet their preferences. Ranging from $469.99 to $1,219.99; fish.shimano.com
Berkley Hit Stick
Whether Dad like to fish for bass in freshwater or seatrout in the salty shallows, he will love catching them with the Berkley Hit Stick. It features true balsa-like action with the weight, durability, and casting ability of a hard-plastic lure. It can be used as a finesse jerk bait, trolling bait, or casting bait for all predator fish. The high-pitch rattle attracts fish, while the integrated FlashDisc improve tracking. Each Hit Stick is equipped with a pair of super-sharp Fusion19 treble hooks. The 3.5 size sinks, while sizes 5-15 float. Available in wide range of colors and patterns. Starting at $6.99; berkley.fishing.com
Z-Man Herculez Swimbait
Dad can use these cool soft-plastic lures to catch fish in both fresh and saltwater. The highly detailed baitfish sculpting and a smartly designed curved paddletail give the Z-Man HerculeZ Swimbait a natural appearance and swimming action. The 10X Tough ElaZtech composition means these lures hold up to dozens of big bites. Heavy duty 5/0, 7/0, or 8/0 Mustad UltraPoint hooks are pre-rigged in 4-, 5-, and 6-inch lure sizes, respectively. The Jighead also includes a ventral eyelet for adding a second belly hook. Molded around 3/8-ounce (4″), 5/8-ounce (5″), and 1-ounce (6″) zinc weights, the HerculeZ Swimbait casts toward the horizon and sinks at an optimal rate for a variety of presentations. Swimbait profile features 3D eyes, ultra-detailed fins, gills and anatomy, each hand-painted in popular Z-Man color patterns. Starting at $7.99; tackledirect.com
PowerPro Depth-Hunter Offshore Braid
If Dad likes to know how much fishing line is out when saltwater fishing, he needs PowerPro’s Depth-Hunter Offshore braid. The repeating pattern of five different colors every 100 feet tells him the amount of line off the reel, which is very helpful for deep-dropping, precision-trolling and knowing how far a hooked is away from the boat. Depth-Hunter Offshore comes in 1000-, 1500- and 3000-yards spools, each in 65-, 80- and 130-pound-test. The repeating colors include blue, yellow, red, green and orange. Starting at $129.99 for 1000 yards of 65-pound-test; hifishgear.com
Daiwa Tanacom 1200 Electric Reel
Dad who are getting into deep-drop fishing will light when you give them the new Daiwa Tanacom 1200 electric reel. This versatile new entry in the electric reel market is easy to operate, and offers more power and more speed than its predecessors, vastly improving the angling experience while deep-dropping for snowy grouper, tilefish and other beasts of the deep. The new motor placement and gearing system is now hidden inside the spool, making a big difference in this reel’s outstanding performance. An easy-to-read LED dot screen tells Dad how much line is out. and sealed electronics package with selectable languages to prompt you through power assist settings and procedures including automatic stop and jigging features. He can choose to fight fish manually with the Power Lever handle or let the 12-volt power variable-speed assist do the hauling. $799.99; basspro.com
Plano Pro Series Tackle Bag
Dad will love the convenience of Plano Pro series tackle bag featuring an easy-to-use top-opening design. Designed for both fresh and saltwater anglers, it has high-strength, neodymium magnets, and molded pull tabs to give you virtually split-second access to your tackle. Other angler-friendly features include an impact-resistant waterproof base, three external abrasion-resistant 1680-denier pockets with water-resistant zippers, and UV-resistant hex-weave outer fabrics that add years to the life of this fishing bag. The Plano Pro Series Tackle Bag comes with 2 StowAway plastic tackle boxes in the main compartment. Available in two sizes, starting at $74.99; basspro.com
AFTCO Fillet Knife Kit
The AFTCO fillet knife kit is the perfect gift for Dad to keep on the boat and take fishing. It includes three fillet Böker fillet knives—7-, 8- and 10-inch blades—all in an AFTCO Knife case that fits them perfectly, each with the sheaths on the blades. There is also an open slot for placing either a sharpening stone or a fish spike. All of the knives feature Böker 4116 stainless-steel blades, full-tang construction, upswept-blade design to maintain the cutting surface, corrosion resistant titanium nitride finish, and slip-free handles. $237; aftco.com
Okuma Makaira Rapid Crank
For the fishing dad who wants to sample the burgeoning technique of day-time swordfishing, think about getting him the Okuma Makaira Rapid Crank. This quick-snap attachment let’s Dad use a hand-held cordless drill motor to retrieve line, saving him the labor of hand-cranking up 1,000 to 2,000 feet of line. It snugly fits the Okuma Makaira 50- and 80-size lever-drag two-speed reels and features lightweight aluminum construction and moveable drill-bit attachment. It’s designed for use with the reel in low-gear only. $119.99; okumafishingusa.com
Penn Fathom II Two-Speed Lever Drag Reels
The Penn Fathom II lever drag reels make for a world-class Father’s Day gift. Integrating the palm-side plate and frame allows these new reels to be more compact in hand and increases strength. The pull-to-turn preset knobs allow the angler to truly set it, and forget it. The Fathom’s core features stainless-steel main and pinion gears, five shielded stainless-steel ball bearings, a double-dog ratchet anti-reverse, and a forged and machined aluminum spool for maximum durability. The 60 and 80 sizes offer removable top spacer gars and harness lugs. Starting $249.95; pennfishing.com
Trika Rods
Give Dad a bass-tournament-grade fishing from Trika this Father’s Day. Engineered for unsurpassed sensitivity, castability and fish-fighting power, Trika rod blanks feature proprietary woven carbon-fiber construction, as well as high-quality components such as guides built with titanium frames and zirconia inserts, lightweight yet rugged custom carbon-fiber reel seats, and ergonomic grips to reduce fatigue. Choose from five spinning models and seven casting models built for freshwater and light saltwater applications. Starting at $299; trika.com
Daiwa Isla 76MHFS Rod and Procyon MQ 3000 Reel
Here’s a combo that bridges fresh to salt water in the perfect length and action for pitching finesse baits or a topwater bait like the Mirrolure Mirrodine or a Rapala Skitterwalk. The Procyon MQ 3000 ($179.99) holds 280 yards of 10. Lb mono or 220 yards of 20 Lb. braid. The MQ stands for Monocoque, a construction design that trades a screw-on body plate for an integrated drive gear plate that makes the reel solid, sturdier and more water-tight. The ISLA ($149.99) medium heavy fast action rod has Alconite tangle free K-guides, offering a low profile look that complements the minimalist two part cork handle. The two work together in fresh or salt to present baits accurately, at long distances and resist the impact of corrosive saltwater. daiwa.us
Greys Tital Fly Reel and Wing Flyrod
What makes this gift so appealing? Aside from the ultimately fishable large arbor, smooth drag solid construction? This new Greys Tital reel ($225.95-$279.95, purefishing.com) is a trophy in its own right. Milled from bar stock aluminum, anodized for saltwater protection and accented with tasteful colors and graphics, it looks cool even before you lay it over a big largemouth or redfish or even tarpon. All the metal is polished and designed to optimize strength and weight. It is available in four sizes for seeking stream trout to Boca Grande tarpon.
Apparel
HUK Swimwear Pursuit Fin Flats
We know the deal: Dad’s on the boat; Dad’s off the boat; Dad’s back on the boat again. He needs shorts/swim trunks that can go from being wet to a run into town; from fishing to hitting a shoreside tavern. The Huk Pursuit Volley Swim Short was created for in and off the water performance. Featuring an elastic waistband, interior draw cords, mesh liner, mesh-lined pockets, and quick-drying SPF-rated fabric, the Huk Volley short is designed for all of Dad’s adventures. Available in 17 solids and prints. From $45; hukgear.com
XTRATUF Auna Sandals
Give dad a new take on what a boating sandal can do! he Auna incorporates a high rebound PU footbed coupled with an abrasion resistant forefoot strap. This sandal is built to be supportive and comfortable for long days on the water or land. It features our innovative TUFgrp outsole, a revolutionary patent pending design constructed from a specially formulated rubber compound. TUFgrp provides next level traction on flat and hard surfaces as well as wet and uneven terrain. TUFgrp is independently verified SRC rated to deliver next-level non-marking grip. Available in various colors, including Mossy Oak Bottomland. $75; amazon.com
Kane Revive Footwear
Traditionally designed to be a recovery shoe, the Revive includes three key features to ensure all day comfort: 10mm heel-to-toe drop reduces strain on the Achilles, raised nodes on the sole stimulate feet, and a spacious fit allows for expansion of the foot. When moving around the boat, beach, or docks, these traits will keep your feet relaxed and supported. The Revive is also waterproof with ventilation holes on the upper, allowing you to hop on shore without worrying about wet or waterlogged shoes.
$75; kanefootwear.com
CamoX Aquashield Long Sleeve Performance Pocket Tee
The latest offering from Salt Life ensures you’ll look and feel cool while staying protected from the damaging effects of the sun. The HydroChill fabric is breathable and wicks away moisture yet still offers 50 UPF sun protection. It comes with a built-in neck gaiter that pulls up to provide sun protection for your face. $60; saltlife.com
Befree zipOn Adult Lightweight Pants
The weather can change quickly on the water, and sometimes you want to quickly add an extra layer without having to take off your shoes or shorts. The befree zipOn pants solve the problem because they’re equipped with full-length zippers along each leg, almost resembling basketball warmup pants. The pants are 100 percent moisture wicking polyester and can be easily stowed in a bag for your trip. $54.99; befreeco.com
DIY/Miscellaneous
Bahu Boat Accessories
Dad will love to open his gift and see one the Bahu boat accessories, which blend a patent-pending quick-connect mount system with a host of marine grade accessories that can also be used on docks, decks, pools and patios. The unique design means Dad can interchange different accessories on a single Bahu mount plate, rotate them as needed, switch accessories from one plate to another, and even swap accessories back and forth from boat to the dock, to deck or pool. Starting at $12.99 for the mount plates, starting at $99 for boat accessories; bahubrand.com
TaylorMade Easy Guide Trailer Aids
Trouble loading a boat on a trailer can happen to the most seasoned salt. Wind, current and more can make this task sometimes difficult. Give Dad a hand at the launch ramp with these boat trailer guides designed for PWCs and boats up to 1500 lbs. Made in the USA. And, we tested them! $299; taylormadeproducts.com
Streamlight Vulcan Clutch
Make sure Dad sees the light! And the channel marker! And the jetty! With the Vulcan Clutch Rechargeable Lantern he’ll see those things and more. Developed for firefighters, this is one tough light: It’s dust-proof and watertight to one meter for 30 minutes. And, its 340-degree rotating head and its clamping handle allow it to be used as a spotlight for seeing far away or as a lantern to light up his boat’s cockpit at night. Brilliant LED reaches over 520 meters. Run times are 6.5 hours on high, 18 hours on low and 25 hours in signaling flash mode. Fully Recharges in about 5 hours. Rated IPX7 waterproof. $327.44 to $404.90; streamlight.com
Forespar Sta Plug
Give Dad the ability to plug a hole and stop a leak. Forespar’s unique, stepped, cone-shaped Stay-Plug is designed to be pressed into broken hoses, seacocks, through-hull fittings and even holes in hulls. Conforms to almost any shape. Once in place, it makes a tight sea. E-X-P-A-N-D-S in place! Bright color makes it easy to find in an emergency. We recommend keeping a few of these onboard. Comes in a 4-inch “mini” size ($20.57/ 2-pack) and full size 9-inch $26.93); amazon.com
Blue Seas Systems Mini Clamp Multimeter
A digital multimeter is Dad’s best friend when sorting electrical and electronic problems aboard his boat. And, boy…do those happen! The Blue Seas Systems Mini Clamp Multimeter actually clamps around conductors to get a reading. Works in the conventional manner with leads, too. For troubleshooting AC and DC marine circuits. $201.99; amazon.com
Buck Algonquin Through-Hull Step Wrench
Dad may be in a pickle if he needs to change a through-hull fitting and doesn’t have a step wrench like this one handy. Designed to be inserted from the outside of the through-hull, its stepped ridges engage with the tabs inside the fitting. This thru Hull step wrench prevents the thru hull fitting from turning while the nut is tightened. $61.87; amazon.com
Rexhubro Snap Tool
Give Dad the power to repair his boat’s canvas with this Snap Tool from Rexhubro. Powerful vise-like action allows for easy replacement of pulled snaps. Heavy duty hand grips, powerful jaws and robust construction. Tell Dad to watch out: his dockmates are sure to want to borrow this tool. Comes with a large assortment of snaps and fasteners, $35.89; amazon.com
Streamlight Stinger 2020
There’s never a light around when you need one–unless you have the Stinger 2020 ($138.89) in its dedicated, fast charging wall mount. The stinger puts out an astonishing 2000 lumens of light–don’t look straight into it, I still see a spot from yesterday’s peek. It casts a wide beam making it useful for trouble lighting, or picking your way among stumps, mangroves or navigation markers. Have a mate hold it for a docking light–it’s beam will bring daylight to the maneuver. Water resistant, the light has a switch near the front bezel and one on the butt cap. A high, medium, low selector switch allows just the right illumination and a way to optimize battery life of 2 hours at high, 4 at medium and 24 hours on low. streamlight.com
Squid Cup Tumbler
Ever miss those clear plastic thermo-insulated tumblers–say with a “Captain of the Ship” sticker inside? I did and so was happy to find Squid Cup tumblers ($29.95 with customized label inside; squidcup.com) complete with a super sticky suction cup holder with a powerful magnetic attraction to the base of the cup. Magnetic drink holders are a high end option on high end boats, but your dad can have one or two of these at hand and they won’t slide of the dash or fill up with trash, stray bolts and car keys–its just for the refreshment! We liked the tightly fitting snap on top that keeps drinks from splashing out and, sliding the tab over the sipping slot, they won’t leak out if its dropped.
