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Table of Contents
1. Garmin ECHOMAP UHD 93sv Fishfinder/Chartplotter Combo – Save over $350!
The Garmin ECHOMAP 93sv is one of the best GPS plotter, fishfinder units available. It has a bright, sunlight-readable 9-inch touchscreen with a keyed assist to help you out.
“Love the touch screen! Very easy to use, works great. Cabela’s price was the best available, the shipping was free and it arrived in just a few days!” – Cabela’s Customer James E.
If you’re looking to expand upon your view underwater, the 93sv is compatible with Garmin’s Ultra High-Definition ClearVü and Ultra High-Definition SideVü scanning sonars, as well as the awesome Garmin high wide CHIRP traditional sonar systems. If you really want to go all out, it can use Garmin’s Panoptix all-seeing sonar, including Panoptix LiveScope sonar (also on sale). I tried this system out recently and let me just say, it’s a lot like having trail cameras all the way around the tree you’re sitting in, and having them feed you every single thing in the woods, all in real time, but in more detail than any camera I’ve ever seen. The unit comes preloaded with LakeVü g3 inland maps with integrated Navionics data for more than 17,000 lakes with up to 1-foot contours. I had one buddy say that these maps combined with the GPS data from the unit, and you may not know where you are, but don’t worry, the Garmin will show you. If you’re running a big boat and need these features, the Garmin also has NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 network support for autopilot and engine data, too. A quick-release bail mount for fast and easy mobility, let you move it and stow it as needed.About the only thing it won’t do is bait lines when I’m setting up a troll, but that what having kids is for, right?
Pros/Does everything but get the fish to bite -Sale Price: $699.97
Cons/At the sale price, I can’t find one -Regular Price: $1,049.99
Bottom Line/If you need electronics in your boat, you need to look at the Garmin ECHOMAP 93sv
2. Bass Pro Shops Johnny Morris Platinum Signature Spinning Reel – Save 15%
The Johnny Morris Platinum Spinning Reel is part of a one-two punch in amazing reels packed with exceptional value, the other being one of the best baitcasting reels you’ll find, too.
“I could not be more pleased with the quality of this reel. It is one of the smoothest performing reels that I have encountered in my 45 years of fishing. I have used high end Abu Garcia, Daiwa, Lew’s and Okuma reels and they did not perform to the level of the Johnny Morris Platinum Signature Series. This reel casts smoothly and the retrieval is effortless. The gearing and bearings are so smooth that it almost cranks itself. You can certainly spend more on a spinning reel, but at this quality, performance and price, you aren’t going to get a better one. Johnny Morris and Bass Pro Shop hit this one out to the park.” – LauraTwinLakes
The Platinum reel has a one-piece lightweight yet rigid aluminum frame and is fitted with a hollow stainless steel bail wire and roller. This works together to reduce any wobble effects during rotation, making for smooth retrieves. The forged, double-anodized aluminum spool resists corrosion and will let you spool up any type of line you want without worry of damage. Internally, you’ll find what Bass Pro refers to as their Micro-Pitched Gearing System that is designed for precise meshing with the stainless steel mainshaft, hard zinc drive gear, and brass pinion gear. It has a smooth, 11-bearing (10+1) setup that includes paired bearings at both the pinion gear and drive gear. There is also a one-way roller bearing that powers the Powerlock instant anti-reverse. When you hook into the big one, you’ll be happy about the 6-disc performance felt/aluminum drag system. The reel also comes with a sweet solid aluminum handle and padded grip that can be set for right or left hand use. Three different sizes are available with the 2000 and 3000 coming with a 6.0:1 gear ratio and the 4000 coming with a 5.7:1 ratio. If you’re in the market for a premium spinning reel, but don’t want the monster price that often accompanies them, this is the one to check out.
Pros/10+1 ball bearing drive, 6-disc drag system and amazing balance -Sale Price: $109.97
Cons/Limited gear ratio options, might be considered a little flashy – Regular Price: $129.99
Bottom Line/One of the best values in spinning reels this season
3. Ascend 133X Tournament Sit-On-Top Kayak with Yak-Power – Save $300
The Ascend kayak brand is one of the best selling brands in the country for a reason – They are a perfect blend of great value and great quality.
“This is an absolute unit, the biggest chonky boi. But I can still move it by myself. It’s the most stable yak I’ve ever been on you can walk edge to edge without tipping. Load it down with a full size battery and power an electric motor and go all day, and the pre installed yak power makes it a breeze to install. If you are on the fence about this boat, get off the couch and pull the trigger.” -Crackingpacksmtg, BPS Customer
The biggest factors in a fishing kayak making my “best of” list would include stability and fishability. The Ascend 133X has all that and more. And if you want to concentrate more on fishing than paddling, you can use the Yak-Power system to quickly hook up an electric trolling motor and be able to scoot across the water when you work on fishing. It has a catamaran-style hull for supreme stability and tracking, so it goes where you want it to go. The 133X has accessory rails, ample storage and can handle up to 550-pounds.
Pros/Stability and fishability – Sale Price: $899.99
Cons/It is a little heavy and large – Regular Price: $1,199.99
Bottom Line/An amazing price on an amazing fishing kayak
4. Humminbird HELIX 9 CHIRP MEGA SI+ G3N Fish Finder/GPS Chartplotter – Save $300
The Humminbird HELIX 9 CHIRP MEGA SI+ G3N Fish Finder/GPS Chartplotter is one of the best upgrades you can make to your boat this season.
“Have a couple of these on my boat. Imaging and 2d sonar on these units are very impressive. Lots of great features, just have to take time to get to learn some of the ones that will be most useful to you. I find myself watching the unit more than Im concentrating on fishing sometimes, just entertains me that much!” – HookedUp247, BPS Customer
This unit is packed with so many features, that can make your time on the water more fun and productive. It has a high-definition 9-inch display that gives you accurate views from the MEGA Side Imaging+ and MEGA Down Imaging+ systems, showing you everything under the boat is amazing detail. Sonar duties are handled by Dual Spectrum CHIRP and Low Q CHIRP transducer with Humminbird’s SwitchFire Sonar dual display modes. Never been on that particular lake before? No worries thanks to the built-in Humminbird Basemap of charts and maps of more than 10,000 lakes that can show you where you are, or show you parts of your favorite lakes that maybe you didn’t know about. It also comes with NMEA 2000 networking and is Bluetooth compatible. The unit comes with the transducer, all mounting hardware, a power cable, and a gimbal mounting bracket.
Pros/Loaded with features, easy to use – Sale Price: $1,199.97
Cons/None – Regular Price: $1,499.99
Bottom Line/A smoking deal on an amazing fishfinder GPS system from Humminbird
5. Johnny Morris CarbonLite 2.0 Limited Edition Baitcast Rod and Reel Combo – Save $50
My experiences with the Johnny Morris Carbonlite rod and reel combo from Bass Pro have taught me that this is an amazing fishing set-up for getting the most out of your time on the water. I’m not the only one, too.
“Just got this today from my darling daughter as an early Fathers Day gift. I couldn’t wait to string it up and get to town. I caught several bass within the first hour. I will say, I was on the fence with giving up on baitcasters because I felt like I spent more time dialing them I and working about not bird nesting then I enjoyed fishing. This rod and reel combo has changed my mind. literally within 60 seconds I had the the reel set properly and was off fishing without a single bird nest all day.” – CourtneyCummings, BPS Customer
A couple of years ago, I went to an event on a lake, and had the chance to fish with an earlier version of the Johnny Morris Signature Carbonlite Rod and reel combo. My immediate take away from using it was that it was amazingly well balanced, had great feel for the action under the water, and was silky smooth. I caught quite a few bass with it, and one overly aggressive and big crappie. The newest version takes everything I liked about that combo and makes it just a little better.
The reel has:
- A rigid 1-piece aluminum frame with carbon fiber side covers
- A double-anodized, machined-aluminum V-spool
- a 7.5:1 gear ratio
- Titanium nitride-coated line guide
- Aluminum crankshaft, and brass main gear
- A smooth 10-bearing system with double-shielded stainless steel ball bearings
- BPS’s Powerlock anti-reverse
- A dual Braking System
- A 6-disc carbon fiber drag
- A carbon fiber Recurve handle with EVA grips
The 7ft. rod has:
- BPS’s Carbon Coil Technology
- An RT4 Graphite blank
- Durable Fuji aluminum-oxide guides
- Comfortable, non-slip Winn grips
- A skeletonized Air reel seat
- A cool Line ID system built into the rod butt
- Three action choices to meet your needs
Pros/Balanced and extremely fishable -Sale Price: $199.97
Cons/No rod length or reel gear ration choices – Regular Price: $249.99
Bottom Line/An amazing combo for fishing big fish – Save $50 now!
6. Bass Pros Shops Johnny Morris Platinum Signature Spinning Rod – Save over $20
The Bass Pro Shops’ Johnny Morris Platinum Spinning Rod has everything you’d ever want in a premium rod.
“I bought this rod to specifically fish wacky rigs, small swim baits, etc. I pair it with 15# braid and floro leader set up. I could not be happier with rods performance. Used it extensively this past Fall in schooling fish and it handled everything perfectly. Very lite weight, pleasure to cast and has the length and flex to cast a long way when needed.” – Mike 67, BPS Customer
This rod is one of the best on the market due it being extremely lightweight, strong and sensitive. It is made using an RTX5 graphite blank with five layers of carbon sheeting for added strength and responsiveness. It has a compact handle with direct connection to the blank and premium Fuji guides. This is the perfect match to the Platinum spinning reel, or other high-end reels. What’s better? It comes with an amazing 10-year warranty.
Pros/10-year warranty and ultra responsive – Sale Price: $179.97
Cons/None – Regular Price: $199.99
Bottom Line/A stellar rod to match your favorite spinning reel.
7. World Wide Sportsman Silver King Fly Outfit – Save 25%
TheWorld Wide Sportsman Silver King Fly Outfit is a great deal on a setup that will work for inshore fishing, or on any stream or river you like.
“Got this yesterday and casted it for a few minutes, this thing is built like a tank, I’m going to use it for pike, and I know it’s going to hold up! My only complaint is that I wish the case had a bit more room for the reel, but other than that minor thing it’s absolutely stellar for the price.” – WoolyBugger – BPS Customer
With this setup, you get a balanced, ready-to-go fly fishing outfit that starts with a 9-foot, take-down rod, mated to an aluminum 7/8 reel with a sealed disc drag system. It comes complete with an 8 wt. fly line, 150 yards of 30-lb. backing, and a carrying case.
Pros/Complete outfit ready for fresh water and inshore fishing – Sale Price: $179.97
Cons/Would prefer a color option – Regular Price:$239.99
Bottom Line/A great fly fishing outfit for where you fish
8. Rapala Lures – 15-20% off
Rapala is the brand most associated with solid-body baits. In fact, many anglers simply refer to any crank or stick bait as a “Rapala,” regardless of the actual brand. Whether you’re loading up on Shad Raps, or Original Floaters, now is a great time to make sure you have every color and pattern you need for this season.
“The durability of this bait is really unmatched by any other bait I can think of, I have one that literally is missing half of it’s body, the plastic lip, and even the middle hook after dozens of beatings from Pike, Small Mouth Bass, Large Mouth Bass, Walleye, Musky, and even Bluegills all in one lure!
I always have it one me as a lucky charm! It’s action is beautiful and perfect as expected from Rapala and always produced fish throughout the day. And can be used for any tactic like trolling and casting. For patterns I have Silver, Blue, Yellow Perch, and Gold Plated Fluorescent Red. All are very good patterns, I would recommend Silver for sunny days, Orange for cloudy days, and any natural pattern at any time.” Quinn CF, BPS Customer
Pros/Still one of the best-producing fishing lures on the market
Cons/Have you ever lost your brand-new Rapala on the first cast? True story, happened to me
Bottom Line/Stock up and save during the Spring Classic 15-20% off!
9. Guidewear Xtreme Parka and Bibs – Save $50 when purchased together
Guidewear Xtreme Parka and Bibs have proven to be one of the best ways to stay out of the elements.
“I used my Guidewear bib for the first time on the weekend, we had 3 seasons in one day. Best piece of kit I have ever bought well worth the money. They kept me warm and dry all day, light weight and very flexible. Tthe only thing I would like is another breast pocket.” Keith66, BPS Customer
It was 50 years ago that the Cabela brothers decided to come up with a set of rugged rain gear that was worthy of being called Guidewear. After all this time, the line is still going strong and is the choice of many anglers, both professional and recreational alike. Both the bibs and the parka are made from 100% nylon with a complete GORE-TEX membrane making them impervious to water while still allowing breathability. The Xtreme series adds a fleece liner for comfort and heat retention. All of the seals are welded and tested for durability and extra tough material covers the knees and other high-stress areas to keep you dry for as long as you own the set.
Years ago, I bought a set of Guidewear before heading to Alaska to fish. I was not kind to the gear then, nor since, and it still hasn’t let me down. My wife recently asked me if I wanted to replace them, and while I was temped, I just couldn’t justify doing it. Now, I might have to add another set – I didn’t say replace – as the Xtreme series with the fleece lining would be nice for when it gets a little colder.
Pros/Waterproof, durable and comfortable
Cons/This set is definitely better for cooler weather use
Bottom Line/The gold standard for extreme use rain gear – Buytogether and save $50!
10. Bass Pro Shops AM24 Auto/Manual Inflatable Life Vest – Save $40
The Bass Pro Shops AM24 Auto/Manual Inflatable Life Vest is a great price for serious peace of mind.
“I purchased 3 of these vest 7 months ago. We fish 3 to 4 days a week. When ever someone gets on the boat they are given a vest. I fish about 6 to 7 hours at a time. They are comfortable and lightweight during the hot summer months. I will be purchasing another as a Christmas present.” Marc57, BPS Customer
Finding a traditional life jacket that fits me well enough that I’d wear it all day long while on the boat is pretty hard. Let’s face it, they can be a bit daunting for some of us. Then I got my hands on an inflatable flotation vest and *poof* problem solved! The concept is simple, you have a vest-shaped bag inside a break-through nylon sleeve that secures around you with nylon straps. There is a CO2 cartridge, much like the one used in air rifles, that rapidly inflates the bag if activated by emersion in water, or by pulling a ripcord. It acts similar to an airbag in your car, in that it saves your life by giving you a rapid safeguard against drowning, but unlike an airbag, the vest doesn’t deflate until you want it to. If you or a loved one hates wearing a lifejacket, this is something you really need to have. And with it being on sale right no – you save $40! – it’s so worth it to get one for you and any other adult-sized person on your boat.
Pros/No bulky and SAVES YOUR LIFE!
Cons/None – buy one for everyone on the boat
Bottom Line/I’ll say it again – This can save your life.
11. Stock up on fishing lures! – Save up to 50%
I’ve been adding lures to my shopping basket all morning. I’m stocking up for what I’m hoping is another amazing season on the water. You should to with up to 50% off some lure prices. There are 494 different lures on sale, and that doesn’t account for the color variations. This is a MASSIVE sale on fishing lures and now is the time to stock up and save.
“For under $10, this spinnerbait can’t be beat! Great colors, a Trokar Hook, and Hilderbrant blades!! You have got to pick one of these up!” JT Fishing, BPS Customer
Pros/Fishing lures on sale – Do I need to say anything else?
Cons/Really? Like there’s a downside to a sale on fishing lures?
Bottom Line/Stock up and save before the season gets here – Up to 50% off!
Picking the fishing rod and reel
Picking the right fishing rod and reels is a two part process. You start out by looking at the rod. Fishing rods are designed by how they act, with some being light to even ultra-light in action, to a common medium action and the heavier actions. The action of the rod determines what type of fishing it is best suited for. Lightweight actions are best for smaller fish species, and lighter-weight lines. An ultralight rod with 4lb. test line is a lot of fun to catch panfish and smaller trout on. If you plan to go for bigger, more aggressive species of fish, you’d go for a heavier action rod. Medium action rods are right in the middle, and are good for, as you would expect, medium sized fish. They can also serve well when catching smaller fish and yes, even bigger ones. The length of the rod is more personal preference, but it can also help with casting and with specific techniques. Do your research before you buy.
Buying the right fishing reel is a matter of matching the rod and line you will use to the reel’s line capacity and spool size. You’ll also want to pay attention to the gear ratio of the reel, which can help with lure presentation and retrieve. I also like to see how well a reel balances with the rod, and I also like a higher ball-bearing number, so that the reel will be both smooth and durable.
Where can I find the best deals on fishing gear?
The annual Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s Spring Classic sale event brings some of the best deals of the year on rods, reels, lures and more to you.
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