What I Want For Christmas as a 23-Year-Old Fly Fisherman Who Already Has Everything
- The Fly Box LLC
- Dec 9, 2025
- 5 min read
This FREE feature is brought to you by Casts That Care. Casts That Care is the daily fly fishing charity news published by The Fly Box LLC, sharing real stories, conservation updates, and community features that give back to the waters we love.
If you enjoy this piece, you can read over 300 more articles plus new ones every day and subscribe here. Each month we donate 50 percent of all subscriptions to a different fly fishing charity.
Every year, it becomes harder to come up with a Christmas list because, by this point, I already own most of the major pieces of fly fishing gear. I have rods, reels, waders, boots, packs, and enough fly boxes to stock a small fly shop. What are the smaller, more thoughtful items that actually make days on the water easier and more enjoyable. These are the tools and accessories that solve problems I run into constantly. They are the things that wear out, get lost, or get loaned to a friend and never come back. They are also the upgrades I would never go out of my way to buy for myself, even though they would instantly improve my setup. This list focuses on useful, practical, everyday items that fit into the life of someone who already lives and breathes fly fishing.
Hoss Straps (12 Inch, 6 Pack)
Why I Want It: These straps are simple but incredibly useful. I am always strapping things down in my truck or boat and these are far easier to use than cheap bungee cords. They grip well, are very durable, and do not loosen under vibration or movement. I like having items like this that I can keep in every bag or vehicle. They make it easier to stay organized and secure gear quickly.
2. Superfly Composites Fly Line Mat (20 Inch Aqua)
Why I Want It: When you are fishing saltwater flats, your line catches on everything. It wraps around your feet, the cooler, the push pole, and anything else in the boat. This mat solves that issue by keeping the line lifted and organized so it shoots cleanly when you need to cast quickly. It is lightweight, durable, and one of the few accessories that genuinely affects how well you fish. It is the type of gear that becomes essential once you use it.
Atollas 2GO Fly Box (Flats Green)
Why I Want It: This is a well-designed fly box that works for a wide variety of fishing situations. It is slim enough to fit easily in a sling or pocket but holds enough flies for a full day. The docking station is what sets it apart. Being able to secure the box on the outside of a bag or boat keeps it accessible and prevents it from disappearing into the bottom of a pack. It is a smart way to keep flies organized without adding bulk.
4. Trout Mount Pro
Why I Want It: This is such a great way to travel with your rods! It can stay mounted in my car, but if I am riding with a friend on a fishing trip I can move it easily from car to car! It also solves the problem of having to break down the rod in between spots. I would love to have this as an addition to my ride so that I could keep the same rig from week to week.
5. Bulk Pack of Long Hemostats (10 Pack)
Why I Want It: Hemostats are something every angler needs but they always get lost or misplaced. I prefer the longer style because they provide more leverage and make it easier to remove hooks safely. A large pack means I can keep a pair in every sling, wader pocket, and travel bag. It ensures I am never stuck without them. It is not the flashiest item but it is practical and always needed.
6. Cling Fishing Essentials
Why I Want It: Cling makes accessories that genuinely improve the fishing experience. The Mag Grab keeps loose flies organized and prevents them from ending up rusted in pockets. It gives you a place to put flies quickly while changing rigs. The Temperature Tape is a simple but very effective tool for checking water temperature without carrying a full thermometer. It is small, accurate, and useful in both trout and warmwater fishing. Any product you get from Cling will make the day more efficient and solve common problems.
7. Oros Strike Indicators
Why I Want It: These are the best strike indicators available. They stay in place, they cast smoothly, and you don't lose them. The design makes them easy to use and adjust. I am always running out because I lend them to people. A few new packs allows me to restock my different bags so I always have backups on hand.
8. Twisted Feather Daytripper Traveling Tying Station
Why I Want It: This is a portable fly tying station that keeps tools and materials organized. It is perfect for tying flies in the truck or before a trip, or just getting a little change of scenery while making wraps. It keeps everything contained in one place which prevents hooks and beads from rolling everywhere. It is ideal for someone who ties flies but wants a setup that can travel easily.
9. Fishpond Summit Sling 2.0
Why I Want It: This pack has a great layout with plenty of storage for flies, tools, and accessories. The built in fly dock is useful for holding flies while you tie knots or dry used patterns. The compartments are easy to reach and the pack rides comfortably all day. I have always wanted a dedicated sling that is the right size and set up for simple, efficient fishing days.
10. A Subscription to Casts That Care
Why I Want It: This subscription is something I benefit from every day. It provides stories, conservation news, interviews, and community features that keep me involved with the sport I love. It also donates half of all subscription revenue to a different fly fishing charity each month. It is a gift that supports both my interests and the broader fly fishing community.
You Can Never Go Wrong With
Fly fishing themed gear always makes a great gift because it is simple, universal, and impossible to mess up. Think flasks, mugs, hats, hoodies, stickers, keychains, desk accessories, or small pieces of fishing themed décor. If it has a trout on it, a fly pattern, a fish silhouette, or a clean fly fishing theme, it will land. These gifts are easy, thoughtful, and always appreciated. If you want high quality fly fishing themed gear, you can also check out our store which has apparel and accessories made specifically for fly fishermen.
Closing
This list is not about collecting more gear. It is about thoughtful upgrades and useful items that improve the experience of being on the water. Every item here solves a problem I run into regularly or fills a gap in the things I already own. These are the practical, reliable tools that make fly fishing smoother and more enjoyable, whether on the flats, a trout stream, or a road trip with friends. They are also items that last and continue to be useful long after the holiday season is over.
This FREE feature is brought to you by Casts That Care. Casts That Care is the daily fly fishing charity news published by The Fly Box LLC, sharing real stories, conservation updates, and community features that give back to the waters we love.
If you enjoy this piece, you can read over 300 more articles plus new ones every day and subscribe here. Each month we donate 50 percent of all subscriptions to a different fly fishing charity.
Comments