Bass movement and feeding increases in fall when shad form schools and roam into the backs of creeks. That makes a swim jig an ideal choice. This one fits the bill with a streamlined head shape designed for sneaking the jig through shallow cover, with 3D eyes adding lifelike strike appeal. A sticky-sharp, 4/0 VMC hook provides solid hook penetration, even at the end of long casts. Fish it in cover, open water and anywhere finesse presentations are a must for pressured bass. Available in 1/4- and 3/8-ounce sizes and 14 color patterns.
Here’s another swim jig choice with a different action for fall. The new head features flat sides for a baitfish profile and conical design to easily pass through vegetation and heavy cover. Large molded eyes and hand painting add lifelike appearance, with head colors designed to match Big Bite’s most popular plastic colors. Hand-tied skirts ensure those stay in place, while adding long-lasting durability. Armed with a single wire keeper and 4/0 Gamakatsu medium wire hook. Available in 3/8- and 1/2-ounce sizes and 19 colors.
Another perfect choice for the shad migration is a spinnerbait. Designed for heavily pressured bass lakes in a compact package, this new spinnerbait keeps the profile small and balanced, while retaining the 3/8- and 1/2-ounce size benefits of full-sized spinnerbaits. BOOYAH redistributed some of the weight from the head to the hook shank to achieve that attribute. Available in 3/8- and 1/2-ounce sizes and in Oklahoma/Colorado, Double Colorado and Double Willow configurations, the Covert Finesse packs the punch of the popular Covert Series into a smaller package.
For a more pronounced shad swimming action, a swimbait is a good choice when bass are chasing schooling bait in the fall. What sets this model by Rapala apart is a subtle, lifelike tail action with a steadily and natural swinging from side to side. Features a level of body roll that is noticeable but not too aggressive, while tracking true through and across cover. The salt- and scent-infused body moves realistically with the entire package designed for use all year, not just seasonally. Rapala’s exclusive Smart Injection Technology allows for custom combinations of color, flake, salt and scent that are added precisely where needed for the perfect presentation. Available in 3- and 4-inch sizes and 16 custom colors.
Got smallmouth? Rig up for fall with this bait is made from TPE, a completely different material than anything else, combining durability and buoyancy with maximum action. In fact, the additional buoyancy makes it ideal for rigging up to 1/4-ounce jig heads. In addition, the Ned BLT is salt- and scent-infused, which results in more bites and encourages fish to hold on — a critical element under the tough conditions where the Ned rig usually prevails. Available in 16 custom colors in a pack of 10 baits.
This new arrival to the lineup of specialty jigs is armed with a 4/0 Gamakatsu hook, with a wire bait keeper forcing a more lead forward head design. With a more forward balance point, the jig is ideal for the “Alabama Shake” style swim technique, while the compact package mimics the natural movement of baitfish. Available in 1/4-, 5/16- and 3/8-ounce sizes and 10 color patterns.
Jerkbaits and fall go together and this new bait will give the fish a different look and action. PXR stands for Precision, Xtreme, Redline. The first in a series of elite, professional-grade lures to be introduced by Rapala, the PXR Mavrik is a suspending jerkbait made with the finest construction and unrivaled technical qualities demanded by Rapala’s pro staff. Features start with Rapala’s Long-Cast System, which provides accurate, ultra-long casts to maximize time in the strike zone, and three premium VMC RedLine Series No. 5 treble hooks. The lure’s suspending, head-down attitude mimics an injured baitfish, while a hard-cutting, semi-erratic action makes the PXR Mavrik a versatile jerkbait for any condition. You can fish it slow with short twitches to walk the bait side-to-side, or give it a quick snap to get the bait to turn nearly 180 degrees. The 110 model is being introduced as a No. 11 (4 3/8-inch body length) weighing 1/2 ounce. Available in 18 colors.
Squarebill crankbaits are a must in fall, when bass are feeding on baitfish in shallow water. This small, flat-sided lure (just 2 1/4 inches) is made with premium balsa wood and features a circuit board lip. The flat-sided body design, combined with its balsa wood construction gives it a tight and finesse wobble. As a flat-sided crankbait, this variant has a shad-like profile and is without rattles for a subtle presentation in the 5- to 7-foot strike zone. Armed with super-strong No. 5 VMC black nickel 1X hybrid short shank treble hooks. Available in 19 colors. Length: 2 1/4 inches. Weight: 5/16 ounce.
Another new swimbait, this 6-inch model was designed in conjunction with Bassmaster Elite Series pro John Crews. A special blend of plastic produces superior swimming action with durability to last. Armed with No. 2 Gamakatsu black nickel, round bend treble hooks on the belly. The super sharp treble can be held in place with a soft bait magnet screwed into the underside. The treble is attached with a swivel so it easily spins when hooked up on a bass, preventing the fish from gaining leverage to throw the hook. With the treble rigged with the magnet, the hook is in position for the best hook ups while keeping it weedless.
Designed with collaboration from Bassmaster Elite Series pro Bryan New, this new swimbait features three joints with four hard plastic parts to form the body. The three-joint design gives the bait a unique “S” swimming action when retrieved, with the third joint imparting extra action. Not surprisingly, Carolinian New’s input makes it ideal for herring lakes. What is more, the bait casts far while swimming true even at the fastest retrieves. Available in 105 mm and 125 mm and 10 color patterns. Both sizes feature No. 4 round bend, black nickel Gamakatsu treble hooks.
Give the bass a different look for fall with this new crankbait. Delivering a wide wobble action in a bite-sized, 1.5 profile that grinds through rock, wood and grass. Available in two sizes, the Gravel Dawg 8 and Gravel Dawg 10, with both sizes keeping the same body profile and size, while the bill changes between the two to achieve different diving depths to cover the 5- to 10-foot strike zone.
This new variant brings a new sinking jerkbait and even wider color selection to the KVD Elite Jerkbait lineup. Tournament ready with upgraded Mustad Triple Grip hooks and premium paint finishes. Extending the depth range like none other, the J300 allows anglers to view it sinking down on the screen of forward-facing sonar to the desired depth. The jerkbait is weighted perfectly to sink nearly 0.5 feet per second while maintaining the erratic action of the standard KVD Deep Jerkbait. J200 and J300: $14.99.
The unique design allows the soft plastic trailer to move independently from the jig head, as it articulates at the joint where the hook connects to the jig head. This point of articulation ensures that an angler’s soft plastic moves naturally across the bottom with an incredible crawling action. Best rigged with the new CrushCity Ned BLT or a floating worm either Ned- or Texas-rigged. Available in sizes 1/16, 1/8, 3/16, 1/4 and 3/8 ounces.
The new Yo-Zuri 3DB Wake Prop is a single jointed wake bait with an oversized UV prop. It can be fished fast to cover water for schooling fish, or slowed around structure or bedding fish. Available in two sizes: 3 3/8 inches, 7/8 ounce and 4 1/8 inches, 1 ounce. Available in eight color patterns, all featuring internal painted or 3D prism finishes that never chip or wear off. Add this to your topwater lure arsenal for fall.
Up your smallmouth game with this lifelike offering. Matching the soft, malleable body of a live round goby, the 3-inch Gobius is composed of super soft, impossibly durable ElaZtech — yielding maximum movement and lifelike texture. Pre-rigged with a split dorsal fin brush guard and internal “bottom-hugging” jig harness, Gobius is enabled to swim, creep and deflect off cover with superior snag resistance, while also allowing for effortless hooksets. The goby bait’s natural anatomy features highly refined torso, gill plate, fin and tail detailing; its rounded paddletail delivers subtle yet lifelike swimming movements. Combination of balanced weighting and buoyant superplastic material enables horizontal posture at rest. Hand painted body detail and eyes add to the Gobius’ true-to-life façade. Available in 3/8-, 1/2- and 3/4-ounce weights, each in eight key color patterns.
Every boat needs some TLC and fall is an ideal time to prepare your boat for winter break. Star brite’s new line of ceramic-based cleaners, protectants, and is a breakthrough collection incorporating cutting-edge SiO2 technology. Premiering with five new products, the inaugural line includes Wash & Wax, Wax & Seal, Speed Detailer, and two products yet to be seen implementing ceramic technology: Vinyl Protect and Metal Protect. What sets the new Ceramic-based products apart are their durability, long-lasting protection, and hydrophobicity. Resistance against UV rays, water spots, oxidation, and harsh environmental contaminants that can damage surfaces, are key attributes. An additional benefit is that they offer a deeper and wetter look, enhancing the color depth of the surface.
Forge is built to deliver warmth as a standalone jacket or as a key layering piece in extreme cold weather. Constructed with 100% nylon TORAY ripstop for durability, and conducts heat with 60g of Thermore Freedom Stretch insulation. Water resistant DWR keeps the spray off, while a four-way mechanical stretch promotes mobility that moves with you in the field. Features stretch knit cuffs, shock cord hem adjustment and topped off with zippered chest and hand pockets.
Barricade is built with high-end features at a competitive price, offering durable three-layer construction, 20K waterproofing, 5K breathability and AFTCO’s signature SpeedVent hood. An elasticated hem cinch allows quickly dialing in the fit, while the Double Dry cuffs prevent water from seeping up the arms. YKK zippers on the chest pocket to keep any loose items sealed. A plier pocket found on the thigh with 500D nylon keeps tools at the ready. Signature AFTCO jacquard elastic adjustable shoulder straps, g-hook slide waist side adjustment system, along with a dual side zippered relief hatch allows you to take care of business with ease.
This wind resistant puff down jacket with 80g of synthetic fill is ideal for keeping out the chill. On top of that, DWR water repellent finish repels mist, light rain and boat spray. You get casual styling with a full hood design and traditional draw string for functionality. A zippered chest pocket secures valuables and two tricot fleece-lined hand pockets to keep fingers toasty. Finished with elastic cuffs for a snug fit, and designed specifically with women in mind.
Sun protection in a pair of overalls? Yep, these feature UPF 40 sun protection, while 165 gsm ripstop fabric makes these overalls lightweight and comfortable for all year wear. Adjustable elastic faced straps and four-way stretch achieve a customizable fit, while DWR stain resistance adds functionality for doing chores or while fishing. Hand pockets, zippered chest and back pockets provide plenty of room, while not adding bulk, for storing handy items. There’s even a Block Tapey cellphone pocket.
The pullover features ThermalShare that is fleece bonded with a windproof shell to keep heat in and cold out. The soft, long-nap warm fleece inner lining, a zippered hand-warming pouch and a weather-proof shell make this pullover functional for all seasons. Available in sizes Small-XL and various colors, including Prym1 Camo.
Built out of reliable wind-bocking, breathable and DWR-treated softshell face fabric with a fleece liner, the Rogue pant comes equipped with a fixed waistband with low profile webbing belt loops, rubberized shank closure and a zippered fly. Additional features include front drop-in hand-warmer pockets with a single right zippered back pocket, a right thigh zippered pocket with a layered drop-in phone or plier pocket.
Simms Fall Run Hybrid Hoody brings together premium lightweight insulation, water-resistant protection and a stretch fleece construction for a layering solution that covers all sides of the equation. Constructed from 100% recycled polyester ripstop with a DWR finish for water resistance, combined with fleece panels in the side body and underarms for stretch and mobility the jacket is powered by PrimaLoft Black Eco insulation. The upper front and back body feature internal quilting that provides a smooth exterior for abrasion resistance when worn with waders or bibs.
A water/shock resistant case with a 12v Dakota Lithium LiFePO4 10Ah battery, with twice the power of traditional batteries, half the weight, that charges up to five time faster and lasts four times as long. Yep, that’s a lot to swallow in one sentence. The point is what makes this stand out is it’ll be your go-to power source when off the grid for certain applications. Dual USB charging ports, a 12V car plug, binder posts, two waterproof LED lights and a voltage reader provide multiple options for powering devices. Charger and battery included.
This new advanced lithium battery is dual purpose, offering both 135-amp hours of deep cycle capacity and an impressive 1,000 cold cranking amps of engine starting power. The battery delivers five times the usable power of a traditional Group 24 marine battery at half the weight, a lifespan five times longer than traditional batteries, and is backed by an industry-leading 11-year warranty. Designed to meet or exceed Mercury Motors Lithium Battery Specs and ABYC requirements for lithium batteries, and manufactured according to Dakota Lithium’s ISO 9001 certified quality management system. The battery boasts an IP 67 waterproof rating, achieved through advanced robotic liquid welding of the lid. Compatibility with engine alternators up to 200 amps ensures
seamless integration with your boat’s electrical system.
Transform your kayak into a hunting machine with the YakGear Ambush Camo Kayak Cover & Hunting Blind. The drawstrings at either end make this a universal fit on 12- to 14-foot kayaks and canoes. This camo cover uses two flaps in the middle, connected by Velcro, to conceal the hunter until he is ready to fire. Lay down and wait for your shot, then sit up and you’re ready to fire. Made of rip-stop material, tears should not be a problem if you run into any thick brush. Also included is an oversized Velcro flap in the back of the blind for access to the rear storage area. Boat handles are accessible at the front and back through slits that are pre-cut into the cover. You can also add your own brush on the cover using the pre-sewn vegetation webbing straps. Included stow bag for easy transport.
Based on Garmin’s already killer GPSMAP 66 units, this one ups the ante with even more features for any off-the-grid loving outdoorsman. The 67 features a 3-inch sunlight-readable color display, and even better, it comes with an internal lithium-ion battery that’s good for up to seven days in GPS mode or 35 days in power saver mode. In challenging terrain conditions, you can track your position with even greater accuracy with multi-band technology. The 67 comes preloaded with TopoActive maps, and you can see the terrain you’ll travel using downloadable satellite imagery.
Call inReach Messenger your go-to satellite communicator when all else fails, namely a dead cellphone battery or when the “no service” status appears on the phone screen. Garmin made it affordable ($299) by dropping some of the mapping and navigation abilities of other devices while providing all the must-have features. What makes the Messenger stand out is that it uses cellular service when available and iridium satellites when it’s not. Using those networks, the Messenger can send out SOS emergency messages and GPS coordinates. Send two-way messages and emails using the Garmin Messenger app on your smartphone.
Upland game and waterfowl call for a scalpel-like fixed blade, and the all-new 15700 Flyway is the right tool for the job. With just the right amount of CPM-154 blade, featuring SelectEdge, this knife is perfect for breasting out game birds. Solid and stable orange G10 handle scales boast dialed-in ergonomics, and the dual-colored Boltaron sheath makes this easy to throw into a pack for river or stream trips.
Field dressing an entire animal? The S35VN steel will hold an edge throughout the process without needing to resharpen. A high-panel flat grind adds strength to the blade that allows you to cut with confidence. The purpose-designed textured handle gives you a trusted grip, even in wet conditions. Includes a reinforced leather sheath that keeps your knife on your belt or safely in your pack.
A lightweight, frameless pack weighing just 36 ounces defines the mobility and stealth you get when stalk hunting and for a day pack. A low-profile design reduces noise and abrasion while providing an ample 1,800 cubic inches of storage. A body-hugging waist belt features multiple pockets, including easily deployable/retractable cables for resting a bow.
Though this pack lacks an internal frame, it feels as if it does, thanks to the shoulder strap adjustments that allow weight to be distributed to a contoured waist belt that wraps tightly around the hips. Comfort and practicality combine in its 1,440 cubic-inch size and 3.15-pound weight rating ideal for a day trip. Pack adjustments are quick and easy, and bedroll straps and detachable rifle/bow boot holder add functionality. Another plus is the C6 DWR coating. This water-repellent coating causes moisture to roll off, keeping inner contents dry.
The Irish Setter Vaprtrek is the king of the featherweights. The boot is tailor-made for deer hunting, with a ScentBan lining that helps prevent odor-causing bacteria that can spook deer from building up in your boots. An aggressive outsole features tapered lugs that bite hard, but easily release mud. Wrap around outsoles are designed to grip tree-stand rungs and ATV footholds, so you won’t have to worry about losing your footing on the go. To keep weight down but maintain waterproofing, Irish Setter combined full-grain leather and nylon honeycomb ripstop in the boot’s upper. This 8-inch lace-up design has a removeable polyurethane memory-foam footbed and is fitted with a nylon shank, which offers enough support for hunters that will encounter moderate terrain but is a bit lacking for those that tackle the steepest inclines.
The Pronghorn is a top-end boot, with specs to match. One of Danner’s longest-running lines thanks to a loyal customer base, the Pronghorn includes a polyurethane footbed, bi-fit board shank, waterproof/breathable Gore-Tex lining, and 400 grams of PrimaLoft insulation. Though it only has a height of 8 inches, it provides the support needed for rugged terrain. The support begins at the bottom, with an internal/external shank system that provides optimal arch support and torsion control. The Pronghorn also has a Vibram rubberized midsole. This maintains the same cushioning properties as traditional EVA for comfort over long distances, yet it’s more durable for a longer life.
Not only is the Mach 34 impressively light at 3.65 pounds bare, but the riser is rigid and it has very little thump when you release a shot. That’s accomplished by the proprietary Dead Frequency carbon. Another feather in the Mach 34’s cap is that all 136 layers of carbon in each riser are hand laid in the U.S. The Mach 34 has the same beefed up ¼-inch axles and bearings as the Levitate. Just like a riser, flex in the axles is a bad thing for consistency. Over time, lesser bearings can develop flat spots, which turn a smooth-drawing bow into one that’s difficult to draw.
This new midsize option bodes well for mobile hunters who aren’t carrying large loads into the field. Perfect for thrifty day hunts and preseason scouting missions where supreme organization is still paramount. Wrapped in a durable, quiet, micro-polyester sued, this pack stands out for the material’s Carbon Alloy that provides all-important scent control. An intelligent strap system with a fully-adjustable, padded and wide shoulder straps, adjustable chest strap and padded back allow you to create the perfect fit. Six internal and two external pockets are sized perfectly for different sizes of gear. Includes a fully hydration-compatible pocket with hanger and loops—and important asset during early season outings.
