WhatGearGuide2013

THIS YEAR’S ESSENTIAL GAME TACKLE

FREE 36-PAGE MAGAZINE

WHAT GEAR GUIDE 2013

TOP NAMES INCLUDING...

W

Welcome

ITH the salmon-fishing season underway and the trout soon to rise, it's time to audit your tackle. Was anything left to mould in the garage last winter?

What needs replacing? Or, better, is there a new line, rod or reel to which you'd like to treat yourself this spring?

We thought that 2013 might be a quiet year for new tackle – many of us have a little less money to spare – but instead have been hugely impressed by the sheer number of new products and innovations that are appearing in the shops. The task before the tackle-makers was the same as it is every year – to improve our casting and how we present our flies, to help us to wade safely, to keep warm and dry, and to organise our tackle. From what we've seen and feature in

What Gear Guide 2013, we think they've achieved this in spades.

Intelligent function and smart design; lighter and more durable.

These are the key themes. And many of the products are affordable – there's something here to match all pockets and fishing disciplines.

So what's it to be? A new line for Buzzers or is it high time you tried a shooting head? Why not treat yourself to a super-light rod and reel for those first smutting brownies?

Andrew Flitcroft Editor, Trout & Salmon

Russell Hill Editor, Trout Fisherman

Contents 4Airflo

12 Opticaid

18 Sonik

26Cortland

6Glasgow Angling Centre 14Orvis All your favourite rods, reels, clothing and more under one roof or at the click of a mouse

The new range of Helios rods, Silver Sonic waders and Safe Passage luggage

21 Optilabs

Sunglasses designed for fishermen with high-contrast polarised lenses

30Shakespeare

Value for money and pure quality - the new Agility and Sigma rods, reels, lines and waders

10Wychwood

Tackle & 17Tweedside St George Sporting

23Hartley Fly

34Fordham & Wakefield

Airtex waders offering style, comfort and safety, plus wading boots and accessories

Introducing the ultra-light River & Stream reels and rods, and traditionally styled tackle bags 2

Specialist fishing glasses with magnifying lenses, and Overglasses for night and day

Patagonia clothing and timesaving tools from Smith Creek

New and improved fourpiece rods and large arbor reels to kick start your season this spring

The spotlight is on Fulling Mill's dynamic new fly range which is bigger and better than ever

Leading the way in fly-line design with Precision tapers to give you a performance edge

Take your pick from the best in wading boots, leader material and shooting heads

What Gear Guide 2013

SUBTLE

NEW

EVEN AT EXTREME DISTANCE

NEW MINI TIP

FORTY PLUS FROM AIRFLO The ability to precisely control the depth and presentation of your artificial is probably the single most significant element to your success out on the water. Our Forty Plus range of fly lines not only allow you to cast further and load easier than ever before, but with our complete range of densities from Floating to Di7, they also give you accurate depth control for precise presentation. The new 3’ Mini tip is set to become a firm favourite with both boat and bank anglers looking for an edge.

Seamless coating technology for smoother casting Full range of densities with colour coded sinking heads Ridge technology throughout Power core for long range hook sets Extreme and Expert head lengths available.

DENSITY

COLOUR

TAPER/SIZE

PURCHASE ANY ONE AT .99

£39

OR ANY TWO LINES FOR .99 CORE

CODE

PRICE

FLOAT/FLOAT

IVORY/SUNRISE

WF5-9

POWER CORE

R40-WF(+SIZE)F-IV/SR

£49.99

FLOAT/INTERMEDIATE TIP

IVORY/SUNRISE

WF6-9

POWER CORE

R40-WF(+SIZE)-F/I-IV/SR

£49.99

FLOAT/SLOW INTERMEDIATE

TRANS OLIVE/SUNRISE

WF6-9

POWER CORE

R40-WF(+SIZE)SI-TO/SR

£49.99

FLOAT/FAST INTERMEDIATE

TRANS GREEN/SUNRISE

WF5-9

POWER CORE

R40-WF(+SIZE)I-TG/SR

£49.99

INTERMEDIATE/DI3

DARK GREEN/SUNRISE

WF5-9

POWER CORE

R40-WF(+SIZE)S5-DG/SR

£49.99

INTERMEDIATE/DI5

BLUE/SUNRISE

WF6-9

POWER CORE

R40-WF(+SIZE)S5-BL/SR

£49.99

INTERMEDIATE/DI7

BLACK/SUNRISE

WF6-9

POWER CORE

R40-WF(+SIZE)S7-BK/SR

£49.99

£69

SCAN HERE TO VIEW THE AIRFLO FORTY PLUS FLY LINES VIDEO GET YOUR FREE QR CODE READER FROM YOUR APP STORE

ORDER NOW FROM ANGLING ACTIVE WWW.AIRFLOFISHING.COM TEL: 0871 911 7045

TEL 01786 430 400 WEB WWW.ANGLINGACTIVE.CO.UK

Deeply devoted...

For the angler who routinely likes to meet fish half-way, Airflo have you covered when it comes to wading in style (not to mention in comfort and safety)...

S

TEP into your favourite river with confidence this season, courtesy of Airflo waders.

Airflo have reworked their range of breathable waders for 2013 to ensure that the single most important item for any fly angler in running water is the

last thing he or she has to worry about.

What's more, you can kill two birds with one stone and make a huge saving at the same time, with a pair of wading boots thrown in FREE with every pair of chest waders sold from Airflo's 2013 range.

Breathable, comfortable and dependable, Airflo waders are supported with all the accessories you need, from studs to soles, setting you up for years of dependable service and leaving you free to concentrate on the very thing you wear them for in the first place....

Airtex Zip waders and Airtex waders £219.99 and £169.99

Both of these premium designs have been completely refashioned for 2013, using the very latest materials, to provide even greater comfort and superior durability.

The highly breathable, three-layer Finetex material has been pressed into a great new design, providing even greater freedom of movement, while the award-winning reliability of the RIRI main zip combines with new features such as built-in gravel guards and an improved harness system.

Easily converted to waist waders, both designs come complete with a wader belt, built-in pockets and pre-formed neoprene feet with colour accent.

And Airflo will throw in a FREE pair of Airtex wading boots (worth £99.99) for every pair of Airtex Zip waders sold, with a choice of Vibram or felt soles. Every pair of Airtex waders sold, meanwhile, comes complete with a FREE pair of Delta wading boots (worth £59.99)

Sizes: M, L, XL, XXL (Airtex waders without zip also available in Medium King and Large King sizes, great for anglers with slightly larger waists).

KEY FEATURES ■ Free wading boots with each pair of waders sold ■ Both styles easily converted to waist waders ■ Colour coded YKK pocket zipper ■ Large range of sizes ■ Integrated gravel guards

Colour coded YKK pocket zipper 4

TECH SPEC Sizes: M, L, XL, XXL (plus medium king and large king in the non-zip style)

New for 2013

Award-winning RIRI main zip and an improved harness system. Built-in pockets and neoprene feet.

Material: 3-layer Finetex

Award-winning RIRI main zip What Gear Guide 2013

Contact: customerservice@airflofishing.com Tel: 0871 911 7045 Web: www.airflofishing.com

Airtex wading boots £99.99

Airtex waist waders £179.99

Ideal for those who like to hit the water with a minimum of delay, the Airtex Waist Waders, with their built in wading boots, will appeal to both river and stillwater anglers.

Made from the same superior Finetex breathable material as their chest waders, this unique design offers great comfort and fit. A high back and adjustable strap system offers great protection from the elements, making these waders ideal for boat anglers in particular. The boots have integrated ‘Boot Cut’ gravel guards and lacing provides firm support. Handy side pockets, braces and a wader belt and RIRI Fly zip are included.

Sizes: 7-12

New for 2013, the Airtex wading boots with their good looks and stylish design are set to become a firm favourite with both river and stillwater anglers.

Light in weight, they are nevertheless sturdily-built, providing great support both in and out of the water. With metal lace eyelets and increased ankle padding for comfort, the boots have a protective rubberised outer for durability and are available in both traditional felt sole and modern hi grip Vibram for sure-footed wading, whatever the conditions. Vibram soles are also a good choice for boat anglers, offering superior grip. They are also easily studded for extra grip.

Sizes: 7-12 (felt), 8-12 (Vibram)

Lightweight, sturdy and stylish - the new Airtex wading boots.

Wader studs £9.99

Great for extra traction while wading, this packet of 30 screw-in studs comes with a socket tool for easy stud insertion and removal.

Streamtec wading staff £34.99

This collapsible wading staff folds neatly into a neoprene belt pouch and comes with a dog-clip style attachment so you can leave it clipped to you while fishing. Great value collapsible wading staff.

Delta wading boots £59.99

The new Delta wading boots are designed for performance, comfort and durability. Their tough, synthetic uppers provide great support both in and out of the water. With a choice of either felt or Vibram soles to cover any terrain. Sizes: 6-12

Streamtec STREAMTEC wading WADINGbelt BELT

Delta wading boots are a great match for any stockingfoot waders.

£19.99

Felt sole replacement kit

£14.99

Fully adjustable wading belt with built-in back support, designed for maximum comfort and firm fit.

Includes one pair of soles and a tube of cement that will hold the soles securely in place. Also included: brush, sandpaper and instructions.

What Gear Guide 2013

5

All your favourites Glasgow Angling Centre offers the most comprehensive range of new game-fishing tackle in Europe. All your favourite rods, reels, clothing and more are available online at the www.fishingmegastore website or call the centre's expert staff for advice: 0871 716 1670 Brady Sandringham game bag £135 Web code: BJ0161

A stylish fishing bag for the traditional fisher. Made from canvas and leather and with room for essential tackle, lunch, a light jacket and maybe your catch.

Size: 17 in x 12 in.

Stillwater Clearview New for 2013 tube-fly box

£9.99 Web code: QL0040 Waterproof, clear-lidded double-sided box with 16 compartments for long-winged flies and hooks.

Guideline Gaula chest waders

£199.99 Web code: GC1541 Four-layer breathable waders with extra protection in the legs and seat. Removable braces.

Two pockets. Sizes: S-XXL. Sold with FREE Crosswater boots.

Hardy Ultralite CLS From £199 Web code: HR1608

Guideline Crosswater MK2 boots

A beautifully made cassette reel at an affordable price. The frame is machined from bar-stock aluminium. It has a Rulon disc brake and is supplied with three spools, which have unique fly-line identification pins. Sizes: 5000 (6/7/8) and 7000 (8/9/10).

Stillwater Rotatable Regent vice £19.99

Web code: FDP0012AA

An easy-to-use and affordable vice. Ideal for novice fly-tyers.

£99.99 Web code: GC1377

Lightweight and comfortable boots with a hard-wearing upper, neoprene liner, cushioned midsole and felt sole. Available FREE with Gaula waders. Sizes: 7-13.

6

What Gear Guide 2013

Contact: Glasgow Angling Centre Web: www.fishingmegastore.com Tel: 0871 716 1670

Stillwater SFX2 reel From £39.99 Web code: QL0011

An attractive and affordable die-cast reel with a superb finish.

A good brake and ample capacity.

In three sizes: 5-7, 7-9, 9-10.

Stillwater wading stick

£39.99 Web code: TA0027

A practical and handy wading staff that extends in seconds. Use it for stability when wading in difficult currents and on rough terrain. It is very light and is supplied in a pouch that can be attached to a wading belt. It has an excellent grip and strap.

Stillwater zipped leader wallet

£3.99/£4.50 Web code: TA1463

Greys GRXi Xtreme full-length jacket

£109.99 Web code: GR1398

An excellent foul-weather jacket, offering plenty of protection and comfort. With high-quality cuffs, pockets and zips. Sizes: S-XXXL.

Stillwater Tay bib 'n' brace

£79.99 Web code: RE0197 Essential wear for stillwater fishers, this waterproof and breathable bib 'n' brace has four pockets and easy-to-use leg/waist fastenings. Sizes: M-XXXL.

Modern salmon-fishers use ever more combinations of multi-tip lines, polyleaders and shooting heads. Keep them in this handy wallet, which will fit in a wading jacket pocket. It's available in two sizes: 11 cm with seven sections; 15 cm with six sections.

Stillwater Roving belt bag £19.99 Web code: LT0032

A fully adjustable belt bag that will hold everything you need when roaming around the river bank.

Water-resistant and hard wearing, it has a large front pocket, four padded sidepockets, a bottle holder and a detachable fly patch.

Stillwater Jaws pliers

£29.99 Web code: QL0017

Strong, machine-cut and anodised aluminium pliers with a sprung action that makes them easy to use with one hand, which is important when unhooking lively fish. The serrated jaws will grip hooks, open split rings and crimp traces. Supplied with a sheath and coiled lanyard.

Stillwater FX fly-boxes

Stillwater double zinger magnet

£5.99 Web code: QL0041 Durable and slim lightweight fly-boxes made from tough plastic with two sides of EVA slit foam. Space for 336 flies!

£5.99 Web code: QL0003

Guideline Reach rod £74.99 Web code: GC1729

Exclusive to Glasgow Angling Centre, Reach rods are made with high-quality carbon and have easy-casting actions. Sizes: 9 ft, 5wt; 9 ft 6 in, 7wt; 10 ft 7wt.

What Gear Guide 2013

A good-quality zinger, fitted with two 50 cm long and very strong retractable braided cords with stainless-steel swivel ends and sturdy clips. Attach it to the D-ring of your wading jacket or waistcoat and hang forceps, scissors, nippers, floatant…

7

Hardy Zenith Sintrix single-handed rods From £499 Web code: HR1342

Hardy's ground-breaking Sintrix resin material makes rods 60 per cent stronger and 30 per cent lighter than before. The smoothcasting fast-action Zenith is beautifully finished with Recoil rings and an attractive reel seat.

In 19 sizes: 8 ft 4wt to 10 ft 8wt.

Stillwater Carron large game bag £19.99

Web code: LT0003

Airflo Wavehopper Stowaway 55 lb engine

A tough and hard-wearing game bag for fishing and shooting with a spacious main compartment, two front pockets and a net bag on the front. It has a removable fish bag, two D-rings and an adjustable shoulder strap. Great value.

£229.99 Web code: AF5427

The Wavehopper collapses to under 3 ft in length and will easily fit into your car boot. It's powered by a 12-volt leisure battery and has ample thrust. Tough and corrosionresistant.

Scientific Anglers Sharkskin Ultimate Trout fly-line £49.99 Web code: SA0012

Unique micro-textured floating line that allows you to cast further. Floats higher.

Easy to roll-cast and mend. Durable.

Sizes: WF3-WF8. In blue or chartreuse.

Stillwater neoprene chest waders

Greys GX500 reel

Full-length 4.5 mm neoprene waders that protect in the worst conditions. With a pouch pocket, velcro straps and cleated soles.

Great-value cartridge reel with two spare spools. Unique line identification pins fit in spool. Large arbor. Smooth Rulon disc drag.

£59.99 Web code: RE0146

8

£49.99 Web code: GR1689

TECH SPEC Sizes: 4/5/6 or 6/7/8 Cap'y: WF5 + 90m; WF7 + 115m

Weight: 5.6 oz; 6.4 oz What Gear Guide 2013

Contact: Glasgow Angling Centre Web: www.fishingmegastore.com Tel: 0871 716 1670

Hardy Radcliffe Tattersall shirt £59 Web code: HR1630

New for 2013

A classic British shirt style with a performance edge, the Radcliffe is made with a woven check fabric that incorporates Coolplus and Supplex yarns, which wick moisture and dry quickly. With a zipped inner pocket. Sizes: S-XXXL.

New for 2013

GoPro Hero3 Black Edition camera £359.99 Web code: MS0059

Film your casts and the playing, landing and releasing of fish with this top-drawer HD video camera, which can be used underwater to a depth of 60 metres. It has built-in Wi-Fi and many accessories are available, including a chest harness so that you can fish hands-free.

Stillwater neoprene gloves £8.99 Web code: QL0005

A warm, high-quality 2 mm neoprene glove with a grippy rubber palm and stitched cuts in the thumb and forefinger, so that the tips can be folded back, allowing you to tie knots without having to remove the gloves. Sizes: S-XL.

Parmaris Hi-Fit life jacket

£64.99 Web code: PA0006 A high-fitting life-jacket that allows a greater freedom of movement. Simple buckles and a lightweight construction. One size fits all. 150 Newton buoyancy.

Stillwater neo-lined thigh waders

Stillwater FPX vest rucksack

£49.99 Web code: TA1289 A lightweight one-sizefits-all design with 16 front pockets and three rucksack compartments. Fly patches.

Stillwater Tay wading jacket

£74.99 Web code: NG0018 All the wading jacket you need at a very competitive price, offering protection in the worst weather.

Pockets, cuffs, hood and zips all function superbly. Sizes: S-XXL.

£39.99

Web code: KN0258

Durable rubber waders with neoprene lining – ideal for bank fishing in

spring.

Sizes: 6-12.

Hardy Queen’s Jubilee reel

£1,500 Web code: HR1562 A limted number of these troutsized 3¼ in Perfect reels were made to celebrate the Queen's Diamond Jubilee and Hardy's 140th anniversary. An investment.

What Gear Guide 2013

9

The lightest reel yet Wychwood have set a new standard with their new, ultra-light River & Stream reels.

Because the memory of a great day's fishing should linger in the mind, not the arms...

I

F you've ever lost track of time on a river, you'll know it's not always just your senses that are captivated.

Endless casting or nymphing

can result in the morning-after feeling being felt as much in your limbs as in your head.

To counter this, Wychwood has pushed the boundaries to their furthest yet with their

new River & Stream reels, the lightest in the world when launched last autumn.

They are complemented by some of the smartest fishing luggage around and the

TECH SPEC

River & Stream reels £139.99, spools £69.99

Introducing the new River & Stream reel, the lightest fly reel in the world.* With a 2/3wt reel weighing in at just 50g, and a 4/5wt reel at only 58g, Wychwood is challenging the boundaries of production technology.

The company’s Multi-Axis CNC machine technology has allowed it to redefine the strength capabilities of lightweight structures – removing as much excess material as possible - without affecting their structural properties. The result is a lightweight, river reel that represents a marvel of modern engineering.

The River & Stream reels also feature Wychwood’s new, innovative, adjusta-clicker lightweight drag system, which provides extra linear tension when you’re palming a fish on the reel and prevents over-run of your fly-line.

similarly featherweight range of River & Stream rods.

Strange as it may seem to spend money on something you hardly know is there, you'll probably get used to it...

KEY FEATURES

2/3wt stream/brook [70mm dia] 50g** (1.7oz)

■ Bar-stock aluminium cage and spool

4/5wt river/creek [77mm dia] 58g** (2oz)

■ T1 anodised surface finish

**Reel weights are an average weight, please allow +/-2g for manufacturing tolerances.

■ Shortened centre pin for weight reduction ■ Injection moulded comfortfit handle

*Lightest CNC machine cut clicker-drag fly reels on global market when launched (October 2012) 10

What Gear Guide 2013

Contact: customer.service@leeda.co.uk Tel: 01527 587450 Web: www.wychwood-game.co.uk

3. Fly wallets £34.99 (large), £29.99 (small)

1 2

Fine leathers, tough, doublelaminate waterproof canvas and real wool offer a more traditional alternative to modern day fly storage.

The soft wool double-sided storage keeps flies secure, dry and protected.

Large: 250mm (l) x 120mm (h) Small: 180mm (l) x 120mm (h)

4. Reel pouch 1. Deep shoulder bag

2. Shallow shoulder bag

A large over-the-shoulder carryall whose unique styling elegantly blends traditional design with modern, premium materials.

All items in this range are made with real leather.

Combined with durable, double-ply waterproof canvas, the result is bags that last a lifetime.

The main tackle compartment is secured through an adjustable leather fastener when extra capacity is needed and the entire base is made from real leather to help prevent water retention.

Other features are a unique split compartment design, several pockets and a brass net hanging point.

A more compact version of its Deep sibling, this bag is designed for anglers who’d rather travel light.

Featuring a unique split-compartment design, the bag lets you store items such as your lunch, flask, or even your catch, separately from your main tackle pockets.

Storing these items in a separate chamber allows you ready access to tackle: no more hassle fumbling around a single pocket for the item you require.

The bag features a fixed leather strap for fastening/ securing the top flap, a single flat tackle pocket and a real brass net hanging point.

£79.99

£69.99

Dimensions: 350mm (l) x 380mm (h) x 160mm (d)

£16.99

This real leather case protects all river reels under 4/5wt size. A simple top flap fixing allows for fast access and a faux fur inner provides added protection for your finest reels.

Dimensions: 350mm (l) x 300mm (h) x 120mm (d)

River & Stream rods £129.99 to £169.99

Wychwood’s new River & Stream rods are produced using the finest grades of carbon fibre available, delivering unrivalled lightweight blanks in incredibly slender forms with super-soft casting actions.

Several rods in this range are some of the lightest available in the global market place.

What Gear Guide 2013

A refined blank delivery allows for ultimate precision when laying flies above cautious wild fish and a subtle line ‘landing’ that helps increase your catch rate when fishing rivers and streams.

Such redefined accuracy and presentation can now be found in Wychwood’s largest-ever range

of rods. Twelve different rods, in various lengths and weights and composed of Wychwood’s unique four-piece blanks, let you enjoy all the popular fishing techniques now present in river and stream fishing.

Rods come with a carbon/glass fibre storage tube in a matching, metallic rod blank finish.

KEY FEATURES ■ Real burl, wooden reel seat ■ Anodised aluminium fittings ■ Premium AAAA grade cork handle ■ High-quality storage tube ■ Ultra-lightweight blanks 11

Contact: The Optical Shop, Leeds LS19 7DP Freefone: 0800 169 3760 Web: www.anglingeyes.com Web: www.overglasses.net

Angling eyes Polarised wraparound fishing glasses with bifocal magnifying lenses

A

NGLING Eyes helps you to avoid the hassle of swapping between your polarised fishing glasses and your reading glasses to complete fiddly close-up tasks, such as tying flies, using your mobile phone or sat-nav.

The tinted magnifying lenses have a dioptre of +2.50.

Angling Eyes have a mattblack wrap-around sporty frame, which effectively blocks light from all angles. There is a choice of lenses: either Category 3 grey polarised, which is ideal for bright sunny conditions, or Category 2 amber polarised for low, dull light or dawn and dusk. Both lenses offer full UV400 protection.

They retail at £19.99 – excellent value for money.

KEY FEATURES ■ Glare-blocking polarised lenses ■ Wrap-around design ■ Neck cord ■ Microfibre cleaning bag

Angling Eyes are supplied with a neck cord and micro-fibre cleaning bag.

Turn your prescription glasses into polarised fishing glasses Overglasses Avoid the expense of prescription fishing glasses with these clever polarised Opticaid Overglasses, which fit discreetly over your existing frames or can be worn as normal protective sunglasses. At only £12.99, they offer excellent value. In three colours: brown tortoiseshell frames with brown lenses, black demi frames with grey lenses, or metallic red frames.

12

Buy one, get one free

Buy two pairs of Angling Eyes for the excellent price of £19.99, plus £2.50 postage. Choose one of each, two grey or two amber lenses.

Visit www.anglingeyes.com or Freefone: 0800 169 3760.

■ UV400 protection

Seeing solution £12.99

SPECIAL OFFER

NEW FOR 2013 Overglasses and Nightsights are now in a metallic red frame with either a grey Category 3 polarised lens for sunny conditions or an amber Category 1 lens for low light/dull conditions.

Price: £14.99.

NightSights £12.99

Opticaid has introduced a NightSight version, also at the excellent price of £12.99.

NightSights are intended to be worn over prescription eyewear and feature a black/demi frame with Category 1 low-light amber lenses. Great for sea-trout fishing in low light, they are also ideal for driving at night and in fog, haze and rain. They improve clarity and contrast in dull conditions, as well as removing headlight glare.

SPECIAL OFFER

Buy one, get one half price

Buy two pairs – Overglasses or Nightsights or one of each – and get the cheapest free (£2.50 P+P).

Freephone: 0800 169 3760 Web: www.overglasses.net

OVER 40,000 PAIRS SOLD

KEY FEATURES ■ Polarised to remove glare ■ Ultra-violet 400 protection ■ Overglasses have a category 3 filter for bright sunlight.

NightSights have a Category 1 filter for low light ■ Supplied in drawstring bag What Gear Guide 2013

ONLY

£19.99

Ideal for tying fly fishing flies

Overglasses.net Polarised sunglasses designed to be worn over prescription eyewear

+ £2.50 postage

OverGlasses UV400 Polarised

er l e s t Bes

BUY ONE GET ONE FREE

Unisex styling

£12.99 yO

or Bu

Get O

UV400 Polarised wrap around glasses with bifocal magnifying lenses + 2.50

2 cushioned clip on sports cases for only £4.99 extra, Worth £15.98 Offer only valid at time of ordering. See online for details

GREAT FOR CLOSE UP TASKS

Fits over most styles Can be worn as standard sunglasses Ideal for fishing, driving, sightseeing, bright conditions.

£o1r4Bu.y9O9ne

NEW

Metallic red Price sporty frame with lf a H ne Get O pest pair polarised grey Chea ice half pr or amber lenses.

NightSight

Avoid the hassle of swapping between glasses!

OverGlasses Amber UV400 lenses.

Ideal for use in low light. Also great for driving at night!

FREEPHONE FREEPHONE 0800 0800 169 169 3760 3760 www.anglingeyes.com www.anglingeyes.com

ne

Cheane Half Price pe half p st pair rice

£o1r2Bu.y9O9ne ice

lf Pr ne Ha Get O pest pair Chea ce half pri

www.overglasses.net Freefone: 0800 169 3760

A NEW CONCEPT IN FISHING RETAIL

SPECIAL OFFER

COBA SUNGLASSES ARE EXCLUSIVE TO EXPERIENCE FISHING

BUY A PAIR OF COBA SUNGLASSES AND RECEIVE A FREE CLOTH BAG AND LANYARD

RRP £226.99

ONLY £199

DELIVERED

Other lens and frame colours are available

Better than ever

The new breed of Orvis rods, waders and luggage combines superior quality with groundbreaking design New for 2013

The Mirage is now available with a black nickel finish, pictured.

Helios 2 Rods

£675-£695 Item codes: 7A8C-5157 and 7A80-5157.

The original Helios introduced remarkable carbon-resin technology and became the world’s lightest fly-rod. The new Helios 2 is even better, with tapers that are tuned to transfer energy along a smoother curve, resulting in unrivalled tracking. These tapers also provide greater lifting power, while protecting tippets. A proprietary material has been integrated into the tip to increase impact strength and dampening without adding weight. There are 18 freshwater sizes, in mid and tip flexes, 6ft 2wt to 9ft 6wt. Saltwater models are also available.

The Helios 2 is handmade in Manchester, Vermont, USA. It has a midnight blue blank with accenting wraps and a UV-inhibiting paint coating. It has ferrule alignment dots and crushproof REC Recoil guides.

The REC California buckeye burl reel seat has a super-grade cork handle.

Helios 2 rods are supplied in a carbon rod tube.

■ View a Helios 2 video at: http://youtu.be/HfhpZPdrc2A

The Helios 2 is handmade with the best REC fittings.

14

Orvis Mirage Reel

£339-£475 Item code: EE3K8061. Colours: Black Nickel, Black or Gold A true large-arbor reel with the performance to tackle big game species in fresh and salt water. The Mirage has a completely sealed drag surface that is impervious to salt water, dirt, grit, and other corrosive elements. The carbon-to-stainless drag is infinitely adjustable. The drag knob adjusts with positive clicks to ensure accurate and repeatable drag settings. It has a quick-release spool.

The Mirage is available in seven sizes from a stream-sized I to a speyline-sized VII (with deep and shallow spools in the VII size).

What Gear Guide 2013

Contact: Orvis Tel: 0844 557 4177 Web: www.orvis.co.uk

Safe Passage Anglers Day Pack

New for 2013

£149 Item code: 2T42-1200 Colours: Digital Camo or Slate Blue

Helios 2 rods are even stronger and more accurate than the originals.

Orvis’s new Safe Passage Day Pack is perfect for the wilderness angler. It has adjustable shoulder straps and a curved back panel that keeps the pack off the wearer’s back. There are easy-access side pockets, a large main compartment with a small zipped front pocket and a cooler compartment. You can attach a hydration bladder, chest packs and rod tubes. Size: H 18 x W 12 x D 9in.

Safe Passage Trout & Flats Pack

£79 Item code: 3H6R-1200 Colours: Digital Camo or Cloudburst

Men’s and Women’s Silver Sonic Convertible Waders

£235 Item codes: 6X0P and 5H5E Colour: Overcast/Taupe

New for 2013

Probably the world's most versatile waders. Silver Sonic Convertibles are aimed at the serious angler and feature patented SonicSeam technology, in which all thread and stitch holes have been eliminated and the seams are double reinforced, prolonging the life of the waders dramatically.

The main wader is made of the same durable four-layer nylon fabric as Orvis Travel waders, while the upper is a lighter weight four-layer nylon.

An innovative suspension system allows you to convert the Silver Sonics to waist-highs without removing the suspenders – the perfect feature for warm spring afternoons.

Features include: a water-resistant zipped pocket and a flip-out interior waterproof pocket. Gravel guards feature a quick-drain panel. Lower-leg seams run up the back of the wader, reducing abrasion. An easy-adjusting wader belt is included. Sizing for men and women has been adjusted and expanded to provide a better fit. Women: XS-XL in Petite, Regular or Tall.

Men: S-XXL in Short, Regular, Long and Extra Long.

■ View a Silver Sonic Waders video at: http://youtu.be/ZxY0NtWNFpA

The ideal pack for the angler who fishes small streams or wades the flats. The tackle stays out of the way and the weight is carried on a padded waist belt.

It has two compartments and many interior pockets. Also includes a key clip, patches for zingers, a magnetic tool anchor, a forceps pocket and fly patches. Supplied with an adjustable neck strap. Size: L 12 x W 6½ x D 4½in.

Safe Passage Vertical Chest Pack £59 Item code: 3H6Y-1200 Colours: Digital Camo or Aurora A chest pack for the angler who likes the freedom of fishing without a vest.

Its foam neck pad provides comfort, while two removable waist straps (regular and large) ensure the perfect fit. The pack has two compartments and several interior pockets. The mesh pocket fits a tippet spool. There are patches for zingers, a net loop, key clip tool anchors, a forceps pocket and fly patches. Size: H 8½ x W 6½ x D 4½in.

A waterproof pocket for a phone/camera.

Safe Passage Guide Sling Pack £119 Item code: 7H9X-1200 Colour: Digital Camo

Men's The gravel guards have a drainage vent.

Women's

The Guide Sling Pack has been built just like Orvis’s best-selling original sling pack, but is larger. You wear it over one shoulder, but still have quick access to all your gear. There is room for fly-boxes, accessories, or packable rain jackets in the roomy main compartment. Features include a fly patch, forceps sheath and zinger attachment point, with magnetic anchors, and a bottle holder. Supplied with adjustable shoulder and sternum straps.

Size: H 20 x W 12 x D 7in.

The waders convert easily to waist height.

What Gear Guide 2013

15

w Ć’ d e r s

f l o o d insurĆ’nce pĆ’tented sonic-weld technology orvis.co.uk/sonic3

Contact: Tweedside Tackle Ltd Tel: 01573 225 306 Web: www.tweedsidetackle.co.uk Follow Tweedside on Facebook

Substance with style Tweedside Tackle in Kelso is one of the country’s leading stockists of Patagonia clothing, some of the most desirable gear in fly-fishing Patagonia Nano Puff jacket £160

This stylish and versatile jacket is made with state-of-the-art materials and can be worn on its own on cold bright days or under a wading jacket when the weather is more severe. It has a wind-blocking, moisture-shedding polyester shell, beneath which is a layer of PrimaLoft ONE insulation.

Primaloft is the most soughtafter material in fishing clothing.

It is hydrophobic, repelling water and breathing, so that perspiration doesn’t linger. It traps heat with remarkable efficiency. And it is

New for 2013

Patagonia Ultralight boots £160

These new wading boots from Patagonia tick every box: they combine incredible lightness with toughness and plenty of foot protection.

The Ultralights shed water and dry quickly. The synthetic uppers are durable and the ankle and toe areas are cushioned. The boots have neoprene tongues for comfort and a cushioned EVA midsole. The soles have a special sticky texture and tread and will take studs.

highly compressible, so it packs down to practically nothing. In fact, you can stuff the Nano into an internal zipped chest pocket, which has a carabiner clip-in loop.

The Nano also has two zipped handwarmer pockets, elastic cuffs and a dual-adjust drawcord hem to seal out wind and seal in warmth.

The shell is made from 100 per-cent recycled polyester.

The Nano is available in four colours – Blue, Black, Green or Nickel. It will look as good down the pub as it will on the riverbank.

Contact: For stockists call UK distributor St George Sporting Tel: 01604 811801 Web: www.stgeorgesporting.co.uk

Time-saving tools 36-38 Bridge Street, Kelso, Roxburghshire TD5 7JD www.tweedsidetackle.co.uk 01573 225306

Smith Creek gadgets solve those niggling problems Innovative with exceptional quality, these New Zealand-made accessories have been thoroughly tested to enhance angler enjoyment.

1

d

For all your Fishing Tackle, Shooting Kit & Country Clothing Requirements Burkheimer & Saracione Specialists

1. Wearable Rod Clip – free up your hands £19.99 2. Belt-mounted Net Holster – a smart way to carry your net

£29.99

3. Leader Waste Trash Fish – keep fisheries clean £9.99

d What Gear Guide 2013

2 3

17

Flyfishing starts here Sonik has new and improved rods and reels to kick start your season this spring

SK8XTR fly rods

Fast-actioned with a quick recovery blank which is easy to load - these rods are obviously designed for the distance caster who wants a high degree of accuracy. They possess the latest technology with Nano carbon fibre blanks for lightness and strength.

And being four-piece the rods stow away easily.

Features include AAA grade Portuguese cork handles with composite reinforced ends, a one-inch fighting butt on the 9ft 6in and 10ft models, double SIC stripper guides, hard chrome single leg intermediates and hayfork tip rings.

The rods are supplied with custom matt black PVC rod rubes.

SK4XTR fly rods

These superb quality rods are new and upgraded versions of the popular SK4XT models and are ideal for anglers fishing most stillwaters or large rivers.

Available from 9ft 5/6wt to 11ft 7/8wt models, they’ve a smooth middle-to-tip action with a fast recovery.

Every rod in the range is fourpiece so they're easy to store.

Other features include high modulus carbon fibre blanks, high-grade Portuguese cork handles and a burl rosewood reel spacer with ventilated aluminium skeleton anodised in a beautiful champagne gold colour.

The stripper guides have 18

Look no further if you want a rod capable of distance with a high degree of accuracy

Double SIC stripper guides and snake intermediate rings.

ROD SIZES Length

Rating

RRP

9ft

5wt

£179.99

9ft 6in

6wt

£189.99

9ft 6in

7wt

£189.99

10ft

7wt

£199.99

10ft

8wt

£199.99

The handle top is cork composite and ensures durability.

gold anodised SIC lining, single leg snake intermediates and a hayfork tip ring. Finally, the rod is supplied in a durable cordura tube with carry handle and adjustable shoulder strap.

ROD SIZES Length

Rating

RRP

9ft

5/6wt

£129.99

9ft 6in

6/7wt

£139.99

9ft 6in

7/8wt

£139.99

10ft

6/7wt

£149.99

10ft

7/8wt

£149.99

11ft

7/8wt

£159.99

The reel fittings on the SK4XT are of the highest quality.

NEW improved fourpiece rods ideal for the travelling stillwater or large river angler.

Extreme value and performance

Stripper guides have gold anodised linings.

What Gear Guide 2013

Contact: Sonik Tel: 01670 798910 Email: sales@soniksports.com

SK Lite fly rods

An exceptional new range for the light-line river angler who loves dry fly, nymph and the Czech and French nymphing techniques.

Four-piece high modulus blanks, with smooth middle-to-tip action and fast recovery. Features include AAA grade slim cork handles with burl hardwood trim, a stunning mixed burl hardwood reel seat spacer and a unique inscribed reel seat skeleton. Supplied in a matt olive PVC rod tube.

SKS fly rods

These rods suit a wide range of casting styles and are therefore ideal for newcomers and experts alike, as well as being a perfect match for the SKS reel. They’re functional and smart four-piece rods with a performance and appearance that belies the price.

Possessing a smooth middleto-tip action they range from 7ft for small rivers to a 10ft for lake fishing or for sea trout. Basically, this rod range covers most flyfishing situations.

ROD SIZES Length

Rating

RRP

8ft

3wt

£179.99

8ft 6in

4wt

£179.99

9ft

3wt

£189.99

9ft

4wt

£189.99

9ft

5wt

£189.00

10ft

3wt

£199.00

10ft

4wt

£199.00

The SK Lite has all the finesse you need to explore intimate trout streams

Tradition and quality perfectly combined.

The gloss black rod blanks are furnished with top quality cork handles, reel seats and guides to provide a range of fly rods that’s hard to beat on any level.

Other features include SIClined stripper guides, double-leg snake intermediates and a hayfork tip ring. They True also possess a carbon all-rounders, weave reel seat and a the SKS rods are hard chrome reel seat hard to beat and suit skeleton. newcomers and Supplied in a black experts cloth, partitioned bag.

Amazing value for money.

ROD SIZES Length

Affordable rods with excellent performance.

SKS fly reel

What Gear Guide 2013

RRP

7ft

3/4wt

£59.99

8ft

3/4wt

£64.99

9ft

5/6wt

£69.99

9ft 6in

7/8wt

£74.99

10ft

7/8wt

£79.99

XKR fly reel

A top quality lightweight, large arbor reel at an entry level price.

Features include a polished, matt black die-cast aluminium frame and spool with a smooth and reliable disc drag that will subdue even the hardest fighting trout.

REEL SIZES

REEL SIZES

Rating

Rating

RRP

Rating

RRP

Spool

3/4wt

£39.99

3/4/5wt

£124.99

£62.50

5/6wt

£44.99

5/6/7wt

£129.99

£65.00

7/8wt

£49.99

7/8/9wt

£134.99

£67.50

New for This new quality large arbor fly reel 2013 has impressive looks and performance.

Precision machined from the highest grade bar stock aluminium the reel simply oozes class.

Other features include a ‘V’ shaped spool for even line lay, a smooth powerful disc drag, a large knurled central drag knob and easy switchover from left-toright hand wind without the need for tools.

The large arbor design ensures minimum line memory, faster retrieval and low start up inertia.

19

DISTANCE

ACCURACY

CONTROL

The new SK8XTR fly rods from Sonik make long range casting easy due to their enhanced line feel which translates to better timing and smooth transition of power.

Matched to one of the stunning new XKR fly reels you have a perfectly balanced outfit that performs as good as it looks.

Call or go online for your nearest Sonik dealer +44 (0) 1670 798910

WWW.SONIKSPORTS.COM

FACEBOOK.COM/SONIKSPORTS

TWITTER.COM/SONIKSPORTS

Contact: Optilabs Ltd. Tel: 020 8686 5708.

E-mail: sales@optilabs.com Web: www.optilabs.com

Seeing is believing Experience fishing in high definition with Optilabs’ superb range of glasses – fitted with precision-made, high-contrast polarised lenses that perform in all light conditions

W

HATEVER type of fishing you enjoy, you’ll know how essential sunglasses are as part of your kit. With more than 30 years' experience, Optilabs are one of the

UK’s leading manufacturers of prescription sports glasses – making all their precision lenses from a dedicated laboratory in South London. All Optilabs lenses are tailor-made to your own prescription,

guaranteeing the best possible vision – and giving you that all-important competitive edge.

Tony Kerr, founding director of Optilabs, explains, “Our revolutionary optical software and machinery analyses

each individual prescription in relation to the curvature of the chosen frames and eliminates the distortion often experienced on the edges of your lenses. This is one of the additional processes that makes our glasses a cut above the rest.”

LENS SPECIFICATION PRICES FROM £139.95 Panther (polarised grey lenses).

Jet (Ultra 2000 lenses).

Lens

Ultra 2000 (Drivewear®)

Lens types

Single Vision P rescription, Bifocal, Varifocal, Non Prescription Variable tint –

Blackbird (polarised brown lenses).

olive green in low Lens colours light, dark brown in Storm (Ultra 2000 lenses).

Polarised lenses – No. 1 choice for fishermen £139.95- £291.95 (prices include frames & lenses)

Polarised lenses cut through the surface glare caused by ever changing light conditions. This, combined with their high-contrast and highdefinition optical properties, makes them the first choice for fishermen around the world. Standard polarised lenses come in a range of tints to suit the different light conditions. Or you can choose Optilabs’ hugely popular Ultra 2000 (Drivewear®) lens – a revolution in variable tint technology – which combines amazing light-enhancing properties with phenomenal horizontal polarisation to give outstanding performance in low light and bright sunshine.

FRAME STYLES Optilabs offers a superb range of fishing frames, all of which are lightweight, durable and designed for comfort and protection. Choose from the best-selling Storm, Panther and Blackbird frames – or the Serengeti frame for a contemporary, streamlined and versatile design. Jet is the newest addition to Optilabs’ fishing collection, offering superb retro styling combined with ventilated side shields for great air flow.

What Gear Guide 2013

bright sunshine

Price

£225.95-£291.95

Lens

Standard Polarised

Lens types

Single Vision Prescription, Bifocal, V arifocal, Non Prescription

Lens Grey, brown, yellow, green, orange colours Price

£139.95-£214.95

Polarising removes surface glare.

The Optilabs laboratory will make sunglasses to meet your specific fishing needs.

21

£165.95*

£239.95*

*For all standard single vision lens options.

Bifocal, varifocal and non-prescription lenses also available.

High Definition

s

Frames with Ultra 2000 (Drivewear®) lenses

Fishing in

r bs om he ble ptila our bs.c uc ila ve O ee tila vo va o gi nt. S w.op ift a y t se w G ow ct wa a preails w n rfe as det pe s e e se or th las r m g o f e sit eb w

Frames with standard polarised lenses

to order or to ask for advice call

020 8686 5708 or visit www.optilabs.com BEST SELLING DESIGN! Storm frames with Ultra 2000 (Drivewear®) lenses. Visit our website for more styles.

Prescription fishing glasses with high definition lenses, delivered direct to your door ● Optilabs are one of the UK’s leading prescription sports eyewear specialists – we manufacture lenses for all our glasses in our dedicated British laboratory ● Our fishing frames are lightweight, durable and designed for comfort and protection. Visit www.optilabs.com for the full range. Order online or by calling 020 8686 5708 ● Choose from a variety of lens options for increased performance – standard polarised lenses for excellent glare protection and high definition contrast – or choose our premier Ultra 2000 (Drivewear®) lenses with variable tint technology. These provide perfect, glare-free vision – in both bright sunlight and challenging low light, where other lenses struggle.

better fishing by definition www.optilabs.com

optilabs ltd

Contact: Hartley Fly Tel: 01656 653498 Web: www.hartleyfly.com

Dynamic new range

2013 is an exciting year at Hartley Fly because they’re offering 100% of Fulling Mill’s dynamic new fly range. The range is bigger, better and suits all your fishing needs

F

ULLING Mill has a fantastic line up of new trout patterns, including a specialist range of Tactical Stillwater flies. These include lures, nymphs, dries and wets representing the best in fly quality. Many stretch the boundaries of traditional fly design. Flies have been chosen from top UK fishers and tyers - namely Simon Robinson, Fred Bainbridge, Martin Smith and Rob Edmunds.

There are also additions to the incredibly successful Tactical River range from Jeremy Lucas, Paul Procter and Andrzej Koziel.

With many stillwaters moving to barbless only hooks, the new barbless stillwater patterns are eagerly awaited by anglers.

All the barbless patterns incorporate the exclusive new Fulling Mill barbless hook range. There are also new stalking bugs designed to flutter down in the water with the hook at the correct angle.

Code 2056 Andrzej's Hi Vis

Code 1092 Drop Arse Ant Code 2054 Reverse Sparkler

Code 1088 Quill Plume Tip

Code 2189 Feeler Flamethrower

Code 2175 Tiger Back Flamethrower

The exciting new range of Serious Salmon Flies has been spearheaded by some of the country’s most respected salmon fishers and guides, including Ronald Sutherland and houses hundreds of the very best and innovative patterns ever assembled. Add in 100 of the latest gillies’ secrets and countless best selling patterns and you have everything you need to ensure

your salmon fishing expedition is more successful than ever before. With total emphasis on quality including the very finest materials and super sharp hooks, there has never been a more comprehensive collection of fine salmon flies available.

You can choose from a wide variety of hook styles and sizes to suit - from singles, doubles, trebles to the increasing versatility of tubes.

Code 2213 RS International Super Snaelda Code 2115 Feeler Cascade

Hartley Fly has raised the bar by stocking 100% of the iconic Fulling Mill range with all orders in bespoke state of the art packaging, with every fly individually labelled

Code 2117 Feeler Silver Stoat

What Gear Guide 2013

23

All G.Loomis Pro Dealers have been selectively appointed to deliver the ultimate experience that you would expect from the countries premiere fly shops.

Authorised Pro Dealers UK & Northern Ireland Agrigame UK Ltd. Stanford Bishop, WR6 5UB Tel: 01886 884100 Web: www.agrigame.co.uk

Angling Active Stirling, FK9 4RN Tel: 01786 430400 Web: www.anglingactive.co.uk

Farlows (Pall Mall) London, SW1Y 5NP Tel: 0207 4841000 Web: www.sportfish.co.uk

Farlows (Reading) Reading, RG7 4AS Tel: 0118 930 3860 Web: www.sportfish.co.uk

Farlows (Winforton) Winforton, HR3 6SP Tel: 01544 327111 Web: www.sportfish.co.uk

Fishtec

The PRO4X is a brand new range aimed at the discerning angler, looking for a more intermediate rod action.

Its design, in part stems from the NRX and along with its special taper design, and weight reduction in the upper half of the blank, it’s a rod just packed full of power and precision.

Casting the PRO4X produces amazing distances due to the fast loading and recovery properties achieved from the upper part of the blank which features “Silica Nano Matrix” technology just like the NRX. The PRO4X leads the way in design, offering a blend in construction that makes for an absolute powerhouse of benefits.

PRO-4X® Taking a page from our NRX blank technology, we developed the Pro4X, leaving some to wonder how so much performance could be achieved and packed into such an affordable package. A new taper design along with noticeable weight reduction in the upper part of the blank makes this a rod that both loads and recovers quickly achieving long casts with real precision.

Models available: 8’ (#3, 4), 9’ (#4, 5, 6), 10' (#7, 8, 9) RRP £339 - £399

Brecon, LD3 8LA Tel: 0871 911 7001 Web: www.fishtec.co.uk

Garry Evans Tackle Centres Cardiff Cardiff, CF14 3JQ Tel: 02920 692968 / 619828 Web: www.garryevans.co.uk

Glasgow Angling Centre Glasgow, G22 5HT Tel: 0871 7161670 Web: www.fishingmegastore.com

Home, Field and Stream Enniskillen, BT74 7EJ Tel: 02866 322114 Web: www.hfs-online.com

Robjents Fine Country Pursuits Ltd Stockbridge, SO20 6EX Tel: 01264 810829

S J Fawcetts Lancaster, LA1 1NQ Tel: 01524 32033 Web: www.fawcettsonline.com

Tweedside Tackle Kelso, TD5 7JD Tel: 01573 225306 Web: www.tweedsidetackle.co.uk

Walkers Of Trowell Nottingham, NG9 3PA Tel: 01159301816 Email: sales@walkersoftrowell.com

www.gloomis.com

NRX® Double Handed After many years of research, hard work and continual technology improvements, our most dynamic achievement incorporates all the elements to make this our greatest Double Handed fly rod yet.

Overall these rods will perform better, cast further and be more accurate than any other fly rod on the market. The rods are sublime and the easiest to use for any angler of any level of competence to achieve amazing results.

Models available: Lengths 12' to 15', Line Weights #4/5 to #10/11 RRP £929 - £1099

Republic of Ireland Courtlough Balbriggan, Co. Dublin Tel: +353(01) 8413096 Email: info@courtlough.ie Web: www.courtlough.ie

East Coast Angling Navan, Co. Meath Tel: +353(046) 9073377 Email: eastcoastangling@gmail.com

Premier Angling Services Nenagh, Co. Tipperary Tel: +353 (067)33997 Email: patpremierangling@yahoo.ie

Ridgepool Tackle Ballina, Co. Mayo. Tel: +353(096) 72656 Email: garypiggott1@hotmail.com

Southside Angling Dublin 8 Tel: +353 (01) 4530266 Email: dave@southsideangling.ie Web: www.southsideangling.ie

The experts' choice Cortland continues to lead the development of fly-line design with its range of Precision tapers, suitable for all-round fishing and specialist applications. Technologies such as DuraSilk, Rocket Taper, Dyna-Tip and HDT will give you a performance edge Precision Platinum ÂŁ59.99

Rocket Taper helps you to load a rod quickly for short, accurate casts. DuraSilk coating increases line speed for longer casts.

This is an excellent easy-to-cast fishing line with applications for trout, sea-trout and even light salmon fishing. The 444 Platinum Precision has a special DuraSilk coating that makes it one of the smoothest and quietest lines around. Greatly reduced friction means it flies out of the guides.

New tapers ensure casting accuracy combined with superb turnover and presentation.

The Platinum has a special low density/high floating white Dynatip, which resists being pulled subsurface by large flies for the ultimate in drag-free drifts. The sage-green body is subtle but visible to the fisher.

Factory-welded loops are slim, strong and reliable for maximum convenience and a better turnover.

Tech SPec Sizes: WF3-WF8 Colours: White Dyna tip/ sage green head.

WF 5F Tip 1ft (0.3m)

FronT Taper 8ft (2.43m)

Body 16ft (4.87m)

Back Taper 25ft (7.62m)

running Line 40ft (12.19m)

Precision Denny Rickards Intermediate Sink-tip

A 7ft camouflaged sink-tip will give you the edge in calm and clear conditions.

It's a versatile line that can be used on river and loch.

ÂŁ54.99

Designed by leading American nymphing expert Denny Rickards, the Cortland 444 7ft Clear Camo Ghost tip is the ultimate stealth line for use in clear waters and when fishing in flat calms.

The olive green floating section, as used on the Cortland Clear Creek line, is married to a 7ft clear-camo sinking front taper to make it the most spook-free line in the business.

Use it for loch-style fishing on our major stillwaters, in its smaller sizes for wet-fly fishing on rivers and in heavier weights for sea-trout sport.

The shortish body makes it easy to load the rod.

26

Tech SPec Sizes: WF3-WF8 Colours: Clear camo tip/ dark olive head.

WF 5F/1

Tip 1ft (0.3m)

FronT Taper 7ft (2.13m)

Body 20ft (6.09m)

Back Taper 4ft (1.21m)

running Line 58ft (17.67m)

What Gear Guide 2013

Contact: MasterlineWalker Tel: 01684 299 000 Web: www.masterlinewalker.co.uk

Superb for rollcasts and mending.

Precision Trout Boss £59.99

Trout Boss is Cortland’s top-ofthe-range fly-line and features an innovative coating and taper. The coating incorporates Heat Dissipation Technology, which minimises friction when casting, improving line speed and increasing casting distance. The taper includes a long 65ft head, which makes it easier to roll-cast and make longer mends. The line

also features Cortland’s familiar Dyna-Tip: 18 inches of highly buoyant and visible white tip, which contrasts with the mossgreen colour of the belly. The line is finished with a strong, slim loop for a reliable leader connection.

Tech SPec Sizes: WF5-WF8.

Colours: White tip/ moss-green head/ grey running line.

WF 6 F Tip 1.5ft (0.5m)

Precision competition Nymph £59.99

Uniquely engineered to help the nymph specialist create ultra-precise presentations and achieve the highest degree of strike detection, sensitivity, and accuracy – this is the perfect line for French, Czech and high-stick nymphing styles where the fly-line is held off the water.

The ultra-thin limp core and supple coating allow excellent drape over the rod tip, which increases sensitivity. Fine tip diameters and an elongated front taper allow light rigs to be cast with accuracy, and prevent the line from bellying – dragging the flies

FronT Taper 7ft (2.1m)

Body 30ft (9.1m)

running Line 36.5ft (11.1m)

out of the drift on longer casts.

The fine tip also means there is no need for extra-long monofilament leaders, yet the complex taper provides enough energy to make accurate longer casts and turn over multiple fly rigs.

Ultimate control and sensitivity.

Tech SPec Sizes: For 2wt-4wt rods and for 3wt-5wt rods.

Colour: Light moss.

WF3-5F

Tip 1ft (0.3m)

FronT Taper 17ft (5.18m)

Body 20ft (6.09m)

Back Taper 7ft (2.13m)

running Line 45ft (13.71m)

Precision Mk2 Salmon £59.99

Designed for UK salmon-fishers, the Precision Mk2 speyline is available in two densities: floating; and floating with an intermediate sink-tip. The lines have an easy-tocast 55ft head. A colour change between head and running line indicates the optimum amount of line that should be aerialised to load the rod.

Short front taper makes it easier to turn over flies.

The floating or sink-tip profiles are ideal for summer grilse fishing.

Tech SPec Sizes: WF9-WF11

WF9-11F

Tip 1ft (0.3m)

Back Taper 25ft (7.6m)

FronT Taper 34ft (10.36m)

What Gear Guide 2013

Body 14ft (4.26m)

Back Taper 6ft (1.82m)

running Line 50ft (15.24m)

Colours: Blue head/mintgreen running line (floating); clear head/orange running line (intermediate sink tip).

27

To ďŹ nd out more about the Trout Boss series and the full range of Cortland ylines visit

www.masterlinewalker.co.uk

f

9 nce om 9 ma r Fr . rfo 9 Pe £or3dable

Af

THE NEW F LY RO D R A NG E

Classic design

Quality reel seat

Single leg guides

AGILITY RISE - Available in 6 models, ranging from 6ft #3 to 9ft #5. All rods a 4-piece

And fi nally! With an angling heritage of over 100 years, Shakespeare prides itself on the quality and value of its products. The Agility Rise range has been designed in the UK at our Redditch headquarters and manufactured in our factory, that’s why you’ll not see the same rod from other manufacturers at this range and quality. Featuring high quality specifications that have been thoroughly tested combined with superb build quality and styling, for the money we are proud to say that we don’t think you can get any better. In fact for the price of similar spec rods from other companies, you can get two Agilities for the price of one, enjoy!

ShakespeareFishingTV

Quality Cordura tube

• Zirconium Oxide Stripper Guides • Lightweight single leg guides • Wooden style reel seat • AAA cork handle • Slim half wells handle • Sweet medium action • Supplied in a Cordura tube

facebook.com/shakespeare.fi shing.1

Effortless performance, stunning features and looks that defy its price! The new Shakespeare Agility range of Rise rods are designed and engineered to suit the modern and traditional angler in mind. This range is fi nished in earth tone colours, blanks dressed with Titanium Oxide Stripper Guides and stainless steel single leg guides, four piece in construction that keeps with current UK trends and supplied with a Cordura tube. Designed for rivers and streams in mind the Agility range covers rods from 6ft to 9ft and line weights 3# 5#. For the perfect Agility combination match with the new Agility Rise fly lines!

Pure quality at an unbelievable price Shakespeare reveals fantastic new rods, reels, lines and waders for 2013 Agility rods

A quality, strong and reliable four-piece fly rod with great looks for less than £65? Absolutely. The new Agility range is the largest rod range from the Shakespeare stable and they’re sure to be popular at this incredible price point.

The range is split into three groups. The Agility Rise medium action rods suit the traditional angler with a preference for rivers and they range in length from 6-9ft.

Next comes the Agility Fly, with their modern look and faster action – ideal for the stillwater fisherman.

Lastly, for the pike on fly or saltwater enthusiast, comes the Agility XPS ranging from 9-11ft – the 9ft 6in 10wt no doubt a popular choice here.

SigmA rodS Length

rating

rrP

7ft

3wt

£29.99

8ft

4wt

£29.99

8ft 6in

5wt

£31.99

9ft

5wt

£32.99

9ft

6wt

£34.99

9ft 6in

7wt

£36.99

10ft

7wt

£38.99

10ft

8wt

£38.99

Sigma fly rods

Sigma rods have sturdy reel seats.

30

Continuing the Shakespeare theme of value for money and performance, these four-piece medium action rods are supplied in quality cordura tubes – which is incredible value with prices starting at just £29.99!

Available in eight popular

lengths and ratings the Sigma rods are ideal for the river angler (5wt or lower) and the stillwater angler (6wt and higher).

The blanks are slim and lightweight so they're a joy to use all day long exerting very little strain on the arm.

Quality stripper guides and rings.

What Gear Guide 2013

Contact: Shakespeare Tel: 01527 405410 Web: www.shakespeare-fishing.co.uk

AgiLitY rodS Length

rating

rrP

6ft Rise

3wt

£39.99

7ft Rise

4wt

£44.99

7ft 6in Rise

4wt

£49.99

8ft Rise

4wt

£49.99

8ft 6in Rise

4wt

£49.99

9ft Rise

5wt

£52.99

8ft 6in Fly

5wt

£44.99

9ft Fly

5wt

£49.99

9ft Fly

6wt

£49.99

9ft 6in Fly

6wt

£52.99

9ft 6in Fly

7wt

£52.99

10ft Fly

6wt

£54.99

10ft Fly

7wt

£54.99

10ft Fly

8wt

£54.99

11ft Fly

7wt

£64.99

Agility Rise rods have half wells handles and a traditional look.

Titanium oxide stripper guides.

Agility rods come in cordura tubes.

SigmA & AgiLitY SPecificAtioNS ■ Lightweight carbon blank ■ Titanium oxide stripper guides ■ Stainless steel single leg guides (SLG) ■ AA quality cork handles ■ Full wells handle on the Sigma rods and a choice of full and half wells on Agility What Gear Guide 2013

31

New Agility fly-lines

These weight-forward and double taper Shakespeare fly-lines are lightweight and made for distance, presentation and control – ideal companions to the Agility Rise fly rods.

The DT lines are 27 yards in length and come in the twin colours of olive green/sunshine yellow. They possess a long, delicate front taper ideal for fishing dry flies, emergers and small nymphs.

Available in floating (35 yard length), intermediate (27 yards) and medium sink (27 yards) profiles the WF range has a new advanced slick coating to aid casting. Their twin colours are designed to help anglers identify the perfect loading point during the cast.

AgiLitY LiNe Profile rating

rrP

DT

3wt

£39.99

DT

4wt

£39.99

DT

5wt

£39.99

WFF

3wt

£39.99

WFF

4wt

£39.99

WFF

5wt

£39.99

WFMS

6wt

£39.99

WFMS

7wt

£39.99

WFMS

8wt

£39.99

WFI

6wt

£39.99

WFI

7wt

£39.99

WFI

8wt

£39.99

SPecificAtioNS

New for 2013

■ Ultimate all-round fly-line ■ New advanced slick coating ■ WF in floating, intermediate and sinking with twin colours of sunshine yellow/olive green & white/green. Intermediates in twin colours of azure blue/green.

New for 2013

Pflueger trion reels

New Sigma fly reels

£89.99 - £119.99

£34.99

Built to balance the Sigma rods, these reels are lightweight reinforced graphite with matching spool. They’re supplied in a padded carry case and again offer quality for a very

Medium sink lines in twin colours of brown/green ■ Floating running lines in intermediate and sinking versions ■ Intermediate sink rate: 0.5in per second ■ Medium sink: 2in per second

reasonable price point.

Both the 6/7wt and 7/8wt models hold 90 yards of backing attached to a WF6F line. RRP £34.99

SPecificAtioNS

A well-established favourite for over six years and the perfect match for the Agility rods. The frame and spool are made from machined anodised aluminium and the oversized ball bearings make for a very smooth operation. Enjoy effortless retrieves, even with a

tightened disc drag, and that’s all down to the one-way clutch bearing. It’s quick and simple to change spools and a joy to use.

Available ratings – 4wt, 6wt, 7wt, 8wt and 12wt. RRP from £89.99 to £119.99. Spare spools from £46.99 to £64.99.

■ Lightweight graphite body and spool ■ Large arbor spool design ■ Right/left hand wind ■ One-way bearing ■ Supplied with a spare spool and deluxe carry case

SPecificAtioNS ■ Mid arbor design ■ Convertible left/right hand wind ■ Large rosewood knob handle ■ Protective storage case 32

What Gear Guide 2013

Contact: Shakespeare Tel: 01527 405410 Web: www.shakespeare-fishing.co.uk

New Sigma fly-lines

Available in floating (coloured yellow), intermediate (green) and medium sink (brown) profiles these quality Shakespeare lines match the rod range bearing the same name.

These are premium fly-lines with a beautifully even taper, ultra smooth coating and remain supple regardless of weather conditions.

They’re easy to cast because they load the rod well and their smooth coating aids shootability and distance.

■ 35% lighter weight than rubber waders ■ 25% more durable than comparable rubber boot ■ Available in both cleated and felt sole options

SPecificAtioNS

SigmA LiNe Profile rating

SPecificAtioNS

rrP

WFF

3wt

£24.99

WFF

4wt

£24.99

WFF

5wt

£24.99

WFI

6wt

£24.99

WFI

7wt

£24.99

WFI

8wt

£24.99

WFMS

7wt

£24.99

WFMS

8wt

£24.99

■ Ultimate fly-line ■ Ultra smooth casting ■ Superb suppleness ■ Easy to cast ■ Even taper ■ Line length: 27 yards ■ Available in floating, intermediate and sinking ■ Intermediate sink rate: 0.5 inches per second ■ Medium sink rate: 2 inches per second ■ Made in the UK

Sigma chest waders

New for this year, the Shakespeare Sigma nylon chest waders are lightweight, hardwearing and built with the latest technology.

They’ve been field-tested rigorously and are made from reinforced nylon PVC fabric.

cheSt wAderS model

Sizes

rrP

Cleated sole

7-12

£39.99

Felt sole

7-12

£44.99

Sigma thigh waders

Made from the same materials as the chest versions, the thigh versions are a good alternative. The hard-wearing boots again have a cleated and felt sole option.

cheSt wAderS

What Gear Guide 2013

model

Sizes

rrP

Cleated sole

7-12

£29.99

Felt sole

7-12

£34.99

33

Contact: Fordham & Wakefield Tel: 01892 770 344 Web: www.fordhamandwakefield.co.uk

Ahead of the game Fordham & Wakefield has been supplying innovative fly tackle to thinking fishers for 30 years. Take your pick from the best in wading boots, tippet and shooting heads Korkers Chrome wading boots

Turn a dial to tighten the wire laces. Push a button to release them.

£229

The Chrome has two sole options – rubber or rubber/ stud – which clip into place.

Riverge Grand Max fluorocarbon

From £8.99 (30 yards) With so much leader material in the shops, the original Grand Max offers fishers reassuring, proven performance. It has a very high breaking strain and low diameter. Its low refractive index is very close to that of water, making it nearly invisible in water. It also sinks, without treatment, at a speed three times that of nylon. Grand Max is 10 per cent stronger and slightly softer than standard Riverge fluorocarbon. It has been extensively tested, knotting easily and reliably.

Available in 30-yard spools and 12 sizes: 0.10 mm to 0.39 mm (2.4lb to 24lb).

34

Grand Max SoftPlus fluorocarbon

From £12.99 (50m spool) The best trout-fishermen tend to ignore breaking strain – it’s diameter that matters and few leader or tippet materials come finer and stronger than Soft-Plus.

It is supple when handled and has a subdued finish. Knots seat securely. In addition to being the competition-fisher’s first choice, in its larger sizes Soft-Plus is very popular with salmon-fishers seeking better presentation.

Available in eight sizes: 0.165mm to 0.37mm (6.6lb to 24.2lb). Available in 50m, 100m and 250m spools.

Soft-Plus: supple, fine and strong.

The Chrome boot offers elegant solutions to the problems of grip and comfort. Traditional laces have been replaced by a wire compression lattice, which is tightened to a snug fit by turning a dial, thereby avoiding the faff of tying dangling laces. Releasing the wire could not be easier: just push a button. The Chrome is supplied with two soles: a rubber tread or a rubber-and-steel-stud tread. They clip into place easily and reliably. Match the tread to the grip you need (be it on rocks, mud or grass). The Chrome is very light, hard-wearing and protective.

Royal Wulff Triangle Taper Ambush shooting heads £59.99

The perfect fly-line for sea-trout and grilse? The Ambush has a heavier and compact 20ft-29ft shooting head, which is easy to roll-cast in a tight spot, where there is little room for a back cast.

Its Triangle Taper head provides the most efficient transfer of casting energy as it unrolls because the heavier rear of the line is constantly turning over the lighter front. This design gives a more delicate presentation because most of the weight is far from the fly. Ambush lines have a J3 coating, which shoots better, floats higher, repels water and lasts longer.

Sizes: 4-6 (trout); 7-10 (switch rods); 11-14 (double-handers).

Royal Wulff Triangle Taper Tracer shooting line £48

The perfect partner for the Ambush shooting head. The Tracer is slim (0.32in) and has a slick but dry-feeling J3 coating with a Dacron core. It handles easily and shoots for miles. It is 100ft long with an 8in connection loop for quick changes of shooting heads.

What Gear Guide 2013

Fordham & Wakefield Hodore Oast. Hodore Farm. Parrock Lane. Hartfield. East Sussex. TN7 4AR Telephone: 01892 770344 Fax: 01892 770355 tonyfordham@dsl.pipex.com

Fordham & Wakefield 2013

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NORMAN AGUTTERS Cane Rods,Blanks, Kits REPAIRS AND ACCESSORIES

Tel Mick on: 01892531230 or Mobile: 07946 723462 mickfiltness@hotmail.com

Fly Rods, Coarse, Wading Staffs etc On-line:

www.norman-agutters.com

Salmon, trout and sea-trout flies 100’s of step-by-step fly-tying sequences now online Visit our gamefishing section at www.gofishing.co.uk/flytips

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Send for catalogue:

01233 626 748

Flies

028 66 323047 www.frankiemcphillips.com What Gear Guide 2013

35