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Used or new?
What’s the right decision in buying boat equipment?
What’s the right decision in buying boat equipment? Getting into rafting or a hard-sided drift boat can be downright expensive. When starting to do research on what you’ll need, it all can add up rather quickly. Trust me. I’ve spent the better part of seven years building up our raft and there are still things…
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Deeter: I really wish there were a new company selling XXXXXX to anglers
Even though I have some favorite brands, I think competition spurs innovation, and that pushes everyone to get a little better. I’m eager to watch what unfolds.
We are quickly approaching the International Fly Tackle Dealer trade show March 30-April 1 in Salt Lake City. That’s where the angling business community usually sees the debut of new products like reels, rods and the like. I’m like a kid in a candy store when I go there, and this year will be interesting,…
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Holiday Gifts for River Rats
Because you’re here reading this, you’re more than likely into fishing… and boats. Probably both! This guide to last-minute gift ideas was compiled by TU’s resident filmmaker and boat driver Josh Duplechian and our at-large photographer/oarsman Tim Romano. While it’s short on fishing gear, it’s long on accessories that make any boat lover happy. Costa…
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TU Tested: Sea Run rod and gear cases
From the moment I spied the photos and read snippets about Sea Run cases from Italian high-end gun case maker Negrini, I knew they had made something special. I’ve made my own fly rod cases multiple times, and used about every manufacturer’s version over the years for both travel and extended float/road trips. Most of…
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River straps are for more than just boating
River straps. Cam straps. Tie downs. Whatever you call them they’re as important as having oars when you’re on the water. Having only rafted for seven years myself, I’ve already missed a lifetime of river-strap usage. But I’m making up for the lost time by putting them to work wherever I go outdoors. I’ve used…
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A simple tarp should be a priority for any river trip
How is it that one piece of gear can save an entire trip? After spending four extremely variable weather days on Montana’s famed Smith River, the conclusion was the tarp saved the trip. Let me explain. It’s no secret spring weather in Montana can throw anything your way. One day can be 60 degrees and…
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The Simms GTS Roller bag might be the solution to the travel-luggage riddle
I may have finally found my solution to dependable travel luggage in the Simms GTS Roller bag, so forgive me if it seems I'm a bit too excited about it. You see, I have a toxic relationship with luggage. I expect perfection, even if I don't always return the favor. Here's the backstory. Several years…