Fly Fishing and Bourbon Holiday Gift Guide

With Thanksgiving having passed, the holiday season has started. This list is not necessarily gifts i would buy for someone else. These are items i would not complain if someone bought them and covertly placed them under my tree. If the local mall Santa that smells like cheap bourbon or a maybe even a family member asks what you want this year, this list is a pretty good place to start.

I. The Fusion: Where the River Meets the Rickhouse

• The "River-Ready" Travel Bar:

  • Item: Viski Professional Canvas Bar Tool Roll Up (or the 6-Piece Travel Set).

  • Note: The waxed canvas roll-up is the key here; it ages beautifully, much like a good fishing jacket.

• The "Cast & Sip" Glassware:

  • Modern Choice: Norlan Whisky Glass (Black Edition).

  • Artistic Choice: Black Lantern Fly Fishing Whiskey Glasses. These feature hand-printed fly patterns and are made in Colorado.

• The Contemplative Read:

  • New Release: The Call of the Creek by James Salas. A perfect fit for the thoughtful angler.

  • Modern Classic: The Optimist by David Coggins.

II. The Gear: 2025 Fly Fishing Essentials

• The "Forever" Cooler/Storage:

  • Item: YETI LoadOut GoBox 15.

  • Where to buy: Available directly from YETI or major outfitters like Dick’s Sporting Goods.

• The Precision Tool:

  • Item: Dr. Slick Cyclone Nippers.

  • Note: These large-blade nippers are easier to handle with cold hands than standard sizes.

• The Rod Upgrade:

  • Item: G. Loomis IMX-PRO V2.

  • Specifics: Look for the 5-weight or 6-weight for general trout versatility.

• The Tech "Peace of Mind":

  • Item: Garmin inReach Mini 2.

  • Where to buy: Widely available at Best Buy or outdoor retailers.

III. The Pour: Whiskey & Bourbon

Note: Liquor shipping laws vary by state. I have included direct distillery links or reliable major retailers where possible.

• The "Winter Warmer":

  • Bottle: New Riff Winter Whiskey.

  • Availability: This is a seasonal release, so check their site or local specialty shops like The Party Source if you are in the KY area.

• The "Connoisseur's Choice":

  • Bottle: Russell’s Reserve Single Rickhouse (Camp Nelson editions).

  • Where to buy: These are highly allocated. Check Total Wine or dedicated online concierge services like ReserveBar.

• The "Innovation" Bottle:

  • Bottle: Stranahan’s Diamond Peak.

  • Where to buy: Available at Binny's or similar large retailers.

• The "Reliable Daily Sipper":

  • Bottle: Woodford Reserve Double Oaked.

  • Where to buy: Widely available. You can order via Drizly or Total Wine.

IV. The Stocking Stuffer Combo

• The Vessel: Stanley Master Unbreakable Hip Flask.

  • Note: The "Master" series is sometimes hard to catch in stock; the Classic Easy Fill Wide Mouth Flask is a worthy and easier-to-find alternative.

• The Spirit: Rittenhouse Rye Bottled-in-Bond.

  • Where to buy: Curiada (ships to many states).