Gifts For The Outdoors Person
By Gary Moore
What do you get that hunter, angler, hiker or x-c skier that they will actually use is often a difficult decision, especially if the gift giver does not participate in the sport.
Let me make a few suggestions. First of all, a gift certificate for a hunting or fishing license will definitely be appreciated and needed unless they have a lifetime license.
For something really special, a trip to one of the countless fishing or hunting lodges will be appreciated and long remembered. They range from two days to weeks and may be close by or in distant places. Don't simply pick one from an advertisement. Rely on a reputable travel agent and the experiences of those who have used the outfitter or lodge.
Does the angler fly fish or want to? There are many good fly fishing schools in northern New England that will provide valuable instruction. Orvis in Manchester, Vermont and L.L. Bean in Freeport, Maine are two of the biggest and most famous, but there are others close by. Ask at the local tackle shop for information.
Hunting and fishing gear is very specialized and highly personal. If you do not hunt or fish, it is a good idea to ask a hunting or fishing partner of the person for whom you are buying a gift to help you. The partner will know exactly what the hunter or angler wants as desires for gear are what we sports often talk about when with friends with whom we hunt and fish.
A gift certificate at a sporting goods store is a safe bet and your favorite outdoorsman can then purchase what he or she wants.
Delorme Gazatteers for Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine or New York make excellent gifts and help with the planning for future adventures during those long winter nights.
Lightweight binoculars can make being on the water, in the field or on a mountain more enjoyable and many makes and models today are quite inexpensive for their quality.
Don’t forget, a good quality compass and a headlamp should be in everyone’s possession when afield.
For those who hike, a membership to one of the hiking organizations is a good gift. I am a member of the Appalachian Mountain Club, the Green Mountain Club and the Dartmouth Outing Club for the simple reason I hike their trails and want to help pay for the maintenance. Each also has programs and events that I enjoy and often find educational.
A subscription to a magazine that features their favorite sports is always welcome. The Northwoods Sporting Journal covers hunting, fishing, hiking and snowmobiling in this region and beyond. You can order a print edition or a digital edition at, https://www.sportingjournal.com/subscribe/, or you can call 207-732-4880.