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Swing Shift

Swivel Trident rod holder, AFTCO Bluewater Technical Shirt, the Grim Reefer
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Let It Shine

To get hooked up in low-light conditions, tie on a Grim Reefer from Jock Jigs-Glitterbug. Painted with a trademarked Hyper-Vis coating, Grim Reefers are said to gather more underwater light and draw in fish from a greater distance. The soft lead jigs can be bent for more action. We tested them on a black sea bass trip and found that our lines stayed tight all morning while standard diamond jigs went untouched. More than a few Long Island striped bass fell to the Reefers as well. Available in seven colors and five weights, Grim Reefers start at $5. Jock Jigs-Glitterbug; (360) 736-8403

Shirts for Skins

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Rough seas aside, there’s nothing more uncomfortable than the hot sun on a long fishing trip. Whether you troll offshore or fly-cast on the flats, a Bluewater Technical Shirt from AFTCO will keep you cool and protected from the rays. We wore them while chasing snook in Florida and, despite the brutal sun, stayed dry and comfortable. These soft cotton shirts offer maximum breathability with a ventilated back and sides. The shirts are available in three colors and long or short sleeve and start at $30. AFTCO; (800) 452-3726; www.aftco.com

Swing Shift

SWS Editor at Large George Poveromo knows that big fish and tangled lines spell trouble. So when he told us about the Swivel Trident rod holder from Hydra, we said, “Test it out.” Designed to hold three rods from one rod holder and tilt to almost any angle, the Trident swivels 360 degrees, keeping rods pointed at the baits while chasing a fish or when wind or current changes, reducing crossed lines. During the trial, Poveromo tangled with tons of kingfish, but never another line. The Trident sells for $400. Hydra Enterprises; (561) 436-2439; www.rodholders.com

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Hammer Time

Costa Del Mar has resurrected their classic Hammerhead polarized sunglasses, adding a few modern twists for today’s angler. The frames are wider but feature smaller lenses, giving them a sleeker look and a more comfortable fit. Extra-wide nylon temples keep sunlight out while Megol nose pads hold the glasses in place, even in wet or sweaty conditions. Hammerheads start at $150. Costa Del Mar; (386) 677-3700; www.costadelmar.com

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