TESTED ON THE WATER
Gear reviews
We fish the gear before we write about it. If it's overpriced, we say so. If it's a hidden gem, you'll know. Affiliate links are always disclosed.
Boats & Kayaks
A Wider Hull Beats a Higher Price Tag for CT Kayak Anglers Under $1,000
9 min
Lures & Baits
Best Inline Spinners for Trout Fishing: Mepps, Rooster Tail, and More
$7–$93 picks8 min
Reels
Not Every $200 Spinning Reel Earns Its Price on a Connecticut Bass Lake
7 min
Rods
Nine Feet at Bluff Point, Eleven at Hammonasset: Matching Surf Rod Length to the Beach
8 min
Lures & Baits
Best Trout Flies for Connecticut: Dry Flies, Nymphs, and Streamers That Work
Best all-purpose dry fly for CT waters
$2–$43 picks9 min
Accessories
Best Fishing Pliers and Hook Removal Tools: What Every Tackle Bag Needs
$12–$693 picks7 min
Apparel & Footwear
Felt Soles Are Still Legal in Connecticut — Fewer Farmington River Anglers Choose Them Every Season
Best rubber sole overall
$80–$1603 picks7 min
Terminal Tackle & Line
Best Fishing Line Spool Holders and Winding Tools: Organized Spools, Clean Line
$14–$493 picks6 min
Rods
Three Ultralight Rods CT Anglers Actually Rebuy After the First Season
Best overall
$30–$1303 picks7 min
Reels
Best Surf Casting Reels for Striped Bass (2026)
Best overall: Penn Conflict II / Best budget: Daiwa BG
$90–$2804 picks8 min
Lures & Baits
Best Soft Plastic Bass Lures: What's Actually in the Pro Boxes
$0–$83 picks9 min
Rod & Reel Combos
The Rod That Lands a 15-Pound Connecticut River Cat Isn't the One Leaning Against the Garage Wall
Best overall
$5–$1204 picks7 min
Electronics
Best Underwater Fishing Cameras (2026): Actually Worth Buying
Best overall: Aqua-Vu Micro Revolution / Best budget: GoFish Cam
$90–$2503 picks7 min
Boats & Kayaks
Thrust-to-Weight, Not Brand, Decides Which CT Trolling Motor Actually Works
Best overall
$1–$8504 picks8 min
Terminal Tackle & Line
Five Fluorocarbon Leaders CT Anglers Actually Re-Spool With in 2026
Best overall: Seaguar Red Label / Best budget: Berkley Vanish
$6–$505 picks6 min
Apparel & Footwear
Four Sub-$200 Waders That Hold Up Through a CT Trout and Striper Season
Best overall value
$60–$1694 picks7 min
Apparel & Footwear
Best Fishing Boots and Wading Shoes: Grip, Comfort, and Durability
$99–$3193 picks8 min
Electronics
Skip the $1,000 Humminbird: Three Budget Fish Finders CT Anglers Actually Rely On
Best overall
$170–$2603 picks8 min
Terminal Tackle & Line
CT Striper Tournaments Require Circle Hooks — Most Anglers Rig Them Wrong
Best all-around freshwater hook
$0–$106 picks7 min
Apparel & Footwear
Best Polarized Fishing Sunglasses (2026): Tested on CT Water
Best all-around: Costa 580G / Best value: KastKing Polarized Sport
$20–$2203 picks7 min
Reels
Best Fly Reels for Trout Fishing: What to Buy at Every Budget
$89–$5753 picks8 min
Rods
Best Fly Rods for Trout: Top Picks from Budget to Premium
$199–$8953 picks9 min
Reels
Best Baitcasting Reels for Bass Fishing: From Budget to Pro
$64–$1693 picks9 min
Rod & Reel Combos
A $150 Spinning Combo Should Survive a CT Striper Season — Not Every One Does
Best overall
$90–$1603 picks8 min
Accessories
Most CT Anglers Buy More Cooler Than Their Trips Actually Need
Best premium pick
$55–$3503 picks7 min
Accessories
Most Lost Rods Go Over the Side From a Loose Holder — What CT Anglers Rig Instead
Best flush-mount for center consoles
$2–$553 picks6 min
Accessories
Blade Length, Not Price, Decides Which Fillet Knife CT Anglers Should Buy
$20–$453 picks6 min
Boats & Kayaks
What CT Kayak Anglers Actually Rig for Under $1,000 in 2026
Best overall for CT fishing
$1–$9004 picks9 min
Accessories
Why More CT Anglers Are Switching to Rubber Mesh Landing Nets
Best rubber net: Frabill Power Catch / Best wading net: Fishpond Nomad
$18–$1504 picks6 min
Terminal Tackle & Line
Do You Really Need to Spend $40 on Braided Line for CT Bass and Stripers?
Best overall: Power Pro Spectra / Budget pick: Sufix 832
$12–$1505 picks6 min
Lures & Baits
You Don't Need $30 Plugs to Catch CT Stripers (Five Picks Under $15)
Top pick: Bomber Heavy Duty Long A / Sleeper: Yo-Zuri Crystal Minnow
$4–$145 picks5 min
Apparel & Footwear
Best Wading Staffs for River Fishing: Folstaf, Simms, and DIY Compared
Best overall wading staff
$25–$1603 picks7 min
Accessories
Best Polarized Fishing Sunglasses: 6 Pairs Tested on the Water
$109–$1993 picks9 min
Rods
Best Spinning Rods Under $100 (2026) — What Northeast Anglers Rate Highest
Best all-around: St. Croix Triumph / Best budget: Ugly Stik Elite
$7–$1004 picks7 min
Reels
Best Spinning Reels Under $100: Penn, Daiwa, and Shimano Compared
Best all-around reel under $100
$30–$853 picks9 min
Reels
Best Spinning Reels for Trout and Freshwater Fishing: Budget to Premium
$44–$2293 picks8 min
Accessories
Four Small Boxes Beat One Overstuffed Tackle Bag
The standard — buy multiple
$8–$1103 picks5 min
Lures & Baits
Best Swimbaits for Bass: Strike King, Keitech, and Zoom Reviewed
Best all-around paddle tail swimbait
$5–$123 picks9 min
Apparel & Footwear
Best Wading Staffs for Stream and River Fishing
Best premium wading staff
$5–$1293 picks8 min
Accessories
Best Live Bait Containers and Aerators: Keeping Shiners and Worms Alive All Day
Best all-around live bait system
$8–$553 picks7 min
Lures & Baits
Best Crankbaits for Bass: Rapala, Strike King, and Berkley Compared
Best medium-depth crankbait for CT bass
$10–$163 picks9 min
Reels
Best Baitcasting Reels Under $150: Abu Garcia, Shimano, and Daiwa Compared
Best all-around baitcasting reel under $150
$90–$1303 picks9 min
Accessories
Best Fishing Pliers and Multitools: Bubba, Dr. Slick, and Gerber Compared
Best saltwater fishing pliers
$20–$553 picks7 min
Apparel & Footwear
Best Fishing Vests for Fly Fishing: Orvis, Simms, and Patagonia Compared
Best value fly fishing vest for CT conditions
$80–$1803 picks8 min
Rod & Reel Combos
Best Trout Spinning Combos for Connecticut Anglers: Ultralight Rods and Reels
Best beginner combo — extremely durable
$40–$953 picks8 min
Rods
Best Surf Fishing Rods: St. Croix Mojo Surf, Penn Battalion, and Tsunami Airwave Compared
Premium pick — worth it for dedicated surf anglers
$70–$2803 picks9 min
Accessories
Best Fishing Scales: Rapala Tournament, KastKing Lip Grip, and Berkley Compared
Most accurate and tournament-trusted scale
$15–$353 picks7 min
Rods
Best Swimbait Rods for Bass Fishing: Dedicated Swimbaits and Bladed Jigs
Best swimbait rod for CT bass fishing
$119–$1993 picks10 min
Apparel & Footwear
Best Polarized Fishing Sunglasses: Costa Del Mar, Oakley, and Maui Jim Compared
Best fishing-specific polarized sunglasses
$170–$3003 picks8 min
Electronics
Best Fish Finders for Kayak Fishing: Humminbird, Garmin, and Deeper Compared
Best value kayak fish finder
$100–$3503 picks9 min
Fly Fishing
Best Fly Reels for Trout Fishing: From Budget to Premium
Best value fly reel for CT trout fishing
$69–$1493 picks10 min
Terminal Tackle & Line
Best Fluorocarbon Fishing Lines: Leaders, Main Lines, and When to Use Each
Best overall freshwater fluorocarbon main line
$15–$263 picks10 min
Lures & Baits
Best Crankbaits for Bass Fishing: Squarebills, Lipless, and Deep Divers
Best shallow squarebill crankbait
$8–$123 picks12 min
Accessories
Best Digital Fishing Scales and Measuring Tools (2025)
Best all-around scale
$18–$353 picks7 min
Fly Fishing
Best Fly Fishing Starter Kits (2025): Complete Outfits for New Fly Anglers
Best overall starter kit
$100–$2003 picks8 min
Apparel & Footwear
Best Fishing Gloves: Sun Protection, Cold Weather, and Fish Handling Gloves
Best summer fishing gloves for sun protection
$29–$493 picks9 min
Terminal Tackle & Line
Best Braided Fishing Line: Power Pro, Sufix 832, and Berkley X9 Compared
Proven workhorse, excellent for most applications
$20–$3003 picks10 min
Ice Fishing
Tyler Lake and Bantam Ice Anglers Keep Buying the Same Tip-Up, Not the Priciest One
Best overall
$8–$353 picks5 min
Rods
Best Medium-Heavy Spinning Rods for Bass (2025): For Finesse and Light Soft Plastics
Best overall
$40–$1103 picks8 min
Accessories
Best Tackle Organization Systems (2025): Plano, Flambeau, and Custom Options Reviewed
Best all-around tackle tray
$8–$253 picks8 min
Fly Fishing
Best Trout Flies for Connecticut: What to Stock in Your Fly Box
Most important dry fly in CT
$0–$503 picks11 min
Apparel & Footwear
Best Wading Boots for Trout Fishing (2025): Grip, Durability, and Ankle Support
Best value wading boot
$100–$2303 picks8 min
Ice Fishing
Best Ice Fishing Tip-Ups: Frabill, HT Enterprises, and Beaver Dam Compared
Best in class
$8–$303 picks9 min
Apparel & Footwear
Best Fishing Backpacks and Vests: Carry Gear Comfortably for Shore and Wade Fishing
Best fishing vest for wade anglers
$49–$2293 picks10 min
Lures & Baits
Best Crankbaits for Bass (2025): Squarebills, Deep Divers, and Lipless Tested
Best squarebill
$7–$133 picks9 min
Rods
Best Ultralight Spinning Rods for Trout and Panfish (2025)
Best for serious trout anglers
$25–$1353 picks8 min
Lures & Baits
Best Bass Jigs (2025): Football, Flipping, and Finesse Jigs Tested
Best football jig
$5–$154 picks9 min
Ice Fishing
Best Ice Fishing Augers: Manual, Electric, and Gas Options Compared
Best hand auger for CT ice fishing
$59–$2993 picks10 min
Lures & Baits
Best Soft Plastic Swimbaits for Bass (2025): Paddle Tails That Produce
Best all-around swimbait
$5–$103 picks9 min
Apparel & Footwear
Why CT Anglers Switch Glove Styles at 40°F, Not at 30°F
$25–$553 picks5 min
Accessories
Best Fishing Backpacks and Bags (2025): Tested for All-Day Comfort
Best all-around fishing backpack
$25–$953 picks8 min
Lures & Baits
Best Soft Plastic Worms for Bass (2025): Every Style Tested
Best all-around
$5–$204 picks9 min
Lures & Baits
Best Striped Bass Lures: Proven Plugs, Metals, and Soft Plastics for CT Stripers
Best all-around swimming plug for CT stripers
$5–$123 picks12 min
Ice Fishing
Best Ice Fishing Tip-Ups: What to Buy and How to Set Them Up
Best overall tip-up for serious ice anglers
$18–$293 picks10 min
Electronics
Best Fish Finders for Kayak and Small Boat Fishing
Best fish finder for kayak fishing
$99–$2993 picks13 min
Lures & Baits
Best Ned Rig Jig Heads and Plastics (2025): The Finesse Setup That Catches Everything
Best Ned rig plastic
$5–$93 picks8 min
Apparel & Footwear
Best Fishing Waders: Chest Waders and Hip Waders Tested
Best premium chest waders for serious anglers
$99–$5993 picks12 min
Accessories
Best Fishing Landing Nets (2025): Rubber Mesh, Folding, and Kayak Nets Reviewed
Best all-around
$30–$753 picks8 min
Accessories
Best Coolers for Fishing: Keep Your Catch Fresh and Drinks Cold All Day
Best premium fishing cooler
$47–$2993 picks10 min
Accessories
Bunker Survive Four Hours in a Real Livewell — Most Buckets Kill Them in One
Best overall
$18–$1404 picks7 min
Terminal Tackle & Line
Mono vs. Fluorocarbon vs. Braid: Complete Fishing Line Comparison
Best fluorocarbon for freshwater finesse fishing
$10–$3303 picks13 min
Apparel & Footwear
Best Fishing Gloves for Cold Weather (2025): Tested in the Field
Best all-around
$20–$754 picks8 min
Lures & Baits
Best Soft Plastic Baits for Bass Fishing: What to Buy and When to Use Each
Best all-around soft plastic for bass
$6–$203 picks12 min
Rods
Best Saltwater Spinning Rods for Stripers, Blues, and Coastal Fishing
Best all-around saltwater spinning rod for CT fishing
$59–$1893 picks11 min
Electronics
Best Fish Finders Under $300 (2025): Real Value Picks Tested
Best overall under $300
$90–$2904 picks11 min
Rod & Reel Combos
Why Your Jetty Striper Rod Won't Work at Hammonasset (And What Anglers Use Instead)
Best all-around surf and jetty rod
$9–$2605 picks7 min
Reels
Best Baitcasting Reels for Bass Fishing: From Budget to Premium
Best baitcasting reel for anglers tired of backlashes
$59–$1993 picks13 min
Boats & Kayaks
Best Kayak Fishing Anchors (2025): Stay Put, Catch More
Best all-around
$18–$5494 picks9 min
Reels
Best Saltwater Spinning Reels for Inshore Fishing (2025)
Best value saltwater reel
$65–$1803 picks8 min
Reels
Best Spinning Reels Under $100 (2025): Quality Without Overpaying
Best overall
$40–$1004 picks9 min
Boats & Kayaks
Best Kayak Fishing Paddles: Finding the Right Paddle for Fishing
Best purpose-built fishing paddle
$59–$2993 picks10 min
Reels
Best Saltwater Spinning Reels: Inshore and Surf Fishing Reels Tested
Best value saltwater spinning reel
$99–$2193 picks11 min
Lures & Baits
Best Saltwater Jigging Lures for Northeast Fishing (2026)
Best all-around: Hogy Epoxy Jig / Best diamond jig: Hopkins Shorty
$5–$144 picks8 min
Rods
Best Trout Spinning Rods: Light and Ultralight Rods for Stream and Lake Trout
Best overall trout spinning rod
$39–$1293 picks12 min
Reels
Best Saltwater Spinning Reels for CT Shore and Kayak Fishing
$89–$1993 picks9 min
Apparel & Footwear
Best Polarized Fishing Sunglasses: See Fish Other Anglers Miss
Best overall fishing sunglasses for serious anglers
$119–$1993 picks11 min
Lures & Baits
Best Topwater Bass Lures: Heddon Zara Spook, Rebel Pop-R, and Whopper Plopper Compared
Best all-around topwater bass lure
$8–$183 picks9 min
Lures & Baits
Best Topwater Lures for Bass Fishing: Surface Strikes All Summer
Best walk-the-dog topwater lure
$10–$143 picks11 min
Storage
Best Tackle Boxes and Organization Systems for Serious Anglers
Best tackle tray for serious anglers
$9–$493 picks11 min
Lures & Baits
Best Topwater Lures for Bass (2025): Surface Explosions Guaranteed
Best all-around walking bait
$5–$124 picks10 min
Accessories
Best Fishing Headlamps and Lights for Dawn, Dusk, and Night Fishing
$25–$453 picks7 min
Rods
Best Baitcasting Rods Under $150 (2025): Maximum Performance, Reasonable Price
Best overall
$50–$1454 picks9 min
Fly Fishing
Best Fly Fishing Starter Kits: What's Worth Buying vs. What to Skip
Best overall beginner fly fishing kit
$99–$1793 picks14 min
Rods
Best Bass Fishing Rods: Spinning and Casting Rods for Connecticut Bass
Best value casting rod for bass
$49–$1193 picks13 min
Apparel & Footwear
Best Headlamps for Fishing: Night Fishing, Pre-Dawn, and Low-Light Use
Best overall: Black Diamond Spot / Best value: Petzl Tikkina
$20–$753 picks5 min
Lures & Baits
Best Bass Fishing Lures for the Northeast: Tried and Tested Picks for CT Lakes
Best jerkbait for CT pre-spawn fishing
$4–$253 picks10 min
Accessories
Best Headlamps for Night Fishing: Black Diamond, Coast, and Princeton Tec Compared
Best overall fishing headlamp
$20–$553 picks7 min
Reels
Best Spinning Reels Under $100 (2025): Gear That Earns Its Keep
Best under $100 for heavier freshwater and light saltwater
$39–$993 picks12 min
Apparel & Footwear
Lumens Aren't the Spec That Matters Most for a Night-Fishing Headlamp
Best overall: Black Diamond Spot 400 / Best budget: GearLight S1000
$20–$553 picks5 min
Boats & Kayaks
Best Fishing Kayaks: Pelican, Old Town, and Perception Compared for Anglers
Best mid-range fishing kayak
$550–$9503 picks11 min
Gear
Topwater Strikes Follow Cloud Cover More Than the Clock on Connecticut Bass Water
4 picks9 min
Lures & Baits
Best Topwater Bass Lures: Poppers, Walkers, and Frogs Reviewed
$10–$123 picks9 min
Rods
Best Surf Fishing Rods for Connecticut Striper Anglers
$69–$2493 picks9 min
Storage
Best Fishing Backpacks and Tackle Bags: Plano, Shimano, and KastKing Compared
Best overall fishing backpack
$35–$853 picks8 min
Storage
Best Fishing Pliers and Multi-Tools (2026): Remove Hooks, Cut Braid, Stay Rust-Free
Best overall
$15–$553 picks5 min
Lures & Baits
Best Soft Plastic Lure Assortments for Bass (2026)
Best worm: Gary Yamamoto Senko 5" / Best craw: Strike King Rage Craw
$4–$155 picks6 min
Apparel & Footwear
Best Fishing Waders (2026): Chest Waders and Hip Waders Tested
Best chest waders: Simms G3 Guide / Best value: Frogg Toggs Canyon II
$70–$7004 picks6 min
Rods
Best Ultralight Spinning Rods for Panfish and Trout: 5 Rods Compared
$59–$993 picks8 min
Rods
Best Spinning Rods for Bass Fishing: 5 Rods Tested for Finesse and Power
$44–$4203 picks9 min
Rods
Best Baitcasting Rods for Bass Under $100
$45–$1003 picks6 min
Rods
Best Fly Rods Under $200: Freshwater and Saltwater Options
$100–$2003 picks6 min
Lures & Baits
Best Surf Casting Plugs for Striped Bass
$6–$284 picks7 min
Accessories
Best Fishing Landing Nets: From Trout Nets to Bass Cradles
$34–$1393 picks7 min
Terminal Tackle & Line
Fishing Line Comparison: Braid vs. Monofilament vs. Fluorocarbon
$14–$3303 picks10 min
Lures & Baits
Best Saltwater Lures for Striped Bass: What Actually Works on CT Shores
$8–$183 picks9 min
Lures & Baits
Best Striper Plugs for Surf Fishing: Gibbs, Yo-Zuri, and SP Minnow Compared
Best surface plug for surf fishing
$12–$203 picks9 min
Gear
At $60, the Coleman Xtreme Holds Ice Almost as Long as a $300 YETI
Best overall rotomolded cooler
$50–$3254 picks6 min
Lures & Baits
Tube Jigs Fell Out of Fashion Everywhere Except Connecticut's Rocky Structure
Best tube body for CT water
$4–$103 picks5 min
Apparel & Footwear
Why CT Guides Pick a Wide Brim Over a Ball Cap Past Memorial Day
Best overall sun protection
$25–$703 picks5 min
Rod & Reel Combos
The Fly Line, Not the Rod, Is Where Most CT Starter Fly Kits Fall Short
Best overall starter kit
$70–$1794 picks7 min
Electronics
Most CT Anglers Only Need Three Fish Finder Features, Not Six
Best kayak and small boat unit
$100–$3004 picks8 min
Terminal Tackle & Line
Best Finesse Jigs for Bass (2026): When Fish Won't Eat Anything Else
Best all-around finesse jig
$4–$104 picks6 min
Apparel & Footwear
Most Drowning Anglers Were Wearing a PFD — Just Not On Their Body
Best overall: Astral V-Eight Fish / Best budget: Onyx MoveVent
$50–$1304 picks6 min
Lures & Baits
Which Spinnerbait Actually Works When CT Bass Are Still Holding in 48°F Water?
Best all-around
$8–$114 picks6 min
Lures & Baits
At 52°F, the Crankbait Choice for CT Bass Anglers Changes
Best square-bill: Strike King KVD 1.5 / Best lipless: Rat-L-Trap
$7–$125 picks7 min
Rod & Reel Combos
Best Spinning Rods for Trout Fishing: From Ultralight to Medium
$25–$1604 picks
Lures & Baits
Best Soft Plastic Baits for Bass Fishing: The Essentials
$6–$124 picks
Electronics
Under $300, the Transducer Decides More Than the Brand Does
$150–$2403 picks
Reels
Three Spinning Reels Under $50 That Don't Fall Apart by August
$25–$503 picks6 min
Rods
Farmington River Anglers Keep Reaching for the Same $70 Trout Rod, Not the Priciest One
$25–$803 picks6 min
Boats & Kayaks
Best Fishing Kayaks Under $1,000: 5 Kayaks for CT Anglers
$399–$8993 picks10 min
Accessories
Best Fishing Coolers: YETI Tundra vs. Igloo Marine vs. Coleman Xtreme Compared
Best premium fishing cooler
$50–$3503 picks8 min
Storage
Best Fishing Tackle Storage: Bags, Backpacks & Boxes (2026)
Best overall
$6–$1104 picks6 min
Apparel & Footwear
Best Polarized Fishing Sunglasses (2026): See Through the Water
Best overall: Costa Del Mar Rincón / Best value: Oakley Holbrook
$40–$2304 picks6 min
Rods
Best Spinning Rods Under $100 (2026 Roundup)
Best overall: St. Croix Triumph / Best value: Ugly Stik Elite
$30–$1005 picks7 min
Lures & Baits
Three Lures Cover Most Striper Scenarios From Millstone Point to the Race, Not Fifty
3 picks9 min
Boats & Kayaks
The First Upgrade Most Kayak Anglers Make Isn't the Kayak
3 picks7 min
Rod & Reel Combos
Why CT Stream Anglers Downsize Their Rod Below 6 Feet Once the Canopy Closes In
3 picks8 min
Storage
Do You Need a $180 Tackle Bag, or Will a $40 One Do the Job?
Best all-around bag for most anglers
$35–$2005 picks6 min
Accessories
Best Fishing Coolers and Livewells: Keeping Your Catch Fresh
$18–$2293 picks7 min
Accessories
Best Fishing Scales and Fish Grippers (2026): Worth Buying or Skip It?
Best scale: Runcl Digital / Best gripper: BogaGrip
$15–$904 picks6 min
Gear
When CT Lake Bass Stop Chasing, a Drop Shot Rig Still Gets Bit
4 picks8 min
Gear
On the Farmington and Housatonic, Wading Depth Decides Vest vs. Chest Pack — Not Pocket Count
4 picks8 min
Lures & Baits
Best Crankbaits for Bass Fishing: Deep Divers, Shallow Runners, and Lipless
$9–$113 picks9 min
Lures & Baits
Best Bass Jigs and Texas Rig Setups: Heavy Cover Specialists
$6–$153 picks9 min
Storage
Best Fishing Coolers and Insulated Fish Bags (2026)
Best hard cooler: YETI Tundra 35 / Best fish bag: Engel HD30
$30–$3004 picks5 min
Reels
Best Baitcasting Reels Under $200 (2026)
Best overall: Abu Garcia Revo SX / Best value: Daiwa Tatula 100
$100–$2004 picks7 min
Apparel & Footwear
Best Fishing Rain Jackets (2026): Waterproof Gear That Actually Works
Best overall
$25–$2204 picks7 min
Accessories
Titanium Pliers Survive a Season on Long Island Sound — Steel Ones Rust by August
Best all-around fishing pliers
$10–$604 picks5 min
Terminal Tackle & Line
Monofilament Isn't Dead: The Five Situations Where CT Anglers Still Choose It Over Braid
Best all-around monofilament
$6–$3304 picks6 min
Accessories
Best Fishing Tackle Boxes and Organizers: What Actually Works
$18–$893 picks8 min
Apparel & Footwear
Best Chest Waders for CT Trout and Bass Fishing: Orvis, Frogg Toggs, and Simms
Best budget breathable waders
$100–$6003 picks9 min
Reels
Four Baitcasting Reels Under $150 — Only One Actually Stops Backlash for Beginners
Best overall under $150
$50–$1504 picks7 min
Apparel & Footwear
Best Fishing Vests and Packs for Freshwater Anglers
$89–$1793 picks8 min
Electronics
Best Fish Finders for Kayak Fishing: 5 Units Compared
$99–$2493 picks10 min
Rod & Reel Combos
Four Beginner Spinning Combos Under $60, and Only Two Hold Up Past One Season
$29–$654 picks6 min
Reels
Four Mid-Range Spinning Reels, Tested Side by Side for CT Bass and Striper Water
Best overall: Penn Battle III / Best value: Daiwa Revros LT
$35–$40004 picks7 min
Ice Fishing
Best Ice Fishing Tip-Ups: 5 Models Reviewed for CT Ice Anglers
$9–$223 picks8 min
Ice Fishing
Best Ice Fishing Rods and Tip-Ups (2025): What Actually Works in CT
Best jigging rod
$10–$504 picks9 min
Rods
A 24-Inch Rod Outfishes a 7-Footer Once Connecticut Lakes Ice Over
$25–$603 picks7 min
Accessories
Best Electric Fillet Knives (2026): Worth It or Gimmick?
Best corded: American Angler Pro / Best cordless: Rapala Heavy Duty
$30–$1104 picks6 min
Ice Fishing
Best Ice Fishing Tip-Ups (2024)
Best overall
$12–$993 picks9 min
Apparel & Footwear
Best Fishing Gloves for Cold Weather (2024)
Best overall for CT cold-weather fishing
$19–$993 picks8 min
Apparel & Footwear
Best Fishing Gloves 2024: Neoprene, Fingerless, and UV Protection Reviewed
$22–$453 picks8 min
Reels
Best Saltwater Spinning Reels Under $200 (2024): Sealed, Corrosion-Resistant, and Capable
$89–$1693 picks10 min
Reels
Best Conventional Reels for Striped Bass 2024: Levelwind and Star Drag Options
$89–$1693 picks10 min
Apparel & Footwear
Best Wading Boots for New England Trout Fishing (2024)
Best premium wading boot
$99–$2693 picks8 min
Accessories
Best Fishing Tackle Boxes 2024: Plano, StowAway, and Waterproof Systems Reviewed
$6–$453 picks8 min
Lures & Baits
Best Striper Lures for Shore Fishing 2024
Best metal jig for Long Island Sound shore fishing
$3–$153 picks10 min
Rods
Best Jerkbait Rods for Bass Fishing (2024)
Best jerkbait-specific rod
$49–$1493 picks8 min
Apparel & Footwear
Best Polarized Fishing Sunglasses 2024: Lens Color, Frame Style, and Value Compared
$159–$2493 picks9 min
Lures & Baits
Best Trout Spinners 2024: Classic and Modern Options Reviewed
The best all-around trout spinner for CT rivers
$5–$83 picks9 min
Lures & Baits
Best Striper Surface Plugs 2024: Tested for the CT Coast
The best all-around surface plug for CT shore stripers
$12–$253 picks10 min
Reels
Best Saltwater Fly Reels 2024: Drag, Corrosion Resistance, and Value Compared
$98–$7953 picks10 min
Boats & Kayaks
Best Pedal Drive Fishing Kayaks 2024: Hobie, Native Watercraft, and Old Town Compared
$1999–$32993 picks11 min
Boats & Kayaks
Best Fishing Kayak Accessories 2024: Must-Have Add-Ons
Best anchor solution for CT lakes and ponds
$35–$2203 picks10 min
Boats & Kayaks
Best Kayak Paddles for Fishing (2024)
Best fishing-specific kayak paddle
$59–$1793 picks8 min
Terminal Tackle & Line
Best Worm Hooks for Bass 2024: Offset, EWG, and Straight Shank Compared
$5–$63 picks8 min
Reels
Best Spinning Reels Under $100 in 2024
Best saltwater spinning reel under $100
$60–$1003 picks10 min
Rods
Best Freshwater Fishing Rods for Beginners 2024: Affordable and Versatile Starters
$35–$753 picks8 min
Terminal Tackle & Line
Best Monofilament Fishing Line 2024: Tested and Reviewed
The best all-purpose monofilament for spinning gear
$7–$3303 picks9 min
Fly Fishing
Best Fly Fishing Leaders and Tippet 2024: Fluorocarbon vs. Nylon and When to Use Each
$8–$123 picks8 min
Lures & Baits
Best Bass Jigs 2024: Reviewed for Northeast Waters
Best all-around bass jig for CT lakes and ponds
$3–$73 picks9 min
Rods
Best Inshore Saltwater Spinning Rods 2024: 7-9 Foot Rods for Stripers and Blues
$79–$1893 picks9 min
Fly Fishing
Best Fly Rods for Trout Beginners 2024
The best beginner fly rod for the money
$129–$2953 picks10 min
Storage
Best Lure Storage and Tackle Organization (2024)
Best waterproof hard lure storage
$5–$993 picks7 min
Fly Fishing
Best Fly Tying Materials Starter Kit 2024: Thread, Dubbing, and Feathers for Beginners
$4–$553 picks9 min
Accessories
Best Fishing Multi-Tools and Forceps 2024: Pliers, Scissors, and Hook Removers
$16–$1103 picks8 min
Apparel & Footwear
Best Fishing Shirts for Sun Protection (2024)
Best premium fishing sun shirt
$34–$993 picks8 min
Accessories
Best Fish Lip Grippers and Digital Scales 2024: Reviewed for Accuracy and Durability
$19–$263 picks8 min
Lures & Baits
Best Deep Diving Crankbaits for Bass 2024: 15-20 Foot Range Reviewed
$7–$143 picks9 min
Accessories
Best Digital Fishing Scales (2024)
Best bass-specific combination tool
$14–$993 picks6 min
Apparel & Footwear
Best Wading Staffs and Wading Boots 2024: Grip, Support, and Stability
$65–$1493 picks9 min
Accessories
Best Fishing Coolers 2024: Ice Retention, Livewell, and Soft Cooler Options
$149–$3253 picks9 min
Lures & Baits
Best Crankbaits for Bass Fishing (2024)
Best shallow-to-medium crankbait
$6–$993 picks10 min
Accessories
Best Fishing Backpacks 2024: Sling Packs, Hip Packs, and Daypacks Reviewed
$38–$1953 picks9 min
Rods
Best Surf Rods for Striped Bass 2024: 10-12 Foot Casting Rods Reviewed
$69–$1993 picks10 min
Fly Fishing
Best Fly Tying Vises 2024: Rotary, Cam, and Budget Vises for Beginners and Experts
$38–$1703 picks9 min
Accessories
Best Fishing Pliers and Multi-Tools (2024)
Best overall fishing pliers
$16–$993 picks7 min
Apparel & Footwear
Best Headlamps for Fishing (2024)
Best overall fishing headlamp
$24–$993 picks7 min
Accessories
Best Rubber Mesh Fishing Nets 2024: Catch-and-Release Safe Options Reviewed
$25–$1153 picks8 min
Lures & Baits
Best Topwater Lures for Bass (2024)
The most iconic topwater lure in bass fishing
$6–$993 picks9 min
Lures & Baits
Best Soft Plastics for Bass 2024: Worms, Craws, and Creatures That Catch Fish
$4–$63 picks10 min
Accessories
Best Fishing Nets for Landing Fish (2024)
Best overall catch-and-release net
$24–$993 picks7 min
Lures & Baits
Best Topwater Bass Lures 2024: Poppers, Walkers, Buzzbaits, and Frogs Reviewed
$5–$83 picks10 min
Rods
Best Drop Shot Rods for Finesse Bass Fishing (2024)
Best drop shot rod — period
$0–$4503 picks8 min
Lures & Baits
Best Lures for Bluefish 2024: Metals, Poppers, and Topwater That Survive the Bite
$8–$143 picks9 min
Fly Fishing
Best Fly Boxes for Trout Fishing 2024: Foam, Magnetic, and Ripple Foam Reviewed
$18–$653 picks8 min
Apparel & Footwear
Best Fishing Hats for Sun Protection (2024)
Best all-around fishing hat
$34–$993 picks7 min
Accessories
Best Fishing Headlamps 2024: Reviewed for Dawn, Dusk, and Night Fishing
Best all-around fishing headlamp
$18–$453 picks8 min
Fly Fishing
Best Fly Lines 2024: Weight Forward, Shooting Heads, and Saltwater Lines Reviewed
$79–$993 picks10 min
Boats & Kayaks
Best Anchors for Kayak Fishing (2024)
Best anchor trolley setup
$29–$4993 picks8 min
Apparel & Footwear
Best Fishing Hats 2024: Wide-Brim, Boonie, and Performance Caps Reviewed
$35–$553 picks8 min
Terminal Tackle & Line
Best Braided Fishing Line (2024)
Best overall braided line
$14–$993 picks8 min
Electronics
Best Kayak Fish Finders 2024: Compact, Battery-Powered Depth Finders Reviewed
$99–$2793 picks10 min
Apparel & Footwear
Best Sunscreen for Fishing 2024: UPF Shirts, Sun Gloves, and Reef-Safe SPF
$12–$793 picks8 min
Rod & Reel Combos
Best Baitcasting Combos Under $200 (2024)
Best overall baitcasting combo under $200
$99–$1793 picks10 min
Terminal Tackle & Line
Best Braided Fishing Line 2024: PE, Carrier Count, and Value Compared
$15–$223 picks9 min
Apparel & Footwear
Best Fishing Waders for New England (2024)
Best premium wader for fly fishing
$89–$4993 picks10 min
Rods
Best Baitcasting Rods for Bass Fishing 2024: Power, Medium, and Specialty
$55–$2303 picks10 min
Apparel & Footwear
Best Fishing Waders 2024: Breathable, Neoprene, and Budget Options Reviewed
$89–$6493 picks11 min
Rod & Reel Combos
Best Saltwater Spinning Combos Under $200 (2024)
Best complete saltwater combo under $200
$89–$1693 picks10 min
Storage
Best Coolers for Fishing (2024)
Best premium cooler for fishing
$34–$2493 picks9 min
Storage
Best Fishing Tackle Boxes and Organization Systems (2024)
The universal standard for tackle storage
$6–$993 picks8 min
Rods
Best Fly Rods for Trout (2024): All Price Points
Best beginner-to-intermediate fly rod
$99–$2993 picks10 min
Lures & Baits
Best Soft Plastic Lures for Bass Fishing (2024)
The most versatile bass lure ever made
$6–$993 picks10 min
Electronics
Best Portable Fish Finders for Kayak and Shore Fishing (2024)
Best value for kayak fishing
$89–$1993 picks10 min
Terminal Tackle & Line
Best Monofilament Fishing Line (2024)
Best overall monofilament
$7–$993 picks8 min
Apparel & Footwear
Best Polarized Fishing Sunglasses (2024)
Best premium fishing sunglasses
$24–$1993 picks9 min
Boats & Kayaks
Best Fishing Kayaks Under $1,000 (2024)
Best overall under $1,000
$99–$9493 picks12 min
Reels
Best Spinning Reels Under $100 (2024)
Best overall under $50
$34–$993 picks10 min
Ice Fishing
Best Ice Fishing Augers 2024: Hand, Power, and Cordless Options Reviewed
$55–$3493 picks9 min
Ice Fishing
Best Jigging Spoons for Ice Fishing (2024)
The classic universal ice fishing spoon
$4–$993 picks7 min
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