Gear Review: Boga Grip w/ YakAttack T-Reign

One of the most commonly used tools for landing fish of all types is the Boga Grip. Although typically not in a kayak anglers budget one should be. Granted the fish grips are budget friendly and they float. However I’m sure the fish grip user has lost and struggled with more fish that the boga grip user.

Made in the USA from high quality stainless steel the Boga Grip cannot be matched. The one handed operation is necessary while fishing from a single person platform such as a kayak. Wile securely holding the fish by its mouth the boga grip allows wiggling flopping and spinning causing less damage to the fish. Also featuring a scale that can weigh fish up to 60 lbs depending on the model.

The boga grip is engaged by the angler pulling back with their fingers to open the clamp. When released the spring action closes the clamp and the weight of the fish actually holds the clamp shut with its weight and the fish is secured. The spinning and angle of the clamp is designed to allow the fish to flap and spin freely. Allowing this motion actually causes less damage to the fish. To release the fish simply pull back with your fingers and the fish is loose!

The Boga grip is a great aid for handling a fish to remove hooks and align on a measuring board. Once the fish is clamped in the odds of loosing the fish are pretty slim. On the kayak its a great idea to leash everything that does not float. In that kayak fishing world there is a slogan. “If you love it leash it.”

Personally too many leashes get in the way on a small platform such as a kayak. The YakAttack T-Reign Surface Mount Retractor is the solution for this. The package also includes a mounting solution for the boga grip. You can also use the GearTrac mounted Retractor solution along with the mounting clip (call to combine these items). The T-Reign is a retractor meaning its 36″ Kevlar chord leash will self stow inside the housing automatically. No winding or cranking. Its spring loaded. When you put your Boga Grip back in its mounting clip the leash will automatically retract! If you do not want to leash the Boga Grip a float can be easily attatched.

Boga Grip maintenance is minimal. Like all other gear a rinse with fresh water after use is recommended. Just keeps it clean less gritty for functioning smoothly and properly. You can use a light machine oil or silicone to lube it up for. A small amount on the trigger pin, prong pin and connecting rivets.

The Boga Grip is a winner for the kayak angler.

• Made in the USA
• Ease One Hand Operation
• Built In Scale
• Durable and corrosion Resistant
• Ergonomically Comfortable
• Foam Grip
• Prevents Damage to Fish
• Leash Tether or Float Addition
• YakAttack T-Reign and mounting clip

Gear Review: Thermos Water Bottle

An essential piece of kayaking and kayak fishing gear is a water bottle. Its imperative that you stay hydrated through out the day of being in the sun fishing and paddling. I prefer ice cold water on those hot days. Most water bottles will not keep water cold or even cool for long sitting in the sun. The only option is to carry a cooler in this option until i invested in a thermos.

The Thermos Vacuum Insulated 24-Ounce Stainless Steel Hydration Bottle is special because it keeps water cold all day! On a hot day of fishing I typically will consume (2 bottles) or 48 oz of water. The Hydration Bottle is important to avoid Heat Stroke. This Thermos works with both Hot & Cold but for hot it recommends you do not drink from the bottle.

Description:

• Rigid stainless steel construction
• Thermos vacuum insulation technology for maximum temperature retention
• Keeps beverages cold for up to 18 hours
• Sweat proof design eliminates water rings
• Hygienic push button sip through lid with locking mechanism
• Locking Lid but allows 1 handed operation
• Wide opening for easy drinking
• Screw off top for ease of filling and cleaning
• Dimensions 10.25 inches x 10.25 inches x 3 inches

Cost: $25.00 + Free Shipping on Orders over $35.00 on Amazon.com

Love that new paddle smell!! Here is a description and first impressions of the Bending Branches Navigator Paddle.

First thing all Bending Branches paddles are hand crafted in the USA! The Navigator Plus is a lightweight wood blade paddle mated with Bending Branches patented T700 carbon shaft. In all the two piece snap lock ferrule paddle weights 28 0z total. The blades are crafted from Red Alder a hardwood and Roasted Basswood a softer type of wood which gives this paddle a vintage look and rigidity but adds a flex that gels to your paddling style.

Making its debut in 2010 as an advanced low angle touring paddle it is now catching the eye of those in the kayak fishing scene. The low angle style of paddling allows for less fatigue during the fishing trip. After all less paddling fatigue equals more time on the water catching fish!

The blade being crafted from Alder a hardwood is additionally protected by Bending Branches patented Rock Guard then covered in a layer of protective fiberglass. So the paddle if cared for should last a lifetime.

Overall the blade construction is impressive being made from wood this eliminates the spline on the back side of the blade. This should prove to be a quieter paddle which is essential while fishing for spook easy fish. In addition the paddle is also available with the Plus Ferrule. This provides you with an additional telescoping length of up to 15 CM. A great advancement for kayaks with high/low seating systems.Very much looking forward to using this paddle over the 2015 fishing season! Check back for a complete extended use review in the fall!

For more information please visit the Bending Branches website!