Marty Gordon
NRVsports@ourvalley.org
It’s that time of year to be shopping for Christmas, and it is again time for me to give you some great ideas for the sportsman in your life.
I have not purchased any of the following, but I do think they would make a great gift even for your favorite local sports writer.
Wildlife calendar
The Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries have announced the sale of their Virginia Wildlife 2018 calendar. Do you know which mammal can reach 400 lbs.? Or when cobia begin their run in the Bay? Or which duck is most abundant in North America?
The price is $12.95 and can be ordered at www.dgif.virginia.gov.
Outdoor Ukulele
Everyone loves spending an evening around a campfire, and what would be better than having an ukulele to strum. This one is waterproof and rough for the trail. Cost is $150 from www.huckleberry.com.
Trail markers
The perfect item for those that are in the woods on a regular basis. These come in handy not just for hunters but also those individuals that are hiking through the woods. A 10 pack runs $4.99. at www.mackspw.com.
X-socks
These are designed for hunting trips and deliver thermal warmth while reducing the incidence of blisters, bruising and muscle cramp through long hours in the outdoors. Cross material help to stabilize the ankles, heels and Achilles tendon. They are designed for those long walks in the woods. Priced at $35 and can be found at Cabela.com.
Grill floss barbecue cleaning tool
This could be the surprise of the list that no one knows about, but it could be the best thing you have ever used to clean your grill from all sides.
The price is $20 and available at www.grillfloss.com.
The Wonder Cart Table & Beach Cart
I know this is pushing the extreme for the outdoorsman since its created for use on the beach, but I had to include it because it’s such a great idea. Simply put, this is a utility cart that carries everything to the beach, and then after you unload everything, it turns into a table. You will be the envy of the beach. The price is $45.99 and available at www.riobrands.com.
Blackstone Tailgater Cooking Station
This item is great for camping and maybe even a Virginia Tech tailgate. It is a cooking station with two independently controlled burners and is of Blackstone quality. The grill has independently adjustable legs for that uneven ground of the outdoors. Available at Dick’s Sporting Goods for $199.
Zippo hand warmer
This could be one of the most important item ever in the arsenal of the outdoorsman. Can be purchased at Walmart for a price of $14-$20.
Hobo Utensil Kit
From Ka-bar, this is the perfect gift for all ages and includes a portable fork, knife and spoon with nylon carrying case designed for on-the-go or outdoor dining. The price is $17.99 and available at www.tacticalgear.com.
Camo sit and chill cooler
Provides both a place to sit while throwing a fishing line out to the water and a way to keep a few drinks chilled while having fun. It can be personalized with your favorite person’s name. Available at wayfair.com for $53.99.
Fish cuff links
This is something your outdoorsman will be the envy of. The detail shows reel and line and can be personalized. Price is $31 and available at etsy.com.
I ask that you remember the outdoorsman in the house this year, and maybe these gave you just a few ideas on what to buy them. Over the next two weeks, we will feature more items that could surprise that special person.
Also, if you have some unusual gift ideas please email me at NRVsports@ourvalley.org.
