PRODUCT REVIEWS

Headlamp for night fishing / crabbing...

http://www.rei.com/product/791313/petzl-tikka-xp-2-led-headlamp

Compact knife sharpener......

Got this at Redwood Trading Post in Redwood City. I've had for a while and finally got to use / test it today. Got a bunch of worn out kitchen knives and went to work. I was not disappointed 


http://www.redwoodtradingpost.com/

The swiveling joint on these pliers will not rust, the jaws are rust resistant metal not plastic, and they float. Even with the leash they float. I had a pair of the plastic jawed ones and the jaws wore out. So far these are not showing any signs of wear. These are the 9" long model. jim

thanks for the review.  my local sports store has them on clearance for $5.  I was thinking of getting it but decided not to.  After this review, I might have to reconsider my initial decision.  Only thing is, this doesn't have a ring splitter and a crimping tool.  how are the cutting blades?  have they gotten any duller since your post?

I carry a nail clipper which I use for cutting line so I seldom use the cutter on the pliers. Last year I bought a Boomerang pliers to demo. I like the built in retractor on the Boomerang but not the aluminum jaws. They get gouged easily......because they are soft aluminum. The jaws on the Xtools pliers are more durable.

Xtools pliers are more durable.

Be aware that these Xtools dont aways float. I watched with my own eyes when one of our members tossed it to another and missed the catch and we watched this thing disappear into the depths. 

That's weird. Not a problem for me though since I use the Hobie retractable leash which is clipped to the yak.

Thor-Lo Socks

I can't say enough about these socks.  I carried a dozen pairs with me in Iraq in 2005, through less than ideal washings I sitll have them.  I use them still when I hike, motorcycle ride, fish and wear them under my neoprene foot warmers and dive boots.  They give you extra padding for walking, warmth when you are int he cold and they never really feel to hot.  I would give thor-lo's a 5 star rating, well made and bes tof all made here int he USA!

Xtools pliers are more durable.

Be aware that these Xtools dont aways float. I watched with my own eyes when one of our members tossed it to another and missed the catch and we watched this thing disappear into the depths. 

I'm no expert on the matter but I came across this from a boat forum....

Re: flotation foam replacement??
Forget the foam and pack it with 1 and 2 litre plastic soda or water bottles. I've seen so many of the foam flotations that have waterlogged and rotted everything. The foam you would want to use is CLOSED CELL. Most everything you see out there is OPEN cell (great stuff) one prick of the "peal" and it becomes a big sponge. The styrofoam is attacked by petroluem products. Using the water and soda plastic bottles keeps everything dry and provides you with good floatation. They are impervious to most everything and they are Cheap.

Product: Oneill Thermo-X
use: for layering during cold weather fishing.

I've had mine for over a year now and I'm loving it! It's water repellant, wind proof, wicks the sweat off your body, keeps you warm, quick drying and does not chaff. Wear it under your farmer john and you're good to go!

* You can also use it as a base layer when your skiing / snowboarding or even riding your scooter during the winter months

* I've also used 'em when swimming in the outdoor pools during winter time.

* They come in long sleeve, short sleeve and vests.

my score:   

* The thermo-X is back !!! Oneil discontinued it for a while but now it's back !!! Aquan Sports in San Carlos has 'em in stock. IMO, It's much better than the mysterioso version.

http://www.oneill.com/#/men/europe/collection/men/wetsuits/surf/core_insulative_layers/thermo_x_ls_crew/black/

After a day of Norcal kayakfishing, paddle boarding, snowboarding and freediving... feet are frozen....wear these! Super warm / super comfortable and much cheaper than Uggs

Bear Paw - available at Big Five sporting goods

I went back to the Boomerang pliers cause they fit better in my hobie side pocket due to their internal/built in retractor taking up no extra space. The cutters are great for cutting braid with no problem and the jaws are holding up better than I initially thought they would. jim

Good to have for fresh water fishing 

bent nose "de-hooker" with scissors


http://www.drslick.com/catalog/clamps/scissor-clamp

The fisherman's Solution by CutCo.
Has an extendable stainless blade; pivoting sheath that doubles as a gripper; built-in, notched line cutter and sharpening stone with hook point sharpener. All stainless hard wear with thick rubber straps. Cam-lock safely secures blade from 6" to 9" - the best part!

My wife bought this knife for me after she went to a cutlery party. She called me on the way home and told me about it. I was thinking "crap" but a nice gesture. I got it and this thing is sweet. I've had it for over two years and sharpens to razor edge and holds well. I give it 4.5  not 5, cause it doesn't fillet my fish for me.

http://www.cutco.com/products/product.jsp?itemGroup=5721

Oh, made in the US and lifetime replacement.

mobile gear hauler

The wheels and extendable handle is a plus. You can use it as a bench too. I'm gonna punch some holes on the side to get some ventilation to keep the mold away/mildew and stink away.

Xtools pliers are more durable.

Be aware that these Xtools dont aways float. I watched with my own eyes when one of our members tossed it to another and missed the catch and we watched this thing disappear into the depths. 

Mine went straight to the bottom of the Port. Gently rolled over the edge of my kayak and kept going. Never even tried to float.