2012 Gear: a Fly Shop Owner’s Preview

For the first retailer’s perspective on new gear for the year, we quote David Leinweber, owner of Angler’s Covey fly shop in Colorado Springs, who picked a few items from the 2012 line-up for Angling Trade’s retail group discussion (all items seen at last week’s Outdoor Retailer trade show in Salt Lake City):

“Geigerrig – Simply the best hydration system I have ever seen. You can pressurize the bladder, wash it in the dish washer and filter water right out of the stream… In my mind was the best at the show.”

“Repel – They have a ‘Gear Smart’ version of insect repellent that will not harm your fly line.”

“Fikkes – Interesting idea. A portable fly rod in a walking stick.”

“Luckybums – I really like their cheap kids vests.”

“Tearepair – Interesting peel and stick tape for quick wader repair. We plan to test before we buy.”

“Rum Reggae – A few good fish prints…. Will add to our clothing selection to add color and pop.”

“High Range Designs – a good selection of T-shirts with fish prints,”

“National Geographic Maps – Plan to add a full selection of Colorado maps to our store. They have a great POP display to handle all their maps.”

“Lilypond – Sells well with our women’s collection and adds color.”