Feature of the Week: Week of March 18

Department: Sunglasses/Gifts

Item: Costa Del Mar

Bass Pro Shops is known for selling the most popular polarized sunglasses; Costa Del Mar.  Did you know every pair of Costas is built by hand? This is why the lifetime warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship.  Costa will always be there for you if you ever damage your sunglasses as well.  Costas most high-tech lens, the 580G, is 20% thinner and 22% lighter than the average polarized glass.  This is only found in Costa Del Mar Sunglasses. 

When choosing what lens color for your Costa you have to consider the light conditions while you’re out.  There are certain lens colors which are great for dim light and others great for bright light.  The blue mirror is the best for brighter lights and the sunrise is the best for the dimmer lights.  So if you fish in the morning or evening the sunrise would be the better of the choices. 

The new 2013 models include:

The Conch

The Cat Cay

The Hatch

The Ansil

The Saltbreak

The Cayan

The Miss Britt

The Straits

The Tuna Alley

The Tower

The Inlet

"What to Wear Fishing this HOT Summer”

By Tom Branch, Jr.

Fishing in the summer can be fantastic, unless you choose the wrong clothing. For summer time fishing, you should be wearing clothing that will protect you from the dangers of the sun and still be comfortable fishing. The technology involved in creating a quality of summer clothing is incredible today. It wasn't too long ago that when I went fishing during the summer, I put on a baseball cap, tennis shoes, tee-shirt and blue jean shorts.  Back in the day there just wasn't the clothing available to fish comfortably and protect your skin as there is today. Manufacturers like Columbia, Simms, World Wide Sportsman and Bass King have created some excellent choices for the summer angler. Their clothing looks stylish and protects your skin from the dangerous UV rays put out by the sun, and it keeps you cool. In this article, I will go over what you should be looking for in good summer clothing while you are outside on the water or fishing from the bank. At the end of the article you will find some of the items I wear on the water in the summertime.


Sun Screen
Let’s start out by protecting your skin first. I like to use a sweat proof quality sunscreen that will bond to my skin on contact and won't run down my eyes and sting. You need to find a sunscreen that doesn't leave a greasy residue which could adversely affect your grip. Look for a formula make up that is oil free, hypoallergenic and waterproof. A good sunscreen should soak into your skin very quickly. I still have not been able to find a fragrance-free sunscreen for my sensitive skin, especially on my face and neck. In the summer time, I reapply my sunscreen every few hours. Two small suggestions, keep baby wipes in your boat for wiping your hands off after applying your sunscreen. Lastly, purchase new sunscreen every year, sunscreen does go bad.

Base Layers
A thin t-shirt should form your base layer while fishing in the summer. Try a specially treated 100% polyester fabric with 50+ UPF rating.  There are fabrics available out there that wick away moisture. My favorites are the fabrics that are made to be water repellent and stain resistant with anti-odor properties that will battle the outdoor elements alongside you. As this is the layer that will be directly next to your skin, it is important that the material can allow moisture to escape from your body. If sweat can dry on your skin, it can quickly make you feel cold.



Shirts
On top of this base layer, a top made from nylon will help to keep cool. Look for an ultra-quick-dry 100% nylon button up shirt that is light, breathable and has “Spills Technology” to ward off blood-and-guts stains. I chose the long-sleeve version because you can protect your arms and roll them out if needed. These style shirts are very cool to wear on the water. Many of them come with front/back ventilation that keeps air flowing even as the roll-up collar protects your neck from harsh UV rays. I prefer the muted grays and light blues instead of the bright color shirts. Remember when you are fishing shallow water you want to look like the sky. Light blues and grays blend the best, I call it sky camouflage. Many of the quality brand shirts now are offering an SPF factor to the shirt material. These shirts are quick drying and cool to wear in the hot weather.

Shorts
Long days on the water call for versatile clothes, and my preference are pants that have zip off legs like the convenient long pant style that convert to shorts. That way, I can have shorts on during the day and add the legs back on to the shorts if it gets cool on the return ride in the evening. Just like the shirt, listed above, remember to look at a stain resistance material. The short material has to have a minimum UPF 50+ sun protection. Wrinkle-resistant 100% nylon construction features allow these pants to travel in your luggage and still look good while on the water. My pants have to have plenty of pockets because I carry a lot of stuff on me when I am fishing. Now there are days when I just want to wear shorts and I leave the long pants on shore.

Shoes/Sandals
I have two shoes/sandals I wear when fishing in the summer, one is a flip flop and the other is a water shoe. Comfortable feet are a must when I am fishing. I want a lightweight sandal that has a soft foot bed. If you wear sandals, you want a flexible material, light weight and ventilated. The upper material should conform easily to your foot. If you want comfort on your feet, you must look forward to spending around $25. A quality product will also be UV-resistant, odor-resistant, slip-resistant and easy to clean. If I want to wear shoes fishing during the day, I wear a shoe that is made with waterproof materials. You want a shoe that will dry fast when it gets wet. My shoes have a drainage tunnel to remove water quickly from inside the shoe. That way, I am not sloshing around in my shoes, on the boat deck causing blisters on my feet. Try the shoes with elastic bungee lacing because you can pull them tight once they get wet and loose. Like any shoe on a boat, you want to have a non-slip and non-marking rubber outsole.

Hats
A hard hat liner might sound a bit unconventional, but it will keep your neck, ears and head warm in cold weather. In the summer, I wear a wide-brimmed hat on the water. This will guard against sunburn, overheating and overexposure to the sun. The preferred head covering is a wide bream hat, not a cap. Although the popular and seen-everywhere ball caps help some, a hat with a full brim is made to protect the head, face, neck and ears. Make sure the hat is made with a breathable material so your scrap can breathe. Keep in mind that water reflects the sun. It intensifies the effect of the rays, and even brings them up from the water surface to your face that is under a hat.

Gloves
Lots of anglers don't like wearing gloves while fishing, as it can make casting the rod and reeling in catches much more tricky. If you go on fishing boat trips, you'll probably want a pair though to keep your hands warm on the journey, before the actual fishing starts. However, in the summer time, you need protection on your hands. A few years ago, I had the chance to talk to Shaw Grigsby, and he told me once you had a skin cancer cell removed from your hand you will wear gloves all the time. The pain from the surgery is very bad, and it is so simple to put on a pair of gloves to protect you from the dangerous sun rays. The best gloves have a built-in UPF sun protection.



Sunglasses
 This summer I am wearing the Costa Rockport sunglasses. They are their newest rimless sunglasses from Costa Del Mar. These sleek, sporty shades are unique with full eye coverage and lightweight fit, without compromising durability. The Rockport sunglasses offer thicker, wider temples to block light from entering from the sides. These glasses will make you forget they're on. I wear 100% polarized lens because they block yellow light from entering the eye which eliminates glare. I really like the Rockport sunglasses because they fit my face properly. If the sunglasses are correctly fitted, it will allow the lens to breathe around your eyes. More than anything, this will not allow the sunglasses not to fog up when air is passing between your lenses and the skin about the eyes. Remember what I say about good sunglasses; you get what you pay for and you must demand quality!



Facemask
 The latest fishing crazy for summer time is the face covers or buff’s. Wearing one of these means you can wear it as a face mask to skip the sun screen in your face. No smelly stuff on your wonderful bait any more. The stretchy, seamless microfiber polyester buff’s fabric comes in different patterns and looks. The material is designed to wick moisture at the surface for lightweight and comfortable protection from sun and wind. These buff's may be worn comfortably as a neckerchief, scarf, headband or balaclava. They are perfect for fishing, hiking, paddling and many other outdoor activities. All of them machine wash, and you should allow them to air dry before the next usage. Another reason to wear this item is the bugs. My last trip out night fishing with all those tiny little gnats/bugs started buzzing around and getting in my face, nose and eyes I was covered with my buff. More than anything I really like all the different ways you can wear them!

Additional Extras
The number #1 most important thing we all should not go to the lake without is a good-quality life jacket. I must admit, I never go fishing or even just boating without wearing it; I love my family too much. Remember if you every fall in with all the above on, you must be able to swim. A live vest should be worn on top of everything else it is really hardly noticeable, and it could save your life.  I would recommend looking at the Mustang Survival Competition Inflatable PFD Vest; this vest cost $289. This type of life jacket inflates only under hydrostatic pressure. Just buy the automatic inflatable type vest, there is no substitute. The competition version of this vest is stylish. It features a secure zip closure that can withstand rigorous activity; heavy duty coated nylon for increased durability, and is very lightweight, comfortable, and compact. It will keep you on top of the water long enough to allow yourself to get back in the boat. Attach your kill switch to your life vest any time your gas motor is running.

Wearing the right clothes is essential for anglers, as it's inevitable that you're going to be spending large amounts of time sitting around in the sun. Even when you're actively fishing, there isn't that much physical movement involved, so you can't rely on this to keep you cool, in the summer. Please dress with protection and safety in mind!

 

What I use & wear:

• Coppertone Sport Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 50

http://www.drugstore.com/coppertone-sport-sunscreen-lotion-spf-50/qxp44855

• Bass King – BassTech Sun shirt

http://www.basskingclothing.com/shop/performance/bass-king-basstech-short-sleeve-

• World Wide Sportsman Nylon Angler Shirts for Men - Long Sleeve http://www.basspro.com/World-Wide-Sportsmanreg;-Nylon-Angler-Shirts-for-Men--Long-Sleeve/product/10231400/233891?cmCat=CROSSSELL_PRODUCT

• World Wide Sportsman Blue Water Amphibious Shoes for Men – Olive
•  
• Crocs™ Modi Flip Sandal for Men – Black
•  
• Hats
•  
• Gloves
•  
• Sunglasses - Costa Rockport
•  
• Facemask - Buff
•  
• Life Jacket - Mustang Survival Competition Inflatable PFD Vest with HIT
•  

 

About the author: Tom Branch, Jr. is a freelance outdoor writer, a full time Lieutenant/Firefighter-Paramedic with over 27+ years of service with the Gwinnett County Fire Service in Georgia and a part owner of Wave Away, LLC.  He has been working and consulting in the Outdoor Industry for over 17 years and is currently creating and managing a pro fishing team, developing new products, promoting products through demonstrations, designing packaging, and he participates in different forums, radio & television shows.  Tom and his wife, Kim are volunteers with Operation One Voice. They live north of Atlanta near Braselton, GA with their lab “Jake”.

Follow him on www.facebook.com/tombranchjr  and http://twitter.com/tombranchjr

Blog: http://outonalimbwithtombranchjr.blogspot.com/

 

 

"What to Wear Fishing this HOT Summer”

By Tom Branch, Jr.

 

Fishing in the summer can be fantastic, unless you choose the wrong clothing. For summer time fishing, you should be wearing clothing that will protect you from the dangers of the sun and still be comfortable fishing. The technology involved in creating a quality of summer clothing is incredible today. It wasn't too long ago that when I went fishing during the summer, I put on a baseball cap, tennis shoes, tee-shirt and blue jean shorts.  Back in the day there just wasn't the clothing available to fish comfortably and protect your skin as there is today. Manufacturers like Columbia, Simms, World Wide Sportsman and Bass King have created some excellent choices for the summer angler. Their clothing looks stylish and protects your skin from the dangerous UV rays put out by the sun, and it keeps you cool. In this article, I will go over what you should be looking for in good summer clothing while you are outside on the water or fishing from the bank. At the end of the article you will find some of the items I wear on the water in the summertime.


Sun Screen
Let’s start out by protecting your skin first. I like to use a sweat proof quality sunscreen that will bond to my skin on contact and won't run down my eyes and sting. You need to find a sunscreen that doesn't leave a greasy residue which could adversely affect your grip. Look for a formula make up that is oil free, hypoallergenic and waterproof. A good sunscreen should soak into your skin very quickly. I still have not been able to find a fragrance-free sunscreen for my sensitive skin, especially on my face and neck. In the summer time, I reapply my sunscreen every few hours. Two small suggestions, keep baby wipes in your boat for wiping your hands off after applying your sunscreen. Lastly, purchase new sunscreen every year, sunscreen does go bad.

Base Layers
A thin t-shirt should form your base layer while fishing in the summer. Try a specially treated 100% polyester fabric with 50+ UPF rating.  There are fabrics available out there that wick away moisture. My favorites are the fabrics that are made to be water repellent and stain resistant with anti-odor properties that will battle the outdoor elements alongside you. As this is the layer that will be directly next to your skin, it is important that the material can allow moisture to escape from your body. If sweat can dry on your skin, it can quickly make you feel cold.

 (Picture courtesy Bass King clothing)
Shirts
On top of this base layer, a top made from nylon will help to keep cool. Look for an ultra-quick-dry 100% nylon button up shirt that is light, breathable and has “Spills Technology” to ward off blood-and-guts stains. I chose the long-sleeve version because you can protect your arms and roll them out if needed. These style shirts are very cool to wear on the water. Many of them come with front/back ventilation that keeps air flowing even as the roll-up collar protects your neck from harsh UV rays. I prefer the muted grays and light blues instead of the bright color shirts. Remember when you are fishing shallow water you want to look like the sky. Light blues and grays blend the best, I call it sky camouflage. Many of the quality brand shirts now are offering an SPF factor to the shirt material. These shirts are quick drying and cool to wear in the hot weather.

Shorts
Long days on the water call for versatile clothes, and my preference are pants that have zip off legs like the convenient long pant style that convert to shorts. That way, I can have shorts on during the day and add the legs back on to the shorts if it gets cool on the return ride in the evening. Just like the shirt, listed above, remember to look at a stain resistance material. The short material has to have a minimum UPF 50+ sun protection. Wrinkle-resistant 100% nylon construction features allow these pants to travel in your luggage and still look good while on the water. My pants have to have plenty of pockets because I carry a lot of stuff on me when I am fishing. Now there are days when I just want to wear shorts and I leave the long pants on shore.

Shoes/Sandals
I have two shoes/sandals I wear when fishing in the summer, one is a flip flop and the other is a water shoe. Comfortable feet are a must when I am fishing. I want a lightweight sandal that has a soft foot bed. If you wear sandals, you want a flexible material, light weight and ventilated. The upper material should conform easily to your foot. If you want comfort on your feet, you must look forward to spending around $25. A quality product will also be UV-resistant, odor-resistant, slip-resistant and easy to clean. If I want to wear shoes fishing during the day, I wear a shoe that is made with waterproof materials. You want a shoe that will dry fast when it gets wet. My shoes have a drainage tunnel to remove water quickly from inside the shoe. That way, I am not sloshing around in my shoes, on the boat deck causing blisters on my feet. Try the shoes with elastic bungee lacing because you can pull them tight once they get wet and loose. Like any shoe on a boat, you want to have a non-slip and non-marking rubber outsole.

 (Picture courtesy of Crocs)

 

Hats
A hard hat liner might sound a bit unconventional, but it will keep your neck, ears and head warm in cold weather. In the summer, I wear a wide-brimmed hat on the water. This will guard against sunburn, overheating and overexposure to the sun. The preferred head covering is a wide bream hat, not a cap. Although the popular and seen-everywhere ball caps help some, a hat with a full brim is made to protect the head, face, neck and ears. Make sure the hat is made with a breathable material so your scrap can breathe. Keep in mind that water reflects the sun. It intensifies the effect of the rays, and even brings them up from the water surface to your face that is under a hat.

Gloves
Lots of anglers don't like wearing gloves while fishing, as it can make casting the rod and reeling in catches much more tricky. If you go on fishing boat trips, you'll probably want a pair though to keep your hands warm on the journey, before the actual fishing starts. However, in the summer time, you need protection on your hands. A few years ago, I had the chance to talk to Shaw Grigsby, and he told me once you had a skin cancer cell removed from your hand you will wear gloves all the time. The pain from the surgery is very bad, and it is so simple to put on a pair of gloves to protect you from the dangerous sun rays. The best gloves have a built-in UPF sun protection.

 (Picture courtesy of Strike King Fishing Lures)

Sunglasses
 This summer I am wearing the Costa Rockport sunglasses. They are their newest rimless sunglasses from Costa Del Mar. These sleek, sporty shades are unique with full eye coverage and lightweight fit, without compromising durability. The Rockport sunglasses offer thicker, wider temples to block light from entering from the sides. These glasses will make you forget they're on. I wear 100% polarized lens because they block yellow light from entering the eye which eliminates glare. I really like the Rockport sunglasses because they fit my face properly. If the sunglasses are correctly fitted, it will allow the lens to breathe around your eyes. More than anything, this will not allow the sunglasses not to fog up when air is passing between your lenses and the skin about the eyes. Remember what I say about good sunglasses; you get what you pay for and you must demand quality!

 (Picture courtesy of Costa Sunglasses)

Facemask
 The latest fishing crazy for summer time is the face covers or buff’s. Wearing one of these means you can wear it as a face mask to skip the sun screen in your face. No smelly stuff on your wonderful bait any more. The stretchy, seamless microfiber polyester buff’s fabric comes in different patterns and looks. The material is designed to wick moisture at the surface for lightweight and comfortable protection from sun and wind. These buff's may be worn comfortably as a neckerchief, scarf, headband or balaclava. They are perfect for fishing, hiking, paddling and many other outdoor activities. All of them machine wash, and you should allow them to air dry before the next usage. Another reason to wear this item is the bugs. My last trip out night fishing with all those tiny little gnats/bugs started buzzing around and getting in my face, nose and eyes I was covered with my buff. More than anything I really like all the different ways you can wear them!

Additional Extras
The number #1 most important thing we all should not go to the lake without is a good-quality life jacket. I must admit, I never go fishing or even just boating without wearing it; I love my family too much. Remember if you every fall in with all the above on, you must be able to swim. A live vest should be worn on top of everything else it is really hardly noticeable, and it could save your life.  I would recommend looking at the Mustang Survival Competition Inflatable PFD Vest; this vest cost $289. This type of life jacket inflates only under hydrostatic pressure. Just buy the automatic inflatable type vest, there is no substitute. The competition version of this vest is stylish. It features a secure zip closure that can withstand rigorous activity; heavy duty coated nylon for increased durability, and is very lightweight, comfortable, and compact. It will keep you on top of the water long enough to allow yourself to get back in the boat. Attach your kill switch to your life vest any time your gas motor is running.

Wearing the right clothes is essential for anglers, as it's inevitable that you're going to be spending large amounts of time sitting around in the sun. Even when you're actively fishing, there isn't that much physical movement involved, so you can't rely on this to keep you cool, in the summer. Please dress with protection and safety in mind!

 

What I use & wear:

·  Coppertone Sport Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 50

http://www.drugstore.com/coppertone-sport-sunscreen-lotion-spf-50/qxp44855

·  Bass King – BassTech Sun shirt

http://www.basskingclothing.com/shop/performance/bass-king-basstech-short-sleeve-

·        World Wide Sportsman Nylon Angler Shirts for Men - Long Sleeve http://www.basspro.com/World-Wide-Sportsmanreg;-Nylon-Angler-Shirts-for-Men--Long-Sleeve/product/10231400/233891?cmCat=CROSSSELL_PRODUCT

·   World Wide Sportsman Blue Water Amphibious Shoes for Men – Olive

http://www.basspro.com/World-Wide-Sportsman-Blue-Water-Amphibious-Shoes-for-Men-Olive/product/11092205011633/262879

·   Crocs™ Modi Flip Sandal for Men – Black

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B002JCSXN8/ref=asc_df_B002JCSXN82013602/?tag=hyprod-20&creative=395033&creativeASIN=B002JCSXN8&linkCode=asn&hvpos=1o2&hvexid=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=658671395238336150&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=

·    Hats

http://www.ebay.com/itm/FISHING-SUMMER-HAT-LONG-NECK-FLAP-3-BRIM-GRAY-/310410081295?pt=US_Hats&hash=item4845e1f40f#ht_500wt_1180

·    Gloves

http://www.basspro.com/Glacier-Glove-Abaco-Sun-Gloves/product/10215364/229994

·    Sunglasses - Costa Rockport

https://www.costadelmar.com/shop/sunglasses/rockport

·   Facemask - Buff

http://www.basspro.com/Limited-Edition-Bass-Pro-Shopsreg;-Largemouth-Bass-Buffreg;/product/10225011/130591?cmCat=CROSSSELL_PRODUCT#description

·  Life Jacket - Mustang Survival Competition Inflatable PFD Vest with HIT

http://www.basspro.com/Mustang-Survival-Competition-Inflatable-PFD-Vest-with-HIT&153;-Model-MD3183-BC/product/98131/119097

 

About the author: Tom Branch, Jr. is a prostaffer for Bass Pro Shops in Atlanta, GA, a freelance outdoor writer, a full time Lieutenant/Firefighter-Paramedic with over 27+ years of service with the Gwinnett County Fire Service in Georgia and a part owner of Wave Away, LLC.  He has been working and consulting in the Outdoor Industry for over 17 years and is currently creating and managing a pro fishing team, developing new products, promoting products through demonstrations, designing packaging, and he participates in different forums, radio & television shows.  Tom and his wife, Kim are volunteers with Operation One Voice. They live north of Atlanta near Braselton, GA with their lab “Jake”.

 

Follow him on www.facebook.com/tombranchjr  and http://twitter.com/tombranchjr

 

Blog: http://outonalimbwithtombranchjr.blogspot.com/

 

As a fisherman I believe in sunglasses for more than one reason. For years I went fishing without sunglasses, not knowing the damage that the sun could do to my eyes. The same UV rays that bleach out the seats in your boat, fade the paint on your vehicle and burn your skin can cause serious damage to your eyes. Most vehicles today have what they call ‘Solar Ray’ glass which filters out most of the harmful UV rays. But in our boats, we have no protection so it is very important to wear sunglasses that have a UV protection. Some of the glasses can cost upwards of $300 or more like, Costa Del Mar, Maui Jim, Wiley-X, Oakley, Flying Fisherman and so on. These brands make some real high quality and very nice eye wear, but you do not have to spend a small fortune to protect your eyes. Flying Fisherman also makes some very affordable, nice eye wear as well for under $30. Bass Pro Shops XPS also makes some very nice sunglasses with the UV protection you need and in a large variety of styles. BPS even has the ‘Fish Eyes’ line that has a magnifying bifocal to help you tie your favorite knot without changing to your reading glasses. I use these because of some of the damage I did to my eyes when I was younger and thought I was indestructible. Head to your closest Bass Pro Shops and talk with our friendly and knowledgeable associates who will help you find the right eye wear for you and your budget. Remember to be safe and courteous on the water, protect yourself and others. Always use sunscreen on your skin and polarized sunglasses with UV protection for your eyes.

 Bass Wishes;

Bert Gibson

Kenny's Costas are here!

Costa Del Mar has continued its partnership with Kenny Chesney, releasing several special edition frames, and a portion of those precedes will go to benefit the Coastal Conversation Association (CCA).  Last year's models raised over $50,000 towards costal repair and protection efforts by the CCA, and this year is shaping up to be even bigger!

This year's frames are the Caballito, Hammerhead, Hammock, Maya, and Switchfoot.  There are several special edition colors for these frames, including Ocean Blue Caballito, Sand White Hammock, Bay Green Maya, and Coral Pink Switchfoot.  The real kicker to these is the specail edition cleaning cloth, neoprene strap, carrying case, and hat, which are included with the glasses, for the same price as a regular pair of Costas!  Lens options for the Kenny Costas are limited however, with only the 400p, 400g, and 580p available, with no 580g options.  These come with the same limited lifetime warranty that all Costas have, against parts and manufacturing.

These are selling fast and we won't be getting more in until next year, so don't wait and snag yourself a pair before they're gone! 

Luke Farabee

Sunglass Department

Spanish Fort, Alabama

Attention fishermen, hunters and all outdoor enthusiasts.   If you are in need of a great pair of sunglasses come on in to Bass Pro Shops.  We carry a great selection of sunglasses to cover all of your needs.  We have glasses from Costa Del Mar, Oakley, Maui Jim and Wiley X.  For those of you that wear prescription glasses we have Cocoons that fit over your glasses for that additional protection from the sun.  We also carry glasses that some of the famous Bass Pro Anglers, including Jimmy Houston and Bill Dance.  Look in our store for our sunglass racks you will find glasses on them from Bass Masters, Columbia and Polorvision.  For those of you that need a little help seeing the fine line when tying knots or just out on the boat with a good book we also carry polarized bi-focals.   In addition to many more sunglasses Bass Pro Shops also carries accessories to go with your sunglasses to keep them protected and safe when they are not being used.

 

Now that I have told you what we carry. let me tell you about some of the benefits.  Using polarized sunglasses helps to cut the glare when you are out on that beautiful lake catching fish, looking up in the sky to get those birds, across the field watching the deer come in makes the experience that much better when you don’t have the sun getting in your eyes.  It also protects your eyes from harmful rays from the sun.  My husband has owned a pair of polarizes glasses for years and will not go out fishing without them, they help him see into the water and keeps the glare off the water if he is using a bobber to fish so he doesn’t miss a hit on the line.

So if you are in need of a new pair or just want to see what we have stop on bye our Gurnee store.  If you have any question, please just ask any of our associates and they will be more than willing to give you a hand in selecting a pair that is just right for you.

Hope to see ya soon!!!!!!!!!!!

by Terri Angelos

Plan on spending your weekend out on your new boat enjoying the Florida lifestyle? How about flats fishing for that elusive redfish or snook? Whether you’re just protecting your eyes from the harsh conditions of the Florida sun or sight fishing like the professional captains do, Costa Del Mar sunglasses gives you the clarity and protection needed for any outdoor activity. It is a scientific fact that the glare coming off of the water is twice as harmful for your eyes as the sunlight itself, which is why it’s important to wear a quality pair of sunglasses. Backed by their superb lifetime warranty, and with their patented polarized technology baked into every lens, it’s hard to find a better brand of sunglasses on the market.

Two important things should be noted before purchasing a pair of Costa Del Mar Sunglasses: 
1. Lens Material:  Costa Del Mar makes three patented lenses (400G, 580P, and 580G). An easy way to remember what ‘P’ and ‘G’ stand for is simple—plastic and glass.
a. 580P is the new lens material Costa Del Mar came out with in 2011. It is the most durable lens Costa makes. Built with the ANSI certified Z87.1 material, the standard for high-impact resistant lenses, these lenses can be used for sports and everyday wear alike.
 
b. 400G is the lens Costa was founded on and got their name from. No plastic lens anywhere can touch the clarity a glass lens can give. Period. The 400G is extremely scratch resistant and has superb clarity.

c. What separates Costa from other brands is their patented 580G lens. 580 is the spectrum of light that actually reduces the light in the yellow spectrum. Yellow light is the toughest light for the human eye to process; therefore, the 580 lens eliminates the yellow light, and increases red, green, and blue spectrums of light. The 580G lens is the lens worn most by charter captains and fishing guides to spot fish.
 
2. Lens Color:
a. Green Mirror, Silver Mirror, Copper, and Amber lenses are used primarily for inshore fishing and low light conditions. These lenses specialize in making colors ‘pop out’ that would otherwise be unnoticed to the naked eye.

b. Blue Mirror and Gray lenses keep everything natural and doesn’t enhance contrast, but they are the most comfortable for offshore fishing because they are the darkest lens and help keep your eyes comfortable even during the harshest light conditions.
Sporting the largest selection of Costa’s anywhere in Southwest Florida, our friendly and knowledgeable staff at Bass Pro Shops of Ft. Myers can help you find the perfect pair of sunglasses that fits your situation. And if we don’t carry a particular style you’re looking for? No problem, we can special order—at no extra cost—any lens and frame combination Costa makes available to the public.

 

-Kevin Ballantine, Sunglasses

You know, Kenny is ok in my book!

I got a nice note and picture from my friend Liz at Full Circle PR the other day I wanted to share with the Costa Nation and my fishing friends.   Full Circle PR, is the marketing company for Costa Del Mar sunglasses.  The photo was taken earlier this week of country music superstar Kenny Chesney and Amanda Perryman from Costa Sunglasses.  Kenny and Amanda are presenting a check for $50,000 to Pat Murray to benefit the Coastal Conservation Association.  These funds were raised through sales of the Kenny Chesney Limited Edition Costa Sunglasses throughout his “Goin’ Coastal” concert tour last year.

Coastal Conservation Association (CCA) is to advise and educate the public on conservation of marine resources.  The objective of CCA is to conserve, promote and enhance the present and future availability of these coastal resources for the benefit and enjoyment of the general public. 

CCA is good group in my eyes because they help us all catch more fish!  So a big thanks goes out to Kenny and the folks at CCA.......

You can read more about Coastal Conservation Association at: http://www.joincca.org/index.html

Also don't forget about our friends at Costa - join the nation of Costa! http://www.costadelmar.com/

 Thanks for reading….. BRANCH   

Follow us on www.facebook.com/tombranchjr  and http://twitter.com/tombranchjr   

The new Costa Del Mar styles have arrived just in time for the 2012 Spring Fishing Classic.

The Rockprt is a light-weight, rimless 580P with a large fit. This and several of the rimless styles are now available in a blue mirror lens.

For the  fashion minded, try out the new Hammock and Las Olas. For the early morning fisherman, Costa Del Mar is reintroducing their sunrise lens. This yellow lens is a high contrast lens that enhances depth perception.

We have something for everyone here at the Dania store with our wide selection of Costa Del Mar sunglasses among other brands.

Ask a variety of anglers to identify their most important piece of equipment and you’ll get a variety of answers. In my opinion, the most important piece of equipment you should take on the water with you is a quality pair of polarized sunglasses.

 

We’ve all had to shield our eyes from sunlight reflecting off the water or “glare.” Glare is caused when reflected light aligns horizontally, in high concentrations. Polarized lenses block this horizontal light that is being reflected towards our eyes. Glare on the water’s surface is also removed, leaving clear vision and the ability to “see” through the water.

 

The benefits of polarized lenses are the ability to see through the surface of the water and protection of your eyes.  Polarized lenses first became available in 1936, when Edward Land began experimenting with making lenses using his patented Polaroid filter.  Quality polarized sunglasses are relatively easy to find.  Some of the more popular brands include Oakley, Ray-Ban, Maui Jim and Costa Del Mar.

 

Seeing through the water’s surface allows you to spot fish, locate underwater structures and identify changes in depth. Polarized lenses help protect the eye from ultraviolet radiation.

 

Lenses are available in a variety of colors, each with different advantages depending on the conditions in which you’re fishing.

            Gray: General purpose tint, good choice for sunny and bright days.

            Brown: Best compromise between color and contrast. Good for sensitive eyes.

            Copper: Best on cloudy or overcast days.

            Amber: Enhances available light, good for dusk and dawn.

 
Find a pair of sunglasses that fits well is another consideration.  The frames should fit snugly on your nose and ears, but not pinch or rub. The weight should be evenly distributed between ears and nose.

Finally, like any other pieces of fishing equipment, there are accessories to consider.  If your sunglasses didn't come with a hard or padded case, buy one. This will protect from scratches and crushing, and will help keep your lenses clean. A microfiber cleaning cloth will prevent lens scratches and a retainer or neck strap is practically a requirement.

A polarized pair of sunglasses is just as important as your tackle and rods. Choosing the right pair will protect your eyes from the elements (and the errant mis-cast) and help you catch more fish!

There comes a time in most everyone's life where they need to use reading glasses.

It can be frustrating when you are in the boat and changing back and forth from sunglasses to reading glasses and back to sunglasses. For things like tying knots or being able to read your electronics, or if you are in your car, trying to see your GPS or your phone (which we all know is a no-no but we still do it), well the solution to your problem is sunglasses with readers.

You can get some of your favorite sunglasses with readers. Maui Jim has 2 of their most popular styles (Ho'okipa and Makaha) available with 1.50, 2.00, or 2.50 power. With a hidden bifocal encased in a lightweight polycarbonate lens, you get the quality and clarity of a Maui Jim polarized sunglass with the benefit of a reader.   

We all know what a great lens Costa Del Mar has and now you can get the Costa Del Mar C-Mates in some of your favorite styles like Fathom, Pescador, Isabella, and others. They are available in a 1.75 or 2.50 power.
                                                          

We have a variety of brands and styles to fit everyone's price range.

Karla Collette
Sunglass Lead
Dania, FL

How many times have you laid your sunglasses down in a restaurant or Bar and walked out realizing that you left them. "TOO LATE".  Or you have been in a boat running along, turned your head, and off they go.  "TO THE FISHES".

Well, one simple thing could have saved your glasses.  A sunglasses retainer.  Most cost under $10.00.  An inexpensive insurance policy.

With the very large selection of brands and styles we have available I am sure you will find one you like.  We have the new mono filament and thin cables that are strong and lightweight.  Also, soft cotton or neoprene.  And we have a full line of sunglasses accessories.  Such as cases, visor clips, cleaners and microfiber cloths, cap clips and much more.
Remember that pair you lost over the side of the boat?  We even have retainers that float!

TESTIMONIES

Our customer Scott wore his Costa Del Mar (Triple Tails) Tarpon fishing.  This particular day he did not put his retainer cord on.  When he reached over the side to release the Tarpon his sunglasses fell in the water.

Our customer John with Florida Fillet Tables has had the same pair of Costa Del Mar (Sandman) for nine years.  He has never lost or damaged his glasses because he always wears the Costa Keeper cord.

Our customer Dylan and his Dad went out in their airboat, Dylan set his sunglasses on the seat and his Dad started the airboat and took off "so did Dylan's sunglasses".  He wished he had worn a sunglasses retainer that day.

What is the difference between an “off the rack” pair of sunglasses verses a pair of Costa Del Mar sunglasses. The difference is in the technology which provides more polarization, protection and durability. Costa Del Mar’s 580 lenses are100% polarized and block 100% of UV rays, protecting your eyes from the sun’s harmful effects. Durability is in the sturdy frames and C-Wall coating on the 580P lens. C-Wall coating repels water, oil, dust, and resists scratches. Along with great lenses and comfortable frames Costa Del Mar backs their sunglasses with a lifetime guarantee on manufacture defects. So that is worry free wear with a great look. With the newest and largest selection to choose from Bass Pro Shops has what you want. If it’s not here we can get it!

 

Now what’s right for you!

Gray:
Perfect all-around choice for sports on water and land. Maintains color saturation and natural contrast in medium to bright sun conditions.
Available in 400 and 580.

 

Amber:
Excellent all-around lens that delivers the brightest field of vision. Great choice for sight fishing, driving and everyday activities where high contrast is needed.
Available in 400 only.

 

Copper:
Made for sight fishing, driving and everyday activities. Cuts glare and enhances contrast and color, providing eye comfort in any conditions.
Available in 580 only.

 

Green Mirror (Amber Base in 400 and Copper base in 580):
Encapsulated mirrors offer enhanced visual acuity for fishing inshore, flats, rivers and streams.
Available in 400 and 580.

 

Blue Mirror (Gray Base):
Made for the open water. Encapsulated mirrors deliver maximum contrast and color in full sun while eliminating glare.
Available in 400 and 580.

 

Silver Mirror (Copper Base):
Encapsulated mirrors optimize light transmission and enhance colors. Perfect for freshwater sight fishing or any outdoor activity with variable light.
Available in 580 only.

 

Lens Information

Glass:
the most optically correct lens material offering the purest vision. Our LightWAVE^TM glass lenses are 20% thinner and 22% lighter, and still exceed federal standards for impact resistance. Available in 580G and 400G.

CR-39®:
exceptional resolution in the most optically correct, lightweight and scratch-resistant plastic lens material out there. Available in 400P.

Polycarbonate:
Just like Costa 580G glass lenses, our Costa 580P polycarbonate lenses block yellow light, boost red and green light. They are the clearest lenses on the planet.

LIGHTWEIGHT - The reason people love polycarbonate lenses in their sunglasses is first and foremost because they're lightweight. With 580P, they can now get Costa 580 clarity in a pair of sunglasses that's so lightweight they might forget they're even on.

IMPACT RESISTANT - We know the type of people that wear Costas and we know the type of things they spend their time doing. Costa 580P lenses have been tested to meet or exceed the rigorous impact standards set forth by the American National Standards Institute, including ANSI Z80.3 and ANSI Z87.1.

DURABLE - For the 580P lens we developed a proprietary coating called C-WALL™. The C-WALL™ coating is a molecular bonding process with an oleophobic, hydrophobic hard coating that repels water, oil, dust and scratches. Our customers work hard and play hard, and 580P is ready.

 

Dionne Meras
Sunglasses Specialist
San Antonio, Bass Pro Shops

There is no question that the most effective way to fish for bonefish in the Florida Keys is from a skiff. Optimally the skiff is being maneuvered by a highly skilled and experienced guide. There are those times when that situation is just not an option. Wading for bonefish is certainly one of the purest forms of hunting with a fishing rod. Stealth, skill and nerve all come into play when you enter the environment of the Florida Keys bonefish. For now we will discuss basic clothing and eye wear necessities. 



Top quality polarized sunglasses are a must. While sight fishing, a light brown or amber lens provides the best contrast while looking for fish on the flats. Look for frames that prevent at least some of the sunlight from entering the sides. I recently got a new pair of Costa Del Mar Blackfin sunglasses, black frame with the 580 Green Mirror lenses. They are perfect for bonefishing. When you look at a bonefish, you would think that it should be easy to see a bright silver fish in the water. That is not the case. The silver scales actually act like a mirror of it's surroundings. A hat with a dark color on the underside of the brim is a necessity as well. The style of hat that works for you is a personal choice. Most often, I prefer to wear a cap and also wear a Buff to protect my nose, ears and neck from the sun.
A cap clip comes in handy as well. It does not prevent your hat from blowing off but at least you don't have to swim after it.

Proper footwear is important as well. Going barefoot or wearing "flip-flops" is a bad idea.
You must protect your feet from the sun, urchins, jagged coral remnants, mantis shrimp and numerous other things that you would surely rather not have to describe to the doctor in the emergency room. Full coverage shoes that will survive a saltwater soaking are the way to go. World Wide Sportsman Flats Boots provide lightweight and inexpensive protection. The close fitting high tops of these boots helps to keep silt, sand and little critters from entering. Wearing socks is another consideration. Some anglers like to wear them to avoid the chaffing that can result from wearing shoes in saltwater. It is worth trying for yourself.

Shirts and pants or shorts made from polyester or nylon provide good sun protection and dry quickly. Some prefer the familiar comfort of cotton but keep in mind that cotton will not provide good protection from the sun when wet. A few of my personal favorite fishing shirts include the World Wide Sportsman Grande Banks, Columbia Tamiami II, World Wide Sportsman XPS Performance Crew and Columbia Skiff Guide II. Call me superstitious if you like but I don't wear bright colors while fishing inshore. I believe that wearing colors that blend in with the sand, seagrass or sky give me a better chance to get within casting distance of very wary fish in shallow water. I have talked to some people that thought that fish are color blind. Fish see colors extremely well and their sense of smell is better than a dog's. It is also a good idea to use an unscented body soap like Hunter's Specialties Scent-A-Way Bar Antibacterial and Deodorizing Soap. Islamorada bonefish don't get to 10 pounds and bigger without knowing that the smell of body soap and coconut sunscreens means hooks are about to be thrown their way.
Pants are another matter of personal preference. Keep in mind  that wearing full-length pants while wading are a little less stealthy. You are going to make more noise in the water with long pants and the fish may not like the smell of your laundry detergent.  I prefer to wear shorts but I do not wear sun block because of the smell they put into the water. A great compromise would be to wear convertible pants like the World Wide Sportsman XPS Pants. They feature zip-off legs and zippered mesh vents from calf to the cuff. Don't forget to protect your hands. They are very vulnerable to sun damage. Sun gloves are very light weight, breathable and dry quickly while offering UPF 50 protection. I recommend buying them one size bigger than you usually wear. They are constructed with nylon Lycra so they will be close fitting yet stretch. Getting one size larger than you normally wear will make it easier to remove them without ripping the seams apart when they are wet.

In Part Two we will discuss spin fishing and fly fishing equipment for bonefish. Thank you for your interest. For more information, give us a call at World Wide Sportsman in Islamorada, Florida, (305) 664-4615.

By: Matthew Hartzog

So, what is all the hype about when we hear the name Costa (formally Costa del Mar)?  Let's start off first by discussing Costa's reputation.  Costa is regarded as having an outstanding evaluation in the public eye and is possibly the most popular name in the sunglass industry.  They've done this in an industry in which they must compete with such megaweights as RayBan, Oakley, and Maui Jim just to name a few.  When reviewing some differences in quality, craftsmanship, and overall performance we start to look at sunglasses which fit our specific needs.  Furthermore, when it comes to sunglasses some of the specifics we look for are things such as polarization, clarity, amazing color and contrast (our perception).  Getting even deeper involved you may also want to select glasses based on weight, whether they are safety rated by ANSI, durability and most importantly COST!

When it comes to polarization, Costa offers amazing technology fully polarizing all of their lenses with 100% polarizing film of pure PVA iodine dye.  This is especially distinguishable for fisherman who particularly need top grad polarized lenses so that fish will not get out of sight.  Next we look for lenses that are clear with the least amount of imperfection and color distortion possible.  That's why Costa offers two lines of lenses, the 580 which is a high performance, high technology line and then the 400 which is more affordable but is still "built to perform."

The 580 line offers a yellow light filter that eliminates yellow light--which distorts colors that are most significant to outdoorsmen, especially fishermen.  Filtering out the yellow light gives the 580 lens the ability to emphasize red, blue and green.  This gave birth to the name 580, as it blocks all light in the 580 nanometer range of the light spectrum, which is almost entirely yellow light.  If the weight of the 580 seems to be much, they also offer the 580P.  These are a polycarbonate lens with is ANSI tested, shatter-resistant and durable plastic lens.

Overall, we have learned that Costa has proven "all the hype" it has been given by going above and beyond to provide an excellent 100% polarized and UV protected lens in a lightweight, durable and most importantly AFFORDABLE pair of sunglasses!  Come see us at the Prattville Bass Pro Shops and try on a pair today!

 

Many people believe the most important aspect of choosing sunglasses is how they look on our face and are they stylish! I have tried on every pair of sunglasses at my local Bass Pro Shops while researching this article. More than anything I wanted to know how each pair looked on my face, how they fit and were they comfortable.  Narrowing down your choices in advance can save you a lot of time, aggravation and cash. For me personally, I want a comfortable pair of glasses that will not fog up and that will help me see fish in the water. The intense rays from the sun can damage our eyes so you should always wear sunglasses to protect them. All sunglasses are designed to protect your eyes from the harmful rays of the sun and provide some level of protection from airborne debris and flying objects.

 

*Photo courtesy of Solar Bats

First, you need to determine your face shape and understand which eyeglass frame styles and colors would look best on you. Is your face round, oval, oblong, narrow forehead with wide cheeks or a wide forehead with slim cheeks? You might even have a diamond shaped face or a square shaped face? If you are not sure or just confused at this point, then let’s start with some basics first:

Here are 4 questions to ask yourself about a sunglass purchase:

1. Do my sunglasses line up with my eyebrows?
2. Am I happy with the shade color of the lens?
3. Do you like the sunglass style you have chosen?
4. Does sun light penetrate the frames on the sides of the sunglasses?

Some of the most important things I look for in my sunglasses are that they always have 100% UV protection. I like my sunglasses to fit properly. If the sunglasses are properly fitted, it will allow the lens to breathe around my eyes. More than anything, this will not allow the sunglasses to fog up when air is passing between your lenses and the skin around the eyes. If you are a boater or fisherman I would recommend looking for an impact-resistant lens, this protects your eyes from all sorts of injuries while fishing or boating. The frames should have spring hinges that will stand up to rough treatment. If you wear prescription glasses, many of the top sunglass manufactures: Maui Jim, Costa Del Mar and Solar Bats will make you an awesome pair of prescription sunglasses for a minimal additional fee.


*Photo courtesy or Maui Jim

When buying sunglasses I would suggest starting with a budget in mind prior to purchasing a pair of quality sunglasses. Many of the top brand sunglasses today can range from $20, up to $300. I recommend staying away from buying sunglasses online; because you cannot check the fit properly. Even thou you might save a few dollars; trying them on first is very important. I want to touch the frames, feel them, see through them and confirm the fit on my face. If you want to look for a cheaper price on the World Wide Web, write down the exact model name and code to search for them online. One last warning about purchasing online – be careful of cheap imitations. All the top sunglasses companies will have a good return policy and normally an awesome warranty.

So now that you know how much you are going to spend and what shape frames you need. Now you must determine which lens color to choose? The color of the lens depends largely on personal choice, style, fashion and purpose. I am all about purpose; if you are looking for style you are reading the wrong article. The most popular colors are varying shades of grey and brown’s as they provide a more than adequate level of shade to the eyes without distorting the natural colors. All the top companies also offer a variety of lens colors. Below are some tips I have learned about choosing the right lens color for an active outdoorsman or woman:

• ·        Grey lenses are for true color definition in bright light conditions and cuts the glare from the water's surface.
• Brown lenses is the best color overall because it allows the wearer the widest light spectrum through to the eye, while blocking blue light and offering optimum contrast. Brown is great for applications where distances need to be constantly judged, like tennis or golf or skiing or other sports requiring acute visual perception and contrast differentiation. Brown is also best for lower light situations, like fishing in the late afternoon or early morning.
• Green lenses offer some contrast enhancements with minimal color distortion.
• Orange, Amber and Yellow lenses have the best contrast enhancement at depth perception but cause some color distortion.
• Yellow lenses are commonly used to heighten contrast without blocking too much light, and it is commonly used for shooting and skiing on cloudy days.
• Blue and purple lenses are overall worst color of all for the wearer because it enhances blue light which creates more glare. If you like blue as a fashion choice, consider a custom-made lens tinted brown but with a blue flash mirror coating.
• Clear lenses are used typically to protect the eyes from impact, debris, dust, or chemicals.
  

Photo courtesy or Costa Del Mar

Maui Jim, Costa Del Mar, Solar Bats and Strike King sunglasses are all great choices because they all come with many different styles of frames and tints. This allows you to choose what will work best for your particular outdoor activity. Whatever brand you choose, make sure to do your research, stay within a budget and get a professional to assistance with the fit.

The process of choosing sunglasses can be confusing and frustrating, but remember GOD only gave you one set of eyes and you must protect them for a lifetime: so don’t skimp on a quality pair of sunglasses if you want to be a winner!

About the author: Tom Branch, Jr. is a freelance outdoor writer, Prostaffer Bass Pro Shops - Lawrenceville, GA  and a full time Lieutenant/Firefighter-Paramedic with over 25 years of service with the Gwinnett County Fire Service in Georgia. He has been working in the Outdoor Industry for over 15 years and has done everything from successfully managing and developing a pro fishing team, developing new products, designing packaging, participated in different radio & television shows as well as helping develop Writer’s Conferences. He and his wife Kim live north of Atlanta in Braselton, GA with their 2 labs Jake and Scout.

Follow him on www.facebook.com/tombranchjr  and http://twitter.com/tombranchjr

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By Joe Cole   

It is almost summer and the days are getting longer. That means you need to get out and upgrade your eyewear! Whether or not you fish, hunt, boat, camp, hike or simply drive around town, the correct eyewear will improve your performance and offer great styles to your summer wardrobe. No doubt polarized lenses help you see through the glare on the surface of the water, but there is more to these tools than catching more fish. In fact, I can't seem to go outdoors without one of my 6 pairs I use from Costa del Mar, to Maui Jim, to Smith optics, finding the right pair for the situation is critical.

The first thing to understand is that there are several lenses for several applications.
1. Grey lenses (sometimes accompanied with a blue mirrior tint as seen above) offer a lower light emission for those bright days when you might find yourself on the open ocean. These are designed where sunlight is at a maximum and offer great protection

.

2. Copper/Rose tinted lenses (Sometimes accompanied by green mirror as seen above) offer low light emmision but allow colors such as greens and reds to "pop" out more giving a vibrant picture. These lenses are the best for inland fishing in lakes and just enjoying the natural colors an beauty the outdoors have to offer.

3. Brown/Amber (sometimes accompanied with a silver mirror) offer medium to low light emmission suitable for conditions where the sun isn't always in your eyes. These are the best all around glasses for driving, hiking, and fishing when the light conditions vary. The Costa Del Mar Wingman glasses as pictured to the right are my "go to" glasses for anything around town and just a drive through the country side giving me the best contrast and color of them all.

These being the main three lens options, it isn't hard to see why an avid lover of the great outdoors would be able to utilize several pairs to enhance their performance to changing enviornments and circumatances. Choosing frames from metal designer to lightweight titanium or plastics also meet the need for those who rather not remember they are even wearing sunglasses or for those who remain physically active.

So the next time you visit Bass Pro Shops, skip past the departments and go directly to the sunglasses counter and upgrade your eyewear, because seeing them is believing in how much they will help you see the outdoors the way they were meant to be seen with all the natural colors nature has to offer. You might just find yourself picking out several just as I did!

Don’t forget about Dad!

Father’s day is June 19 and what better way to show your Dad you care than with a gift he will actually want. Bass Pro has a great selection of gifts for any outdoorsman. For the fisherman who has it all why not get him the new XPS Therma-Cool color-block crew or polo. This is a great new shirt that not only has antimicrobial and moisture-wicking but also has a UPF of 50+ to keep Dad safe from harmful UV rays. So while Dad is out there trying to catch the big one you will know he is cool, dry, and protected.

 

You can also stop by the sunglass department and check out some of the new summer models that are being released by all the major brands including: Costa del Mar, Maui Jim, Under Armour, Wiley X, and Oakley. No matter what outdoor activity that dads into, a good pair of polarized sunglasses will always make the difference in comfort and protection. 

The gifts department also has a great display set up for all those perfect last minute gift ideas for all the other dads in the family. Everything ranging from stylish new Bass Pro Watches, cell phone covers, tumblers, to all kinds of other great novelty items, don’t get caught up with the usual tie or shirt that you know your dad will never wear. Stop by and find something you know he’ll not only enjoy but love to use as well.

 

Happy Father’s Day!

For the springtime and cool summer mornings we’re carrying light weight nylon windbreaker jackets by Columbia in our Clothing department.  If you’re looking for waterproof, we carry nylon jackets very similar in our Rainwear department that are also by Columbia.  Columbia’s Omni Tech is waterproof, windproof, and breathable.  They are great for golfing, hiking, and a lot of people buy them for cruises whether it’s Alaska or Mexico.  It’s a great product, come check out the selection!

Columbia Arcadia Omni-Tech Rain Jacket for Ladies

Columbia Omni-Tech Greene Trail Jacket for Men

As we head into the “dog days of summer” sunglasses continues to heat up.  Costa Del Mar has released some new frame styles and the response has been overwhelming.  Released less than a year ago, the “Corbina” frame with glass lenses is currently the leader of the pack, with eighty pairs sold since the first of the year.  Maui Jim has also continued to thrive with new styles arriving daily such as the Guardrails and Punchbowl.  Please remember the importance of wearing polarized sunglasses especially in the Florida sun.

Costa Corbina 580 Polarized Sunglasses

Maui Jim Guardrails Polarized Sunglasses

Maui Jim Punchbowl Polarized Sunglasses

Stan Fagan
Team Lead
Sunglasses