Whether it’s a bird, a plane, or something entirely different, you’ll know for sure once you peer through a pair of Commander XP binoculars. Developed by Steiner Germany, a binocular manufacturer for over 50 years, the XP’s “focal” innovation is in its new high definition, broadband optical formula - XP Optics. This technology features clear, sharp, high contrast images in daylight and record-setting light transmission in the dark.

Everyone’s a critic. Now you can be one too, using Active Captain Mobile, a free web service allowing boaters to share information and opinions about marinas, anchorages and the sea-going community at large. Looking for the best place to dock in the Bahamas? Active Captain has all the harbor information you need and the reviews to go with it compiled from boaters like you. The program can be accessed on a variety of mobile phones including PALM and Centro Smart-phones, providing users with a plethora of maritime information.

New from the Original Swimbait Company, the Castaic Rock Hard Series is the single most realistic swimbait ever made. The all-new hard body design is built to withstand the jaws of the biggest freshwater predators.

The Seaconqueror 5000T Sharkhunter is the latest evolution of the DOXA SUB series designed to meet the needs of professional mari “time” enthusiasts. Crafted from a single piece of stainless steel, and water-resistant to a depth of 5000 feet (1500-meters), the 45-millimeter Seaconqueror is aptly named.

How big was that marlin? Even as tales of record-breaking catches feed the imagination - and sometimes doubt - a picture is still worth a thousand words, while video is probably worth a million. That’s where Sanyo’s new Xacti camcorder comes in handy, allowing the user to shoot six megapixel digital stills or 640x480 resolution video of the one that didn’t get away.

Regardless of where on planet Earth you intend to ply your craft, no on-the-go tackle bag would ever be complete without a quality pair of pliers. This should be the first tool packed and for good reason. Pliers are extremely versatile and are constantly utilized for a multitude of purposes including cutting monofilament, braided and wire line, de-hooking fish, straightening hooks and tightening reel seats.

A travel-friendly, five-piece fly rod with the performance characteristics of a one-piece, now that’s something to get excited about! Fortunately for fly-fishing artists on every continent, leading manufacturers continue to introduce innovative products designed specifically with the traveling angler in mind. Take St. Croix for example.

Whether you’re involved in a heated battle with a giant marlin, handling sharp hooks or turning the day’s catch into fillets, gloves improve your grip and more importantly, protect your hands. When listing ‘Must Haves’ for any expedition, local or beyond, I make it a point to recommend packing gloves that are light, strong, flexible and designed for both fresh and saltwater use as you never know where your adventure may lead you.