Shopping for the outdoor adventurer in your household is an easier task than a person might think.

Most of the time, I believe too much thought can be put into purchasing a gift. True outdoor adventurers are not looking for the latest gadgets, the tried and tested equipment is always the best.

Anglers are usually the easiest to shop for. They are always talking about the gear they wish they had. Most of the time, anglers complain about gear — certain gear if they would have had on the last trip, the excursion would have been a huge success.

Rods and reels are always great gifts.

When shopping for them though I would go to a store that has a very knowledgeable staff and stay away from those that do not.

Ace Hardware, right here in Oak Harbor, has such a staff and a great selection of gear for local fishing.

When talking with the folks at Ace, you should have a general idea of the equipment you’re looking for.

Does your outdoor adventurer fish for salmon, trout, ling cod, halibut or bass? Do they like lighter tackle? These are some of the questions you might get asked.

All terminal tackle make great stocking stuffers, too. Hooks, lures, flashers, fishing line and anything else small enough to stuff a bunch of it in stockings is sure to put a big smile on their faces.

Hunters can be a bit more finicky about their gifts, so you really have to know what they are looking for. Giving them a catalog and having them make a “wish” list would probably be the best idea.

Clothing is a great idea, but I would stick with the under garments unless you know exactly what the hunter is looking for. Long johns, wool socks, and anything that will help keep them warm are always smart purchases.

Accessories are a good idea, too.

No hunter I know would balk at a nice hunting knife or a new set of two-way radios to use in the field.

There are countless items to look for, that if you spend a little time walking down the isles and talking to the friendly staff, you will be sure to find something you know that your outdoor adventurer will love.

Stay away from anything you find advertised on those annoying television infomercials.

The flying lure, the super-duper one rod that does it all and anything else you see in that genre is just money wasted.

Battery powered socks are way out there as well.

A little investment of time will make all the difference in the world and if all else fails, you can get them a gift card to their favorite store and let them decide for themselves.

There has been a lot of news these days regarding gift cards being purchased only to have the store close, but I am sure that Ace, Wal-Mart, Cabela’s, and the like will always be around for a long time so you need not worry.

Trust me, gift cards from stores such as these don’t stay un-used for very long.

Happy shopping to everyone and have a Merry Christmas.