Article by Larry Jock
Just when we thought those ugly, white framed sunglasses were going out of style, Costa has come out with a clear frame model called the Double Haul. I am a huge fan of Costa sunglasses and own several pairs myself, but when I saw the clear, nylon frames on the Double Haul, my first reaction was that they were hideous, but you know what, I must be wrong because local tackle shops can’t keep them in stock. They are literally flying off the shelves, and not from just young buyers, but from older folks as well.
Double Haul’s lightweight, clear frames significantly reduce the “raccoon eyes” look that plague many fishermen, although a very small number of wearers have complained about getting sunburned around their eyes since they don’t have the traditional, dark frames to shield the sun. The frames are large, so if you have a big dome like myself, they are very comfortable to wear and they also have patented vents that reduce fogging. Like most Costa sunglasses, they come with the non-slip rubber pads on the nose and arms so the fit is snug, but not too tight.
Double Hauls retail for between $179 and $249 depending on the lens you choose (400G, 580G, 580P) and can be found at several local tackle shops. You can also get them with prescription lenses as well. They are selling like hotcakes, so you better hurry to get your pair!
With the incredible popularity of Gulp! artificial baits, anglers are finding that combining a well made jig with some type of scent attractant really improves your success, so it’s not suprising to see more manufacturers taking this route. Over the summer, I received a sample of a new lure called the Oozie Jig. Basically, it is a skirted, metal lure with a curved body that has a hollow center for holding a replaceable cotton wick. This wick can be soaked with your favorite fish attractant, like bunker oil, or it can be removed and actually stuffed with chum. I didn’t get a chance to test the lure myself, but gave it to a buddy of mine, the Fluke Killer, who used it to catch flounder, weakfish and bluefish. The stainless steel lure can be casted, jigged or even trolled. I think it will be deadly when fishing for bluefish and casting to stripers in the fall.
The Oozie comes in 12 different sizes, ranging from 3/8 oz. to 16 oz. and retails for between $8.99 to $22.49.
They are definitely worth a try!
