The HuntFishTravel Show

Father’s Day is always a little bittersweet for me. A few years ago, I lost my dad — the man who not only raised me, but who also instilled in me a deep love for the outdoors. Growing up in the heart of Milwaukee, it might have seemed unlikely that hunting and fishing would play such a huge role in my life. But my dad made it happen. He always had a Jon Boat ready, and our trusty Winnebago meant we could escape the city almost every weekend to fish, hunt, and make memories that I carry with me every single day. He taught me patience, resilience, and how to appreciate the quiet beauty of nature. I miss him more than words can say. So this year, I’ve put together a gift guide filled with items I know he would have loved, gear that speaks to the bond we shared and the legacy he left behind.

All of these items can be found in list form here.

1. Outdoor Edge Fillet Knife Set

I recently had the chance to use the Outdoor Edge ReelFlex Pak during my trip to Devil’s Lake, North Dakota, and I have to say, I was seriously impressed. This fillet knife set includes three super flexible knives that made cleaning everything from perch to walleye quick and easy. The non-slip handles gave me great control, even when things got a little messy on the boat. The blades are razor-sharp, made from German 4116 stainless steel, and they held their edge beautifully throughout the trip. Everything comes in a sturdy hard case, which kept my gear neat and ready to go each day.

My dad was a passionate fisherman, and I know he would have absolutely loved this set. He always appreciated well-made, practical gear, and the ReelFlex Pak delivers exactly that. Whether you’re on the dock or out in the boat like I was, this set makes filleting fish feel less like a chore and more like part of the adventure.

2. GODMERCH Custom T-Shirts for Dad Grandpa, Personalized T-shirt Gifts for Dad

Sometimes, it’s the little things that really show someone you see and appreciate them. I found these GODMERCH Custom T-Shirts for Dad on Amazon and immediately thought of Aaron. We recently took emergency custody of his two kids, and watching him step into the role of full-time dad has been nothing short of incredible. The way he’s shown up, patient, loving, and completely committed, has blown me away. And if there’s one thing Aaron loves, it’s a silly, comfy t-shirt that makes people smile. These are customizable, so you can add names, dates, or even a funny phrase that fits your family’s personality. The material is soft and lightweight, perfect for chasing kids around, weekend errands, or just relaxing after a long day. It’s a simple, fun way to celebrate the kind of dad who shows up every single day, even when life gets hard.

3. OUTDOOR EDGE Razor APX 2.5″ Fixed Hunting Knife with Replaceable Blades & Sheath

My dad was the one who first taught me how to hunt, chasing whitetails and squirrels on public land in Wisconsin when I was just a kid are some of my best memories, I often think about those early, frosty mornings in the woods with him, learning patience, discipline, and respect for the outdoors. He was always interested in new gear, and I know he would’ve thought the Outdoor Edge Razor APX was seriously cool. It’s a compact 2.5″ fixed-blade hunting knife with a replaceable blade system that’s super sharp and incredibly convenient, no more field-sharpening needed. The ergonomic handle feels solid and comfortable in hand, and it comes with a secure sheath that makes it easy to carry in the field. I snagged one for myself and can’t wait to put it to use this fall. I have a feeling every time I reach for it, I’ll think of Dad and those early hunting lessons that shaped who I am today.

4. SPYPOINT Flex-S-Dark Solar Cellular Trail Camera

I had to throw this one in, yes they are the podcast’s title sponsor, but mostly because I’m obsessed with the new Spypoint camera and I know dad will love something like this. As a bonus, it’s Carrie-Proof!! You can watch the video here!

5. Dad Hat with Gift Box

If you’re looking for a fun and easy Father’s Day gift, this Dad Hat Gift Box is a great pick. It comes with a classic “Dad” hat and a few small goodies that make it feel special without going over the top. It’s perfect for the dad who loves keeping it casual and comfy. I could totally see Aaron rocking this on a weekend camping trip or while grilling in the backyard. It’s a lighthearted, thoughtful gift that shows you’re thinking of him…even if he already has everything.

6. MONTANA DECOY 23 Dreamy Doe Whitetail

I’ve been using Montana Decoy products for over a decade and they’ve never let me down. While they’re a partner of mine, they’re not a sponsor. I just genuinely love their gear and have trusted it in the field for years. One of my favorites this season is the 23 Dreamy Doe Whitetail Decoy. It’s incredibly realistic and lightweight, which makes it perfect for public land hunts where mobility matters. The detail and posture on this decoy are designed to spark interest from cruising bucks during the rut, and from my experience, it does exactly that.

If the dad in your life is a whitetail hunter, this decoy makes a seriously solid Father’s Day gift. It’s practical, effective, and something he’ll actually use this fall. Plus, it shows you know what gets him excited about the season.

7. Mens I Tell Dad Jokes Periodically T Shirt Funny Science Fathers Day Nerdy Graphic Tee

This “I Tell Dad Jokes Periodically” T-Shirt is perfect for the dad who loves science, bad puns, or ideally both. It’s soft, lightweight, and has just the right amount of nerdy humor to make everyone around him roll their eyes—in the best way. Aaron gets such a kick out of these kinds of shirts, and honestly, I do too. Whether he’s wearing it to a barbecue, a weekend camping trip, or just lounging around the house, it’s a fun and easy Father’s Day gift that’s sure to get a laugh. Sometimes the best gifts aren’t about utility—they’re about personality, and this shirt delivers.

8. DEWALT DCN680B 20V MAX* XR® 18 GA Cordless Brad Nailer

This DEWALT DCN680B 20V MAX XR 18 GA Cordless Brad Nailer might not scream hunting or fishing, but let me tell you, I used it to finish my office and podcasting studio and I absolutely love this thing. It’s powerful, easy to handle, and so much more convenient than dragging around a compressor and hose. Whether your dad is into woodworking, home projects, or just likes having the right tool for the job, this brad nailer is a total win. It’s one of those gifts that he might not buy for himself but will reach for again and again once he has it. If you’re looking for a Father’s Day gift that’s a little outside the box but seriously useful, this one is a great pick.

9. Dewalt Realtree Xtra Camouflage Heated Hoodie Dchj074D1 Blend Unisex

Every year I get a few new pieces of gear from DEWALT, and one of my recent favorites is the Realtree Xtra Camouflage Heated Hoodie. It came with two batteries, which is awesome because not only do I use them for the hoodie on chilly mornings in the stand, I can also swap them into my DEWALT Cordless Brad Nailer when I’m tackling projects around the house. The hoodie itself is perfect for those in-between temps during early bowhunting season or those rare warm days in rifle season where a heavy coat is just too much. It’s lightweight, comfortable, and the camo pattern blends in great. If you’re looking for a practical Father’s Day gift that works both in the woods and in the garage, this combo is a no-brainer.

10. Kaluns Grilling Accessories Kit

If the dad in your life loves to grill or even just loves to think he’s a grill master, this Kaluns Grilling Accessories Kit makes an awesome Father’s Day gift. It comes with 21 premium tools, all neatly packed in a durable case, so everything you need is right at your fingertips. My dad, bless him, was a terrible griller. When we went camping, his idea of a gourmet meal was Dinty Moore stew heated in the can over a campfire. He grlled steaks until they were well done hockey pucks… But I’ve grown to absolutely love cooking, and Aaron has taken it to the next level with his hilarious “On This Old Masterbuilt Grill” series on TikTok. This kit is perfect for dads who are just getting into grilling or those who’ve been flipping burgers for years. It’s practical, complete, and makes backyard cooking feel a little more official…and a lot more fun.

Bonus Section:

If your dad loves a good fishing story, this book is a must-read. You Shoulda Been Here Last Week: Stories from an Angler’s Life by Ted Rulseh is full of the kind of tales that make you want to grab a rod and hit the water. I had the chance to interview Ted and that episode drops on June 12, 2025. Be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss it.

And if he loves short stories, check out my collection of fiction!

An Eclectic Collection of Flash Fiction Vol 1 by Carrie Zylka

I’m truly grateful for every single person who listens, reads, and shares this journey with me. Losing my dad left a pretty deep hole in my life, one that will probably never go away. But whenever I’m out on the water or quietly tucked away in the woods, I feel him there beside me like he never left. Those moments bring me comfort and keep his spirit alive in a way that words cannot fully express. It is why I do what I do and why sharing these gifts feels so meaningful because it is a way to honor him and the incredible love for the outdoors that we shared.

If you decide to click through and pick up any of these gifts, I want you to know that I do earn a small commission. It does not cost you anything extra but it means the world to me and helps support the HuntFishTravel Podcast and blog so I can keep sharing this passion and these stories with all of you. Thank you for being part of this journey with me.