Reviewed this week

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GRUNDENS

Bedrock wading boots

If you’re an angler who spends long hours on the water, comfort and durability are your top priorities when selecting a wading boot. Grundens’ Bedrock wading boots tick both boxes.

The boots are true to size and provide snug ankle support, but without feeling too stiff or restrictive. The ergonomic cushioned insole is comfortable, making it easy to walk over rocky terrain for extended periods without discomfort.

The outsoles are a standout. The boots feature a high-traction rubber sole with deep lugs that securely grip slick surfaces. You’ll feel stable and confident walking on moss-covered rocks. Excellent traction means that you’ll have fewer worries about slipping - and be able to concentrate more on your fishing.

After 8 weeks of testing, the boots held up exceptionally well, showing almost no signs of wear.

Compared with the competition, Grundens have managed to produce a fairly lightweight boot (760gr per unit) – again, a big plus when hiking long distances.

If you’re looking for a mid-range boot, the Bedrocks are a solid choice that offer the right balance of comfort, durability, and performance.

Other things we liked:

  • Uppers are made with strong, breathable materials that keep feet cool even on warmer days.

  • Padded tongue and collar provide extra cushioning.

  • Flexible yet supportive overall structure, great for rocky, uneven riverbeds.

  • Construction quality is evident in the stitching and materials.

  • Quick-dry feature.

  • Accepts studs (sold separately).

  • Felt sole available.

  • Attractively priced.

Tested on multiple trips on rough terrain.

Highly recommended.

DR. SLICK

Microburst plier

Many anglers overlook the importance of quality pliers until they actually use a great pair.

I tested Dr. Slick’s Microburst series compact pliers and they exceeded expectations. The materials, machining, construction and finish are all top-shelf, the pliers operate smoothly and have a balanced feel.

This particular model occupies a sweet spot in the market. They’re not as delicate as standard forceps, yet they don’t have the heft of traditional fishing pliers. The compact 1 ½” jaws are aggressive enough to tackle both delicate and tough tasks without feeling cumbersome, and the robust tungsten carbide side cutter effortlessly slices through heavy mono and braided lines, thanks to its 70+ Rockwell hardness. Rubber frame grips round out the package and provide excellent control, even in wet conditions.

Measuring just 5 7/8” in overall length, these pliers are perfect for travel and come with a lanyard and robust holster. They went through a rigorous 90-day testing period with zero failures. If you’re looking for reliable fishing pliers, the Microbursts will serve you very well.

Spare set of jaws and cutters included.

Attractively priced.

Makes an excellent holiday stocking-stuffer.

Highly recommended.

AIRFLO

Superflo Ridge 2.0 Super Trout fly line

The Superflo Ridge 2.0 Super Trout was used for 7 weeks, it excels in key areas like sensitivity, stability and precision. 

This line transmits very subtle taps, allowing you to react faster. This level of sensitivity is perfect for fishing in conditions where transmission is critical, such as clear, calm waters.

The ridge texture sets the line apart and serves two purposes (note: parallel ridges run the entire length of the line and are not diamond-shaped like some other lines on the market).  They reduce friction to really improve casting distance and help with fly placement accuracy.  Notably, the line also reduces twists and tangling – an all-too-common part of long fishing sessions. The result is a smooth, hassle-free fishing experience that allows you to focus on fishing and not on line management.

Outstanding abrasion resistance is part of the package (much time was spent fishing rocky shorelines - we intentionally don’t treat our lines very kindly during testing sessions).

As per Airflo: What started life as a long belly tournament line has quickly become an in house favorite for just about any trout fishing situation. Super Trout is great for delivering close up, but with its long extended head gives incredible aerial control and allows super long range mending on nymph/indicator rigs.  

The above checks out.

Whether you're fishing a quiet stream or a fast-moving river, the Superflo Ridge 2.0 Super Trout will enhance your fishing experience. This line delivers on all fronts, and it's well worth considering.