Scott Radian Fly Rod

The reinforced carbon and specialized taper of this fly rod make it a two-for-one deal—you get the power to throw big bugs like streamers or bust casts through a headwind, and also the finesse and feel to handle tiny dry flies and make delicate presentations. It’ll add distance and accuracy to your cast. $795

Bluesmiths

Kanaha Shirt

Originally designed for windsurfers in Hawaii, this lightweight, breathable shirt repels both sun and water, keeping your core temperature in the comfort zone. It’s ideal for situations where the splashes come in fits (the water beads off), but it doesn’t restrict your range of motion like a heavier raincoat would. $90

Grayl G3+ Filtration Cup

Simply fill with river water, plunge the filter through the canister (like a French press), and you’ve got a pint of clean drinking water in seconds. The filter takes out bacteria, protozoa, metals, and other nasty things. No tablets, no sucking drops through straws. Sealable lid; 300 uses per filter. $70

LED Lenser H7R.2 Headlamp

A great combination of beam power (300 lumens) and stamina (up to 60 hours), the H7R.2 can light a path or campsite, or even stop critters in their tracks. It’s comfortable to wear, and you can dim it so your campmates won’t be seeing spots. Recharge it through a USB port or use four AAA batteries. $94

Keen Class 6 Sandals

The only thing worse than coming up bust on a fishing trip is doing so with soggy, cold feet. These lightweight sandals are made of amphibious materials, so they dry quickly. The solid tread is great for scrambling over slippery rocks, and their adjustable heel straps keep them snug enough to avoid blisters. Best of all, they float. $90

Marmot Eclipse 3P Tent

With backcountry tents, it’s all about the weight-to-space ratio. At a mere 5 pounds, this shelter can sleep three (snugly) or one big guy and all the river gear he wants to keep dry. Aside from being light and roomy, it’s intuitive and easy to set up in minutes—without having to pull out the manual. $439

Cabela’s XPG Storm’s Edge Stretch Jacket

You don’t need to splurge for a dependable, lightweight rain jacket. The XPG can be crushed into a small dry bag or backpack, and it works great when the skies open up. The shell is made from stretchable material that improves range of motion and minimizes chaffing when you’re paddling. $130

Smith Optics ChromaPop

Chief Sunglasses

When you’re picking your way downriver, you want to see through the surface glare to spot submerged rocks and deadfall. Without polarized lenses, that can seem like staring at a sheet of tin foil. These particular lenses present the trues colors possible, making submerged objects (including fish) literally “pop.” $209

YETI Tundra 45 Cooler

If you spend enough time on boats—from the tropics to bass lakes to guide rafts in the Rockies—you’ll notice plenty of YETI coolers. That’s for one simple reason: They keep ice frozen longer than almost anything else out there. Yes, they’re bulky and heavy, but they’re also bear-proof and (seemingly) bomb-proof, so those are concessions worth making, even on a backcountry canoe trip. $350