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If your dad says he doesn’t want anything for Father’s Day this year—he’s lying. Dads are notorious for brushing off Father’s Day gifts and claiming they don’t need anything, when in reality, they love accumulating gear. Luckily, if your dad is an outdoorsman, you can give him something he’ll use during his favorite pursuits, whether it’s the best hunting jacket
or a brand new Yeti cooler
.
But no matter if it’s hunting, fishing, camping, grilling, or boating—we have you covered. The editors here at Field & Stream worked together to compile this mega list of the best Father’s Day gift ideas for dads who love to spend time outside. It’s one of the biggest gift guides we’ve ever put together and we’re confident you’ll find something on here your dad will love.
How We Picked the Best Father’s Day Gifts
Some of us are dads, some of us have dads—but regardless of which camp we fall into, all of us at Field & Stream are experts on all things outdoor gear, whether it’s for deer hunting or bass fishing or something else entirely. We used our own personal experience with products along with hours of research into reviews, ratings, and trends to narrow down the best of the best for this Father’s Day gift guide.
Hunting Gifts
**Best Hunting Jacket: Sitka Gradient Jacket
**
I picked up the Sitka Gradient Jacket for warm early season hunts, but I ended up wearing it just about everywhere. The Berber fleece lining provided just enough insulation to cut the chill, without making me sweat setting decoys or retrieving ducks. If Dad gets in on early teal, wood ducks, or resident Canada seasons, grab him this excellent layering piece this Father’s Day. —Joseph Albanese
**Best Baselayers: Ibex Men’s Woolies 2 Baselayers
**
Sure, it’s June, and it’s way too hot for baselayers. But you can earn double the gift points on this Father’s Day gift: once when you give it to Dad on the 19th, and again, when he walks to his treestand on opening day and it’s 15 degrees outside. The Ibex Woolies 2 are my favorites, bar none. They’re the perfect weight, super comfortable, and made of not-itchy merino wool, so they can be worn for days and not stink.—Matthew Every
Best Mosquito Repellent: Thermacell MR300 Portable Mosquito Repeller
Nothing ruins an outdoor adventure quicker than biting insects. Fortunately, the Thermacell portable mosquito repeller exists. The heat-activated repellent works quickly to create a 15-foot zone of protection and runs for 12 hours on a single cartridge. Bonus: There’s no spray or scent involved—perfect for when you’re out in the woods.
**Best Travel Bag: KUIU Waypoint Duffle Bag
**
Does your dad go on a lot of hunting trips? If so, he most likely needs a good bag to hold all his gear. I used the Waypoint 5500 Duffle last fall on a week-long duck hunting/steelhead fishing trip and it was big enough to fit all of my hunting clothes, hats, socks, accessories, and more.—Ryan Chelius
**Best Gun Case: Filson Gun Case
**
Filson’s rugged twill gun cases
are as good-looking as they are functional. Something dad might want to pass down when he hangs up his hunting boots (wink, wink). The abrasion-resistant twill is quieter than a hard case, and it’s capped, handled, and slung with bridle leather that will hold up over the years. If Dad’s more of a waterfowl hunter, Filson also makes a Dry Bag Case
that has similarly premium detail.—Luke Guillory
**Best Ear Protection: ISOtunes Defy Slim Earmuffs
**
If your dad is looking to spend time on the skeet field this summer, first share this story
with him (to help improve his shot), and then gift him the Defy Slim Earmuffs. This electronic hearing protection amplifies sound until it’s time to pull the trigger. I gave my dad a pair for Christmas, and our days at the range are more enjoyable now because he can actually hear what I’m saying. They’re extremely lightweight and run on 2 AAA batteries. I find them extremely comfortable to wear at the range or in the duck blind, and everyone I’ve recommended the Defy Slim to has loved them so far. If he doesn’t like wearing full-blown earmuffs while shooting, then splurge a little and get him the Caliber BT earplugs
. Either way, he won’t be disappointed. —RC
**Best Cold Weather Gear: Sitka Fahrenheit Jacket
**
The Sitka Fahrenheit Jacket served me well as both a layering piece and stand-alone hunting jacket
through some wildly variable conditions last duck season. Even when the mercury dropped way down low, I was warm and comfortable thanks to the ample Primaloft/down blend insulation and Gore-Tex wind-resistant shell. If your Dad hunts in cold late-season conditions, this jacket will quickly become his favorite. —JA
**Best Backcountry Pack: Alps OutdoorZ Extreme Commander X
**
Give your dad a gift that keeps on giving with a sturdy hunting pack
to get his trophy out of the backcountry. The Alps OutdoorZ Extreme Commander X is built for hauling heavy loads with an intentional design to help keep the pack close to your body. It’s as comfortable as it gets, with several adjustable straps to help secure the load and prevent any shifting.–Meg Carney
**Best Sun Protection Shirt: KUIU Gila Long Sleeve Crew
**
Show Dad you care about him—and his skin—by getting him a high-quality synthetic sun shirt like the KUIU Gila Long Sleeve Crew. It’s breathable, solidly constructed, and rated to UPF 50+, meaning it will get the job done on even the sunniest days. If your dad doesn’t hunt, the shirt comes in three solid color patterns perfect for general summer adventures. —Sage Marshall
**Best Hunting Pants: Sitka Equinox Turkey Hunting System
**
After a week hiking around the Catskill Mountains in early May to test out the new Sitka Equinox turkey hunting system, I loved how comfortable and lightweight everything was, including the Equinox Guard Pant, which is engineered with insect shield protection and bite reduction fabric. It helps limit skin exposure with built-in leg gaiters. If your dad turkey hunts, this clothing system is for him. —RC
**Best Muck Boots: Chêne Scout Boot
**
The new Chene Scout Boot features the same design concept from one of the best duck hunting waders. These comfortable boots feature a neoprene foot and ankle and a fully waterproof design that allows you the benefits of knee-high rubber boots without the accompanied bulkiness. Any duck-obsessed dad will love to have these in his truck. —RC
**Best Hunting Gloves: Stone Glacier Altimeter Gloves
**
I know it’s only June, but I can guarantee your dad is already thinking about hunting season. So help him get excited about punching a tag early this year by gifting him the Stone Glacier Altimeter Gloves. These waterproof, breathable shells are made to protect your hands from the brutal cold that accompanies fall hunts. And don’t let the word “shell” fool you, the Altimeter Gloves feature insulated liners to keep your hands warm and dry. They will also keep his hands functional while glassing for game in the bitter cold, and when it comes time to pull the trigger, he’ll be able to do it without missing a beat. —RC
Fishing Gifts
**Best Rain Fishing Gear: Simms ProDry Fishing Jacket
and Bibs
**
Don’t let bad weather ruin Dad’s fishing trip by getting him some of the best fishing rain gear
. I’ve been using the Simms ProDry Fishing Jacket and Bibs on adventures ranging from hard water panfish to striped bass on the north Atlantic, and have remained comfortable and dry the entire time. After wearing them in sideways rain, bitter cold, and howling 50 mph winds I can say that this is the best rain gear I’ve had the privilege of using, and I’ve had quite a few sets in my lifetime.—JA
**Best Fly Rod: Maine Fly Co. Custom Rod
**
When it comes to performance, these rods hold their own. My custom 4 weight performed well all day on the famous Magalloway River. It mends line like a charm and showed its versatility when I switched from nymphing to streamer fishing. It’s hard not to love a rod that is built specifically for you. Put Dad’s name on a rod and he’ll never leave it behind. —RC
**Best Fishing Sunglasses: Costa Lido
**
I’ve enjoyed Costa’s line of fishing sunglasses
since I tried my first pair years ago. The excellent lenses help me pick fish out against the trickiest of backdrops, and prevent eye strain during dawn to dusk sessions. If your Dad enjoys time on the water, get him a pair of Costa’s new Lido performance sunglasses, which blend style with fishing-specific features, like top and side shields to help keep light from leaking in. —JA
**Best Fishing Shirt: Gill XPEL Tech Hoodie
**
Give Dad the gift of long days on the water without sunburns with a quality fishing shirt
like this lightweight hoodie. It’s built with the hottest days in mind, with breathable quick-drying fabric that protects you from the sun’s rays. It also features a full-coverage hood that ensures the vulnerable skin on your neck doesn’t get crispy during a full day of throwing crankbaits.—JA
**Best Fishing Guide Service: Guidesly Fishing Trip Service
**
Plan the fishing trip of a lifetime with Dad with the Guidesly app. It allows you to connect directly with trusted fishing guides, see bodies of water, check weather reports, and find the right guide for your type of fishing whether it be saltwater, freshwater, or wading. It’s a great last-minute gift, too.—RC
**Best Fishing Knife: Shun Classic 6-Inch Boning and Fillet Knife
**
This Japanese-made boning and fillet knife
will give Dad a touch of luxury when he’s prepping his catch for dinner. The stiffness actually makes it a more versatile knife, and the short length is countered by a wonderful shape—allowing you to make those sweeping fillet cuts. —LG
**Best Waders: Simms Freestone Waders
**
These fishing waders
might be the one piece of gear I’ve recommended the most. I’ve been using them for over five years on hot summer days and snowstorms in the dead of winter, and (knock on wood) they have yet to spring a leak. I could tell 1,000 stories about the waders surviving sharp rocks, bad falls, and not-so-great care, but you only need to know one thing—they’ll keep Dad dry.—RC
**Best Fishing Sweater: DSNY Fish Crewneck
**
Upgrade Dad’s off-duty attire—a.k.a. whenever he’s not on the water—with this fishing-themed crewneck. Available in men’s sizes XXS to XXL, it’s made of soft French terry cotton that’s perfect for breezy summer evenings.
**Most Comfortable Fishing Sunglasses: Bajio Palometa Sunglasses
**
These are the most comfortable pair of fishing sunglasses I’ve ever worn. The medium size frame is a perfect fit for my face, and the polarized rose mirror lenses helped me easily see fish on the flats. I recommend getting your dad the glass lenses because they’re less prone to scratching, offer greater durability, and personally, I find them easier to see through. The rubber nose pads and temple tips help keep the frames snug on your face for all-day comfort. —RC
Best Boat Accessory: Baby Searock Swing
If you’re looking for a great first Father’s Day gift idea for a dad who loves spending time on the water, the Baby Searock Swing is it. This swanky boat swing is an easy and safe way for Dad to take his little one on their first fishing trip together.
Camping Gifts
**Best Camping Gadget: Thermacell MR450 Portable Mosquito Repeller
**
If your dad hunts, fishes, or spends any time outdoors, mosquitos are an annoying part of his life. Using a non-toxic tincture, this portable Thermacell repellent
creates a 15-foot scent-free zone of protection against biting insects for up to 12 hours. A belt clip lets Dad keep it on him while he’s on the stream, chasing gobblers, or manning the grill.—JA
**Best Backpacking Meal: Good To-Go Dehydrated Meals
**
These dishes taste exactly like they would if I (or more accurately, someone that can cook better than I) had prepared them from scratch. Because they’re created with real ingredients, Dad can have risotto that tastes like it was whipped up at a 5-star restaurant and not with his Jet Boil in the middle of an elk hunt. Get him a variety of flavors so he can eat great wherever his next adventure takes him. —JA
**Best Camping Stove: MSR Windburner Stove
**
Help Dad level up his outdoor cooking with one of the best camping stoves
. The MSR Windburner is a compact stove perfect for backpacking that’s incredibly efficient—it will bring water to a boil in less than a minute. It comes in 1- and 1.7-liter models. —SM
**Best Camping Sleep Setup: Cabela’s Camping Cot
**
This heavy duty PVC-backed nylon is as comfortable as you’ll get in the backcountry, and the bedside organizer will become something he can’t live without. Phone, book, toiletries, knife, even a beverage—it’s all in one place that’s not a plastic bag he’s tossed in a corner somewhere. Bonus if you get him a cozy sleeping bag
for on top.—LG
**Best Camping Chair: Nemo Stargaze Recliner
**
Everyone enjoys a comfy camping chair
, and this one is hard to beat. It utilizes a suspension system that allows you to recline by simply leaning back and has an adjustable headrest that provides support exactly where you want it. The ensemble packs down small so Dad can easily take it with him on just about any adventure.—JA
**Best Axe: Gransfors Bruks Small Forest Axe
**
Odds are pretty good that Dad already has an axe
or two laying around, but he probably doesn’t own one this nice. The 19-inch-long handle provides enough leverage to make short work of felling and splitting tasks, but remains nimble enough to tackle limbing chores when it’s time to clear shooting lanes. And at only about 2 pounds, Dad will hardly notice it lashed to his pack.—JA
**Best EDC Knife: Benchmade Bugout EDC Knife
**
Every outdoorsman needs a great EDC knife and the Benchmade Bugout tops them all. The lightweight design is what makes the Bugout a pleasure to carry. It has a 3.24 inch stainless steel blade paired with a lightweight grivory or carbon fiber handle. I keep one strapped to me whether I’m on a boat, in the woods, or going for a simple hike. Benchmade offers multiple colors for the blade and the handle. —RC
**Best Water Filter: LifeSaver Wayfarer Water Purifier
**
If your dad spends any time in the backcountry—whether it be hiking, hunting, or camping—then he needs a LifeSaver Wayfarer. Clean water is the lifeblood of a successful backcountry adventure, and the Wayfarer makes sure you won’t become dehydrated. Now, I could list all the impressive facts about how this water filter kills all different types of bacteria, viruses, and cysts, but here’s all you need to know—as long as you’re near a water source and have a Wayfarer, then you have safe, clean drinking water. It weighs 11.4 ounces and includes a hose to draw the water from a source and an easy pump to filter it. —RC
Everything Else
**Best Drinkware: Yeti Custom Rambler
**
The only thing better than a Yeti mug is a customizable Yeti mug. Have Dad’s name or initials put on the crazy popular Rambler tumbler and he’ll never go anywhere without it.—RC
Best Pellet Smoker and Grill: Traeger Pro 575
Any Dad would be thrilled to get a brand new Traeger pellet smoker and grill for Father’s Day. The Traeger Pro 575 is one of the most popular, with an app that allows you to control it from anywhere and a roomy 572 square inches of cooking space that can fit up to 24 burgers.
Best Travel Bag: Filson Medium Rugged Twill Duffle Bag
This stylish yet rugged duffle bag is as appropriate for Dad’s next hunting trip as it is for a work trip. Made with waxed twill and bridle leather, it has a large 43-liter capacity that can hold all of Dad’s essentials.
**Best Booze: Pendleton Midnight Whisky
**
Nothing says “I love you Pop” quite like a bottle of whisky. If Dad is an outdoorsman with a few summer adventures lined up, consider Pendleton Midnight, which is 90 proof whisky made with water from Oregon’s Mount Hood and aged for over six years in American brandy bottles. It’s a sweet but smooth whiskey with a nice mellow kick.—SM
**Best Meat Thermometer: Meater Plus
**
Overcooked meat is the worst and undercooked meat is dangerous. Dad won’t ever have to worry about his grilling skills again with this Bluetooth meat thermometer. The Meater Plus is completely wireless with a 165-foot range of accurate temperature reading. It has dual temperature sensors that monitor internal and ambient meat temperatures.
**Best Pocket Knife: James Elko Knife
**
No matter how many pocket knives
Dad has, he could always use one more. The James Elko Knife features a touch of class, but won’t look out of place in a blue collar setting. Complete with a titanium keyring and sized to disappear among your keys, the 1.75-inch Sandvik 12C27 drop-point blade easily tackles the day-to-day tasks that seem to pop up out of nowhere.—JA
**Best Pellet Smoker: Traeger Pro Pellet Smoker
**
The feature-rich Traeger Pro won our “Best for Beginners” award in our testing of the best pellet smokers
. Its control panel is incredibly easy to use, it can hit 500°F for searing, and, like all Traeger grills, it’s built to last. Still, a veteran pitmaster will love the ease of use for casual grilling, and Dad will never have an easier time smoking the perfect backstrap.—LG
**Best Truck Gift: DECKED D-Box
and Crossbox
**
I installed my DECKED drawer system
in the bed of my truck years ago and haven’t looked back. The drawers allow me to separate, organize, and secure my equipment and he D-Box is a stackable storage bin that fits perfectly into the DECKED system. These accessories are perfect to help keep Dad’s truck organized. —RC
**Best Portable Solar Generator: Goal Zero Yeti 200X Power Station
**
Whether on a road trip, out camping, or as a backup at home, having a solar generator
around is handy. If your dad wants a power station that can charge small electronics, the Goal Zero Yeti 200X is an excellent choice. It is compact and easy to transport, making it a great option for RVs, car camping, and basecamp. You can charge headlamps, GPS, cell phones, and more, collecting power from the sun.–MC
Best Cooler: Yeti Hopper M30 Soft Cooler
Versatile and big enough for almost any pursuit, the Yeti Hopper M30 is one of the best Yeti coolers
I’ve ever used. The strong magnets help the top stay sealed and lock the cold in. I’ve used my M30 in my duck boat, fishing boat, on the river, and at the beach. It is really an all-around cooler that any outdoorsman will love.—RC
**Best Hat: Duck Camp Hat
**
I have more hats than I can count and I love every one of them. But my two favorites are the mallard
and pheasant
from Duck Camp. The brand’s designs are a modern vintage look, featuring everything from ducks to brown trout. No matter what your dad loves to chase in the woods or on the water, there’s a good chance Duck Camp has a hat for him—and what dad couldn’t use another hat? —RC
**Best Shorts: KUIU Switchback Short
**
The Switchback Short from KUIU is versatile, comfortable, and rugged—perfect for summer hikes or long days at the range. They’re made from nylon and spandex which result in a water- and stain-resistant fabric that has two-way stretch for plenty of freedom of movement.—RC
Best Outdoor Speaker: Turtlebox Gen 2 Speaker
Turtlebox speakers are meant to be used outside, no matter the weather conditions. That’s what makes them perfect for anglers looking to add a high quality speaker to their boat without installing an expensive audio system. My buddy uses a Turtlebox on his flats boat when we are running from spot to spot. I have two myself, and the Bluetooth pairing feature allows me to sync both speakers for a surround sound feel. They are perfect for camping, too, and light enough to bring on day trips to the beach or mountains. Every speaker is fully waterproof, and Turtlebox offers a one-year warranty. —RC
**Best Slippers: Danner Forest Moc
**
Whether he’s hanging out at the campsite or lounging at home, these cozy slippers will maximize Dad’s R&R. The Danner Moc features a soft sherpa interior for comfort and a durable rubber sole that’s suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
FAQs
When is Father’s Day?
Father’s Day 2023 is Sunday, June 18, 2023.
What shouldn’t you buy as a gift for Father’s Day?
This depends entirely on your dad and what he likes. The best Father’s Day gifts are ones that Dad will actually use or ones that are thoughtful and meaningful that he’ll cherish for years. Bonus points if you get him something he’s been talking about forever but hasn’t bought himself yet.
How do I find out what my dad likes?
The easiest way to decide what to get your dad for Father’s Day is, well, to just ask him what he wants. But if you want to be a little stealthier, you can survey other family members (like your mom or siblings) or just start paying attention to things Dad mentions in passing, like that new spinning reel
he was eyeing up the other day.
