Looking After Dad... Ian's Top Father's Day Gift Ideas

When I was a kid my dad was more than happy with just a handmade card on Father’s Day, which I supplemented with a bag of Liquorice Allsorts as soon as I had a bit of pocket money, and then with something fishing-related as soon as I could afford it.

Now I’m a father I have to say that I’m more than happy with exactly the same, just to be thought of is enough, although I have to say I do still relish my Liquorice – or a bar of ‘proper’ chocolate – every June.

My son is, however, now of an age where he is increasingly looking to cater for my (our) sporting passions and it is always a delight to unwrap something that shows he understands me and our shared love of the countryside.

So for him – and for children everywhere looking to indulge the ‘old man’ a little bit this Father’s Day – here are my top country inspired Father's Day gift ideas to make his day extra special.

Fly Fishing Tuition No matter how good you think you are at casting (and I’m dreadful…) you can always learn, or iron out bad habits, so an hour of one-on-one fly casting tuition from a professional instructor is top of my list. Trout fishing, Spey casting for salmon or saltwater techniques can all be taught, with instruction individually tailored from total beginner to advanced level, and at a choice of locations.

A Tweed Flat Cap - View Full Tweed Cap Range » Tweed is just so seriously cool and ‘in’ at the moment you can treat dad to something he will love to wear out and about in the country, and yet which will be just as stylish in and around town. I personally love Schöffel's V8 Tweed Cap but there is an extensive range to choose from.

Darn Tough Socks - View Full Darn Tough Range » I used to cringe when given socks as a present – but not anymore! I first saw the Darn Tough range at the brilliant Sportfish Reading Show last month and was blown away with the quality and performance. Their socks have high density stitches, performance fit and are made with merino wool making them comfortable and durable. What’s more they are guaranteed for life, no questions asked! Whether dad shoots, fishes, hunts or simply enjoys his walks in the countryside you won’t give better!



Farlows Hip Flask If like me your father made a big batch of sloe gin last winter then Farlows quintessentially English leather-covered Captive Flasks are the perfect accessory! Whatever his tipple one of these is perfect for a day in the field or at the races, a game of golf, or a picnic in the countryside.

Book – Life of a Chalkstream My son bought me this for my birthday, and it’s a total joy that I can thoroughly recommend. Anglers who fish the precious chalkstream environment will delight in Simon Cooper’s book, but it is a marvellous read for anyone with a passion for the beauty of rural England, and a warning of what we stand to lose if we do not protect it.

Aquapac Case - View Full Aquapac Range » If you spend any time in or around water you will at some time or another end up getting bits wet that you never intended to get wet! Fair enough if you can just towel yourself off but when phones, wallets, keys, and electronic tablets are involved it’s not quite so easy! Aquapac specialise in providing extremely useful waterproof cases and pouches for a range of personal items and devices including mobile phones - and they make a great present.

A Farlows Tie - View Full Farlows Tie Range » The habit of wearing a tie is, sadly, becoming all too rare but the Farlows range of exquisitely-made silk ties allow your dad to indulge his love of the countryside with real style with a superb range of colours and discreet designs. Purple for me please!

Bisley Gun Cleaning Kit The shooting season is almost upon us once again and if your dad is anything like me he will be looking to get ready for the off during the next few weeks – and that means getting clean! This presentation kit has everything he will need to get ready for the off, and it is beautifully boxed for gift presentation.

Gerber Multi-Tool - View Full Gerber Multi-Tool Range » Quite possibly the most useful bit of kit your father will every carry in his car glove box, his fishing or shooting bag or indeed his coat pocket. Quality design and engineering and practical in ways that you have yet to dream of, this is the one-stop tool kit to get you out of bother!

Abel Nippers My final pick – as someone who continually tries to bite though line with his teeth (I know, I know…) are these innovative anglers' nippers by Abel Reels, which are made from precision machined aircraft grade aluminium and are guaranteed to last and cut forever. Your father’s dentist may thank you just as much as he will!

Whatever you choose – or whether it’s ‘just’ a card, a phone call, or a bag of Liquorice Allsorts – make your dad feel special this June 21st, he deserves it!