Crankbait Reel: (Shimano Curado E5) Shimano's Curado series is one of the most popular lineup of reels in baitcaster history and the "E" version continues that storied history with a reel that is both lightweight and refined, and manages to do so for only $179.99. The Curado E5 features a powerful 5.0:1 gear ratio and is perfect for working deep diving baits.

The Curado E5 is a well rounded reel that continues to see a lot of on the water time in our field tests

The reel features large paddle knobs for a better grip and the small frame is easy to palm all day long. Fatigue is further reduced with a light overall weight of only 7.6oz. A lot of Shimano's proven features are now incorporated into this reasonably priced reel including a Magnumlite spool for faster startups and HEG gearing for fish turning power. The Curado E5 truly delivers premium performance without the high price and can be found at Tackle Warehouse.

The Shimano Curado E5 is a great workhorse crankbait reel

Freshwater Lure (Hardbait): (Lucky Craft BDS3) Our go to bait during the Year of the Crank has been Lucky Craft’s Big Daddy Strike (BDS) series, specifically, the BDS3. Possessing the perfect profile, diving depth, and fish calling ability, bass just can’t seem to resist this bait especially over, alongside, and through submerged weed beds. Want to get that bass angler on your list a quality, reliable, and effective hardbait for next season?

Lucky Craft's BDS3 has been our go to bait during the Year of the Crank

Lucky Craft’s BDS series is available in six different configurations and close to fifty different colors (including a dozen craw colors!) to blanket any angler’s shallow water cranking needs. It would make an excellent stocking stuffer and is available for $14.99 at Tackle Warehouse.

And why not? It's available in sixty different colors!

Ms. Casey likes Table Rock Shad.

Freshwater Lure (Softbait): (Roboworm EZ Shad) Just when we thought it was safe to close the books on the paddletail bait craze, Roboworm introduces their interpretation of this product line, the EZ Shad. Leveraging their renowned bait making capabilities to deliver proven and consistent product results, the EZ Shad comes in a slender, realistic profile and a handful of natural hues.

Just when we thought it was safe to close the books on the paddletail craze, Roboworm introduces the EZ Shad.

More of a complement rather than a replacement to baits like the Basstrix hollow belly paddletail, the EZ Shad features a slit belly for easier rigging and higher hook up ratios.

More of a complement rather than a replacement to baits like the Basstrix hollow belly paddletail, the EZ Shad features a slit belly for easier rigging and higher hook up ratios.

It may be late to the party, but the EZ Shad is welcomed addition to this already saturated market and a great gift idea to snag smiles out from under the Christmas tree. The Roboworm EZ Shad is available in packs of 3 in a variety of patterns for $6.99 at Tackle Warehouse.

Casey's favorite color? Why of course, SXE Shad.

There is plenty more to come, stay tuned for Part 2 of our Holiday Gift Guide where we take a closer look at the swimbait category, lines, storage, fly, tools and of course Cal's favorite... the Enthusiast Tackle picks.

Click here to go to the second installment of the 2009 Holiday Gift Guide