To disregard the wind is to inherit it. An appreciation of the wind direction and speed is crucial to safe boating, and anyone who spends a lot of time on or near the water. Just like laser rangefinders have offered me a constant reminder of my own internal ranging limitations, the "Kestrel 1000 Pocket Wind Meter" has done the very same thing. It will quickly humble you, as it has me. Every fisherman and boater should consider owning one of these devices.

The Kestrel 1000 is truly a wonderful product. It is manufactured by Nielsen Kellerman of Chester, Pennsylvania, and weighs only 1-1/2 ounces. It is accurate to plus or minus 3 %, is drop tested to six feet, water-resistant, and it floats. Powered by one CR2032 battery offering a typical life of 400 hours, it is intuitive to use; one need hardly refer to the instructions.

There are three basic modes: current wind speed, maximum three-second gust, and average wind speed. Included is a rugged plastic case to protect the LCD during rough handling when not in use, which is easily removed if you prefer. It automatically shuts off after thirty minutes of no button presses, and if that isn't enough, the display indicates your choice of mph, knots, meters per second, kilometers per hour, feet per minute, or even Beaufort force. Best of all, it is remarkably affordable at a street price of about $69.00.

It is been a long time since I've been so impressed by a compact boating and fishing tool. This is a product that will make you more effective in the field and on the water. Wind management is an area that has been sorely overlooked for far too long.