When planning a fishing trip, packing the right things is essential for a great fishing experience. Whether you’re fishing on your own or through a fishing charter, read on to know what to bring on your fishing adventure.
The Right Fishing Clothes for Your Safety and Comfort
If you want to be comfortable when awaiting and hauling in your catch, below are the clothes you should wear and bring a change of, just in case.
Cold Climates
Rain/Waterproof Gear – Bring waterproof hats, gloves, pants, and footwear that will help in keeping you dry when it rains. Without these items, you might get soaked on a long boat ride or while hiking to a fishing spot. Wearing the proper items will let you fish comfortably even when there is a storm.
Extra Synthetic or Wool Socks and Underwear – Synthetic and wool materials will help in keeping you warm, even if they get wet. They also dry quickly, so it’s an additional incentive to use them.
Articles You Can Layer – If you’re going on a very fishing trip where it’s cold, it is vital to put on layers. You can take some off when it’s a little warmer, and add the extra when the temperature drops without much hassle. A great choice to layer would be polar fleece. It comes in various weights or thicknesses. Carry at least one fleece pullover and a pair of sweatpants. Pack extra socks and undergarments, too.
Insulated Hat and Heavy Jacket – An insulated hat and a heavy jacket are necessary for cold climates primarily because they keep you warm. But the jacket can also save your life in case you fall in the water.
Warm Climates
Cool and Sun-Protective Clothes – Overexposure to the sun can cause exhaustion, burns, dehydration, or heat stroke. Cover up with lightweight and long-sleeved shirts made of synthetic materials and with a lot of ventilation. This will keep the sun’s rays off of your skin and keep you cool. You can match this with synthetic pants that dry quickly.
Face Protection and Sun-Protective Hat – Pack something that can protect your face, like a bandanna and some facial sunscreen. You can also protect your face, ears, and neck from the sun’s glare with a hat. Remember that full-brimmed hats give better protection than baseball caps. If you plan on bringing along your little ones, purchase quality sun hats for toddlers so that they’re protected too.
Dependable Water Shoes – High-quality sandals or water shoes will help in protecting your feet. These will keep you from slipping on rocks when you’re wading in the ocean, rivers, or lakes.
Sun Gloves – Don’t forget to cover your hands so you will not have severe burns. An inexpensive solution is fingerless sun gloves.
Rain Jacket – Unexpected downpours and storms can happen even in tropical and summer fishing destinations. Get ready to brave them with a light rain jacket.
Equipment for Fishing and Capturing the Moments
If you’re going on a fishing charter, you may not need to bring fishing equipment because they will provide it. Remember to bring the following if you’re fishing on your own:
Rods and Reels – You will use these to catch your fish. Check with your charter though, as they might be able to direct you to a rental place and save you some money.
Lures, Flies, and Terminal Tackle – Check with local shops and outfitters for advice on exactly what flies/lures and equipment you will need.
Line and Leader – If you are using your own equipment, bring spare line and leader material.
Portable Camera – Pack a waterproof camera and a spare memory card to preserve memories of your fishing trip. Don’t forget to bring your cables, cords, and chargers.
Personal Items that Can Come in Handy
Below are the personal items that can help you maximize your fishing enjoyment and keep you safe.
Medications – Don’t forget to bring any medications you take.
Small Plastic Bottles with Mouthwash, Body Wash, Shampoo, etc. – These are cheaper than purchasing “travel size” products.
Sunscreen – When you’re outside for long hours, your skin is exposed to dangerous UV rays. So, bring sunscreen no matter what climate you will be fishing in.
Insect Repellent – You never know when bugs will appear and ruin your fishing enjoyment.
First Aid Set – Even a small and basic first aid set can come in handy when treating cuts, scrapes, headaches, insect bites, and others.
Polarized Sunglasses – These protect your eyes and cut glare so you can see the fish, your fly, or spot underwater structures.
Gotta Eat and Drink!
Make sure you got food that you’ll enjoy and will nourish you while you’re on your fishing adventure. Also, make sure you’re always hydrated.
Sandwiches – These are easy to prepare and eat. Pack your favorite sandwiches but remember to bring your hand sanitizer.
Large Water Bottle or Thermos – This will ensure your beverage will stay at the correct temperature for long periods of time. Cold and hydrating beverages are perfect for a fishing excursion!
Other Snacks – Chips, snack bars, you name it. They will come in handy if you want a little energy boost along the way.
They say getting ready for a trip is part of the adventure. With proper preparation through this checklist, you can look forward to an awesome fishing experience!