Spring has sprung and the freshwater fish are beginning to spawn. Rods, reels, and lures are all mandatory items for your next fishing trip, but there are a few other items you should pack as well that will help you maximize your time on the water. Here are some of the most important things to pack for your next fishing trip.
All-Weather Gear
Fish have odd habits and depending on the breed of fish you’re planning to catch, you might have to strategize your fishing trip to coincide with some unpleasant weather conditions. Cloudy days are great for catching fish, because the cloud cover camouflages boats on top of the water. This means fish are more willing to literally take the bait, but it also means you might have to spend some time in cold and drizzly conditions. Don’t turn back to shore when the bad weather hits! Pull on some warm gloves and rain gear and enjoy some of the best fishing possible.
Flashlights
Just like some fish prefer to bite in poor weather conditions, others most actively feed in the early morning and night. Fishers who want to capitalize on these feeding frenzies will want to head out early and light their way with the brightest flashlight. These can help you light up long stretches of water to better navigate your way out of marinas and tight channels safely. Flashlights also make tying hooks and setting bait easy in poor lighting conditions. Be sure to choose a flashlight that is waterproof and ideally submersible up to a few meters to avoid the inevitable splash of water rendering your flashlight useless.
Insect Repellent
Fish love to nip insects off the surface of the water but biting insects can be the bane of a fisher’s existence. Mosquitoes are especially irksome. They love standing water, so fishing close to shore amongst the downed trees and detritus that some fish like to make their homes in can be a struggle. A good insect repellent will keep the biting bugs at bay and allow you to fish comfortably throughout the day. Give yourself a good spray and encourage the bugs to stay out over the water and encourage the fish to snack on both bugs and bait.
Sunscreen and Sunglasses
Light reflects easily off the water, and even fishers who are diligent about wearing hats can find themselves with a sunburn after a day on the water. Sunscreen will help protect your skin from the sun’s rays, allowing you to stay out for as long as you’d like.
Sun damage to the eyes is not as frequently talked about as skin damage from UV lights, but it’s just as serious. Eyes can be sunburned just as easily as skin, and UV light can damage the delicate structures of the eye. Sunglasses will protect your eyes from the bright light reflecting off of the water and can help prevent the tension headaches that develop from squinting.
Dry Bags
There are plenty of things you might bring along on the boat that aren’t waterproof. A cell phone, towels, your fishing license, and clothing changes are all good to have on board, but keeping them safe and dry can be a challenge. By storing these items in a dry bag, you’ll guarantee they’ll stay dry throughout your trip. Dry bags come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Some even have a clear pocket to store your phone, allowing you to easily see calls or messages without having to open the bag and risk water sneaking inside. Best of all? Dry bags are designed to trap air inside. If a bag happens to go overboard it will float, allowing you to retrieve it easily and without losing any important valuables.
Whatever your reason for heading out on a fishing trip – to unwind, to challenge yourself, to experience the solitude of nature – be sure you’re prepared to do more than just set a hook. Bring along these items and you’ll be set to enjoy as much time on the water as possible.