So you’ve got your first fishing trip on the calendar. What on earth should you bring with you onto that boat? How do you dress for this momentous occasion? Before you head out on the water, make sure you’ve got the essentials all packed. Here’s a quick checklist of what to pack for your first fishing trip.
The Right Clothing
Dress for the occasion! You’ve seen fishermen in movies wear bucket hats and those utility vests with a million pockets, and those choices are for good reason. Pick up a jacket or vest with plenty of pockets. They’ll keep important tools on hand, like your bait knife and a pair of pliers to remove hooks from fishes’ mouths.
Bring a windbreaker and a change of clothes with you in case you get wet. Wet socks are a recipe for trench foot, and you want your first fishing experience to be pleasant and somewhat comfortable.
Rods, Reels, and Line
Are you fly-fishing? Angling? Just sitting out on the lake for a spell? Bring a fishing rod suited to your style, as well as a backup in case misfortune befalls your primary rod. To cover all your bases, bring spare reels and plenty of spools of fishing line. You don’t want to cut your trip short if your rod is compromised.
Bait and Tackle
Before you head out, do a little preliminary research on your selected fishing spot. What fish are you aiming to catch? Visit your local bait shop and ask seasoned fishing enthusiasts about the right bait. Bass, both largemouth and smallmouth, aren’t picky and will snap up simple nightcrawlers. Salmon react well to roe.
In addition to live bait, have some colorful jigs and spinners on hand. A good tackle box has multiple sections for different types of lures—and a designated spot for extra hooks. You’ll want plenty of them.
First Aid Kit
When you spend your day working with sharp hooks, you run the risk of poking your fingers. Wet surfaces on a boat can be a slipping hazard. Before your boat even hits the water, bring a fully stocked first aid kit on board. Include sterile gauze, bandages, alcohol wipes, and painkillers. Ice packs will also be helpful in case you slip and twist an ankle. If you’re not sure how to treat fishing-related injuries, take a first aid class! That training will serve you well in the future.
Fishing is a tranquil sport and a rewarding hobby. To get the perfect start to your fishing “career,” remember this handy checklist of what to pack for your first fishing trip!
