Start your tackle box off right
You might hate them, not want them or just think you can do it in your mind, but when it comes down to it a written checklist for fishing success can mean the difference between a good or bad trip. As an example I went on a recent trip with a friend and he mentally went down his list. He thought he had it all until we got to the lake. He forgot his tackle box. Luckily I had brought my mini box or it was going to be a long trip back to the house for his box.
A checklist has to be flexible for the type, location and style of fishing trip you are planning. Fishing from the bank – then you won’t need any boating gear. Fishing from a boat – folding chairs won’t be needed for that trip. So first start with where you are going. Will it be a boat trip or a bank adventure? Will you fish with lures or live bait? What species will you fish for? What will the weather like -raining or sunny? These are many of the details you need to consider.
On sunny days you will need to consider the sunlight and its effect on you and your gear. A hat, sunscreen, water and other sun protection items will be needed. A cooler for water or live bait will be needed. Long sleeved light shirts can protect you from a nasty sunburn.
Rainy days would call for a wide brimmed hat and a rain jacket or poncho. A dry change of clothes might be just what the doctor ordered when you get back to your vehicle. A checklist will make it so you don’t forget. Make up one for each condition and keep it in a spiral notebook so you will always have it for reference. You can then add or take away items if needed.
Here is a basic list of suggested items:
Bug spray, sunscreen, first aid kit, hat, sunglasses, cooler, ice, water, towel, change of clothes, flashlight, tool kit, poncho, gloves, matches, cell phone, whistle, mirror, knife, food, radio for weather alerts, cord, duct tape, small plastic bags, garbage bags, duffle or other larger bag to put all your gear in, snake bite kit, camera…this is just a sample list for any fishing or camping trip. This list is flexible and can come in handy if you have all these items. You can add more for your specific needs.
Additionally for boat fishing:
Poles, bait, anchor, life preservers, tackle box, basket or other container for fish, motor, boat, permit, ropes, floating key chains, towel (for hands), gas (if needed), map, fish finder.
For bank fishing:
Folding chairs, poles, bait, tackle box, torches or bug repellent candles, tarp for shade or rain protection, good book for when the fish just aren’t biting, rod holders.
These are just example of lists you could create. Work on your own and make your trips a much better time by having all the things you will need for the day or in case of any emergencies.
