Use this Packing List for A Weekend Fishing Trip

Are you gearing set for a weekend of fishing? What a thrilling prospect! Before you leave, I, Matthew Davies, made a list of everything you’ll need for your fishing excursion. This way, you can have peace of mind knowing you’ve got everything you need to create new fishing memories on the sea.

Save and print this list, then check each item off as you pack it. Keep in mind that this is merely an example of fishing equipment. Depending on your destination and travel length, you may require different or more supplies. If you book a trip with a charter guide or boat captain, they will likely provide the tackle and equipment you need but double-check before leaving.

Packing List for a Weekend Fishing Trip

1. A fishing license is required. For quick access, place your fishing license in a small waterproof dry bag and keep it in your backpack or tackle box while fishing. If you don’t have a fishing license for the state where you want to fish, you can get one right now online.
2. A printed set of state fishing regulations or online access to fishing regulations. Whatever state you visit, you must be aware of the legal slot limitations, bag limits, and any other unique rules that may apply.
3. GPS (global positioning system). If you’re going on a fishing excursion to a rural area or an unfamiliar location, a GPS will help you find your way back to your fishing lodge or campsite.
4. An emergency first-aid kit. Antibiotic ointment, tweezers, bandages, antiseptic wipes, aspirin, gauze pads, cloth tape, non-latex gloves, and a blanket should all be included in a portable first aid kit.
5. Sunglasses with polarised lenses Polarized sunglasses will not only shield your eyes from the sun, but they will also assist you to see the fish by cutting through the glare on the water.
6. Protect yourself from the sun. Bring a bottle of UVA/UVB broad-spectrum sunscreen or sunblock with you, preferably waterproof. The sun’s beams may be powerful even on foggy days.
7. Bug spray. Keep a bottle of bug spray in your backpack to keep pests like mosquitoes, gnats, and ticks at bay. If you’re going fishing with a guide or charter skipper, you might want to ask them for a product recommendation for the location or environment you’ll be fishing in.
8. Anti-seasickness medication If you’re going offshore fishing, it’s a good idea to have some seasickness pills with you. Follow the package instructions. However, most work best if you take one the night before your fishing excursion and another the morning of your departure.
9. Pants. A pair of pants will shield you from insects and the sun better than a pair of shorts. Look for lightweight, moisture-wicking, or breathable pants.
10. Hat. Make sure to take a wide-brimmed hat for your fishing trip so you can keep your face protected from the sun.
11. Camera. Bring a camera, a mobile phone camera, or a video camera to capture all of your incredible catches.
12. A water-resistant bag Put your camera, phone, and anything else you need to keep dry in a waterproof bag.
13. A rain jacket or rain gear is recommended. Weather can change quickly, so be prepared with rain gear (jacket and pants) or at the very least a rain jacket.
14. Dress in layers. On the sea, it can get chilly in the mornings and evenings. Please dress in layers so you may remove them as the day continues and the temperature rises.
15. Boat shoes that are non-slip and non-marking. Leave your flip-flops and sandals at home. Choose non-skid, non-marking shoes that are designed for use on a boat.
16. Personal flotation devices (PFDs). Bring your life jacket or personal flotation device with you at all times (PFD). If you’re going fishing on someone else’s boat, be sure there are enough PFDs onboard and that the PFDs are appropriate for the type of fishing trip you’re going on — inshore or offshore.
17. An additional set of clothing. You’ll appreciate having a dry set of clothes to change into if you get wet or it’s a hot day.
18. Multi-tool or pocketknife Bring a multi-tool with you to cut lines, sharpen hooks, and do various other things.
19. Pliers. These will come in handy for removing hooks, adjusting lures, and a variety of other tasks. Please bring a pair of corrosion-resistant scissors and keep them in a sheath.
20. A tape measure is a tool used to determine the length of the fish you caught. If you plan to take your catch home to cook for supper, this will assist you in ensuring that it complies with the rules.
21. Towels. If you get wet, bring a few towels with you to dry off with.
22. Snacks and water You’ll want to stay hydrated and have enough energy to go through the day. Take lots of water and non-perishable snacks like almonds, beef jerky, or granola bars with you.
23. Fishing rods and reels. Find out whether you’ll need saltwater fishing rods and reels or freshwater fishing rods and reels if you’re fishing independently without a guide or captain.
24. Fishing line. If you need to re-rig, make sure you have plenty of spare fishing lines on hand. The type of line you choose will depend on where you’ll be fishing, the method you’ll employ, and the fish species you’ll be targeting.
25. Tacklebox. If you’re fishing without a guide or captain, you’ll need a tackle box filled with tools like hooks of various sizes, sinkers, bobbers or floats, lures, a de-hooker, swivels, leader material, and scissors.
26. Bait. If you’re fishing with kids, you’ll want to carry or buy live bait before you go to your fishing spot. Live bait will ensure that there are plenty of bites to keep the kids occupied.
27. Cooler. Bring a cooler to store your catch (as long as it’s legal and you want to eat it) and to keep bottled water cold.
28. Cash. Remember to carry some money to pay for things like charter gratuities, bait, and petrol.
29. Medications. If you need to take any specific medications while away from home, remember to bring them with you. It’s a great idea to have a couple extra days’ worth of medication on hand in case your return flight is delayed, or you end yourself staying longer than planned.

Hopefully, you’ve completed your fishing vacation packing list and are ready to go fishing. You can use the boat comparison tool to discover more about the type of boat you’ll be taking on your saltwater or freshwater fishing trip. I, Matthew Davies, wish you a lot of catches and a new personal best!