Fishing Trip Planning: Basic Checklist for Beginners

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Planning a fishing trip can be difficult for first timers and not knowing what to bring can be a little stressful. The biggest fear is going out on the water and forgetting your gear or important equipment...like your rod!

We thought we would help by providing you with this basic fishing trip checklist for planning the perfect trip!

The first thing you want to think about is what mother nature may bring you. Although your gear is important but protecting yourself from the elements are just as important, if not, more. Protecting yourself is one thing we tend to overlook when planning a trip like this. You may not think about bringing essential items like:

  • sunscreen
  • a first aid kit
  • a hat
  • sunglasses
  • bug spray
  • needle nose pliers
  • water
  • extra clothing (jacket, long sleeve sweater, pants - if you're sporting shorts at the beginning of your day, etc)

All of these things may not be necessary for each trip but they are always things to think about. Check the local weather before heading out, this way you can pack what you need.

Next, we want to pack our gear.  Here is a great checklist to go by when putting your equipment together.

Fishing Essentials

  • Rod and reel
  • Hooks to catch your fish - lures, sinkers, hooks, jigs, spoons and flies
  • Extra line
  • Fishing net
  • Pliers and/or multi-tool
  • Filleting knife
  • Cooler
  • Tackle box
  • Plastic zip-lock bags - for putting your fillets in

Finally, we want to make sure we bring the major necessities like:

  • Government Issued Driver's Licence/Photo ID - depending on the Province, you want to make sure you have all the proper documents. It's best to do a little research.
  • Fishing License - depending on the Province, you may need a license/permit.
  • Cell Phone
  • Roll of paper towel
  • Cooler
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Towel
  • Life-jacket - if you plan on boating

Making this as a pre-made kit will help make it more convenient for future fishing trips. Once you have gone a few times, you will have other items you may want to add to this list to make your trip complete.

Packing things like food and beverages are also important so that you stay hydrated and energized. Bring tons of water and pack a small lunch or some snacks and you should be ready for a pretty amazing trip...even if you don't catch anything, the experience alone will be worth it!

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