During any offshore fishing trip, there are certain essentials you should always have on hand to ensure a safe and successful trip. By stashing the following items in a backpack or tacklebox, you’ll be prepared to handle any situation during your next offshore fishing excursion, even if you’re fishing off a friend’s boat or on a chartered trip. Learn more, below.
Fishing pliers
While you may be able to borrow a pair from another angler aboard your boat, fishing pliers are so useful that every fisherman should carry their own. From trimming braid to carefully taking hooks out of your fish, you’ll find plenty of uses for this handy tool.
Hooks of assorted sizes and types
There is nothing worse than being out on the water only to realize that no one on board has the right kind of hooks to catch the fish you’re after. Avoid this unnecessary hassle by always bringing more hooks than you need in a range of different sizes.
A spare hat
Most anglers realize how essential it is to keep a hat on hand. The brim keeps the sun off your face, minimizes glare that can impeded your vision, and helps to prevent saltwater spray from getting to your eyes. What many anglers don’t think about, however, is how easy it is to lose your hat. A quick gust of wind can easily knock your cap into the water where it’s gone for good. Don’t forget to keep an extra stashed away so you’ll never have to worry about going without.
Sunscreen
We know you already know how important sunscreen is, but it has to be included on any list of fishing essentials. You’ll need something with SPF 30 or higher, and don’t forget to bring along a lipbalm that offers sun protection too. Stash them in your backpack or tacklebox, reapply often, and don’t forget to check your supply after every trip to ensure you always have enough on hand.