As springs arrives and the temperatures start to warm up, many anglers will begin to prepare for another season of big bites and prize catches. To ensure you’re ready to hit the open waters and reel in a treasure, pack these eight items in your tackle box.
Flashlight
Even if you plan on fishing during the day, it’s always wise to bring a flashlight with you in case you find yourself on the open waters at night. Also, remember to put fresh batteries in it and bring a new pack along with you. While bait and tackle are necessary items most anglers are aware of packing in their tackle boxes, the “just in case” items could very well become the most important during your expedition.
Scale and Ruler
Once the initial adrenaline and excitement from catching a big fish wears off, you’ll want to measure its length and weight. A portable scale and ruler will help you determine those numbers, which you could then use to brag to your fishing buddies.
Pair of Needle-Nose Pliers
If your tackle box doesn’t include a pair of Needle-Nose pliers, then you can count yourself an amateur because it’s probably the most important tool you’ll take with you on your fishing trip. You’ll use your pair of pliers to remove hooks from fish, assemble your fishing baits and pull hooks out of your own skin – ouch!
Fillet Knife
If your pair of pliers isn’t the most important tool in your tackle box, then a fillet knife definitely is. Whether you need to clean a fish, cut a line, slice bait or open a can, a fillet knife will come in handy in just about every instance on the open waters. A good fillet knife is versatile, inexpensive and essential to every fishing trip.
Hook File
Want to keep your hooks sharp and help them last longer? Of course you do. “A hook file will help prevent your hooks from becoming dull and increase the chances that you’ll catch a big fish,” said Memphis Net & Twine. And think about all the money you’ll save by not buying new hooks all the time!
Sunscreen and Insect Repellent
While these two linking items might seem like an obvious pack, many anglers forget about them and suffer as a result. While not catching anything could definitely ruin a fishing trip, getting burned to a crisp and bit up by mosquitoes can be as equally demoralizing. Use an SPV of 30 or greater for the ultimate protection.
Aspirin
Speaking of not catching anything, it might just give you a headache. Or perhaps the rough waters might lead to seasickness. Either way, bring a bottle of aspirin with you and seasickness medicine so that you don’t find yourself pounding your head against the boat’s interior wall instead of throwing large amounts of fish into the bucket.
First Aid Kit
When heading out into the open waters, safety should be your number-one priority. In addition to checking the conditions and telling someone that you’re going fishing for the day, bring a complete first aid kit with you. It could mean the difference between life and death – literally.
Do you consider yourself an expert angler? What else do you recommend packing for a successful day of fishing?
