Fishing is one activity that strengthens family bonds, so if you ever have the chance to go on a fishing trip with your kids, do not miss it!
And do not jump to conclude that this may be uninteresting for your children. The little ones can find it a really thrilling experience if you plan the trip carefully and bring those absolutely necessary things with you. Apart from special gear, equipment, and accessories, there are some other essentials you do not want to forget (including the overall fishing attitude!), and we will detail them for you in the following lines.
Here is what you should pack before boarding the boat to ensure the little ones have a great time:
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Table of Contents
Fishing supplies
There is a long list of stuff you should bring on the fishing charter, so it can be daunting to decide what is essential and what can be omitted. Besides travel documents, fishing licenses, and money, many other things should be considered for a smooth fishing experience. Some of critical items include:
Food and water
Is there anything more vital than food and water? We do not think so! Therefore, ensure you include these two fishing (and life!) essentials on your trip checklist. And when we say food and water, we mean more than one granola bar and one bottle of water. On shorter trips, these could be enough, but when it comes to a whole weekend, more supplies are required. Some of the go-to options to pack include homemade sandwiches and snacks, as well as cheese, nuts, and plenty of fruits and vegetables to fuel your body with the needed vitamins and nutrients. Remember that fishing demands some sort of effort, even if it may not seem so, so you will want to be energetic to catch that huge, naughty crab. Kids will also be happy to consume some peanut butter, so ensure you add this protein-rich food to your list, too.
Sunscreen
This one tends to be overlooked by many fishermen and amateurs, but we guarantee – it is one of the most important things to bring with you on a fishing trip. First and foremost, the sun reflected in water and sand harms your skin, sensitizing, irritating, and burning it. Tanning might sound good, but it is only harmful if you do not wear sunscreen (SPF). Also, consider reapplying it every two or three hours for optimal protection, especially if you are traveling to a warm climate. And always look for SPF for both UVA and UVB – although the UVB rays are in charge of sunburns, the UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin, leading to collagen loss and premature aging.
Trust us – SPF is that one essential that will pay dividends after your fishing adventure is over.
Life jackets
The #1 priority of a trip, be it about fishing or hiking, is undoubtedly safety. And although the chance for a mishap to happen is minimal to non-existent, being cautious will hurt no one. Thus, ensure protective gear like life jackets are part of your baggage, no matter where your fishing charter is heading to. The truth is that waters, and especially oceans, are unpredictable, so as an old saying goes, better safe than sorry.First aid kit
As previously mentioned, the unthinkable can happen, so ensure that, apart from life jackets, a first aid kit can be found on your fishing boat. Some of the items that your kit should include are antiseptic towels, pressure wraps, non-latex disposable gloves, and antibiotics. Fishing accidents are not that common, but it does not mean they are impossible. So, even in the event of a minor injury, ensure you dispose of a comprehensive first aid kit.
Adequate apparels
If you plan to camp for an entire weekend, that is amazing, but be sure you pack plenty of clothes for this occasion. Being adequately outfitted is the very aspect contributing to a fruitful fishing trip. Therefore, consider bringing everything from insect-repellent clothing and water shoes to breathable t-shirts, moisture wicking pajamas, underwear, and socks.
Also, it could help if you packed several layers of clothing. Even if you go fishing in the dead of summer, remember that temperatures are typically lower offshore. So, bringing some jackets and fluffy sweaters may be more than welcome. Waterproof clothing is also a must, so do not ever think to skimp on it. Offshore exposure involves, of course, a lot of water; hence, water shoes and rain gear should be on your fishing checklist – it is all fine and dandy until someone catches a cold.
Various containers and bags
A successful fishing trip also implies a multitude of bags and containers for proper storage and transportation of the fish and your brought essentials. Some indispensable things to carry on your next fishing trip include drinking bottles, backpacks, and waterproof bags. Ensure an insulated cooler is also in your baggage to store the fish properly. This is the safest and most hygienic way of storing fish, so you will want it by your side. But before storing your prey, be sure you filet or clean the fish to prevent it from soaking in water.
Polarized sunglasses
Polarized sunglasses are, just like the above-mentioned items, a must on the water. The glare on the water can affect your visibility while fishing, so you need a pair of such glasses that remove this glare to get a better view. The filter on polarized sunglasses clears the way for light, so even if you are fishing in low light conditions, there is a strong chance for you to see what is happening around you. However, there are several types of polarized sunglasses, some more qualitative than others, so you should choose your pair carefully. Advanced technology nowadays has led to the development of polarized sunglasses that protect against ultraviolet (UV) rays. So, weigh your options very carefully before making a choice, and be sure your entire family benefits from this stuff.
Fishing is not all about fun – safety counts equally, too, and perhaps in a greater manner.
