There are some big holidays coming up and we're extremely excited that we'll have a chance to go fishing with the family and friends. This is a short list to make sure that your tacklebox is fully stocked before heading out.
Nothing is worse than getting out on the water only to realize that you’ve forgotten something essential. It’s happened to me a few times and I just want to scream but that's going to scare away the fish... So I just sit glumly knowing that the day isn't going to be as awesome as it should've been.
To rectify these omissions, I do the Santa Claus technique: Make a list, check it once and then check it twice.
So without further ado, here are the 13 essential things you MUST have in your tackle box.
#1 - The Proper Lures, Hooks and Bait
First things first. Before every fishing trip you need to ensure that you have the proper lures and bait for that trip. This is key. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve gotten out on the water only to realize that I had the wrong lures or the wrong hooks. When this happens, I’m forced to try to catch fish on rigs not designed for those fish. Which, as you can imagine, doesn’t work so well.
As you pack your tackle box, ask yourself these questions:
- What species am I fishing for?
- What lures, hooks and bait do these fish bite?
- What are the water conditions and do I have the right lures for those conditions?
- Do I have the proper rigs if I’m using live bait?
- Do I have enough variety of lures to be able to switch if they aren’t biting on one lure?
Being unprepared is about the worst thing you can do before venturing out onto the water. Take the time to walk through the questions above to make sure you have all the proper lures and baits for the given conditions.
#2 - Extra Line
There are many different occasions when you may need extra fishing line. You get a nasty tangle in your reel and have to strip all your line. You hook into a huge fish and it completely runs you dry. Or maybe you just discover that the line on your rod is old and cracked and isn’t casting well.
In any of those cases, you need to have backup line in your tacklebox.
#3 - Your Trusty HookEze
Not only will HookEze get your rig ready quickly when you're pre-rigging before your trip, it's also going to protect your belongings once you clip it on your hooks. No more nasty hooking on your upholstery, car or you!
Now you're on the water and you're starting to catch some fish. Awesome yeah?
You've been itching to test a new set up or some new lures. Guess what, you brought your HookEze and changing your set up is now going to take less than half the time it used to do! This 4 in 1 tool makes sure that you're tying expert knots and having a spare line cutter is just the best! Never let that big one get away. Get it here now - HookEze.com
#4 - Needle Nose Pliers
If a fish has sharp teeth or completely swallows a lure, you’re going to need a set of needle nose pliers. These allow you to get far down into the fish’s mouth without sticking your actual hand in.
You’ll also need these pliers if you catch a fish that has a particularly tough lip, such as catfish. Sticking your hand down the gullet of a catfish is a baaaad idea. Their mouths are like sandpaper and can rip your hand to pieces.
#5 - A Knife
A knife is indispensable on a fishing trip. You will use it for an assortment of situations.
It’s crucial that your knife be razor sharp. If it’s not, you risk the possibility of slicing yourself. Take the time to sharpen your knife thoroughly before your trip.
If you plan on keeping the fish you catch, you’ll also probably want to have a filet knife for cleaning the fish. Trying to use a regular knife to cut precise filets doesn’t work well and just mangles the meat.
#6 - Extra Sinkers
Depending on your setup, you may want to bring extra sinkers. Typically, sinkers are used with live bait and plastic baits. The type of sinker differs depending on what you’re using, some rigs calling for split shot, others calling for slip sinkers, and still others calling for pyramid sinkers.
Choose extra sinkers that will match both how you’ll be fishing (the bait) and where you’ll be fishing (the underwater terrain). So, for example, if you’re going to be fishing in a location with lots of underwater logs and vegetation, the last thing you want is heavy sinkers that can get snagged. In fact, you may not want to use any sinkers.
#7 - A First Aid Kit
Have you ever gotten a hook through the ear or through a finger? With the HookEze you won't but just in case, it’s an incredibly painful sensation and will usually create a lot of blood. In that case, you’re going to want to have a first aid kit, complete with antibiotic ointment, bandages, and perhaps some sanitizer.
#9 - A Poncho
If you get caught in the rain, you’re day can be absolutely ruined, especially if you’re miles from shore. Keep a small, plastic poncho in your tackle box to keep you from getting soaked when the elements conspire against you.
#10 - Your Fishing License
We're glad you're still reading as this should be a reminder everywhere.
If you get caught fishing without a license, you could be in serious trouble. You’ll have to pay a fine and could face further legal action depending on how many fish you caught. Always keep your license handy, whether in your tackle box or present on your body.
#11 - Bug Repellent
Have you ever gotten slammed by a swarm of mosquitos on a warm summer’s evening? It can quickly turn a pleasant outing into a jungle nightmare. I was recently fishing and had my night cut short when I was being constantly dive bombed by a horde of mosquitoes.
Keep a small bottle of repellent in your tackle box for just such an occasion.
#12 - A Tape Measure
If you plan on keeping fish or bragging about them, you need to know exactly how long they are. Keeping fish that are below the legal limit can get you into serious trouble and result in you paying hefty fines. And if you don’t know how long a fish was, you certainly can’t brag about it to your buddies.
The tape measure should be able to accommodate the biggest fish you might catch. At HookEze, we've made a brag mat that's portable so that you can always bring it with you.
#13 - A Hook Remover
A hook remover is a great tool to have in your tackle box, especially if you’re a newbie.
Removing a fishhook from your catch after you’ve reeled them in is easier said than done, especially if you’re dealing with an especially toothy fish who wouldn’t mind taking a bite out of your finger. Plus, not knowing how to remove a hook properly can result in an injury to yourself or the fish.
Hook removers come in a variety of styles, and they make it easy for you to quickly and harmlessly unhook your fish so you can either throw them back or keep them for dinner. You can get a HookEze knot tying set and de-hooker here.
There's probably heaps more but I think that this is a strong fundamental list that will make sure you're on the water, enjoying your time and expansive enough to keep your lines tight. If you have more suggestions, feel free to let us know!