If you love to fish, or have a recent, strong desire to try it, then you may have looked into a charter fishing trip. You may have even booked that boat and all you need is to get ready for the big day. If you’re not a regular fisherman, and this is your first time, then it couldn’t hurt to have a few tips on how to prepare for your first charter fishing trip.
What to Wear
You have probably thought to check the weather and be prepared for the possible temperature variables, and you would be right to do so. However, it is also important to consider how the water changes the environment around you. Early in the morning, even on a warm day, the water will cool you, so it is wise to have a light jacket, at minimum. Later, as the day gets even warmer, you will want to be able to shed these layers, if necessary. Sometimes, you will still need help staying warm because the water can still keep things cool.
Remember the sun, too. Even if you stay in the shade often, the sun can reflect off the water and affect you. Applying sunscreen is also the wise choice, but clothing can often be even more helpful in avoiding those harmful UV rays. So, if you can wear more, light clothing without being uncomfortably warm, do so. Wear comfortable shoes that you don’t mind getting wet. Avoid flip-flops; they’re not safe on a boat. Something to defend against the rain and other moisture is a good thing to bring, too.
What Else to Pack
If you haven’t been on a fishing boat, it is very, very different from being on land, or even in something that rocks while on land. Plenty of people who have never had problems with motion sickness in the past find they have some trouble on a boat. So, take some motion sickness medication with you, just in case. You can always talk to your doctor if you’re concerned about what is safest for you and your specific health needs.
What Equipment to Use
If you fish regularly, then you probably already know what kind of rods, reels, and bait to bring and use. If you don’t, it is easy to get that information; look online, or ask the charter company. Remember that there are differences between what you may use to fish in a river, or a lake, or in the ocean. So, if you fish in one setting primarily, but you have chartered a boat for a different type of fishing, you may need to bring different equipment. In some cases, you might be able to use equipment provided by the charter group; you might rent it, or it may be available with the charter package.
A charter fishing trip could be the event that turns you into a true fisherman, or it could be a break from your normal fishing routine. The better you’re prepared, the more fun you will have. Book your next fishing tour at Bethy Creek.