How to Prepare for an Epic Fishing Trip
You don't want to tell stories about the one that got away anymore. You're planning on filling your cooler with plenty of fish. You plan on cooking your favorite dishes for days. You've got the time off from work. The boat is on the trailer. Your friends and family have packed their bags. It's time to learn how to prepare for an epic fishing trip you will never forget.
Choose Your Destination
Before you hit the road, figure out where the prime fishing locations are. The Outer Banks in North Carolina, the Florida Keys, Montana's Big Horn River, Lake St. Clair in Michigan, and the Thousand Islands in New York are only a few of the top picks for fishing fanatics. If you're not planning on venturing out of state for your fishing adventure, research your options that are within a reasonable traveling distance. Talk to family members and friends about their favorite spots. Once pick your destination, find out what areas on the body of water are recommended to give you the thrill of the catch.
Know What You Want
Different fish like different types of bait. Live bait is going to give you a better chance of success. Load up the cooler with bait recommended for your favorites, such as trout, bass, or catfish. Choose your lures carefully. Make sure you have a stash of extra lures. There is always the chance you will get a tangled line or a lure that is devoured. Be prepared.
Check Your Boat Thoroughly
The last thing you need is your motor to cut out when you are in the middle of the lake. Do your regular maintenance checks before you set off. Bring your boat to your favorite boat company if it needs a tune-up or any repairs. Get any Mercury outboard parts you need to make sure your motor is running smoothly. Make sure you don't have any leaks. Examine your hull while the boat is on the trailer. You want to catch any trouble spots before you launch your crew into the water.
Pack Everything You Need
Check off all the necessities on your list of things that should be in the boat. You should have a flotation device for every member of your fishing party. It doesn't matter if everyone is a good swimmer. You need to be ready for any situation, including rough water or severe storms. Bring sunblock. Pack a cooler with food and drinks. Don't forget rain gear. You should bring a first aid kit in case of any injuries, including anti-nausea medicine for anyone who gets queasy when the boat rocks. Dress appropriately. Having extra clothes on board can be helpful in case the temperature drops or you get wet. Bring flares or other items that can be used for a distress signal. Make sure your cellphones are charged. If possible, install a CB in case you need to call for help if other methods fail.
Keep an Eye on the Weather Forecast
Getting caught in a thunderstorm while on the water is no picnic. Check the weather before you set out. If the meteorologist says there is going to be a high chance of storms, consider rescheduling. If bad weather isn't coming in until late in the day, plan a morning trip. Don't push your luck. Get off the water before things change for the worse. If it's only showers and you have your rain gear, you could still have a good trip. Prepare yourself for sunny weather as well. It can get really hot out in the blazing sun. Bring plenty of water to drink, wear a hat, and plan on wearing sunglasses. Consider bringing an umbrella if the temperatures are really high. You may need to seek a shady spot or come off the lake if it gets to be too much.
Make your next fishing trip the trip of a lifetime. If you are prepared for anything the day may throw at you, you will be able to make the most of it. Take advice from others who love to fish as much as you do. Once you find what works best, you can start planning more fishing adventures to come.
