Your Essential Fishing Trip Checklist

Sometimes, an escape to nature is just what you need to unwind. Add fresh air, a body of water and some rods to the equation, and you’ve got yourself the basics of a fishing trip. Spend time surrounded by the outdoors and calm waters, listening to the soothing sounds of nature while waiting for a tug on your casted line.

Treat yourself to well-deserved relaxation by planning a fishing trip. Whether you’re going solo or with a group of anglers, preparation is key. Before grabbing your tackle box and heading out on the water, take time to understand how to prepare for a fishing trip and tick off your packing against our checklist.

How to Prepare for a Fishing Trip

It’s exciting to get on the road and head to the nearest fishing spot, but there are things you need to consider first to make the most of your adventure. Here’s how to prepare for a fishing trip, step by step.

1. Decide on Species and Location

Determine the fish you’re looking to catch and the best time to find it. Peak fishing seasons across the nation run from spring to fall. Summer is the busiest time to plan a fishing trip, and autumn is ideal if you’re looking to reel in a lunker.

Next, decide where to cast your line. You can visit locations close to home for a short trip. But if it’s a bigger adventure you’re after, head to Alaska for the salmon run between May and September, California for peak tuna fishing during August and September, or Florida for tarpon from April through June.

2. Get a License and Do Research

In most states, purchasing a fishing license is mandatory. These licenses are state-specific, either freshwater or saltwater, and sometimes require additional special permits for certain species such as sturgeon, trout and salmon. You can purchase a license online through the state agency website or at various retail locations and bait shops. Just as important, you should research the local regulations for size and quantity limits and protected areas.

3. Book Accommodation and Boats Early

If you’re planning an extended trip, book your lodgings sooner rather than later. Depending on the season and the location’s popularity among anglers, accommodation can book up quickly. If you’d rather avoid the crowds and embrace nature, look into sites where you can set up camp.

The same goes for a boat charter. If you’re planning to reserve a boat for your fishing trip, make your reservation at least one to three months in advance.

4. Prepare Your Tackle

A fishing trip requires all the essential gear — rods, reels, bait and lures. Check your fishing equipment to ensure everything is ready for your upcoming trip.

Fishing Equipment Checklist

With all of the logistics in place, you can start packing for your fishing trip. To help you pack right and light, our fishing trip checklist has everything you need for a successful adventure, from your fishing gear and essentials to a few extras. Here’s what to bring on a fishing trip:

Gear

After checking and preparing your tackle, it’s time to pack it. Whether you’re ice fishing, fly fishing or going on a boat fishing trip, make sure you have the correct gear for your type of fishing adventure. You should include:

• Fishing license and fishing regulations information
• Rods, reels and line
• Tackle box
• Lures, bait, sinkers, flies, spoons and jigs
• Pocket knife, pliers, and scissors
• Nets and gaffs
• Boat or waders
• Life jackets
• Cooler, filet knife and baggies
• Fishing vest
• Gloves
• Auger and ice picks (for ice fishing)

Essentials

In addition to your fishing gear, you need to pack certain essentials for a fishing trip. Pack safety items, protection against the elements, comforts and emergency repair solutions.

Pack these necessities to cover all your bases:

• First-aid kit: Safety is important, so pack a full first-aid kit for any possible injuries.
• Sun protection: Protect yourself with polarized sunglasses, sunscreen, SPF lip balm, hats and bandanas.
• Camping gear: For overnight fishing trips where you’ll be camping, pack your tent, sleeping bag, pillows, extra blankets, cooking gear and toiletries.
• Insect repellent: Keep pesky bugs away with bug spray.
• Weatherproof clothing: Pack gear based on the weather forecast, such as rainwear if you expect rain and warm layers if it’s cold.
• Comfortable clothing: Once you’re done fishing, you’ll want to get into something comfortable.
• Non-skid shoes or boots: Avoid slipping on wet boat decks with strong grip shoes.
• Dry shoes: Have an additional pair (or two) of shoes for when you’re on land.
• Electronics: Pack a fully charged cell phone and portable charger, along with a waterproof case to protect against water damage.
• Spare batteries: In case batteries in your electronics die, you’ll have a backup.
• Quick-dry towel: A soggy towel is never ideal, so pack a quick-drying one for convenience — plus another just in case.
• Duct tape: Need an emergency repair? Duct tape is versatile and can fix up broken rods, torn waders, boat leaks or patch tents.
• Water bottles: Pack them for cooking and staying hydrated.

Extras

Although you want to pack light, it’s always pleasant to have a few extra items to make the trip more comfortable and convenient.

Here are some ideas:

• Snacks and drinks
• Tape measure
• Wet wipes
• Camera
• Cash
• A portable toilet

Why It’s Nice to Have a Portable Toilet

When in nature, do as nature does, right? However, some people aren’t comfortable with giving up the luxury of having a private space to do their business. And sometimes, the camping facilities aren’t as sanitary as you’d hope. There’s a solution to this uncomfortable situation — invest in a portable toilet.

There are many reasons why a portable toilet is a must-have for your next fishing or camping trip:

• Comfortable and private: A portable toilet can be set up inside your tent or RV, so you can have total privacy. No more digging holes or going in the bushes.
• Easy to set up and use: Modern portable toilets are easy to use, even if you’re new to the concept. Simply go, push the button and you’re done.
• Environmentally responsible: A portable toilet has a specially designed barrier bag that seals waste effectively, preventing contamination.
• Compact and easy to transport: Portable toilets are lightweight and can go wherever you go.
• Self-contained and odor-free: Thanks to unique waste-sealing methods, portable toilets are odor-free.

Shop Laveo™ Dry Flush Toilets and Accessories

Laveo Dry Flush Toilets are the ideal solution when you’re out on the water or relaxing in nature. Our range of waterless portable toilets is designed for adventurers and life on the road, ensuring privacy, comfort and convenience wherever you go.

Our toilets weigh 27 pounds, making them a great travel companion and easy to install on your fishing charter or camping site. The carrying tote allows you to move them easily from one location to the next without the hassle or strain. And if you need extra components for added convenience, we offer handy accessories such as handrails, pee powder, privacy shelters and seat covers.

Enjoy the freedom of your adventure without worrying about where the nearest facilities might be. Have questions about how our Laveo Dry Flush toilets work? Visit our FAQs page for all the answers. Adventure awaits. Order now and Go Anywhere with a new Laveo™ Dry Flush toilet on your next fishing trip.