We’re familiar with the details. You have saved your vacation dates and booked your flight. Now you are ready to embark on the trip of your dreams. You have chosen the best fishing charter available and are ready to catch the fish of your dreams. It’s tomorrow, and it won’t arrive at its destination in time. There is one small problem. You haven’t packed. You don’t know what to pack.
Don’t panic! You probably have all or most of the necessary items at home. Here’s a guide for what every angler should bring on charter fishing trips, especially if they’re overseas.
Clothing
If you plan to spend time on the open sea, you should bring lots of layers regardless of where you are traveling. Even the most warm destinations can see large temperature drops offshore. You can’t depend on the sun to keep your body warm if you leave the dock at 5:30 AM. You won’t have much shade so make sure you can put on outer layers if necessary.
- Windbreaker- This will keep you dry and warm during early morning starts.
- Shorts- for trips to tropical areas; long pants for those who are not.
- A light-weight shirt- A shirt can protect your shoulders and arms from sunburn. Linen is great for keeping the heat off your skin.
- Wear light colored clothes- This clothing reflects the sun and keeps you cool during hot weather.
- Gloves- These gloves will protect your hands from sunburn, bad weather, and line cuts.
- Shoes with non-skid soles.
Weather Protection
Sunblock is a must-have for anyone who plans to travel to tropical areas. You might be surprised to know that the sun can shine in Scotland at times! It’s not fair to have to decide between fishing and hiding in your cabin. Or getting a bronze like a satsuma or skin that feels like glass.
If you aren’t protected, the lack of shade and the reflections from the ocean can make it uncomfortable and dangerous. Unprepared anglers may find it difficult to fish in rough sea conditions.
- Choose one that protects against both UVA-UVB rays.
- Lip balm. Lip balm that includes sun protection will protect your lips from getting chapped by the sun.
- Caps with brims offer shade and reduce the chance of sunstroke.
- Polarized sunglasses. These sunglasses will allow you to see clearly through the water’s glare and give you a better view.
- Rain pants and jackets that are waterproof. They’re essential for when there is bad weather at sea.
Pharmaceuticals
It can be difficult to find foreign pharmacies, especially if there is a language barrier. However, you cannot rely on the ability to get the same medications that you have at home when you travel abroad. It is safer and easier to take any medical equipment that you may need with you on your trip.
- Seasickness medication. Over-the-counter remedies are recommended for those who are susceptible to seasickness. Both Dramamine and Bonine can be very effective, but they should be taken at least two hours before you leave for your trip. Avoid combining anti-nausea remedies with coffee. If you want to avoid having to drink too much the night before, it’s best to not.
- Bug spray. This is a must-have for any country you are traveling to. You can’t travel to a place without knowing what bugs might be there.
- Small first aid kit. You should have antiseptic cream and bandaids. You should have this on your boat, but it is easier to carry your own treatment for minor cuts or grazes.
- Wet wipes and hand sanitizer. If your hands are covered with fish slime, no one wants to eat a sandwich.
- Prescription medications (in the original prescription bottle). Your captain should be informed if you have diabetes, seizures or high blood pressure. You must let your captain know about any possible situations on the water. He could be in trouble if you don’t have the original packaging.
The article was written by a professional charter captain at Salty Knots Fishing Charters with 15+ years of experience in the Gulf of Mexico. Salty Knots Fishing Charters is a local fishing charter service based out of St. Pete Beach, Florida. “We know what it takes to catch a giant trophy fish!” Salty Knots Is the Best Fishing Charter St Petersburg FL.