Meg Miller Shares 10 Essential Pieces of Gear for Your Next Fishing Trip

When planning any type of fishing trip, the success of it is dependent specifically on the planning and the quality of gear you bring with you.

“Without the right tools, you may still be able to fish, but your success could be limited”

Meg Miller

Meg also adds “As you think about spending the day on the lake, wading through a local stream, or even doing some deep sea fishing, there are some types of fishing gear you simply need to have to make it a success.”

Below, Meg Miller shares more about the types of fishing gear you don’t want to go without for your next fishing trip.

Don’t Go Without These 10 Pieces of Fishing Gear for Your Next Trip

There are certainly many types of fishing, and each type and area requires a different focus for your gear. You also need to consider the type of fish you hope to catch, the time of year, and whether you want to keep things as basic as possible or as high-tech as you desire. Let’s not overlook the obvious. You’ll need your fishing rod and line, along with all of the necessary bait you desire.

Aside from all of that, there are 10 pieces of essential fishing gear you don’t want to be without on most trips.

#1: Your Fishing License

No matter where you plan to fish, always check with the local fishing and wildlife organization to determine if you need a fishing license. There is nothing that will ruin your experience more than having the police confiscate your days’ worth of catch as a result of fishing without a license and then having to pay a fine on top of it.

#2: The Proper Clothing

Adjust your clothing to the specific type of fishing you plan to do as well as the weather. If you plan to do some fly fishing, for example, you’ll appreciate having waders ready to go so you can move quickly. Most of the time, you’ll want to wear pants rather than shorts, even in the warmer months, to help ward off insects. Be sure you have a hat, sunscreen, and extra pair of socks with you as well. You’ll likely want a change of clothes, too, so you don’t get into your car wet.

#3: A Net

The fishing net is one of the more common items forgotten when planning a fishing trip, especially if this is your first trip. That’s often because most anglers don’t think about having to scoop the fish up but think it’s easy enough to just grab the fish at the end of the line. Having a net will help to ensure that you don’t lose anything.

#4: A Knife or Multi-Tool

There are plenty of times when you’ll appreciate having a knife on hand to help you with the fishing experience. Cutting lines, slicing through the rope, or having to deal with something that’s caught on your gear are all times when a simple pocket knife is handy. If you don’t want to carry just a knife, go with a multi-tool, which is the perfect item to slip into your pocket to help with a variety of tasks.

#5: Long-Nose Pliers

Another often forgotten but critical tool for fishing is a set of long-nose pliers. You’ll appreciate having a quality pair to help you remove the hook from the mouth of the fish. Invest in a good quality product, one that fits your hand and is comfortable to use. You’ll also want to get a bit of practice if you’re new to using them just to make sure there are no complications when you need to use them.

Recommended: Boosting Agricultural Productivity | Lessons from Meg Miller’s Experience

#6: Ice Chest

Bring an ice chest with you to help you keep your fish nice and cool throughout the experience. You may catch a fish right when you get started, and if so, you’ll want to be able to keep it well protected in the ice chest. Choose one that has an easy to drain bottom and isn’t overly heavy. Then, stop to get some ice on the way.

#7: Extra Line, Bait, and Lures

Heading off on a fishing trip with just a few of these items isn’t going to be enough. Chances are good that you’ll lose your lures, and your bait will not be as effective in every environment. Having options can help you ensure your fishing trip is a good one.

#8: Polarized Sunglasses

The sun can be blaring off the water, and that makes it nearly impossible for you to see what’s happening. This isn’t just to help improve your fishing experience but also to ensure you can remain safe. Pick up a pair of quality polarized sunglasses, even if it isn’t going to be a super warm or sunny day.

#9: Water and Food

You could be out there for hours. You need to keep yourself hydrated. Even if you bring alcoholic or other drinks with you, including sodas or other sugary drinks, there is nothing more important than having water available. Bring some easy to care for snacks, too. That way, you’re fully comfortable, and you don’t have to rush.

#10: Camera

Even if you don’t catch a single thing, having a camera available ensures you can easily remember this day and create some memories for yourself and those with you.

These essential items don’t include all of the necessary gear but are those items you may not have thought about getting for your trip.