Items for a good fishing trip
July 21st 2007 21:29
It doesn't matter if you're going on vacation or down to your favorite spot, there are a few items can take with you to make your trip a little more enjoyable. Assuming you're been out once or twice, you ought to know a little bit so, we'll assume you know what equipment to take. However, a few "creature comforts" that don't take up much space can make the experience better.
Who knows what kind of bacteria may be in the water? That bit of science coupled with the fact that you're going to be using sharp hooks makes a simple first aid kit essential. You don't need anything elaborate. Very simple first aid kits are on the market but, you probably have the makings right in your medicine cabinet. Make sure you have a good selection of bandages as well as antiseptic wipes and cream. These basic items will help you deal with those times when you accidentally hook your finger, cut your hand, or when a fish decides to use its fins in a defensive mode. Burn ointment, sterile gloves, and the like are suggestions if more elaborate injuries are anticipated.
Following close behind in importance would have to be sunblock. I know that old argument about looking good with a tan and all that but, skin cancer is nothing to sneeze at! One thing I've noticed is that people tend to develop the pattern of whatever they usually wear while fishing. It's not usual to discover white spots on your body in the shape of sunglasses, watches, or necklaces! If nothing else, judicious applications can help prevent tanning of other areas while you darken up the light places!
It's nice to have some insect repellent handy. I think this needs no explanation.
A handy item to have is a
Wikipedia
One more item that I highly recommend is a hook sharpener. There's a lot of them on the market--both battery and manual. We won't go into shopping tips today. The only thing I'll say is, "Get one!" Sometimes the reason for losing a fish is as simple as dull hooks. A good rule of thumb--if the hook pierces the first layer of your skin, it's probably sharp enough.
Something else that may sound stupid but makes a lot of sense in the long run is to have some tape and paper clips handy. If a line guide falls off of your pole, the tape can be used to make a temporary fix and if you lose one all together, you can use a paper clip to take its place. You may have to make a bend or two but, that's what the pliers are for. Remember the pliers?????
A hand towel or something to wipe my hands on is something I like to have around. It sure beats wiping my hand on my pants! One word of advice here--DON'T hold fish with a towel. I know they're slimy and icky but, that slime on them is a protective coating. If you wipe it off, they'll probably die! Or, at least, so I was told by an old salt the first time I fished in the sea. True or not, it makes a colorful memory!
This short list is going to add a little convenience to any trip. Naturally, there's always more equipment you can take but, this list covers just about any endeavor out there. Anything else gets a little specific. For example, I like a bottle opener for my Coke!
Until next time--watch yourself and watch your line!
*Large image from morguefile.com
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Comment by Lara M
Love Speaks
Re. the *slime* - yes it is the fish's *protection*. It can cause fungal and algae to grow if it has been *wiped off/removed*...leading to death.
Comment by James Rickard
unlucky_ fishermen.com
Angling Fish