If you're looking for a challenge or just want to spend more time on the open water, you might consider going on a deep-sea fishing expedition. But what do you need to bring on this expedition? And how can you make sure you're adequately prepared?
Defining Your Journey
First, you need to determine how long your fishing expedition is going to last. You’ll need different sets of supplies depending on how long you're going to be gone.
- Half-day. If you’re new to the fishing world, you should err on the side of caution and stick to a half-day journey.
- Full day. If you have a bit more experience and you’re interested in a longer experience that requires more endurance, consider leaving for a full day.
- Night fishing. If you're looking for fish that are active at night, or if you just want an evening experience, you can go night fishing instead.
- Multi-day. Of course, if you have a boat that supports night-time accommodations, you can head to see for a multi-day fishing excursion.
Fishing Equipment
What type of fishing equipment should you bring?
Your equipment needs are going to vary depending on where you're fishing, what types of species you're seeking, and how many people you're bringing. The longer your journey is, the more supplies you'll probably need.
- Rods. Bring at least one rod, and preferably a backup, per each person who's going to be fishing on your vessel.
- Strong reels with high line capacities. If you're deep-sea fishing, you'll probably need strong reels with high line capacities, so you can catch even the fiercest game.
- Heavy line. You'll also need sets of heavy line that can support the species you want to catch.
- Live bait, lures, leaders, spinners, etc. Depending on what types of species you're after, you'll need an assortment of different types of live bait, lures, leaders, spinners, and other fishing tackle. Make sure you bring plenty of options so you can experiment.
- Towels. Bring extra towels to keep dry things dry and for miscellaneous fishing and boating needs.
- Nets. It's also important to bring some nets so you can bring species into the boat a bit easier.
Clothing
Make sure you dress appropriately for the occasion as well.
- Light clothes. If you're fishing in a hot climate, you should start with a foundation of light clothing. Ideally, your clothes will be light and breathable, but with ample coverage to protect you from the sun. It's also a good idea to bring extra layers in case it gets cooler at night.
- Rain protection. Even if the weather doesn't specifically call for it, it pays to bring some extra rain protection. That way, if you're caught in the middle of a wave of precipitation, you’ll be prepared.
- Sunglasses. Make sure to wear sunglasses that provide UV protection to improve your daytime vision and protect your eyes from damage.
- A hat. A hat with a sufficient brim can also protect you from the sun.
- Gloves. Gloves are a practical necessity when fishing, so make sure you have a pair that offers decent protection.
- Boots. It's also a good idea to have waterproof, tough boots while fishing.
Health and Safety Equipment
These types of items will provide you with protection and increase your health and safety.
- Motion sickness prevention. Bring along some form of motion sickness prevention, especially if you or one of your guests is especially prone to motion sickness. Even if you haven't had motion sickness in the past, it pays to bring some.
- Sunscreen and lip balm. Spending excessive amounts of time on a boat, under the harsh sun can expose you to potential damage. Make sure you bring and wear sunscreen and lip balm with a sufficiently high SPF to provide you with thorough protection.
- First aid. It's a good idea to keep a first aid kit on your boat, including basic essentials like bandages, gauze, aspirin, and disinfectants. If anyone gets hurt on your boat, these supplies may be able to help you get by.
- Lifejackets. You definitely need to bring a lifejacket for each person onboard your vessel. Before departing, do a fit check to make sure each life jacket fits its intended person properly.
- A working VHF radio. Your VHF radio is indispensable for emergency communications, so make sure you have one and that it's working properly.
- Emergency signalling devices. It's also important to bring other types of emergency signalling and communication devices, such as flares and emergency lights.
Food and Drinks
You'll also need to bring plenty of food and drinks.
- Ample water. Experts recommend drinking at least 2.7-3.7 litres of water per day, and more if you’re sweating or are physically active. Bring along more than you think you need.
- Snacks. Pack enough food to keep you fed for twice the journey you're going on; this way, you'll also have emergency supplies on hand.
- An extra cooler. Remember to bring an extra cooler, so you have a place to store all your fish.
Other Items
Don't forget these miscellaneous items either:
- Your fishing license. Depending on where you're going fishing, you may or may not need a fishing license. Make sure you have your documentation on you, just in case.
- A camera. Deep sea fishing isn't just about fishing; it's also about enjoying the water and seeing amazing things, so bring a camera to help you solidify these new memories.
- Entertainment. You may also want to bring along some entertainment, especially if you're traveling with other people. A pack of cards or a radio can keep even long journeys interesting.
Before you can go deep sea fishing, you need a boat that’s up for the task. Whether you’re an expert angler, a total newbie, or something in between, we have the vessels you need – so take a look at our vast selection of new and used boats for sale today!