Are you getting ready to head off on a weekend angling adventure in your self-proclaimed best aluminium boat in your area? Before you go ahead on your trip, have you prepared all the things you’ll need in your trip? Aside from the most essential fishing items, such as your tackle box, did you also prepare other important items for your trip?

In addition to getting your fishing gear ready, it's important to bring along items that can keep you comfortable and safe throughout the trip. Creating a checklist and preparing the items you need will help ensure that you have everything necessary for your excursion. But if you find yourself unsure about which items to bring, this article will guide you on what to pack. Use this as your reference:

Fishing license: Each state has its own requirements for obtaining a fishing license, whether you are fishing for recreation or other purposes. It's important to familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations of the state where you plan to fish. Pay attention to restrictions on baits, specific fish species that are off-limits, as well as rules regarding the size and bag limits for catches.

If you have your licence, keep it inside a small waterproof dry bag for easy access and store it inside your backpack or tackle box while fishing.

GPS: If your fishing trip destination is located in a remote area or an unfamiliar place, it’s a good idea to have a GPS so that you can find your way back to your fishing lodge or campsite or back to the highway if you don’t plan to stay overnight.

First aid kit: Pack a portable first aid kit that includes items such as antibiotic ointment, bandages, tweezers, antiseptic wipes, aspirin, gauze pads, cloth tape, non-latex gloves, and a blanket. These items are important to have in case of emergencies.

Polarized sunglasses: These sunglasses protect your eyes from the harsh light from the sun and also eliminate the glare from the water’s surface so it’s easier for you to spot any fish.

Sunscreen: Your sunscreen or sunblock must have aUVA/UVB broad-spectrum to protect your exposed skin from the harmful UV rays of the sun. Make sure it is also waterproof so it won’t slide off your screen if you get wet or you perspire.

Bug spray: Have a bug spray bottle with you to keep mosquitoes, flies, gnats, and ticks from bothering you during your activity. This is most important if you’re fishing in a freshwater body such as a river or lake.

Seasickness pills: If you plan to take you’re aluminium fishing boat offshore, it’s best to bring along a packet of seasickness pills. The ocean waves and the weather can be unpredictable at times and the last thing you want to happen is you get nauseated and be miserable for the rest of your trip.

Appropriate fishing apparel: Don’t forget to pack the following clothes for your trip: Breathable pants that willprovide your legs and thighs with protection against elements and pests. A wide-brimmed hat that can keep your face concealed from the sun. Rain gear that you can use when the weather suddenly gets wet and gloomy.

Non-skid and non-marking boat shoes help you keep standing and walking upright and prevent you from slipping and sliding down your boat. Bring along a scarf to warm your neck and gloves to keep your hands from freezing.

Camera: You want your accomplishments, like catching a big game fish, to be recorded so don’t forget to bring a camera. Make sure it’s waterproof or at least place it in a waterproof bag. If you don’t have a camera, use your smartphone instead.

Personal flotation devices (PFDs): Never forget to always bring along your life jacket or personal flotation devices (PFDs). Make sure you have enough for the number of people who will be accompanying you on this trip.

Pocket knife: It’s best to bring along a Swiss Army knife that can do a lot of things such as cutting lines, sharpening hooks, and gutting fish.  This knife also includes a corkscrew, screwdriver, ruler, tweezers, bottle opener, metal file, and scissors to name a few. This knife is so useful in a lot of ways and even saves you from having too many tools.

Cooler: A cooler will keep your drinks cold, and your lunch safe and will even come in handy when you want to bring your fish home. Make sure to get the ones that are properly insulated.

Keep in mind that this is a sample fishing gear list. Different items or additional items may be needed depending on the destination and duration of your trip.