What Do You Need to Go Fishing?

Fishing is a fantastic activity for people of all ages. But, you’ll need to prepare for a fishing trip and pack the essential fishing gear before heading out on the water,

So, what do you need to go fishing? A fishing rod and reel, a fishing line, hooks, and bait are essential fishing gear. Fishing is basically impossible without these items, so make sure to pack the basic equipment before fishing. Other essential fishing equipment includes sinkers, bobbers, extra fishing lines, pliers, and lures. 

Getting ready for a fishing trip can be overwhelming, whether you haven’t gone fishing in years and want to give it another go or you’re planning your first fishing trip. Keep reading to learn what fishing equipment you need to pack for a productive fishing trip. 

Things You Need to Go Fishing

Things You Need to Go Fishing

There are many ways to tackle gearing up for your first fishing trip. Depending on your age, a valid state fishing license is one of the most important things to pack because you won’t be able to fish legally without it.

When it comes to fishing, there are several essential pieces of equipment you need to attempt to catch fish. The rest of the fishing gear makes the fishing experience more enjoyable and increases your chances of catching a fish. 

Basic Fishing Gear

Whether this is your first time fishing or you are an experienced angler, you won’t catch any fish without the essential fishing gear. Here are four pieces of the basic equipment you need to go fishing:

Rod and Reel

There are many different fishing rods depending on the fishing method you choose to catch fish. A fishing rod and reel used for ice fishing aren’t the same as a fishing rod used for fly fishing. 

If you’re a beginner, look for a versatile rod and reel combo that you can use for bait and lure fishing. Start fishing with a medium action rod rated for an 8lb to 20lb fishing line. These types of rods are excellent for catching different fish species in lakes and rivers.

Fishing Line

The most commonly used types of fishing lines include monofilament fishing lines, fluorocarbon fishing lines, and braided fishing lines. Braided fishing lines are the strongest and thin, fluorocarbon lines are almost invisible underwater, and monofilament fishing lines are stretchy. 

Hooks

To catch a fish, you’ll need a hook at the end of a fishing line. The hook will snare the fish so you can reel it in. Fishing hooks come in various sizes, but for a basic setup, use a single hook and some live bait, like worms. 

Bait

Without a bait dangling from the line, your fishing setup won’t land you any fish. There are various types of bait to choose from, depending on the type of fish you want to catch. 

The most popular live baits for fishing are minnows and worms. Some of the most popular types of artificial lures include spinnerbaits, soft plastic lures, crankbaits, and plugs.

Other Essential Fishing Gear for Beginners

Whether you’re into freshwater or saltwater fishing, consider bringing the following pieces of fishing gear to your next fishing trip:

Bobber

A bobber, also known as a floater, is attached to a fishing line and shows when the fish bites. When the fish bites, the bobber goes underwater, letting you know to set the hook and reel in the fish.

Sinkers

Sinkers or weights are made of lead or tungsten and are designed to keep the bait underwater and provide greater casting distance. Small in size, sinkers are inexpensive and easy to set up on the line.

Pliers

The safest way to remove the hook from the fish you catch is by using pliers. Don’t try to remove the hook with your fingers, as you can accidentally get caught in it too. If your fingers accidentally get snagged, using pliers is the safest way to remove the hook. 

Landing Net

Having a good quality landing net is beneficial in many ways. A landing net promotes the safety of the fish, helps the fisherman land more fish, and is necessary when you start fishing for larger fish. 

Bucket

An old bucket is a must on fishing trips. A 5-gallon bucket can store gear, provide a place for sitting and act as a temporary live well for the fish you catch. 

Tackle Box

The best way to keep lures, hooks, and other fishing equipment organized is by using a tackle box. All tackle boxes have compartments for storing fishing gear and accessories and ensure that everything stays in one place. 

A good tackle box should be large enough to fit your entire equipment and comfortable enough so you can carry it all day. 

Fishing Tips for Beginners

If you’ve just started fishing, here are a few tips to help you get the most out of fishing and land the first catch:

  • Choose your fishing gear based on the type of fish you’re trying to catch
  • Make sure to match the lure’s color to the water’s color
  • Go fishing early in the morning and late in the evening when the fish are the most active
  • Safety first – don’t forget to pack a first aid kit, sunscreen, drinking water, and rain gear
  • Research state fishing rulers and regulations before going on a fishing trip
  • Always use new hooks or make sure to sharpen the old hooks before a fishing trip

Conclusion

No matter how much you love to fish, you won’t catch any fish without proper fishing equipment. A fishing rod and reel, fishing line, bait, and hooks are essential pieces of fishing gear every angler needs. 

Besides these essentials, you’ll also need a tackle box, landing net, pliers, bobbers, and sinkers to increase your chances of landing a fish. There are many different ways to gear up for a fishing trip, but make sure you’ve packed all essentials.