If you’re a first time angler and keen to land a catch, it’s essential that you do your homework and build your fishing checklist before heading for the water. Thankfully, we’re here to help you with that step, covering what should be in your fishing kit to guarantee that the whole process runs swimmingly.
Tackle box
A tackle box is an efficient storage solution for all of your fishing must-haves, fitted with different compartments that keep items separate. The avid fisher knows that organisation is key when it comes to making a catch, so make sure to stay on top of this before heading off. Items that you could include in your tackle box are:
- Additional fishing line
- Floaters
- Weights
- Hooks
- Bait
- Small torch
- Suncream
Fishing rod and reel
If you’re only now dipping your toe into the fishing world, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by the number of rods and reels that are out there. With so many different sizes and styles to choose from, how can you possibly go about finding the one? Quality is always key when it comes to making the selection, but try not to invest in a design that’s overly complex and difficult to navigate.
When it comes to finding the right length, you’ll need to establish what type of fishing you’ll be doing. For example, longer rods are designed for longer casts, whereas rods on the shorter side do limit how far you can throw the line, but they are easier to control. Whichever fishing rod you decide to go for, it should definitely be included in your fishing kit. If you miss this off your checklist, you won’t be catching anything anytime soon.
Fishing line
Fishing line will connect the bait to your fishing rod, which can then be cast at different distances to tempt a fish, hopefully leading to a winning catch. Just as before, it can be incredibly hard to make a final decision when there are so many varieties of fishing line available. Once you’re aware of the key factors to look out for, this job can be made so much easier.
Firstly, you’ll need to evaluate the fishing line’s strength (which is measured in pounds). Your choice here will ultimately depend on the species of fish you’re going after, with bigger fish requiring a stronger line. At the same time, the key to fishing is to travel light, so make your choice wisely.
Secondly, the fishing line’s material. Nylon is the most commonly used fibre, offering plenty of flexibility and strength. With this being a material that’s been used for centuries, there are newer brands coming into the mix, such as Spectra and Dyneema. Through high-tech technologies, they’ve been able to produce an ultra-strong polyethylene fibre that’s able to float as a result of its lightness. Alongside bearing the castability, line memory (whether it retains its shape after casting) and line stretch in mind, you should be on your way to selecting the best fishing line.
Floats
So, what else should be in your fishing kit? Next up on the checklist are floats. These will be attached to the end of your fishing line, used to show whether a fish has become interested in your bait. If you see this bobbing up and down, you’re in luck! There are different sizes of fishing floats that each have varying uses, with some being more ideal for certain weather conditions or in certain areas. Again, you’ll need to firstly establish how and where you’ll be fishing, making your choice accordingly.
Landing net
A landing net is another fishing essential, so don’t forget to bring one along with you. This will be used to safely hold the fish so that you can take a peek at it before releasing it back into its habitat. Before purchasing this, consider the species that you’re intending on catching, which will consequently affect the size of the net mesh and of the net as a whole. Just as before, bigger species will require stronger nets, and those of the small variety won’t require something with as much strength and size.
Bait
From live baits to grocery baits, you won’t be able to tempt a fish without offering it a tasty snack first. Whether you’re planning on getting rid of some fish-friendly food waste, such as hot dogs, cheese, or frozen shrimp, or maybe you can get your hands on some live bait, such as worms, minnows, leeches or frogs, your choice may depend on how squeamish you are. Luckily there are plenty of options out there to suit every fish and fisher alike.
DIY fishing rod rack
For items that you can’t fit in your tackle box – such as your fishing rod – keep them secure and organised by making a DIY fishing rod rack; polypropylene ropes are ideal for the purpose, with their strength, durability and flexibility.
If you look at the back seat of your car, there’s a handle situated near the roof that’s often used as a makeshift clothes hanger. In this scenario, it’ll act as the base for your DIY rod rack. To begin crafting this handy piece of equipment, choose a long rope that can fit the width of your car, stretch it across from one side to the other, looping each end through the handles we mentioned.
Next, bring the two ends of the rope together into the middle and use hooks to secure them in place, sliding them out of the way once you’re done.
After testing the tension of your rope fishing rod rack and ensuring that everything is firm, you can carefully slide your fishing rod or rods between the cord and roof of the car, with the eyelets facing downwards. A simple yet cost-effective solution.
DIY rope shelter
If you’ve read our previous post that highlights the different rope types and their strength, you’ll know that polyester rope and tarp will be your saving grace when it comes to sheltering from inevitable British showers, due to its durability and strength. When you’re out fishing, it’s highly likely that the weather will turn at some point in the day, so you’ll need to be prepared – regardless of the season.
Some polyester rope, a pair of trees to tie your cord around and a sheet of tarpaulin work together to create the perfect fishing DIY tarpaulin shelter, keeping the ground beneath your feet and your fishing equipment dry, whatever the weather.
You can rely on rope source to find all of the materials you need for your next fishing adventure, crafting project, or for within the workplace. Give us a call today to find the materials best suited for the job at hand.