The weekend is here, which means it’s the perfect time for fishing. It is not just exciting, but it’s also a great way to relax, and to mingle with family and friends to take your mind off a rough work week.
But before you rush off fishing, you need a properly geared tackle bag. It is just like the tool box of any bloke- it must be laden with the right tools. Of course different tackle boxes have different tools, but there are some fundamentals that all tackle bag/backpacks must have. Here we go:
1. Extra hooks
different fish require different types of hooks. When you have a variety of hooks, it means that you are ready for all your fishing adventures. The variables are endless: the type of fish you want to catch, the bait you use, line size and where you are actually fishing all change the type of hook you need. Whichever hook you like- make sure you have it in various sizes in your tackle box. You can’t fish for a river trout when you have a hook meant for a 130 pound catfish. Sizes start from the smallest (number 32) to the biggest (19/0).
2. Extra line
your line might get snagged, or the fish of your dreams gets hooked and takes off – there are always times when you need that extra line. There is every chance that your fishing line will break during your fishing trip, which is why it is very important to have extra line in your tackle bag. Seasoned fisherman know it.
3. Sinkers
sinkers are pretty easy to lose, so it is best to have extras. Like hooks there are countless options here and you need a good variety of styles and sizes. Again, you need to know the species of fish you’re after and the environment that you will be fishing in.
4. Lures
bait and hooks should probably be enough for fishing, but having lures in your tackle bag will give you more flexibility out on the water. There are hundreds of lures to select from and it is impractical to take every type of lure with you. But you can take a good variety that is specific to your target fish each day. You can probably even take two of your favorite lures. (the one guaranteed to catch fish)
5. Bobbers
bobbers are also called floats, and they help you detect when a fish is biting your bait. Really cool to have in your tackle box but you don’t always need them. Novices and experienced anglers use bobbers for the above mentioned reasons. They can also be used for suspending baits at a certain depth. So you will need a good variety to meet all your needs.
6. Soft plastics
we have massive options with soft plastics and the versatility with this type of lure is unmatched. Plastics are not heavy or cumbersome, so you have no excuse for not taking a bag full with you. Hey, you just never know when you might need them.
7. Needle nose pliers
once you catch a fish, you would need to take the hook out. This is when you will need these pliers. They are also handy for cutting your line as well. Make sure you buy pliers that are corrosion resistant and they will serve you well for many years.
8. Line cutters
you cut your line a lot, especially when setting up your rigs, so invest in a good tool for cutting. Just make sure that they are suitable for cutting all types and weights of line. Ensure you have a place in your tackle box for one good set of cutters.
9. First aid kit
people don’t generally have medical emergencies while fishing, but it is always a good idea to keep a first aid kit in your tackle bag. Hope you never need it but it is comforting to know you have it with you. Not just for yourself but for any family and friends with you.
10. Sunscreen
you are going to stay out in the sun all day. Protect yourself. Ultraviolet rays can cause skin cancer and you know it. Always keep this in your kit.