This sounds so simple but it is so easy to over-pack or under-pack for a fishing expedition — whether it’s a local day trip or crossing state lines for a week. The easiest is to start with a list on paper or, as I like to do, start a file on my computer naming it with the location and number of days fishing. This will be very useful information when planning future trips.
A trip is much easier with the right amount of gear. We can all think of the consequences of too little gear, but overpacking can be equally troublesome. Too much gear can slow you down or get lost in the vehicle or a jumbo travel bag.
Look at the weather forecast and then make a checklist. Making a checklist will assist you in not leaving behind that special item that you will magically remember when you’re already 50 miles down the highway. I like to have items packed a day or more before I leave.
Have your fishing traveling buddies do the same, and pack efficiently so you have room for all your gear and you don’t look like the Beverly Hillbillies heading to the lake.
Here is the starter checklist and questions to consider:
The right rod and reels. Ask yourself, “What species am I after?”
- Clothing. This can be tricky because if you pack too light you’ll be cold.
- Shack. Do you want a one-person hole hopper or a larger hub?
- Heater. Can you get away with a small one with 1# propane heater or will you need the large propane for all-day sitting waiting for the Red Lake walleyes to bite?
- Chargers. Take an inventory on what you need for all electronics and what kinds of batteries you may need for flashlights and the fish scale. Emergency purchases at the gas station can get spendy.
- Bait containers. I’m sure we all have a pile of them that we had to replace because we forgot them at home.
- Clothing. In addition to any thermal, on-ice gear, consider extra clothes for traveling or fresh socks.
- Personal items. Any meds, sunglasses, chapstick, etc.
Tod Todd of Kingston, Ill., is a professional ice angler and promoter. Tod has competed in several top ice fishing tournaments with outstanding results. Watch Tod on several different TV segments across Illinois. www.midwestangling.com
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