There are still a few weeks left of the summer, which means that now’s the perfect time to go boating and take part in all of the aquatic activities that you’ve been meaning to do, including taking your boat out for a day of fishing. Taking a fishing trip doesn’t have to be difficult; it’s supposed to be a fun, relaxing time. You can go out fishing alone for some much needed quiet time or you can go with a group of friends for a bonding activity.
If you’ve never been fishing before, you might want to prepare yourself in advance for your trip, especially if you’re planning on taking your own boat out there. Here’s a quick checklist to help you get started, courtesy of Active:
Get Your License, Registration and Insurance
A long time ago, it used to be a process to be licensed and registered. Now it’s not. It’s as easy as jumping online and registering. Thanks to the internet, little things like registering to fish have become that much more simple. Don’t forget that having a license to fish is an absolute necessity.
If you’re planning on taking your boat out there, make sure that your fishing boat is insured (and if you’re taking someone else’s boat, make sure that they’re covered as well). Fishing boats can be insured by the standard Boat Insurance policy.
Count on Bad Weather
Bad weather is going to happen, so make sure that you are prepared for it. The temperature of the air will feel much colder on water than on land, meaning it’s especially important to think about during the early morning or evening hours. Since there’s nothing protecting you from the wind, it can get chilly. Dress in layers, if you can. And always plan ahead with a jacket, and some extra dry clothes just in case the water finds its way to you.
Organize Your Gear
Keep your gear clean and tidy, and your fishing trip will go by successfully. Organize your gear in a logical fashion in which time is of the essence. Having your first aid kit readily available is highly recommended. As far as permits or licenses go, keep them in a waterproof container. Bring doubles of everything, especially extra rods, reels, spools of lines or tackle and extra fuel. And finally, don’t forget to bring a cooler with ice for your fresh catches.
Plan Your Meals
Make sure you plan your meals ahead of time; having a surplus of food will be immensely helpful. Things can turn nasty fast, including bad weather. That’s why it’s so important to plan for it. The last thing you want is to be stuck far from land without any food or water.
Know the Lay of the Land Ahead of Time
Whatever body of water you’re on, get to learn the layout of the area ahead of time. It’ll help make sure that you know exactly where you’re going. This will also reduce the chances of you or your boat coming to any harm in an unexpected accident because you weren’t sure of how to respond to an incident.
About Mariners Insurance
Mariners General Insurance Group was founded in 1959 to protect boat owners and marine business clients. We are marine insurance experts and insure boats worldwide – in every ocean on the planet. Marine insurance is critical if you own a boat or nautical business. Trust the professionals with all of your Boat Insurance needs – trust Mariners Insurance. Call us at (800) 992-4443 any time you have questions or concerns about insurance for your vessel or marine business.
