What to Bring on Your Fishing Trip
A little preparation can make your fishing trip more comfortable, enjoyable, and successful. Whether you are joining us for a half-day trip or spending the full day on the water, bringing the right clothing, supplies, and personal items will help you focus on what matters most—catching fish and enjoying the lake.
At Action Fishing Trips, we want every guest to have a safe and memorable experience. Use this fishing trip checklist to make sure you are ready before heading out.
A Valid Arkansas Fishing License
Before your trip, make sure you have the appropriate Arkansas fishing license. License requirements can depend on your age, residency, and the type of fishing you plan to do.
Purchase your license ahead of time so you do not have to worry about it on the morning of your trip. Keep a digital or printed copy with you while you are on the water.
Comfortable, Weather-Appropriate Clothing
Weather conditions can change quickly on the lake, so dressing in layers is usually the best option. Early mornings may feel cool, even when the afternoon becomes warm and sunny.
Depending on the season, consider bringing:
- A lightweight jacket or sweatshirt
- A breathable fishing shirt
- Comfortable shorts or pants
- A rain jacket
- Non-slip shoes or sandals with secure straps
Avoid heavy clothing that becomes uncomfortable when wet. During colder months, warm socks, gloves, and an insulated jacket can make your trip much more enjoyable.
Sunscreen
Sun protection is important, even on cloudy days. Sunlight reflects off the water and can cause sunburn faster than many people expect.
Bring a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen and apply it before getting on the boat. Remember to reapply it throughout the day, especially to your face, neck, ears, arms, and legs.
A Hat and Polarized Sunglasses
A hat helps protect your face and eyes from direct sunlight. A baseball cap, fishing hat, or wide-brimmed hat can also help you stay cooler during warmer weather.
Polarized sunglasses are especially useful because they reduce glare coming off the water. They make it easier to see your surroundings and help protect your eyes from both sunlight and fishing hooks.
A strap for your sunglasses is also a good idea so they do not accidentally fall into the lake.
Food and Drinks
Bring enough water to stay hydrated throughout your fishing trip. Sports drinks can also be helpful on hot days, but water should always be your main choice.
For longer trips, pack easy-to-eat snacks or a light lunch. Good options include:
- Sandwiches
- Granola bars
- Fruit
- Crackers
- Beef jerky
- Trail mix
Choose foods that are easy to store, do not create a large mess, and can be eaten without much preparation.
A Small Personal Cooler
A small cooler is useful for keeping your drinks, snacks, and lunch cold. Choose a cooler that is compact and easy to carry so that it does not take up too much room on the boat.
Before bringing a large cooler, check with your fishing guide to make sure there is enough space available.
Your Phone or Camera
You may catch a fish worth remembering, so bring your phone or camera for pictures. A waterproof phone case or protective bag can help protect your electronics from splashes and accidental drops.
Make sure your phone is fully charged before the trip. You may also want to bring a portable battery charger, especially if you plan on taking plenty of photos and videos.
Any Necessary Medications
Bring any prescription medications or personal medical supplies you may need during the trip. Guests who are sensitive to motion may also want to bring an appropriate motion-sickness remedy.
It is always best to take medication according to the instructions provided by your doctor or the product label.
Insect Repellent
Mosquitoes and other insects may be active around the water, particularly during warmer months and early morning trips. A small bottle of insect repellent can help keep you comfortable.
Apply repellent carefully and avoid getting it on fishing equipment, bait, or your hands immediately before handling tackle.
A Small Bag for Personal Items
Use a small backpack, waterproof bag, or tackle-style bag to organize your personal belongings. Keep the bag compact and bring only what you expect to use.
Helpful items may include:
- Your fishing license
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Snacks
- Medications
- A phone charger
- A clean towel
- An extra shirt
- A waterproof phone case
A waterproof or water-resistant bag is ideal for protecting valuables.
What Fishing Equipment Should You Bring?
Before purchasing or packing fishing equipment, ask your guide what is included with your trip. Many guided fishing trips provide the rods, reels, tackle, and fishing knowledge needed for the day.
If you have a favorite rod or piece of equipment you would like to use, talk with your guide beforehand. This helps ensure that your equipment is appropriate for the fishing conditions and target species.
What Should You Leave at Home?
Boat space is limited, so avoid bringing unnecessary or oversized items. Large bags, excessive fishing equipment, valuable jewelry, and anything that could easily be damaged by water are best left at home.
You should also avoid wearing shoes with slippery soles because boat surfaces may become wet during the trip.
Prepare for a Great Day on the Water
Knowing what to bring on your fishing trip can help you stay comfortable and enjoy every moment on the lake. Pack light, dress for the weather, protect yourself from the sun, and bring plenty of water.
Action Fishing Trips offers guided fishing experiences for anglers of different ages and experience levels. Whether you are hoping to catch crappie, bass, bluegill, catfish, striper, or walleye, our goal is to provide a fun and memorable day on the water.
Contact Action Fishing Trips today to schedule your next guided fishing trip and experience some of the best fishing Arkansas has to offer.