A good old-fashioned fishing trip is a great way to reconnect with nature and escape the bustle of modern life. However, there is no way to totally disconnect from real-world demands. In the great outdoors, the unpredictability of weather and inconsistent bites means there’s a lot to plan for to make sure you have fun. Keep it reel by avoiding unnecessary stress and worry while participating in one of the best pastimes. The following tips can help you plan your next fishing trip so you can travel worry-free:
Know Your Location
Knowing your location applies to a lot of different considerations:
- What is the weather forecast? Rainy? Windy? Temperature? These are major factors that will affect not only your comfort, but the fishing.
- What species are there, and which are you targeting? This will change your gear setup, your flies, and a lot more.
- Does the area have local fishing guides?
- Will the area be busy when you go? How much parking is available? Will the best spots be taken if you don’t get there early in the morning?
- Are their grocery stores nearby? Restaurants? A fly shop or store for supplies?
If you think about all these items ahead of time, you are far more likely to get yourself a fish, be safe, and have a better time.
Research the Water Conditions and Hatches
When planning a fishing trip, you should have a good understanding of your conditions, if the water is high, low, warm, or cold. This will help you catch more fish, but more importantly, understand if it is a good destination.
USGS generally has data on most bodies of water, but if not, call up a nearby fly shop to see what they are saying about the local conditions. Facebook groups are also great resources as most areas have local groups with individuals who are willing to help answer questions about river or lake conditions.
Know Which Species to Target
Avoid showing up to a trout stream with a hand full of large-bodied topwater frogs that 9-inch rainbow trout can’t bite. Check fishing reports to see what gets caught at your destination, then read up on fishing tips and tricks for the species you are targeting.
Gear Up
After you know what fish to target, make sure you have the right gear. It’s important to have the right rod, a good reel, and then get some baits that are best for your targeted species. The best way to research this is by reading a blog or column on the best baits that work for your targeted species.
Get Travel Insurance
Life is full of surprises, and if you want your fishing trip to be a stress-free experience, travel insurance is a must. Whether it’s a fishing trip for two days or two weeks, the Goose app provides the protection you need. For instance, if an airline loses your equipment or bad weather cuts your trip short, you will be exposed to financial losses. But, with Goose insurance you can avoid these unnecessary costs with 24/7 travel assistance, so you can rest assured that you’ve chosen your travel insurance plan wisely.
Understand the Rules + Regs
Be a responsible fisherman and make sure you have acquired the proper fishing license, as well as follow all rules and regulations for where you are fishing. Many areas have catch and release only laws, barbless hook laws, artificial lures only, catch limits, size limits, and open and closed seasons. Make sure you know these rules and follow them for the water bodies you’ll be visiting.
Every state has a government site in which you should be able to find the regulations. If you can’t, call a local guide to help answer questions.
Following these general tips will help ensure that your fishing trip goes smoothly. And over time, you will develop your own routine around what works as you gain a better understanding of how to plan a fishing trip.
