Packing for a Fishing Trip

Do you have an awesome vacation planned this summer that involves fishing? (By definition, we are guessing that fishing makes a vacation awesome.) Of course, if you are driving (and taking your boat with you!), packing for fishing is just as easy as packing for a day on the lake. But if you're flying somewhere interesting, packing that gear is a little trickier. So here are some tips for packing your fishing gear for a plane trip.



Use a soft tackle bag: Hard tackle boxes can crack when tossed around by baggage handlers (and you know that happens), so use a soft-sided tackle organizer instead. You can sometimes fit more in these bags than in your regular box anyways! You might want to take apart your lures to fit more in. This creates a little more work when you get to your fishing destination, but it may be worth it if you need a variety of sizes.

Packing your rods: If you're bringing along rods, pack them in a sturdy rod tube you can check or pack 4 and 5 piece rods that can be packed in your main checked duffel. It's easy enough to use PVC pipes and plastic caps to make your own tubes. Just make sure they are clearly marked with your contact information and the ends are securely fastened if you are checking them.



Practice: Do a packing trial a few days before you need to do it for real. That way, you can experiment with how everything fits and alter your packing list as needed. 



Go incognito: If you don't have the latest in fishing travel gear, not to worry. It may be better to use bags that are not branded from a fishing company. That way, no one knows what's inside, and your gear is much less likely to be messed with - or stolen.



Check out FishAbout for more packing tips (some of which are not specific to fishing).



Where are you taking your gear this year for a great fishing trip?