A Guide To Pack for a Fishing or Hunting Trip

Nothing makes you look more like a rookie than forgetting an important piece of gear on a big trip--and many people are reluctant to loan a prized fishing lure or piece of hunting gear for fear it will get lost or damaged. Start preparing well beforehand to avoid embarrassment.

The following list is a starting point for any trip, but you'll want to include gear suited to your exact destination.

Instructions

1 Know your itinerary and destination. Leave a detailed description of your itinerary, including a return time, with a responsible person. If you are alone, leave a note in your car explaining who you are, where you're going and when you expect to return.
2 Verify if you'll be hiking or driving to your final destination. If you need a backpack, make sure it is comfortable, large enough for all your gear, and has a large, padded waist belt that transfers some of the load to your hips.


3 Divide your gear into batches that you can store in small nylon bags, available at camping supply stores for a few dollars. Put fishing implements in one bag, cooking equipment in another and so on.
4 Invest in a hard case for your fishing rod or rifle. Available from hunting and fishing supply stores, they cost $200 to $400 for rifle cases and $100 to $200 for fishing rod cases.
5 Assess the maintenance needs of your fishing or hunting equipment. Have a small set of tools for working on your gear, including pliers, screwdriver, oil and cleaning supplies.
6 Check out handheld GPS (global positioning system) receivers at a camping store. Prices start at about $125. These devices are a great way to avoid getting lost, and you can use one to record secret fishing locations. Practice using it before you go. Remember that you still need a map and compass (and knowledge of how to use them).
7 Get good boots if you don't already have them. Purchase a pair at least a week beforehand and wear them for several hours to break them in. They should be water-resistant, have a thick, protective sole and toe, and have a high enough collar to keep dirt and water out. Got waders?
8 Pack extra socks. Medium-weight socks in a wool, synthetic or blend are extremely comfortable and suitable for almost any weather. Spend $10 or $15 per pair and your feet will love you.
9 Plan to dress in layers. Most trips will involve periods of activity followed by stretches of standing around, so you'll need to add and remove insulation. A base layer of long underwear (synthetic fabrics insulate and resist moisture better than cotton), followed by a pants and a sweater or fleece jacket, and topped off with a wind- and waterproof outer layer, is ideal.

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