How to Pack Like a Fishing Pro

If you are anything like us, you are most likely already preparing to get out on the waters for your first fishing trip of the year. Before going out, we suggest you put together a thorough checklist.

Here are some tips on packing for Pro Angler success.

CHOOSE A GOOD ALL-PURPOSE ROD

A rod varies based on your budget. The most basic thing to fish with is a spinning rod and a soft plastic worm. Most beginner anglers use fake worms as it’s more challenging to catch fish with lures. Learn your rod and practice casting to nail your technique before doing the real thing.

USE THE RIGHT BAIT

Bass are attracted to all different types of bait. They go after soft plastic worms, but you should try “moving bait” lure to increase your rate of success. Grab a crankbait or spinnerbait for your fishing trip checklist. They are designed to mimic baitfish propelling through the water in windy or cloudy conditions.

Fun fact: it’s against regulations for bass Pro Anglers to use live bait.

MAP IT OUT

It’s important to see the layout of your fishing spot and your options for moving around. Find the nooks, crannies, peninsulas, and fishable shorelines available to you for diverse fishing. Downloadable topographic maps, which you can view offline, show changes in depth and contour. Online maps like Google Earth and LakeMaster are great resources if you have the bandwidth.

LAYER UP!

As outdoor sports enthusiasts of all kinds like to say, "Layer up!!!" A fishing trip can be miserable if you’re too cold or too hot. Bring clothes for the changing weather conditions. It tends to be colder on the water than on the land, so pack accordingly. Travel necessities include: long-sleeved shirts, long pants, hats, sunglasses, and natural sunscreen. Also, don't forget meals and beverages!

TACKLE BAG ORGANIZER

Your tackle bag should serve two purposes for your fishing trip checklist:
organization and safety. Changing lures should be quick and efficient while
minimizing risks of cuts or injuries from rogue lures. Your fishing experience will go smoother if you have everything you need in one place.

EMBRACE MEDITATION

Patience might be the most important thing on your fishing trip checklist.
Fish don’t bite when you want them to. Try new things, new areas, enjoy
being outside and don’t worry about the fish. Pack snacks, water and
some relevant reading material. Some of the best fishing experiences are
simply from spending quality time outdoors with friends.

FISHING RELATED READING MATERIAL

While waiting for your catch or waiting to get on the water, there are often times where you might decide to dive into your phone. Instead, bring angler-related reading material to keep ideas fresh. Check out popular fishing magazines like Bass Master, or this Men’s Journal article for interesting and useful information: The First Guide Trip on the Hobie Pro Angler 17T

EFFICIENT TRAVEL 

At 8 ½ feet long, our latest cargo carrier, the Pro Angler, is designed for
longer items like fishing rods, while providing plenty of room for your tackle
and of course your catch. Travel efficiently so you don't have too many separate containers. If everything is in one spot, you are less likely to forget something. 

PRO TIPS FROM A PRO ANGLER

For applied fishing techniques, check out tips from pro bass angler Justin Lucas as he scores at Ledge Fishing at Lake Chickamauga. Fishing friendly Choice Hotels provided Justin’s Pro-Angler tips. Pros like Justin like to use the following angler equipment:

- Abu Garcia rods with a Berkley PowerBait soft plastic lure.

- Bass Mafia line with a dry storage bag for valuables.

- Molix spinnerbait

ABOUT US

Founded in 1985 in Bend, Oregon, Packasport manufactures durable rooftop storage solutions that allow you to pack smartly for your adventures. Built to last a lifetime with marine grade fiberglass, our hard-shell cargo boxes are proudly manufactured in Eugene, Oregon. Spacious, with rear entry access and designed to reduce road noise, Packasport boxes are available in nine different models. Complete, customizable color matching options are available, and our boxes fit a wide variety of vehicles ­­– cars, vans, trucks, and even boats.