Going on an Extended Fishing Trip? Plan for a Great Time With These Tips

The fishing day trip is about as flawless as the outdoors go. It’s a chance to get away from civilization, relax on the water, and enjoy the sounds and smells of nature as you pursue the perfect bass, catfish, trout, or whatever fish you may be after. The only flaw is the time spent traveling to and from your little slice of paradise.

Sometimes one day just won’t do. It’s nice to wake up and head to the lake without involving your car or truck. But an extended fishing trip also involves extra planning. Do it right, and your next fishing trip will be well worth the effort and planning, as you spend several days enjoying all that nature has to offer.

Find Your Anchor

There is certainly no age limit on camping, and many hit the backcountry trails well into their 70s. But if you need a roof over your head between days on the lake or river, it’s easy to find a place to rent, even with just a few days notice.

The National Park Service is home to some of the most breathtaking fishing areas in the world, and there are lodges available on most properties. If you plan to visit a national park for your next fishing excursion, be sure to book your lodge a few months in advance.

Navigate the Road

Some fishing holes are in your backyard, while others are miles away and wind down narrow dirt roads. We’ll assume you have the right vehicle to handle rough roads, especially if you’re towing a boat or have a kayak strapped up top. Always carry a full-size spare and roadside emergency kit in case you get a flat or stuck in the mud.

If you want to take it up a notch and equip yourself with the ultimate navigation tool, consider renting a satellite phone for the duration of your trip. This tool can handle phone calls, text messages, email, weather updates, SOS alerts and GPS navigation from anywhere in the world— regardless of cell phone reception. It’s not only a cool way to navigate to your site, it’s also a safe way to travel in case you become stranded in the wilderness.

Pack Your Gear

Fishing gear has come a long way, well past the days of simple pole and tackle box. Check out some of the coolest gear for your fishing trip:

  • Fishing waders and hip boots from Cabela’s (prices vary): Perfect for trekking through water and marshlands
  • A Sagebrush Mesh Fishing Vest from Fishpond ($130): 10 zippered front pockets, lightweight and breathable
  • St. Croix Avid X casting rod ($200): Made in the U.S.A. and weighs next to nothing
  • Clone Fry baitfish by Jackall ($12, 6 per pack): a 3-inch bait fish with incredible detail
  • Simms Dry Creek Boat Bag ($200 for the medium): This 20-litre waterproof bag is lightweight and everything but bomb proof, and it magnetically locks when you drop the lid
  • Yeti Rambler Tumbler ($30/20 oz., $40/30 oz.): Keeps cold drinks cold and hot drinks hot for a long, long time