6534
Winter 2024
®
rope just in case you need to be towed in or you need to tow another boat in, or to tie off on a dock, tree, etc. I do carry a tow strap as my primary means for towing someone in, or if I would need to be towed in.
TIP: If you rely on rope to tie your boat up when docking, cut two short sections of rope, and put a clip on one end, this way you can quickly tie up to the dock when needed.
WET WEATHER GEAR
Staying warm and dry isn’t just more comfortable, depending on the time of year; it could prevent you from getting sick or worse, either way a good set of rain gear will keep you on the water fishing and not heading inside. I always keep my Blackfish Rain Gear and Boots in the boat, so I can put it on any time the conditions are less than favorable.
TIP: Keep a spare set of rain gear in your rig, just in case your fishing partner forgets his/hers, this way you can stay on the water and not have to head in, because of their forgetfulness.
wear an inflatable life jacket, but I also keep two regular life Jackets, so I’m prepared when other anglers hop in my boat. Remember to also keep your throwable flotation cushion in an accessible spot.
TIP: If you do wear an inflatable life jacket, be educated on how to rearm that jacket, and have the needed CO2 cartridge to do so.
MEDIC KIT
Accidents happen, right! Well, we need to be prepared for that and have a first aid kit on board. The same items you keep in your vehicle also serve a purpose when on the water. Other items that you may not think of include, bug spray and anti-itch cream, should someone have an allergic reaction to a bug bite.
TIP: If you are a contact/glasses wearer, keep an extra set of each in this box, along with a small mirror and contact solution as you never know when you’ll need them!
LIFE SAVING GEAR
This one is a no brainer and it’s the law, but always have the correct number of life jackets in your boat. I always
WATERPROOF BOX
For the amount of information and importance we have stored in our cell phones and wallets these days, it just blows my mind that anglers still fish with these items in their pockets. All it takes is one slip, one wave or a scattered strong storm and your phone and wallet could be soaked
page 62