Preparing For a Fishing Trip

One of the most rewarding ways to spend an afternoon is to go on a fishing trip. You can relax with friends and family and chat while your lines are in the water, then grill up your catches for dinner when you head to shore.

But a successful fishing trip requires that you do a bit of planning in advance to ensure everything goes off without a hitch. Hampton Watercraft & Marine, with locations in Hampton Bays and Eastport, is your eastern Long Island fishing boat dealer. Here are some tips to help you get ready for your next fishing trip, whether you’re headed out alone or with your friends.

Inspect Your Craft

Avoid mishaps from occurring while you’re in the middle of the lake by performing a thorough inspection of your boat beforehand. Make sure the motor is functional and that the oil is topped off. Fill up your fuel tank and inspect your battery. Look around the hull for any signs of damage. Ensure your baitwells and livewells are all clean and ready to go. Check to see that you’ve got all your necessary permits and documentation on board for wherever you plan to be.

Pack Your Gear

You’ll want to make sure that your fishing boat is well-stocked with all the supplies you’ll need for your day of fishing. Fortunately, most fishing boats come with plenty of convenient storage spaces so you can keep everything organized. Store your fishing equipment on board like your bait, tackle box, fish finder, GPS, pliers, fishing net, rope, knife, pliers and rods. You should also keep supplies on hand for safety, like food and water, extra clothing, rain-proof gear, sunscreen, bug spray, a first-aid kit, a laminated map of the area, an emergency radio and your phone with charger.

Figure Out Where To Go

You’ll want to take some time to plan out where you want to go with your fellow fishers. Figure out a general area, then determine where you wish to go within that body of water. Different types of fish swim at different depths, so it’s helpful to look at a depth chart to figure out where the fish you want to catch might be biting.

Check the Forecast

Knowing what kind of weather to expect will help ensure you don’t get caught in a sudden downpour or dangerous lightning storm. Make sure to check the forecast in advance of and on the day of your trip so that you’re aware of the conditions. You can then plan how you’ll dress and how long you’ll stay out on the water. Don’t be afraid to delay or cancel a trip if bad weather is on the horizon, especially if you’re heading out into the open ocean.

Bring a Friend

While some people enjoy their solitude, we recommend that you always go fishing in the company of at least one other person. Not only can it be more enjoyable to have a friend along, but if something goes wrong, you’ll have someone there to help you out. You don’t want to be stranded with a damaged craft or a serious injury with no one to assist you!

It can also be helpful to alert a friend, family member or neighbor back home about your plans. Let them know where you’re going and how long you intend to be gone. Check in with them via phone if your plans change. If you fail to return at the appointed time, this contact can alert rescue crews and tell them where you’ll be found.

We hope this guide proves helpful to you in planning your next excursion with your trusty fishing boat! Still don’t have the right craft? Come by one of our dealerships in Hampton Bays or Eastport, New York, to take a look at our full stock of new and used fishing boats for sale. Our Eastport location has marina facilities for you to use as well! Hampton Watercraft & Marine proudly serves eastern Long Island, New York.