The Pro Tips Fishing Trip Checklist
From fishing license to warm CLOTHES, our Pro Tips Fishing CHECKLIST will help you plan for your next fishing adventure with Desert Salmon Charters…
We know the story. You’ve saved your vacation dates, booked your flight, and are about to go on the trip of a lifetime. You’ve chosen a superb, fully equipped fishing charter and are all set to land the fish of your dreams. Your plane leaves tomorrow and it couldn’t reach its destination soon enough. There’s just one tiny hitch. You still haven’t packed. And you have no idea what you need to bring.
Don’t panic! Chances are you have most or all of the essentials lying around your home. To make sure your trip starts right, here’s our guide to what every angler should take with them when fishing on a charter, especially if you’re going overseas.
We’ll take care of many of your fishing charter equipment needs including:
A 24-foot aluminum fishing boat (Crestliner Eagle)
A licensed B.C. professional fishing guide
All your fishing gear including downriggers, rods, reels and tackle
Modern safety gear including PFDs designed for a comfortable day fishing on the water
Clothing
Wherever you’re travelling to, it’s important to bring plenty of layers if you’re planning to go out on the open water. Even the warmest Okanagan summers can experience large drops in temperature on the water. If you’re leaving the dock at 7:00 am you can’t rely on the sun to keep you warm from the start. At the same time, you’re not going to have a lot of shade out there so you need to make sure can take off outer layers if you need to.
Windbreaker. This will protect you from spray and keep you warm on early morning starts.
Lightweight shirt. Wearing a shirt will protect your arms and shoulders from sunburn. Linen is perfect for keeping the heat away from your skin.
Light-colored clothing. This reflects the sun to keep you cool in hot weather.
Non-skid rubber-soled shoes. Sneakers are perfect – flip-flops aren’t recommended!
Weather Protection
If you’re planning to go to the sunny Okanagan you have probably already thought about packing sunblock. But heck, the sun even shines in Scotland sometimes! You don’t want to have to choose between having to hide in the cabin away from all the fishing action and getting a bronzing like a satsuma and skin that feels like it’s been rubbed with glass.
A lack of shade plus the lake’s reflective glare can provide a very uncomfortable and unsafe experience if you’re not protected. At the same time, conditions can change very quickly out on the large Okanagan lakes and unexpected downpours can turn a fishing charter into a nightmare for unprepared anglers.
Sunscreen. Make sure to get one that protects from both UVA and UVB rays.
Lip balm. Lip balm with sun protection will stop your lips getting chapped out on the water.
Hat. Hats with brims provide shade and decrease the risk of sunstroke.
Polarized sunglasses. These will cut through the glare on the water to give you a better view of your target fish.
Waterproof jacket and rain pants. These are essential if you come across bad weather when you’re out at sea.
Other Essentials
Camera. A camera or smartphone is essential for you to record your trophy catch. Consider investing in a chest harness to record the thrill of a fight without having to let go of the rod to use the controls.
Valid British Columbia fishing license for all guests over 16 interested in fishing.
Snacks and beverages. Bring your favourite snacks and beverage. A sandwich or lunch if you are planning a full day on the water.
Anything Else?
What to pack for a Desert Salmon Fishing Charter Trip
B.C. Fishing license (on your phone is fine - we’ll need to record your fishing license number before we depart) [Purchase here - BC Freshwater Fishing Licence]
small pack/bag (1 per group), keep clutter on the boat to a minimum
sunscreen
sunglasses
water
snacks and beverages of choice
What can’t you live without when you go fishing in the Okanagan Valley? Have we missed something? Contact us if you have any questions: info@desertsalmon.ca.