10 Essential Fishing Tools and Accessories You Must Bring While Fishing

When talking about fishing, the first thing that comes to mind is fish. There is also the simple idea of cast, wait, strike, and then followed by the image of eating the biggest catch of the day. An actual act of fishing is much more complex, and it involves quite a lot of gear; from the basic fishing rod, spinning reel,  bobbers, baits, hooks, and sinkers to sunscreen and a waterproof wristwatch. Every angler has everything ready in a tackle box, so it is just a matter of grab-and-go anytime they feel the itch. For the less experienced, however, they may need help with preparation. Here are 10 essential fishing tools and accessories to bring on every fishing trip:

Fishing Pliers:

When you catch a fish, you need to take the hook out of its mouth using pliers. Aluminum used to be the material of choice for fishing pliers. 

It is lightweight, durable, and easy to paint. The only downside is that aluminum is too soft for heavy-duty use. Many of the best fishing pliers are made of stronger metal, such as stainless steel.

Scissors:

You need scissors to quickly cut fishing line; some anglers actually use fingernail clippers for the same purpose. scissors are easier to handle because it is bigger. Considering you don’t have to make highly accurate cuts, the big dimension is not an issue. If you use braided fishing line, you will also need scissors specifically designed for that (you can cut monofilament line with these scissors, too).

First Aid Kit:

Nobody wants to make use of first aid kit, but accidents happen and it is better to be over-prepared. Some fishing gears have sharp and pointy ends, and there is always a chance that one of them lands in the wrong place; such as your fingers or hands. You don’t have to carry an entire package of medical-grade equipment, some bandages, medical tape, a pack of band-aids, and Neosporin are good enough. 

Digital Scale:

Spring and digital scales have the same functions, but the latter is more modern, accurate, and easier to read. A digital scale works on the premise of a backlit display and hook. A bigger screen is better for readability. Weight limit varies from 5 pounds to 50 pounds.

Digital camera:

Some smartphones are equipped with cameras to give a more-than-average picture quality. On a fishing activity, however, you must realize that you’ll be very close to a body of water where even an expensive smart phone may not survive frequent splashes. The same thing can be said to a stand-alone digital camera. The good thing is that some cameras are ruggedized and designed to withstand splashes of water (or submersion to a limited depth). If you go fishing in the evening, a camera with night-vision technology is your best bet. 

Multi-tool:

As the name suggests, the multi-tool provides many different tools for various applications.

  It does not matter if you’re a hiker, camper, hunter, or, in this case, an angler, a multi-tool makes things easier. It is an assortment of a dozen or more tools in one package. You can use it for hook removal, fish scale removal, hook sharpening, and filleting a fish on site.

Landing Net:

It is basically just a regular net to help you catch fish while it is still hooked. Instead of jumping into the water and grab it manually, you can use a landing net to make the job easier. However, not all landing nets are created equal. One of the best is a rubber net, mainly because of its latex material. The mesh is soft enough for fish scales, and it does not absorb water. For catch and release fishing activities, a rubber net is better if you want to improve the fish’s chances of surviving after you release them. 

Neck Gaiter:

For beginners, a neck gaiter is probably the last thing you will remember to bring on a fishing trip. In some ways, a good neck gaiter also helps you fish better. A neck gaiter with light and breathable fabric keeps you comfortable under bright sunlight and in windy environments. It prevents you from having to apply sunscreen multiple times. Some neck gaiters can be used as a face mask at the same time, so they give a more complete protection over your face as well. 

Microfiber Towels:

If a neck gaiter stays on your face and neck all the time, you cannot use it to wipe sweat from your hands. A fishing rod handle can be too slippery after hours of fishing, but a microfiber towel eliminates that problem. Some products are made of absorbent fabric with antimicrobial properties. If you have to wipe your sunglasses, binoculars, or phone screen, this towel does the job well without leaving lint. 

 

Sunglasses:

You protect your skin, face, and neck with sunscreen and neck gaiter, and your eyes also need protection from continuous exposure to sunlight. Sunglasses with UV protection are important; they keep your eyes safe from radiation and improve your vision under bright light.

Final Verdict

As previously mentioned, it is better to be over-prepared for everything. Carrying a spare of each aforementioned tool and accessory is a good decision. You will need to carry heavier luggage, but even your child can lift a secondary tackle box with ease. If you have any underlying medical condition and need to take medication, please make sure you bring the medicine with you at all times, even when you’re on a fishing boat. Also, carry a reliable communication device (walkie-talkie), or cell phone with good reception and full battery to call for help in case of emergency.