Prepping For The Coming Offshore Fishing Season

Just because it’s still cold and the fishing is slow doesn’t mean that you can’t be getting ready for the coming season. Too many times anglers wait till the last minute to prepare for those warmer days just ahead. You can’t ever start too soon to get your gear, boat, and towing vehicles, among other things ready for that soon coming fishing season.

Getting an early start has a number of benefits.

• With the recent transportation and distribution issues, getting needed parts could take more time than in the past, which could mean taking longer to get reel parts, boat parts, and specific lures or other gear that you want. Remember that trailer parts should be considered as well.
• It also allows you to have a better understanding of any substantial costs that you may have like a new rod(s) and reel(s) that need to be replaced, and boat parts that can be expensive.
• Waiting to the last minute can also delay your spring or even summer fishing if you have an unanticipated event such as an illness or work-related issue that forces you to delay getting your gear ready for the season.

How To Get Started

• Set a start date. Don’t just say “I’ll start next week.” Name a date and time and stick to it.  Make it clear to all those around you of your plans so nothing interferes.
• Take inventory of all of your gear. Place it in the open so can see what needs attention or replaced.
• Empty your tackle bag or box and throw out any damaged lures, hooks, or anything else that can’t be used. Check all the pockets for trash and other unwanted items, and be careful of rusty hooks or knives.
• After inspecting your gear, make a list of what needs to be serviced or repaired. Don’t depend on your memory! Write it down. Then place all the items that need to be repaired or serviced in a container(s) so that all your projects can be in a single place.
• Make a list of the items that you’ll need to have repaired or serviced.  This is also true for your boat and trailer.
• Next, make a list of the tackle and other items you’ll need to stock up on. Update yourself on the new lures and tackle that may have hit the market since last year. It’s always a good idea to explore new options.

Key Items For Your List  (To Name a Few)

• Break down reels and check for broken parts.
• Clean reels and remove any salt or corrosion.
• Lube all moving reel parts.
• Replace line and leaders.
• Check reel eyes for breaks and corrosion.
• Check tackle inventory.
• Sharpen knives and lubricate fishing pliers.
• Sharpen hooks.
• Make leaders.
• Change boat fuel filters.
• Check boat steering fluid.
• Check bilge pump and clean away scum.
• Check all safety equipment and update as needed.
• Check VHF radio for proper operation.
• Check GPS for proper operation and load the latest waypoints.
• Check boat trailer tire pressure.
• Lube boat trailer bearings.H
• Have an updated fishing license and a copy of your state’s fishing regulations.

You’re going to wake up one morning in the days to come and the fishing season will be upon us. Don’t miss a single day of it. Be prepared and fish hard.