It’s very important to be comfortable and at peace with yourself when fishing. If you’re not comfortable you won’t be able to concentrate on your fishing. If you are thinking about the cold, the heat, or your wet feet, chances are you won’t catch fish. You’ll probably make up an excuse to pack up and go home. The following are just a few tips to help you stay comfortable as you are fishing.
Many people think that drinking alcohol will keep them warm. The fact is alcohol will help to dehydrate you in the summer and make you colder in the winter. You are better off taking soft drinks, water or juices. In the winter months, bring along plenty of hot drinks. These hot drinks will help to maintain your body temperature. Holding the hot cup will also keep your hands warm, at least for a short time.
When fly fishing, lure fishing, wading, or any style of fishing that demands physical activity you’ll need extra energy. Be sure not to skimp on energy foods. If you’re tired and hungry your mind will be on home, not fishing.
Most of your body heat is lost through your head, hands and feet. Unless it’s a very hot summer day, keep your hands and feet dry. Bring along a hat, gloves, and rain gear. In the winter a hat will help to keep you warm. It will keep the heat in and stop the wind from blowing on you. In the summer it will keep your head dry and the sun of your head and out of your eyes. Gloves can fit in even a small tackle box or in the pocket of your waters. Rain gear isn’t as easy to carry as a hat or pair of gloves, but you can always find room in a boat to stow them. If you are fishing a river, stream, or a pond you can always leave them in the trunk of your car. It’s far better to take a short walk in the rain back to your car for the rain gear and fish the rest of the day then to get wet and go home.
Be careful of river banks in the winter and wet summer days. When temperatures are below freezing there’s nothing worse than falling in the water. Hyperthermia can set in fast. In the summer fast moving currents can sweep you away in a second.
Fishing on hot muggy summer days can bring the bugs biting. You want to keep your hands on your fishing pole, not smacking the bugs. Bring along some bug repellent. Today there are many convenient products that are easy to take along. These products range from mini spray bottles to wipes.
If you’re planning on spending long day fishing, bring something to sit on. Hiking chairs are compact and light enough to bring along. Even a large towel makes a nice place to spread out on when taking a break or stopping to have lunch.
Remember to bring along items that are easy enough to take along and will make your day more comfortable and enjoyable. Some examples are; sunglasses, sun block, gloves, a small towel to keep your hands dry.
