You've seen the cartoons and you've seen the pictures. The cartoons depict a man sitting in his boat, a worm on his hook and the fish below ignoring it, perhaps even mocking it. The pictures show a woman smiling ear-to-ear, a monster largemouth bass in her hands. The difference between the two can be as simple as the gear you bring in your tackle box. Pack the wrong equipment, and your day can become boring. Bring the right equipment, and your day can be full of action.
Lures
One of the most enjoyable aspects about fishing is trying to figure out what looks appetizing to a fish. While many anglers use live bait, such as worms and minnows, stocking your tackle box with artificial bait is a good idea. Jigs resemble natural fish prey, such as smaller fish and insects. Some are meant for underwater temptation, while others float on the surface. Spinners, with their shiny blades, can catch a fish's eye. And plastic worms, either scented or not, can tempt a fish to bite your hook.
Bobbers
In many cases, you want your bait to remain at a specific depth. Bobbers, also called floats, can help you achieve that. Bobbers also indicate when a fish is either nibbling on your bait or swallowing it. They are especially helpful for beginners. The larger the bait you're using, the larger the bobber you'll need so that it can stay on the surface.
Fingernail Clippers
An unfortunate truth about fishing is that lines sometimes get tangled. Rather than spend your day trying to untie knots, bring along some fingernail clippers so that you can quickly cut the line, and get your bait back into the water. Remember to retrieve and hold onto the tangled line and hook so they don't blow back into the water and injure fish and other wildlife. Storing them in your tackle box is a good idea.
Long-Nosed Pliers
When you land a fish, long-nosed pliers can be a handy tool to have in the tackle box. The pliers can help you efficiently and safely get the fish off the hook, so that you can store the fish safely or return it healthy to its habitat. Pliers also can save your fingers from injury, both from the hook and from teeth.
Replacement Parts
Fishing can be unpredictable, so it's always a good idea to bring along plenty of backups. Because lines sometimes break, extra hooks, in a variety of sizes, and weights, are must-haves in a tackle box. An extra spool of line can prolong your day. Remember to put the used items back into your tackle box. Hooks lying around in the boat are dangerous to both you and your fellow anglers.
Personal Items
It's not only the fish you have to think about during your trip. You'll also want to make sure you have all the things you'll need to enjoy your day. Many tackle boxes have room for sunscreen, a poncho and a bottle of water. Depending on the type of fishing you're doing, most states require licenses, which you can store in your tackle box. Taking along a handbook, so you can check the rules for your body of water, is advisable.
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