Fishing is a great hobby to help you get away from the city and a way to clear your mind from all forms of stress. It’s also a fantastic activity to socialize with friends and family, as going fishing alone is not advisable unless you’re an experienced angler.
Often, recreational fishing is ideal in freshwater lakes, ponds, and rivers. So if you live in an area with plenty of small bodies of water, you have probably been influenced to pick up fishing as a hobby.
Fishing requires meticulous preparation and the right type of gear, as safety is always a must. It is especially true when you are on a small boat in the middle of a large lake and subject to the unpredictability of the weather.
That is why making sure that you’re well-prepared with a waterproof backpack filled with life-saving necessities can quite literally save your life. Here is why such a bag is beneficial to you, and some tips on what to pack inside.
It Keeps All Your Things Compact
By taking a compact waterproof backpack, everything that will keep you safe on your fishing trip is within reach. Even on a cloudy day, the weather can turn for worse, and you never know how fish and lures will behave on any given fishing day. It’s always better to be safe than sorry, so packing more than just a first-aid kit will do you good.
For instance, it’s a good idea to take a phone, flashlight, compass, and the recommended emergency signals that Coast Guards would advise you to have. These are primary forms of communication and would be helpful in the occasion that you get stranded or get washed away to an unfamiliar place.
No matter how many you take, they will all fit into an easy-to-carry waterproof backpack with a 30-liter capacity. You can even throw in a pair of polarized sunglasses, which will help you see the water more clearly. It’s excellent when on the lookout for dangerous species such as gators.
You should also take appropriate clothing for various weather conditions. Fishing shirts with UV protection, along with sunscreen and towels, will fit right into a waterproof backpack. One version of the bag even comes with a drying rack when purchased as a bundle, so you can quickly dry your clothing.
Additionally, no fishing trip should be short on snacks. You can stock your backpack with healthy, high-energy snacks such as energy bars, granola, and dried berries. You can even take various beverages and alcohol on special days—as long as you consume with moderation, that is. If you plan to have a picnic, check out this list for great food ideas.
All Your Things Are Safe Inside
There is no point in bringing safety essentials if they end up getting wet. You cannot avoid the water and weather when fishing, so splashes and rain showers here and there are going to happen. When you store all your things in a flimsy bag, they will get destroyed and will not be able to save you when an emergency strikes.
A durable waterproof backpack will ensure that all life-saving necessities are just as safe as you are. So when a lure punctures you, your first-aid kit will be within reach and ready to cover your wound. Moreover, when you get lost in the water, all your navigation and food essentials will make sure that you get home safe without going hungry.
When choosing a bag, choose one with an IPX6 waterproof rating to ensure that it can protect your stuff against water for long periods.
Fishing is a fun activity that should not take away from your safety. Your safety begins with how well you prepare for a trip, and in that case, a waterproof bag will serve you well.
