Fishing can be relaxing and meditative. Fishing is a great way to enjoy nature in its entire wild unspoiled splendor. Fishing is an activity the whole family can enjoy together away from the many distractions that get in the way at home. It’s impossible to succeed in fishing without being calm and collected. If you go into a fishing trip ill prepared you’ll end up having a miserable time and miss out on all the subtle joys of catching fish. Here is a simple checklist to go through before your next fishing trip to ensure maximum enjoyment.

1. A valid sate fishing license. If you get caught fishing without a valid state fishing license you can be severely fined. The Game Warden may even throw back all the fish you worked so hard to catch.

2. Appropriate clothing. It is important to dress warmly and with many layers when heading out for a fishing trip. Don’t worry about having too many layers or getting too warm. Layers can always be removed the warmer it gets during the fishing trip.

3. A good hat. A hat with a brim is important for shielding your face from the sun, wind, and water. A good hat is essential on any fishing trip. Be sure your fishing hat is snug and something you’ll be able to wear comfortably the whole fishing trip.

4. Sunglasses. Sunglasses are another essential protective item on a fishing trip. Sunglasses will protect your eyes from the glare of the sun off the water and keep the mist out of your eyes in a speeding boat. Most importantly they will be a barrier between your eyes and any of your boat mate’s wayward fishing hooks.

5. Sunscreen. Sunscreen is important even if you think it is not sunny enough to need it. No matter how cloudy the sky on your fishing trip, the sun will be reflected and it’s rays magnified by the glare of the water. Always put sunscreen on or you will get burned.

6. Raingear. It always rains on a fishing trip when you forget your raingear. Take the time to pack an extra poncho or two when gathering up all your fishing gear. It’s better to be prepared than be caught in the rain.

7. Food and Water. Be sure to bring plenty of snacks and water on your fishing trip. Even though you are sitting in a boat relatively still the sun can be very exhausting. It is easy to get dehydrated out on a boat all day. People tend to get crabby when they haven’t enough to drink or eat causing them to make bad decisions and have poor judgment – two things that need to be avoided when on a boat fishing.

8. Fishing rods, tackle, and bait. Be sure to check your reels and replace your line before packing for the trip. Bring an extra fishing rod just in case something happens to your favorite one. Check fishing rods to be sure they are not bent and there are no cracks. Sort through your tackle and bring only what you need. Make sure you have enough bait for the trip.

9. Your sense of humor. Always remember that a fishing trip is supposed to be fun and relaxing. If you remember everything else on this check list, this tip should be the easiest part.