Gone Fishing? 9 Things You Need in Your Fishing Kit

Midland Radio's fishing promotion is live starting July 19 and running through August 3. You can reel in 15% off on all fishing an hunting products. Everything on this page is 15% off.

To complete your fishing kit, we've put together a list of things you need to have in order to reel in your next big catch.

FISHING MUST HAVES

#1- ROD AND REEL

Finding the right rod and reel is key to your success on the water. To help you choose the perfect reel, we've broken them down for you below:

Spincast Reel

The Spincast Reel is the simplest modern reel out there. It's perfect for the beginner and works for both wading and inshore angling. The Spinning Reel is a tad more complicated than the Spincast Reel, but anglers say it's a lot more durable and efficient.

Spinning Reel

Spinning Reels work in both freshwater and saltwater. It works for smaller baits and lures. While the Spinning Reel might be the best bang for your buck, it's not ideal for battling larger fish.

Baitcasting Reel

The Baitcasting Reel is a much more advanced reel. It's often used by more experienced anglers and fishing pros because of it's power and precision. These reels will handle large lures and bait just fine. They can also produce significant pulling power, but can be challenging for beginners.

Head to Zebco or Shimano to find the right rod and reel for you.

#2- FISH FINDER

Whether you're out on the water for fun or taking part in a tournament, a fish finder should be a priority item for your boat. These devices are equipped with all sorts of helpful tools such as a depth finder. That will show you what's underneath your boat like weeds and fish. The fish finder is also helpful in acting as a GPS. It will give you a map of the lake so you don't get lost. Once you've found the perfect spot to cast your line, you can make way points so next time you know where to go. Check out Lowrance and Hummingbird fish finders ahead of your next trip.

#3- TERMINAL TACKLE

Terminal Tackle is the gear attached to the end of a fishing line. This includes hooks, leaders, swivels, sinkers, floats, split rings and wire, snaps, beads, spoons, blades, spinners, and more. Tackle boxes are key to keeping all your gear safe and organized. They'll keep the environment and weather from destroying all your gear.

Plano has a wide-range of tackle boxes fit for your fishing needs.

#4- FISHING ACCESSORIES

You can never have too much fishing gear and that includes accessories like scissors, rod racks, cleaning boards, bait boxes, hook sharpeners, nets, and more. If you take part in fishing tournaments, scales and rulers are key to helping you bring home the hardware. While you might not think these are items you need, you'll find yourself using them more than you thought.

#5- CLOTHING

The right type of fishing clothing could make or break your day on the water. This includes the right pair of sunglasses for a sunny day, shoes for both on the boat or on the shore, and rain gear should you need it.

Those spending a lot of time on the water experience significant sun exposure. The Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) indicates how much UV radiation a fabric allows to reach your skin. For example, a UPF 50 fabric blocks 98% of the sun's rays and allows 2% (1/50th) to penetrate. This significantly reduces your exposure risk significantly.

Advanced anglers know the best fishing comes when the weather gets risky. While they won't let the rain stop them, it's important to have clothing that will keep them comfortable in the elements for hours on end.

Columbia has a fishing line sure to cover your needs no matter what weather you're in.

#6- COOLER

When you're spending the whole day out on the water, staying hydrated and fueled is a priority. The right cooler will keep your food and drinks cold all day long.

RTIC has a range of both hard and soft coolers built for any outdoor adventure.

#7- LIFE VESTS

If you're spending your day on a boat, it's important to make sure safety is your number one priority. You need to make sure your boat has one U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket per person on board. Life jacket wear regulations for children vary by state. Make sure that the life jackets on board are the proper size and fit for each person on the boat. Check the label for user weight and chest size. A good fit is secure, comfortable, and adjustable.

#8- SET OF MIDLAND WALKIE TALKIES

Cell phone service isn't always available or is spotty when out on lakes or other bodies of water. Walkie talkies are the perfect solution especially if you're out with other people on multiple boats. The X-TALKER T75VP3 TWO-WAY RADIO has up to a 38-mile range. This handheld radio has 36 channels, 121 privacy codes, channel scan, and Midland's signature Weather Scan technology. The avid outdoorsman can even get this handheld two-way radio in the Mossy Oak Break Up Country Camo pattern.

#9- MIDLAND ER310 E+READY EMERGENCY CRANK WEATHER RADIO

Safety is key and this emergency radio is sure to keep you, your friends, family, and fellow fishermen alert if severe weather is on its way. While avid anglers know active weather brings the best fishing, the ER310 will let you know when it's time to head back into shore to take shelter. With your ER310 you can also recharge your USB compatible devices. The Cree LED flashlight will help you navigate low-light areas while the high frequency dog whistle will help others find you in case of an emergency. This radio is imperative in keeping you safe as you take on unchartered waters looking for the next big catch.