Most fishing fanatics will never turn down an invitation to fish. That said, the expeditions most look forward to every year are the ones that get them far off the beaten path. Here are some tips for your next overnight backcountry fishing expedition:

Avoid overpacking

This is difficult for many backpacking novices. While avoiding being caught out in the backcountry without essential supplies is best, learning what is necessary can take a while. And the list isn’t universal. What’s deemed essential for one individual may not be for another. A maneuver that many fishing enthusiasts use is keeping a list of things they don’t utilize on a trip. If something makes three lists in a row, you likely don’t need it.

Of course, you must include items like the first aid or emergency kit. You may rarely need your first aid kit, but it’s still obviously a necessary thing to carry. The kinds of things that will probably make your list are:

• Extra clothing (especially pants, which can easily survive a trip without being changed).
• Items that fit the same objective as others.
• Single-function objects that add little to your trip.

Do some research before the expedition

Doing research ahead of time is critical, both for protection and pleasure. The safety factor is evident. You need to know where you will be, how the sites around you connect and are laid out, and how to safely get back to your accommodations. In addition, reviewing the weather can be a lifesaver, particularly during seasons inclined to snow or thunderstorms.

Learn how to get around

Knowing how to get around is a giant step in managing overnight backcountry fishing expeditions. Backcountry navigation exists in numerous forms. Some individuals still swear by maps and compasses, while others depend on GPS technology or smartphone apps to travel around. Many professional backpackers appreciate a combination of all three.
You are absolutely not required to be a master of all these styles, but having a firm grasp of at least one and a decent understanding of the others is extremely helpful when you aren’t entirely sure where you are. For example, many fishing lovers understand the basics of moving around with a paper map and compass, but they nearly always make their phone the immediate source of spatial data. Of course, they always have it available for emergencies and pictures, and its speed and efficiency are impressive.

Test yourself, but not carelessly

One of the most pleasing facets of backcountry fishing expeditions is that they permit you to push yourself and confront your fears. Of course, there’s a distinction between facing fear and acting recklessly. Standing on the top of a mountain during a lightning storm is primarily a safety risk versus something to defeat. But other aspects allow you to test yourself without substantial risk.

Many of the lovely places fish thrive are far from the beaten path. It’s common for fishing fanatics to take several trips every summer that take them five or ten miles from the closest sign of civilization. So permit yourself to attempt something you haven’t before or that makes you slightly uncomfortable. It’s likely to be worth it in the long run.

Use these tip when backcountry fishing in Florida. Then check out our homepage to learn more about how we can help!