Fishing Equipment List

Fishing Equipment

Fishing is both a cherished pastime and a sport that has existed for tens of thousands of years. Whether you’re looking to source food or simply have a good time, you need the right equipment. The simplest form of fishing involves a fishing rod (a pole with a reel attached), a fishing hook, and any body of water. The fisherman will cast their line and hook, wait for a fish to bite, and then reel it in once it has been hooked on to the end of their line. Fishing requires patience and reaction time, as well as knowledge of what fish are in the water and what type of bait those fish are more likely to go for.

Accessories

Fishing may be seen as a barebones sport by some. After all, someone only needs a fishing line, hook, and rod to fish. However, there are a number of items that fishermen use in addition to the essentials.

Fishing accessories include any items that can support a fisherman, enhance their loadout, or simply provide an extra layer of entertainment. Accessories can range from lure bags to beverage coolers and everything in between that is not technically a base requirement to fish. While not always necessary, fishing accessories can serve to enhance the experience and bring much-appreciated improvements to a fisherman’s arsenal. 

Bait

Truly a necessity when finishing at the beginner levels, live bait consists of any live organism used to attract fish to a fishing hook. Popular live baits include nightcrawlers, a type of worm, leeches, or minnows, though they can be a myriad of other things. These baits are often stored in plastic containers with dirt, or buckets of water, depending on the type of bait. 

It is important to know what type of fish you are hoping to attract, as this will affect what type of bait you should use. For example, most fish will become attracted to worms such as nightcrawlers, but some, such as walleye and panfish, may take better to a leech. Live bait is often a cheaper alternative to using artificial bait or lures.

Live bait is typically sold at local fishing shops and comes in larger quantities. The cost depends on the type of bait. For example, a dozen minnows costs between $5 and $10. Nightcrawlers are the cheapest option, costing as low as $3 per dozen. On average, you should be able to buy packages of live bait for under $10. 

Artificial Baits

Put simply, artificial bait in fishing consists of any bait that is not live, and is used to reel in fish. This tool attempts to imitate live bait in a number of ways, most notably through characteristics such as color, shape, and movement. The goal of any artificial bait is to provide a reusable alternative to live bait while remaining relatively cheap and effective.

Interestingly, fish have been found to have strong senses of smell. This has led some artificial bait manufacturers to inject scents into their baits, and many argue these bait types to be superior to their unscented counterparts. At any rate, artificial bait has become a generally accepted alternative to using live bait. They typically cost anywhere from $3-10 for a single piece.

Natural Baits

The difference between natural and live bait has to do with the state of the bait. Live baits always come live, whereas natural baits may be living or dead. Some examples of this include chum or dough balls and catfish stink bait. These two distinct baits are made of foods such as flour, cornmeal, and even cheeses. Minnows, leeches, and nightcrawlers, types of live baits, can also be considered natural baits.

Bandanas

A fishing bandana may look much like other bandanas you may have seen. These bandanas are a very important way for fishermen to protect themselves from the elements. Fishing often requires traveling on water, which means by boat. Wind is constantly blown in a fisherman's face, and over time that wind will start to bother and fatigue them. Fishing bandanas, also called facemasks, primarily protect fishermen from the harmful effects of wind. 

In addition, bandanas can protect against sunburn. They can also be adjusted to fit a variety of styles. A good-quality fishing bandana often retails for around $15 to $20.

Bibs

Fishing can often be a very dirty sport, and fishermen are exposed to many elements when out on the water. Fish are often reeled onto the boat and grabbed by a fisherman, which can expose them to the fish’s blood, as well as anything in the water that a fish may have picked up during reeling. Also, rain can hinder those who aren’t wearing optimal equipment. To prevent all of these things, fishermen often opt to wear long fishing bibs to protect themselves from the elements. Fishing bibs can range in cost between $50-$150, depending on the manufacturer and quality.     

Bite Indicators

Bite indicators function exactly as you may suspect. This helpful fishing tool allows fishermen to identify when a fish has bitten onto the fishing hook. They are often very bright in color, so a fisherman can easily spot them as they float along the water’s surface. Once a fisherman loses visibility of their indicator, they can assume with some confidence that a fish has taken their bait.

Fishermen, such as top angler Shaun Harrison, often get creative and make their own indicators. After all, fishermen spend a great amount of time looking at the bite indicator, so adding some customization to indicators, such as making them appear like small figurines, may prove as a way to bring more joy to the mundane task of sitting and waiting. They are typically cheap, usually costing around $10 to $15.

Boats

While fishing from land is a popular option, a good deal of fishing occurs out in the open water too. Thus, boats are essential for open-water fishing. Since most boats cost many thousands of dollars, picking the right boat is a crucial decision for anyone looking to go fishing recreationally.

There are four main types of fishing boats: saltwater, freshwater, sportfishing, and lobstering. As each name suggests, each boat type is made to suit a different environment or task. For example, Bass and Jon boats, which are typically small and lightweight, are popular options for freshwater fishing. Fishing boats often contain seats that swivel, so fishermen can rotate around freely while sitting.

Bobbers

An iconic piece of fishing equipment, the bobber is an extremely popular piece in a fisherman’s tool kit. Essentially, bobbers function exactly like bite indicators, alerting fishermen when a fish has bitten on the hook. However, another function of bobbers is to suspend the fishing bait above the floor of the water, keeping it firmly attached to the hook at all times. The white side of a bobber remains above water, allowing you to keep track of it. 

Most beginners use bobbers as a means of keeping track of their bait. They can be purchased at low prices, from $1 to $5, typically in bulk.

Boots

If a fisherman struggles to reel in a fish, they may need to push against the surface of the boat or the ground. Thus, boots may be desired to enhance traction. Boots are also a popular choice in rainy conditions, as they can help keep a fisherman from slipping.

Boots often accompany waders and can be bought separately or together within an outfit set. They are not always cheap and can run you about $20 to $50; the price may increase when purchased with waders. 

Boots / Waders

Waders, like most fishing attire, are meant to help protect fishermen from the elements. Historically, waders have been quite bulky and uncomfortable, but nowadays, they are an optimal choice for any fisherman looking to protect themselves. Waders typically have overalls and are made up of a range of materials that serve different functions.

The main types of waders are as follows: rubber, neoprene, canvas, and breathable. Each type has pros and cons, and recognizing these pros and cons can help you determine which type is the right fit for you. For example, rubber waders are bulky yet are often less expensive and more durable. Similarly, breathable waders are comfy yet cost significantly more than other materials. Many waders also come with boots, which can increase the price significantly. Waders typically cost between $50 and $150. 

Buckets

Fishing buckets can have a variety of uses and are an important piece of equipment to have during a long day of fishing. Primarily, buckets hold live bait. Minnows are among the most popular choices to fill buckets. Buckets may be utilized as a substitute for the cooler as a means to hold the fish that have been caught. Some may even be padded on top to provide an extra seat for someone on board the fishing boat. 

Buckets are often composed of durable plastic, and some have a perforated lid to help keep the bait alive. They come in different gallon sizes and run between $10 and $20.

Cooler

To a fisherman, a fishing cooler may serve several functions. Coolers can hold caught fish, live bait, or even serve as a conventional cooler to hold beverages or cold food. The goal of any cooler is to keep things cold, and if this is the aim of the fisherman, the right cooler is a crucial piece of equipment. They are often much larger than a bucket, measuring a few feet by a few feet.

Coolers can start at around $30 and go upwards of $200, depending on size and quality. YETI brand coolers are some of the most popular and can often cost in the $100 to $200 range. Similar to buckets, coolers can provide additional seating on board the boat.   

First-Aid Kits

As is the case for any sport, the risk of injury is present, as fishermen often deal with sharp hooks and unpredictable fish. It is important for anyone thinking about fishing to invest in a fishing-specific first aid kit. Choosing the right kit for the right fishing trip can help save lives and minimize the chance of serious injury.

Some notable items that these kits should have include wire cutters for fishing lines, sterile pads for disinfecting wounds, and bandages, among other items. Certain conditions call for certain cases as well. For example, waterproof cases are recommended when fishing away from the shore. No matter the scenario, a first aid kit should always be nearby when fishing. Kits can cost around $20-$40, depending on what is in them.

Fish Stringers

Some fishermen choose to keep their fish alive after they have been caught. However, during a long day of fishing, it can be difficult to keep a great number of fish alive in a cooler or another container. An alternative way to preserve the life of the fish is to use a stringer.

Stringers operate by using a series of hooks attached to a string, rope, chain, or woven material to hook and drag the fish along the side of the boat. This keeps the fish alive by keeping it in the proper water conditions. Stringers are typically tied to the side of a boat and can be pulled up easily to evaluate the condition of the fish. Stringers can cost anywhere from about $2-$15, yet they can be made at home using a few common materials.  

Fishing Nets

A very useful tool in the fisherman’s arsenal, fishing nets are typically mesh nets used to capture fish close to the boat. As a fish gets close to the boat, a fisherman can scoop them up with a net to bring them aboard. Nets have been around for hundreds of years as a means to catch fish and remain a popular option within the fishing world.

There are many different types of nets used for a variety of tasks, but sport fishing nets typically consist of a large, ovular net held by a thin but sturdy handle. A typical net may run about $50 to $150, with carbon-fiber-supported nets costing more.     

Fishing Vests

Protective, resourceful, and arguably stylish, fishing vests serve many purposes as part of the fisherman’s wardrobe. Fishing vests contain a large number of pockets for fishermen to hold the various pieces of equipment they will need as they fish. Smaller pockets can be used to hold hooks, jibs, and bobbers, whereas larger pockets can hold anything from lures, bait, and line cutters. Better vests typically are more expensive, costing close to $100.

Flies

Fishing flies have a rich history in the sport of fishing, and their origins date back 1700 years. A fishing fly is, at its core, a hook used to capture fish. There are, however, a number of distinguishing characteristics of flies that separate them from other hooks. The goal of these flies is to resemble insects (hence the name) that often hang out near or on bodies of water. They are typically composed of thread and feathers, among other materials, and can be modified to catch specific types of fish. Flies are relatively cheap, costing about a dollar or two per fly.

Gloves

Fishing gloves can be made from many different materials and are an important piece of clothing for fishermen, as they use their hands in just about every fishing scenario. Gloves protect the hands from sharp hooks and dangerous fish and are especially useful for practices such as catch-and-release fishing.

Fish are often difficult to hold onto. Rubber gloves are most useful to protect against hook ends and sharp gills of some fish and can help provide an improved grip. Most fishing gloves cost between $10-30.

Hand Sanitizer

Fishing can be a dirty sport at times. Certain areas of freshwater can contain harmful bacteria, such as the dangerous flesh-eating bacteria often found in bodies of freshwater, and fish can carry a host of germs with them as they come aboard your vessel. It is essential for fishermen to carry hand sanitizer with them at all times and regularly sanitize during a long day of fishing.

Hand Wipes and Towels

Hand towels specifically made for fishing can help in a variety of ways. They can be used to wipe off or hold a wet, slimy fish. In addition, they can be used to wipe off your hands after touching live bait or fish. Typically, towels have a carabiner attached to them so that they may be fastened to a belt loop, vest, or fishing bag. Towels are a cheap accessory to any fishing arsenal, costing around $5. 

Hats

Bucket hats are the most common form of hat used in fishing. These hats have a 360° lid, increasing their ability to shield a fisherman from harmful exposure to the sun. They are typically made of heavy-duty cotton and have an adjustable strap so that they can be fitted to a variety of head sizes. Interestingly, bucket hats are of Irish origin. They typically cost between $5 and $30, depending on the manufacturer.

Hooks

No modern fishing trip would be productive without the use of hooks. Similar to bobbers, hooks have become synonymous with fishing, and it’s easy to see why. To catch a fish, one should use a hook. They have a characteristic J-shape, which is made up of a few different components.

The sharp point of the hook sinks into a fish’s mouth, and the circular point on the long end of a hook, also called the eye, attaches the fishing line to the hook. The bait is held at the point of the hook. Hooks, like flies and jigs, cost very little, typically running around $1 or less per hook.

Fishing Knives

A fishing knife can be useful for an array of reasons. Fish stuck on a hook? Unwedge the hook using a knife. Line tangled beyond belief? Cut it and start again.

Fishing knives typically have easy-to-grip handles for maximum efficiency and can serve many purposes. Often called filet knives, fishing knives can easily cut through the flesh and gills of a fish. Whether you plan to cook the fish right there or once the trip is through, these knives can help to properly prepare fish for consumption. High-quality knives can cost upwards of $50.

Fishing Licenses

As is the case for all 50 states, a fishing license is required to fish most open bodies of fishable water. Since conservationist actions were taken by President Roosevelt in the mid-1900s to stifle overfishing, states began requiring a license to fish.

Typically, a fishing license costs around $10 to $40 and can be sold once citizens have reached a certain age (this will vary by state). Licenses limit the amount of fish a fisherman can catch and keep per day, which drastically affects fish populations in positive ways. They also permit a person to fish in the first place. Fishermen caught fishing without a license can be subject to heavy fines. Money from licenses goes towards the conservation of water ecosystems.

Line

Without a line, fishing would be nearly impossible. Fishing line attaches all of the necessary components to the rod, such as hooks, jibs, bait, bobbers, etc. The material that makes up a fishing line can vary based on numerous factors, most notably the size and type of the fish you want to catch. 

Most fishing lines are composed of a few materials, and most of these materials are modified from the monofilament lines introduced in the 1930s. Today, most fishing lines are durable and strong enough to catch common types of fish. Line costs around $2-10 dollars per spool.

Line Cutters

Sometimes while fishing, a fisherman may find it necessary to cut their current portion of line and replace it with a new line. This can be for many reasons; a hook can be taken by a fish, or the line can become tangled on a tree. In these scenarios, they would most likely utilize a line cutter.

Line cutters are a specialty tool created specifically to snip a fishing line. The blades on a line cutter are often made of stainless steel, and are small enough to comfortably fit any type of fishing line. Fishing line cutters are a great handheld accessory to any fisherman’s tool kit and cost only about $15 from online retailers.

Lures

A fishing lure intends to do as its name suggests: lure in fish. Lures come in many forms, all of which are considered artificial bait. Some notable lure types include spinner bait, jigs, flies, and plugs, each of which has varying applications.

All lures serve the same purpose, although some accomplish the task of luring fish to a hook differently. When determining whether or not to use lures over live bait, it is important to consider the pros and cons. Lures are typically more expensive than live bait, but they can be cast further. Lures are also easier to switch out than live bait, as they often utilize mechanisms on the hook to make changing them easier. Fishing lures range widely in price depending on the size and complexity of the lure.    

Jigs

Simply put, jigs are weighted hooks used in place of a traditional hook that act as a fishing lure. Due to their increased weight, jigs sink faster than traditional hooks. They come in a variety of micro weight measurements and are made up of a few key components. These include the jig hook, jig head, and collar. Heads can affect the performance of jigs under the water, and collars are used to hold artificial baits in place. The jig hook itself can vary in price depending on its size and sharpness and can differ from traditional hooks in its angle. Any type of fishing jig will be cheap, typically $5 or less.

Jig Heads

Jig heads come in many different varieties and are situated on the ends of hooks near the eye. The purpose of a jig head varies depending on the type. For example, round heads typically allow for a faster hook sink, whereas stand-up heads sink more slowly.

Other jig heads, such as aspirin heads, are better suited to travel along the water’s floor. Jig heads essentially help to modify the course of the hook as it traverses the water, giving jig heads a marvelous variety of applications to personalize your experience.   

Soft Lures

Soft lures are a popular choice among fishermen opting for artificial bait. Soft lures are made up of vinyl plastic, allowing their durability to be easily manipulated. This means that certain soft lures are harder than others, giving fishermen ample choices when purchasing a pack of these baits. In addition, these lures often come packaged within a scent solution, giving them an extra layer of competitiveness amongst other bait types. Soft lures are slightly more expensive than other lure types and are typically sold for $5 to $10 a pack.

Rigs

An umbrella term for many different things, rigs highlight the customization possibilities of equipment in a sport such as fishing. A fishing rig can be seen as the combination of each element that has been added to the fishing hook. This includes hooks, jibs, bobbers, baits, etc. 

Rigs require decent knowledge of the fundamentals of knot tying, as well as the sport itself, to create. The base of any rig starts at the hook or jig hook, which is tied and fastened to the end of the fishing line. A fisherman can then add bobbers, baits, weights, etc, depending on the type of fish they desire to catch. Rig setups exist for certain fish types, such as the common bass and catfish rigs. SImple rigs can go for as cheap as $5 while more complicated ones can cost upwards of $40. 

Measuring Boards

At the end of a hard day out on the water, fishermen often like to measure their prizes. Oftentimes to them, the larger the fish, the sweeter the satisfaction. A measuring board can be used to accurately tell a fisherman how long their catch is. Measuring units on these boards typically follow the systems of the country in which it was purchased. In the U.S, these boards use feet and inches as units of measurement.

In addition to measuring for accolades, measuring boards are often an important legal instrument for fishermen. Fishing and wildlife advisory boards often regulate how large a catch must be in order to keep. Thus, measuring boards are crucial to ensure laws are followed. They typically run you about $10-15.

Multi-Tool Pliers

For those who desire a bit more out of their fishing tools, multi-tool pliers make a wonderful addition to any fishing arsenal. They are, in essence, one tool that can perform a variety of different tasks. They have pliers to help unhook deep hooks, as well as cut lines when need be.

Additionally, they can help to repair fish finder wires that have lost their connection, among many other things. Due to their versatility, multi-tool pliers often cost significantly more than regular pliers, sometimes costing as much as $50 to $100.

Neck Gaiters

Fishing bandanas and neck gaiters are essentially the same accessory and both serve the same purpose. Neck gaiters are typically thin pieces of adjustable fabric worn around the neck, face, and head that help keep fishermen cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

Similar to bandanas, one of a neck gaiter’s other primary functions is to protect a fisherman from the sun. Neck gaiters are typically composed of moisture-wicking technology, which deters sweat from building up.  

Pants

Choosing the right attire is extremely important when planning to go fishing. Luckily, fishermen have a vast array of options to choose from. Unlike waders, fishing pants consist of more traditional pant elements and lack any kind of overalls.

A great deal of fishing pants are created out of nylon, as this helps them to dry more quickly. This allows shoreline fishermen the ability to dry quickly if they partially submerge themselves in water. Wader pants (waders without overalls) are also a suitable pant choice, yet they can often be a tad more expensive. Like waders, pants typically run $40-$140, depending on the manufacturer and material.

Pole Racks

Regular fishermen are likely to take advantage of this handy accessory. Fishing pole racks, much like any equipment rack, are custom-made to easily store this sport’s primary piece of equipment: the fishing pole.

While there are a few alternative options to fishing pole storage, pole racks can specifically offer a few advantages. Wheels can be mounted on them to give your fishing rod collection some mobility. Likewise, their wooden frame makes them relatively lightweight and easy to carry. Racks can be built from wood for cheap, but they can also be purchased by sports manufacturers, starting at around $30.

Rainwear

Most fishing attire utilizes waterproof technology. A sport that heavily deals with water must address that fact, so manufacturers create attire specifically for fishermen to stay dry while also keeping them comfortable and cool.

Fishing jackets are often outfitted with removable hoods, and neck gaiters can provide an extra layer of moisture protection as well. The fabric of waders and jackets provides additional mobility while keeping the fisherman dry.

During rainy weather, fishing is often at its best. Thus, it is imperative that fishermen be outfitted with attire to help deal with every element. High-quality rain gear starts at around $50 and goes far upwards of $150, depending on quality, brand, and customization.

Reels

Reels come in a variety of forms and are another one of the key components needed to fish. Reels have a rich history and are believed to date back to the 12th century. The first modern reels saw popularity in the early 1800s when the bait casting reel was introduced.

The three major types of reels are the bait casting, fixed spool, and centrepin reels. All major reel types store fishing line and function as the main way to cast and reel in fishing baits, hooks, etc. They consist of spools to release and reel in the line, handles to crank the spools, and fixed points that allow them to be attached to or detached from fishing rods. Fishing reels vary heavily in price, with some fixed spool and bait casting reels running as cheap as $10. Most centrepin reels cost in the ballpark of $30-40, although all reel prices may vary heavily.   

Rods

The backbone of any fishing setup, the fishing rod and hook dominate over other accessories in terms of importance and remain the most common tool by which to fish. Typically, a fishing rod is a few feet in length, and its size may vary based on the type of fishing they are made for. They are usually constructed of carbon fiber and fiberglass, giving them the durability they need to hold under the weight of any fish.

The end with the reel has a hand grip for ease of use, and the shaft of the rod is lined with rings, called eyes, where a line is pulled through. Different rods are used for different types of fishing and cost all sorts of prices. Your typical rod may cost anywhere from $10 to hundreds of dollars, depending on a variety of factors, such as the inclusion of a reel.       

Ropes

Fishing rope can be a valuable, multi-purpose tool when fishing. Most notably, a fishing rope can be tied to a weight or anchor, then submerged underwater to anchor the boat to its current position. Keep in mind that anchoring should only be done when you know exactly how much rope you have and when you are aware of the water’s exact depth. This way, you can avoid the possibility of losing your rope spool or even accidentally tilting the boat.

Ropes can also be used to tie the boat to a fixed position on land, ensuring you do not go further out into the water than you desire. A good pack of fishing rope will cost you about $30 from online retailers.

Scales

Much like measuring boards, scales help fishermen evaluate their catches. Bigger, heavier fish can often mean the top prizes when it comes to tournament fishing, so fishermen often take note of the size and scale of the fish they catch in order to improve their skills. Likewise, recreational fishermen are innately curious about the size of their catches, so they, too, may utilize a fishing scale.

Fish and wildlife advisors in your state may also set limits on the weight of the fish, but this is much less likely to be considered over length. Fishing scales will cost around $20 from online retailers.

Like measuring boards, the unit of measurement for scales may depend on the scale’s country of origin. In the U.S., fish are measured in pounds and ounces. Fishing scales vary widely in quality and thus range from around $10 to $70.

Sinkers

Sinkers perform as their name suggests. Similar to weights, sinkers are heavy metal objects attached to a fishing line that keep live bait from swimming upwards or floating if they become injured underwater. They commonly make up fishing rigs and come in a few common varieties. These include a rubber core, which snaps directly onto a fishing line, a split shot, which can be pinched in place, and a bell, which consists of a bell shape with an eye for the line to thread through.

Sinkers and weights alike provide another layer of customization to a fisherman’s rig. Sinkers, like weights and jigs, cost about a dollar or so and can be purchased in bulk for a discounted price. Sinkers cost around $7-10, depending on size and quality.

Snacks

When you're out on a boat for a long period of time, odds are you will start to get hungry. Fishing expels a good amount of energy, and snacks can give fishermen the boost of energy they need to keep casting.

Some common fishing snacks include beef jerky, energy bars, and canned meats, although personal preferences will vary heavily from person to person. Some fishermen may prefer dried fruits, and those with coolers may even be able to keep perishable snacks fresh, such as deli meats and carrots.

Spare Batteries

Fishing may seem like the kind of sport that requires minimal technology, but many modern fishermen utilize a variety of electronic devices while they fish, such as depth and radar scanners and GPS systems. Because of this, fishermen who rely on such equipment regularly should always bring spare batteries aboard before heading out onto the water. Likewise, trolling motors that run on electric batteries should be coupled with a spare to use in the event of a battery failure.

Lately, lithium batteries have become a popular choice among anglers as they have a long duration of use. Lithium batteries are not cheap and cost about a hundred dollars or so, depending on the voltage.

Spears

Although the idea may seem foreign today, using spears to fish was once the main mode of fishing. Ancient civilizations carved spearheads out of stone and used such tools to stab fish in open, shallow water. Today, the practice is still in popular use and has even evolved to take on new forms.

Modern fishing spears are crafted with sharp metal tips and thin metallic bodies. Remarkably, modern fishing spears are often equipped to spear guns and projected from under the water. Spearfishing is a unique alternative to the types of fishing most are familiar with. A classic gig costs about $20 from online retailers, while spear guns are much more expensive.

Spoons

A necessary piece of some fisherman’s rigs, spoons serve a unique function in the way they attract fish. First used in the mid-1800s, spoons consist of a metallic body that is concave on one side, giving this lure object its unique name. The concave side serves to reflect light as the lure travels, fooling a fish into believing it is a scaly, injured prey.

Spoons come in a variety of sizes, all of which function a tad differently. Nevertheless, spoons are a wise choice for fishermen hoping to catch fish, as their hooks are famous for their ability to sink easily into the mouths of fish. Most fishing spoons cost between $5 to $10.

Stoppers

Stoppers serve one function, and they do it very well. The goal of a stopper is to stop a bobber from traveling further down the fishing line. Stoppers typically consist of a single knot that is tied just below a bobber on the fishing line.

This knot needn’t be too large, as the threaded hole of most bobbers is very tiny. Once a bobber hits the knot, it will not travel any further down the line. They are simple and cost less than $3 if you do not make them yourself.

Sunglasses

Fishermen are constantly exposed to the sun while out on the water. Garments like neck gaiters and bucket hats shield fishermen from UV rays, but sunglasses are just as important. In addition to protection from the sun, fishing glasses perform a myriad of other tasks.

Polarized lenses can help reduce glare and increase visibility while operating the boat. They can also keep bugs and water from bothering a fisherman’s eyes. Sunglasses are often quite stylish in addition to their practical applications, yet nicer styles can cost much more money. Brands such as Costa and Oakley glasses cost upwards of $100, while other, cheaper brands cost around $20 to $50 a pair. 

Sunscreen

Fishing all day in the sun is dangerous without proper protection. Certain types of sunscreen can help better protect fishermen from harmful, long-term exposure to the sun. While a traditional SPF 30 may get the job done, odds are a fisherman will require some type of water-resistant or sport sunscreen to protect themselves.

SPF 50 is nearly always recommended, and most sunscreen is relatively cheap. However, dermatologists recommend the use of sunblocks over chemical sunscreens whenever possible. A good sunscreen will cost between $10 and $20 per bottle.

Swivels

When fishing, it is almost inevitable that, at some point, your line will twist. This occurs during a battle with a fish as they attempt to pull away. Swivels are pieces of equipment that help to prevent this twisting from occurring. A swivel works by impairing the line’s ability to twist, although tension by a battling fish can render a swivel useless after a certain point.

The three main types of swivels are the barrel swivel, the cheapest of the bunch; the crane swivel, a better yet pricier alternative to the barrel swivel; and the ball bearing swivel, which is great for trolling and lure rigs. Whatever the type, swivels are a great way to combat aggressive fish from twisting your line. Swivels are relatively cheap and cost around $1 to $5 per pack. 

Tackle Boxes and Cases

Tackle boxes provide a wonderful, organized storage space for all of your fishing essentials. Tackle boxes are often no longer than a foot and a half or so and contain a vast, compact storage layout to fit everything you may need. Some of the nicest tackle boxes range from $50 to $60, although prices may vary.

Traps

Fishing traps, also known as pots, sit along the floor of a body of water and wait patiently for fish or other aquatic organisms to swim into them. Similar to on-land animal traps, fish traps consist of wire wound into a cage structure, with a latch that seals off entry once something enters it. Bait sits within the trap as an incentive for prey to explore the area.

Traps are seldom used in small, freshwater bodies as a means to capture fish. However, they are a popular choice for the fishing industry and larger saltwater areas. They are the subject of some controversy, as they pose a threat to certain species of underwater animals. Traps cost anywhere from $5 to $100, depending on the type.

Water Bottles

During a long, hot day out on the water, a fisherman may sweat profusely. The risk of dehydration is certainly present, so most fishermen opt to carry a water bottle with them. Such bottles can consist of a variety of styles and materials.

However, many prefer water to remain cold despite hot temperatures outside. Thus, metallic, insulating bottles are a popular choice for fishing, as they keep the water cold for a lengthy period of time. Typically, water bottles such as this hold 16 to 32 fluid oz of water, and cost around $5 to $50, depending on quality and size.

Weights

Often compared to sinkers, weights serve as a means to aid the sinking of a lure. They differ from sinkers in that they are traditionally used with artificial bait instead of live bait. In nearly all other ways, weights are similar to sinkers.

They are crafted out of metals such as lead, though lead is beginning to be phased out as a weight material due to its adverse health risks. Weights are attached to a fishing line as part of a rig. Like sinkers, weights cost around $0.50 or so per weight.

Wires

Fishing wire, commonly referred to as fishing line, refers to the wire used to keep a rig attached to a fishing pole. Commonly, there are two types of fishing wire. These include multiple and single strands.

Simply put, a multi-strand is a wire composed of a few wires that have been twisted or braided together, whereas a single strand is one single wire. Fishing wire can be bought for very cheap, sometimes as little as $1.

Typically, fishing wire material is either stainless steel or titanium. These materials give the wire strength to withstand large fish and great forces. Wire costs around $4-20 dollars per spool. 

FAQ