Keep safe when heading to the lake fishing

1.) Everyone knows the sun is your enemy and long term protection is essential. Do not forget the sunscreen.  We recommend a good 50 SPF sunscreen in an aerosol spray that is preferably waterproof.  Apply it often and liberally.  With the sheer amount of time we spend in the sun I go the extra step and try to always wear long sleeve shirts, hat and sunglasses.

2.) We always carry a good quality hook cutter or side cutters that are capable of cutting directly through the hooks you tend to use.  Not only is this a necessity for cutting a hook that may get lodged in a body part but also helps when releasing a fish that is seriously hooked. In many cases it is better for the fish to cut the hook and leave it in the fish than to try to tear it out.

3.) A small first aid kit with basic bandages, tape, wraps, tweezers and antiseptic can extend your day if a small cut occurs. You can buy a first aid kit at most big box stores such as Target or Walmart for around $10-$15. We find ourselves replacing our kits annually due to lack of items left after a tournament season.

4.) A good needle nose pliers makes removing hooks safe by keeping your fingers far from the fishes gnarly teeth and points of the hook.  We like to use the stainless steel Rapala pliers as they hold up best and tend not to rust in the harsh environments.  Most good needle nose-fishing pliers will include a cutter and some even offer split ring pliers.

5.) A fish gripper falls in line with the pliers as it aids in gripping fish that have sharp or poisonous fins. Grabbing a fish by the mouth that has is full of treble hooks is not a good idea.  These fish handling devices can be found at most tackle shops.  I typically use the Grabber Jaw Fish Handler but most of the fish grippers will do the trick.

6.) The last item in our short list to never leave home without when fishing is a good quality insect repellent.  Insect sprays are not just for your comfort they actually can help protect you from the spread of unwanted diseases such as the dreadful Lyme's Disease. Anytime you can reduce or eliminate insects around you the more enjoyable your experience will be.

It is impossible to protect and prepare yourself from everything that may happen while fishing but having the above simple items with will definitely help make your experience more enjoyable.  Prevention is always a good practice.

For added information and boating safety items visit www.tackle-world.com