12 Things You Should Always Bring On A Southern Fishing Trip

Fishing is a great outdoor activity that caters to all levels of nature enthusiasts. While some types of fishing, like fly fishing or deep sea fishing, require a bit more experience and patience, anyone can drop a line in a pond or off an ocean pier with a few tips (and prayers for a nibble).

While each type of fishing has different needs if you’re hoping to catch something, the bare minimum includes a fishing pole (or rod), fishing line, a hook, and bait. However, a good packing list goes beyond the necessities. Any true Southerner knows you can’t go anywhere without good food and drink, so you’ll want to bring that too. Plus you have to consider apparel because, of course, you have to look the part at the very least. And for those who like to tag along, but prefer to be a spectator, you might even consider bringing a book to keep yourself entertained as you patiently wait for a hopeful bite.

So whether you’re wading into a creek in the mountains of North Carolina, taking a deep sea fishing trip off the Gulf Coast, kayaking with a rod through coastal marshes, or casting a line on a quiet lake—from snacks to gear, these are Southern fishing trip essentials for all the folks going fishing.

1. Lures, Live Bait, or Flies

No matter what type of fishing you’re doing, you'll need something on the hook in order to attract the fish. For fly fishing, you’ll need various flies while live bait or lures (both of which still vary depending on where you’re fishing and what you’re hoping to catch) will do the trick for all other freshwater and saltwater fishing.

2. Nabs

Now if you’re not Southern, you might be wondering what in the world “nabs” are. If so, you might be surprised to find out that you indeed do know what they are and have likely even snacked on them. Nabs is the nickname for packages of sandwich crackers wrapped in plastic (most often square-shaped, orange, and peanut butter-filled) that originated with Nabisco’s “Peanut Butter Sandwich Packet” in 1924. This popular snack is a Southern staple, especially for outdoor adventures, but any kind of gas station peanut butter crackers will suffice.

3. Vienna Sausages and Crackers

Now, this popular fishing snack, which doubles as bait, is more of a cane pole and sitting on a wooden dock novelty. You’re not quite as likely to make a catch with a professional rod and reel in hand with a can of vienna sausages in your back pocket.

4. The Right Layers

Sitting on a dock requires a little less thought than heading into the cool mountains, but regardless you’ll want to be prepared for whatever weather might present itself, especially if you're out on the water. The key is dressing in layers so you can adjust accordingly as the temperatures shift throughout the day. 

Lightweight, quick-drying or moisture-wicking long sleeve tops (bonus if it has a hood to keep the sun off your neck) are a good place to start. And while a windbreaker is strongly advised on the ocean, a rain jacket is always a good idea no matter where you’re headed. For fly fishing, waders or sturdy waterproof boots with good traction (wet rocks are slippery!) are strongly advised. However, if you’re going fishing on a boat, wear shoes with non-marking soles.

5. A Waterproof Bag

Pack everything for your fishing trip in a handy waterproof bag for worry-free adventuring. It’ll keep your cell phone, extra clothing layers, and snacks dry. And don’t forget to tuck a water bottle in the side pocket to keep you hydrated! If you plan to be out all day or it’s particularly warm, you might consider bringing along a small cooler as well for food and drinks.

6. Beef Jerky

While the fish don’t care for jerky as much as Vienna sausages, beef jerky is the ideal on-the-go snack because it won’t get smashed or spoil in your pack all day.

7. A Good Hat

From wide-brimmed bucket hats to ball caps, be sure to pack your favorite adventure hat to shield your face from the sun.

8. A Tackle Box or Multi-Pocketed Vest

If you’re fishing on your own, you’ll need to be prepared with tools and equipment (which varies depending on your type of outing), but generally includes hooks, bobbers, sinkers, lures, floats, extra fishing line, leader material, pliers, and scissors or a pocket knife. This means you need something to keep it all organized. Enter: the tackle box, fishing vest, or small chest/hip pack for fly fishers.

9. Something for Lunch

So you can stay out all day of course! Whether your bag is packed with homemade fried chicken or a classic Southern sandwich, a day on the water wouldn’t be complete without some of Grandma’s cookies too. They’re equally delicious when celebrating a great day of fish on-the-line or burying your sorrows for when they aren’t biting.

10. A Fishing License

Be sure to properly research the area you’re headed before going fishing. Whether on land or water, states have different regulations and requirements which can also vary from freshwater to saltwater. Licenses can often be obtained online or purchased through local sporting goods stores.

11. Sun Protection

• Sunscreen: Even on a cloudy day, the sun can be strong, especially when you’re on the water. And yes, even on a tree-covered bank.
• Polarized sunglasses: Not only do polarized sunglasses protect your eyes, but they also help cut through the glare on the water so you can better see the fish. Consider using an eyewear retainer (like Croakies) to avoid dropping them in the water—or worse losing them as you’re fighting a big fish!
• A Buff or bandana: While not necessary, they help keep the sun off your neck and act as an extra layer if it’s windy.

12. Beer

Lastly, there’s just something about cracking open a cold one after a day of fishing, so be sure to grab your favorite local brew or drink of choice before hitting the water.