A Guide to Taking a Fishing Boat Trip

Fishing is a fun pastime that involves patience. Even if you are the most patient person in the world, though, you are not going to be able to get really big fish from the shore. Using a fishing boat increases your chances of catching a big one. However, there are some tips to follow when fishing on a boat. If you would like to learn more about our fishing boats, come visit us at Clews & Strawbridge in Frazer, Pennsylvania, serving our customers in Philadelphia and West Chester.

Preparation is Key

Once you take off in your fishing boat, it may be a while before you get back to shore. So, it is important that you take everything you need with you. When planning your trip, create a checklist and write everything you need down, including bait and mosquito repellent. This is the best way for you to avoid leaving anything behind.

Condition of Your Boat

Your fishing boat should be in the best condition before you set off. Having mechanical issues in the middle of the lake or sea is not only inconvenient, but it can be dangerous. It is important to have the right size anchor. If you are fishing in deep water, you will want a larger anchor to hold your boat down. Chain, at minimum, should measure the length of your boat.

Having a Fishing Plan

Figure out what kind of fish you would like. Then, find out if they are active during this time of year. Research information about tides, weather conditions, and wind direction. Then, have your boat trip during the appropriate time. Find the location you wish to fish in, and use a rod and bait that is suitable for that area.

Wear the Right Clothing

Choose gear that suits the area you are fishing in. Climate also plays a factor in the type of clothing you need. If you are fishing in a colder climate, you may need to layer your clothing.

A fishing trip could take a day or longer. Therefore, you need to pack accordingly. Keep in mind that even though temperatures may be warm during the day, they could drop as it gets darker outside. You should also have enough life jackets for everyone on the fishing boat.

Try Trolling

Trolling is when you place a baited line trail behind your fishing boat while moving slowly. A suitable technique for land and sea, trolling allows you to cover a wide area without a lot of effort.

Simply cast the baited line and attach the pole to the boat. In the sea, big fish take the direction of the dominant swell. So, if you see a dominant swell, move the boat in the same direction. On a lake, you may want to combine trolling with moving and casting. This involves stopping between two areas that are populated with fish along the shoreline. Then, cast your line.

Incorporate Modern Technology

You can increase your chances of catching fish on your boat trip by using modern technology. Try tracking fish with a sounder or fishfinder. A temperature meter allows you to measure the temperature underwater. Water temperature can influence the behavior of the fish.

Going out on a fishing boat can be a rewarding experience when you are prepared. Here at Clews & Strawbridge, we have a nice selection of fishing boats to choose from at our location in Frazer, Pennsylvania. We also serve Philadelphia and West Chester, Pennsylvania.