So, you’ve been given an opportunity to go on a fly-in fishing adventure and have been asked to bring one tackle box.  What do you bring with you and how much do you bring?

Depending on the type of fishing you are planning on doing and species you are trying to catch your tackle box should contain at least some basic items.

Line– There are numerous types and sizes of fishing line, however, one should always carry an assortment of lines appropriate for the task. Always consider extra if there is room.

Hooks– Much like fishing line, hooks come in numerous types and sizes. They can be single, double, circle, and treble and sizes range from number 32 (smallest) to 19/0 (largest).

Lures– Fishing lures are basically artificial baits that are designed to mimic real fish in order to get the attention of a predator. Light-colored lures are ideal for bright days and clear water, while dark-colored lures are used on cloudy days and in murky waters

Bobbers/Floats– These help keep your bait closer to the surface andlet you know when a fish has taken interest in your bait. It’s important to have a bobber that floats but will also sink once a fish takes your bait, so it’s better to get smaller and more responsive ones

Sinkers– used to add weight and stabilize your line. Sinkers are traditionally made of lead, but newer ones are more environmentally friendly, like brass, tungsten, steel, and bismuth. They also come in different shapes and weights, depending on how deep you want your hook to go.

Swivels– A swivel can serve as the connecting tool between your line and bait and allows the latter to spin and move freely (as in the case of live bait) without affecting your line

Needle Nose Pliers– Basically any pair of needle nose pliers will do, but you’ll want to invest in stainless steel ones and maybe one with a bent, angled tip so it’s easier to pull hooks out and/or bend them for a better curve.

Line Cutter– Any will do, but fishers typically go for the smallest ones possible, like a nail clipper or knife, so they can easily fit inside a tackle box.

Sunglasses– Make sure to bring a good pair of polarized sunglasses.

Sunscreen– Make sure your sunscreen tube is small so it can fit in your tackle box and you’ll be reminded to put it on whenever you head out to fish.

First Aid Kit– Assemble a small pack with some band-aids, small bandages, some waterproof medical tape, and antibacterial ointment for when you get scraped up or poked by a hook.

Once you’ve decided on the basics, you can add extra items as room allows. Remember that when traveling by aircraft weight is always a factor. Therefore, a compact tackle box is your best friend and try to limit the maximum weight to no more than 10 lbs.

Fish on!