Fishing is always fun, but it’s especially great to be out on the water. We asked our go-to fly fisher, Kayla Lockhart, to tell us what she wants in her boat for every fishing trip. 

TIPS FROM KAYLA

Fishing out of a boat is one of my favorite ways to spend my summer days. A boat can increase your chances at catching fish, since you’re able to cover a lot more water, or access spots that you couldn’t on foot. It also helps alleviate your back from having to carry all your gear!

Growing up in Minnesota, the land of 10,000 lakes, I have had years and years of fine-tuning what my essentials are while fishing from a boat (other than the obvious, your fishing rod!).



5 MUST-HAVES FOR FISHING OUT OF A BOAT:

1. OARS

In case your battery or motor dies (or a spare oar for non-motorized boats).

2. NET

Landing fish from a boat can be tricky, especially if your boat sits you up higher off the water. Having a net will be better for safe fish handling and make your life a lot easier when landing your fish!

3. FLY BOXES/TACKLE BOXES

Whether you prefer to use flies, lures or bait, a box to carry all of them is necessary and will ensure you can have easy organized access to find what the fish are biting. 

4. SNACKS/BEVERAGES

Sometimes the fish just ain’t biting, and that’s when snacks really come in clutch. Every time the fishing is slow is when I start to hear my stomach rumbling. Having snacks on hand will keep you happy and on the water longer, and of course drinking water is always necessary. 

5. LEATHERMAN MICRA^®

Equipped with spring-loaded scissors for quick line cutting to change my flies, and the small knife, tweezers, Phillips and flathead for any quick fixes!

YOU'RE GOOD TO GO

Fishing out of a boat, canoe, kayak or even float tube is always a great time spent on the water, so I hope these little tips will help you on your next adventure. 

Kayla Lockhart is an avid fly fisher, traveler, artist, conservationist and general outdoor enthusiast. Follow her on https://www.instagram.com/kayla__lockhart/