The season is almost upon us, and most will be spending some time on the water either on a head boat or a private boat fishing. There are some basic tools that you need to stay prepared for your time on the water.
Here are some of the most basic tools you will use on your next fishing trip starting with a good pair of pliers. When thinking of pliers, the key is getting some with a needle nose jaws with a built-in cutter. We use Accurate Piranha pliers APL7 which is made of aluminum and strong plus very light weight and are also offered with split tip jaws. They cut braid well and fluorocarbon with ease but remember, cutting wire with any cutters designed for braid or mono will dull jaws and can often ruin pliers.
It’s a good idea to also carry another set of pliers/ cutters as back up just in case.
A lot of tackle stores are selling custom sets in a sheath, this is a perfect back up set for around 50 dollars. Looking for a better set look for Channel Lock products which are sold in a select few tackle stores custom wrapped too.
A lot of tackle stores are selling custom sets in a sheath, this is a perfect back up set for around 50 dollars. Looking for a better set look for Channel Lock products which are sold in a select few tackle stores custom wrapped too.
It’s not a bad idea either to get a pair of cutters that will handle cutting a hook. This has been a life saver for me over the years when we get that occasion on the boat. I have a pair slightly bigger than the cutters that will handle the task. You can get pair at your nearest home improvement center or harbor freight has them at a good price.
Another key tool for the boat is a tuna spike. This item will help you when the fish hits the deck as it is a humane way to calm a fish down. Custom tuna spikes are available but there are a few manufacturers offering them as part of their product line.
A real key product to add to your arsenal is a knot puller. They usually unscrew, smaller diameter fits into the larger diameter, and both have shrink wrap on them. Small diameter is usually used on braid by wrapping at least three full rotations around it never overlapping braid. The larger diameter you do the same with leader material or mono at least three wraps with no overlapping of line.
By situating knot in middle knot pullers, you pull lines until knot cinches often making a small pop then trim tag ends. This tool will save your hands from cuts often resulting from holding braid without gloves and tightening. Lastly by buying the right sheath for your tools it makes them accessible for you while fishing. Be prepared and have an awesome season.