When deciding what to pack for a tournament space consideration is important to boaters, but as a co-angler proper planning is a necessity.  Making a packing list is essential.  Get in a routine of checking your list so you don’t forget one of your essentials or bring too much.

Here are some suggestions you might want to consider essential or eliminate.  What is essential for one might not be for another.  Make your own checklist and review it before each tournament. 

Probably don’t need list:

            More than one tackle box

            Cooler – no matter how small

Optional Items list:  

Culling Kit or Digital scales    

            Goggles or face shield

            First aid kit – minimal – band-aid, Tylenol, antiseptic gel

Waterless hand sanitizer

            Purse

Somewhat essential items list:

Small flashlight – one of those that attaches to your hat

Fish attractant scent

            Hat/visor/cap – extra one in case you lose the first one

Makeup - loose powder to minimize the oily shine, lipstick, mascara & blush

            Mirror

            Hairbrush or comb

Toilet paper or facial tissue.

Extra feminine product, as needed

Bass species identification guide

Essential list:

Snack Foods

            Drinks – plenty of water

Sunglasses – good polarized pair
Sunscreen

Watch or digital clock

            Life jacket (PFD) well fitting

            Rain Gear – really good set

            Fishing license and identification

            Tournament rules

Handout with flight times, off limits & phone numbers

Line Clippers

Needle nose pliers

Rods and Reels (3 or 4 baitcasting and 1 or 2 spincasting)

Medium size soft tackle box – minimize contents after talking with your partner

To quote Carol Boykin, “By planning ahead and being organized, you can stand and wait on your partner, wearing you life jacket, holding five rods in you hand and your tackle pack hanging on one shoulder. When they pull up you are ready to put your gear into their boat and go.”

So make your list and check it twice . . . and don’t forget the essentials.