What Do I Bring on My Charter Fishing Trip?
You've booked your fishing charter with Memory Maker Sport Fishing Charters. Now, the question persists, “What do I need to bring?”. To help you answer that, here is a simple, detailed guide of what you should bring on your Kenosha charter fishing trip.
First things first, be sure you have your fishing license! You will need to have a Wisconsin Fishing License, that includes a Great Lakes Trout/Salmon Stamp, to embark on your Kenosha, Wisconsin charter fishing adventure. You will need to have this before you arrive at the marina. Licenses can be obtained either online through the Wisconsin DNR or you can purchase your license at a number of local fishing stores.
Clothing
Regardless of the time of year, it is important to bring several layers of clothing if you plan to go out and explore the open Lake Michigan water. In instances of early morning departures out of the Kenosha harbor, don’t rely on the sun to keep you warm. Also, be sure you can take off layers of clothing when necessary, and put them back if the need arises.
Non-skid rubber-soled shoes – The top choice for footwear is sneakers; avoid wearing flip flops, and work boots are discouraged as they scuff the decks and are slippery.
Windbreaker – Protects you from spray and helps to keep you warm, especially if you are leaving the dock early in the morning, on a breezy day, or if the day turns out to be a bit cooler than expected.
Light colored clothes – Light colors are great for reflecting the sun to keep you feeling cool even during hot weather.
Shorts – Ideal for hot summer days, however, being on Lake Michigan for several hours can get a bit chilly, especially with a lake breeze. Be sure to bring a pair of long pants as well.
Lightweight shirt – This will protect your shoulders and arms from sunburn, or a chill breeze.
Gloves – Optional, but can help protect your hands from sunburn, rain, lake spray, and line cuts.
Weather Protection
You may have already thought about sunblock for your charter fishing day on the Kenosha waters, but don't forget a few other essentials!
Sunscreen (as mentioned) – Bring one that protects you from UVA, as well as UVB rays.
Hat – Those with brims give you shade and help to lower your risk of sunstroke.
Polarized sunglasses – Cuts through the glare on the water so you will have a good look at your target fish.
Lip balm – While optional, it does help to prevent your lips from becoming chapped out on the water.
Rain Gear - Waterproof jacket and rain pants. You may need these items while on a fishing charter on Lake Michigan.
Storage
Be sure to bring a variety of containers and bags; this will allow you to bring personal items on board without having to worry about being damaged by Lake Michigan water splashes!
Backpack – Any reasonably sized, sturdy bag will work. This way you have all of your items within arms reach.
Waterproof bag – Ideal for storing your electronic items (phone, camera, etc...) and other important documents like your fishing license
Plastic bottle – Fill with your energy drink or water to keep you hydrated. No glass bottles as they could break.
Smaller cooler – Keeps food and drinks cool while you are on board. Remember to bring LOTS of water & fluids to keep you, your friends and family hydrated!
Large cooler - This can be used to take home your catch after your charter fishing trip. This can be left in your vehicle to put the cleaned, bagged fish in.
Other Essentials
Here are a few other things to consider bringing with you on your charter fishing adventure! You never know when one of these items may come in handy, and as there are no stores on the lake, it's best to be prepared for anything.
Hand sanitizer – You don’t want to eat when your hands are covered with fish slime, right? Plus, who knows what other germs may be lurking around.
Bug spray – Keep in mind that there will always be bugs in places where there is water within Kenosha, so you should be prepared when on a Wisconsin fishing charter!
Seasick medications – In case you have issues with seasickness, medications such as Bonine or Dramamine are useful. Be sure to take several hours before the trip. You should also avoid mixing anti-nausea medications with coffee and be sure to eat a solid breakfast before the trip. Do not wait until you’re on the boat or begin to feel motion sick to take your remedy... once you start to feel the effects of motion sickness it is too late.
Camera – A smartphone or a camera will let you document your adventure and all the fish you will catch. Wisconsin charter fishing trips are great experiences with friends and family, so you’ll want to take pictures of your memorable day!
Hand towel – You may want one (or two) since fishing can be messy. Towels also come in handy to help dry your hands off.
Once you have these items ready, our team at Memory Makers Fishing Charters in Kenosha will be there to take care of the rest. You can leave your stress and worries behind for a few hours to fully enjoy your Lake Michigan charter fishing trip! We will provide all necessary fishing equipment and use top of the line rods and reels as well as the best baits available!
