Fishing takes more planning than you may think. To be successful, you need to have proper equipment but you don't want to take a lot of extras with you either. This could hinder your success because your pack might be too heavy to be able to be effective.

Consequently, if you don't have enough supplies, you could have less success than you would have if you were properly prepared. Careful planning and packing is an ideal way to get the most out of your next fishing trip.

Of course you'll want to make sure you have your fishing poles and all of your fishing tackle. Do a quick check and make sure that your tackle box is stocked with everything you'll need to catch the fish you're going after.

Everything should be where you left it, but you never know when someone might have borrowed your favorite lure, or you forgot about that mishap on the last trip that caused you to lose some of your most valuable and trusted fishing tackle.

You should also look at your reels and see how much line is left on the spool. Not only does a lack of line limit how far a fish can run with the line once hooked, but a shortage of line actually affects how far you can cast. If you notice that your line is becoming discolored, it may be getting brittle, which may cause it to snap easier or for the knot to untie itself.

It is also important to ensure that you have the proper line on your poles before you go fishing. Line weight can affect what lures you can use, as well as if certain fish, like trout, can see your line and become spooked.

There are other fishing related items you should make sure you have with you before you go fishing. Needle nose pliers can help immensely when getting fish off the line, especially if the hook is in the back of their mouth. Since many fish have size restrictions, you will also need something to measure them with, and if it's a big one, a scale and a camera.

If you plan on keeping your fish, you will need a stringer or something else to hold on to them, and something to put them in until you get home. Many people prefer to clean fish before heading home, which necessitates a fillet knife, and whatever else you need to clean your target fish.

For anglers who take their boat fishing, there's a whole other list of things to check before you hit the water. Although some individuals have ignored its use at different times, it's a good idea to make sure you have the plug in your boat before you back down the ramp.

Another thing that can put a kink in your plans is a flat tire on your boat trailer. There have also been many fishing trips salvaged because a wise angler made sure to check the gas tanks and made sure the batteries had a full charge.

Packing something to eat while you're on your fishing trip is essential. Staying out on the boat in the middle of the lake doesn't offer many options in the way of food. If you bring your lunch, you can add to the time you spend fishing for your favorite species. With all of the proper supplies, you are sure to be successful in most of your fishing trip ventures.