Story by Hunter Baughman | Photos by Tanner & Travis Lyons
Is your boat water ready? It’s never fun to have issues when fishing. There are some simple things you can keep in the boat to minimize the amount of fishing time you lose when issues occur. For tournament guys, maximizing your time can be the difference in getting a check or not. This week I want to touch on a few things I like to keep in my boat to make sure fishing trips go as smooth as possible.
Outside of fishing equipment, the most import thing to have in the boat is a set of tools. They don’t have to be too extravagant. A basic ratchet set, multi-bit screwdriver, Allen wrench set and a knife will get you out of nearly any bind. Most everything on that list can be bought in a pre-packaged tool kit. Throw in a set of channel lock pliers and a set of locking pliers and you’re ready to conquer the world…or at least fix a broken boat.
I like to carry a bag for electrical issues as well. This consists of a multipack of fuses, some simple wire connectors, a wire stripper/cutter tool and electrical tape.
The biggest issue with carrying tools in a boat is moisture and rust. The best solution I have found is a cheap 100% waterproof bag I bought off Amazon. Shove everything down in the bag, roll it up and buckle it, and you’re set.
That should cover most any tool needed to work on a problem on the water. However, there are a few more essentials that everyone needs in their boat.
A spare prop is a must. If you spin a hub or throw an ear on your outboard prop (this will eventually happen to you), you’ll need to change props to get back to the trailer. A prop wrench is necessary too. I’m not a fan of the plastic wrenches specifically made for props. They seem to strip too easily. I carry a breaker bar and deep well socket. A short piece of 2×4 to hold a prop in place while the nut is being loosened can be a lifesaver, too.
While you’re packing props, go ahead and get a spare trolling motor prop. It’s another extremely easy and quick fix that can otherwise bring a day of fishing to a stop if you’re not prepared.
A few more items that receive an honorable mention include an extra life jacket and kill switch, change of clothes, flare gun, rope, spare sunglasses and first aid kit.
For those trailering any distance it’s also smart to have a few extra tools in your truck to combat issues on the road. A cordless impact wrench with a set of deep wall sockets and a compact floor jack makes your life much easier. Work smarter, not harder, right? But if that’s not feasible I completely understand. A 4-way lug wrench and your tow vehicles jack will get the job done. For a tandem axle trailer, a Trailer-Aid Ramp can be very handy. I prefer this method over a jack. If you’re planning on traveling long distances a spare hub is important, too.
There’s no worse feeling than cutting a fishing trip short due to mechanical issues. I hope these simple tips help you be more prepared the next time you hit the water.
Remember it’s better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it!
