The open-water season is coming—and along with it comes a rather extensive to-do list. Being organized and prepared are important to continued success—no matter the season or activity. Preparing in advance helps ensure that your season starts off without a hitch. 

Hopefully, you properly winterized your gear after last season. However, if other things got in the way, you still have time to get things ready. The following list can help you start your season out on a positive note, knowing that you are ready to fish whenever the opportunity presents itself. 

Rods, reels & line

Rods, reels and line are among the leading items that require preparation for the open-water season. Proper attention can make the difference between a successful, or not-so-successful, day on the water. 

• Take an inventory of rods and reels in your lineup. Make a list of any additional items you plan to add before the season starts. 

• Inspect your rods for any defects—check the guides, reel seats, and the blank itself. 

• Make sure reels are in working order and greased or oiled properly.

• If you have any rods or reels in need of repair or replacement, reach out to the manufacturer before the open-water season arrives. The busy season for warranty work generally hits its peak during the heart of the season. 

• Remove last year’s line (if you haven’t already done so) and review what line you may have in stock at home. Spool up the reels with fresh line.

Tackle

Tackle is an important consideration when it comes to preparation. It’s at the business end of your fishing setup and sure to get some use. 

• Take an inventory of tackle you already have and make a list of any items you need to add to your arsenal before the upcoming season. 

• Replace any hooks that are damaged or no longer sharp. Keep extra hooks on hand throughout the season as well. 

• Organize your tackle by type. For example, keep jerkbaits with jerkbaits and jigs with jigs. Labeling your tackle boxes adds a little legwork up front but comes in handy later. Knowing exactly what you have and where to find it makes you more efficient on the water. 

Boats, canoes, kayaks and trailers

When it comes to boats, canoes, and kayaks, there’s a wide range of things to consider in the preparation arena. These items vary greatly depending on the specific vessel and vessel type. Hopefully, you stored your boat property at the end of last season (i.e. cleaned, covered, and filled with something to prevent mice or other critters from damaging your watercraft). 

• Examine your boat from top to bottom. Look for anything that needs to be cleaned or repaired before the season. 

• Verify that no hardware is loose.

• Make a list of any new accessories you plan to purchase. 

• We all know how busy the season gets, so give it a proper cleaning before the season kicks off. Bust out the vacuum and power washer. It doesn’t hurt to give your vessel a coat of wax as well. 

• Inspect your trailer. Ensure that bunks or rollers are operational, and that tires are in good shape. Repair and replace these items as needed. Make sure you have and carry a spare. 

Motors, batteries and electronics

In addition to your vessel, think about the motor and electronic components. Water, engines, and electricity don’t always play together nicely. 

• Depending on the vessel, you may have a motor or two to inspect before hitting the water. 

• For outboard motors, invest in a pair of motor flushers (aka muffs) to ensure the motor is operational before fishing for the first time. If you don’t have access to a pair, drive to a nearby body of water, and back the boat in deep enough to make sure the motor is running properly.

• Inspect your prop. If you only have one, get a backup. You never know when you’ll need the extra one. 

• For trolling motors, ensure that everything is working order. Check the motor itself for any defects and inspect the wiring. 

• Ensure the batteries are operational and still take a charge. Examine the wiring for any issues. Replace and repair as needed. 

• Verify that your electronics are still working. Make sure connections are clean and properly attached. Plan some time ahead of your first major trip to make sure electronics and transducers are operating as intended. 

• Test the lights—both internal lights and navigation lights. 

• Invest in some extra fuses and keep them in a waterproof case.

Apparel

Apparel is often neglected during the open-water season, but having the right gear to keep you warm and dry is important, especially early in the year. 

• Inspect your raingear or suit carefully. Damaged and worn-out apparel can lead to a subpar day on the water. 

• Wash and clean gear as needed. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. 

• If you’re planning to buy any replacement gear, buy it early. Trying on gear in store is recommended. It’s much easier to figure out exactly what size and style you need when you have all the options in front of you. 

The extras

In addition to the key factors outlined above, take the following items into account before hitting the water. 

• Verify that your registration is current and that the up-to-date decals are attached to your vessel.

• Examine lifejackets for any rips or tears. Ensure that you have at least one life jacket per passenger and that they are appropriately sized for your passengers. Have a throwable flotation device on board. 

• Depending on state regulations, you may be required to have a fire extinguisher on board. Make sure it’s functional and not expired. 

• Nets come in handy for open-water fishing. Inspect them for rips or tears. You don’t want a faulty net to be the reason for the one that got away. 

• A small toolbox can be a lifesaver if something unexpected happens. Prepare one and find a place to store it in your boat. 

Being prepared leads to success on the water. Taking the inspect and maintain your equipment can help prevent unexpected issues down the road. Preventative maintenance and organization go a long way toward ensuring an enjoyable day on the water.