Packing Recommendations for an Alaskan Fishing Trip

There are a number of important priorities to consider when preparing for an Alaskan fishing adventure, and packing properly is at or near the top of any such list. Alaska is one of the most unique climates of any of the 50 US states, with weather that can change dramatically even within a single day -- when you add in the clothing and/or equipment you'll need for your actual fishing excursions themselves, there are quite a few items to think about.

At Pybus Point Lodge, we're here to help. Not only do our all-inclusive Alaskan fishing packages include all the fishing equipment you'll need on-site -- plus access to watercraft -- we're also here to offer tips and expertise on how to pack generally for your trip. Here's a simple primer, including both fishing-specific gear and other items you'll need for separate parts of the trip.

Basic Packing Tips

While this section may seem elementary for experienced fishers or wildlife excursioners, we'll state again that packing for an Alaskan fishing trip can be complex for some, including first-timers -- and we don't want you to forget about certain very simple packing themes, including:

• Ensure you pack enough: Before you dig into any of the complex parts of packing for a fishing trip, handle the simple details. How many days and nights will you be gone? How many times do you expect to go fishing during the trip? Know your basic numbers so you have an idea of how to pack simple items like socks, underwear and more.
• Check the weather in advance: If you're planning on an Alaskan fishing trip in the middle of summer, more power to you -- but even if you're not that ambitious, the weather isn't always predictable. Know your temperature and precipitation ranges ahead of time, so you do not come unprepared. Extra rain gear and blankets are especially important.
• Enlist outside help: If you're not a fishing expert, or if you've never been to Alaska before, don't try to pack for the trip alone. Like many items on this list, there are too many unknowns involved in packing properly for a new experience that one can easily make mistakes over -- enlist some help from people who have been there and done that (in this case, us).

With these simple tips in mind, let's go over a couple basic checklists for your fishing trip packing.

Fishing-Specific Items to Pack

While our team will provide all the specific fishing equipment you need, from rods and bait to watercraft and more, there are several items you should bring yourself in preparation for your fishing trip itself:

• Warm wool socks
• Synthetic long underwear tops and bottoms
• Long-sleeve and short-sleeve synthetic shirts
• Rain gear
• Layered clothing options
• Cold-weather hat (for warmth)
• A billed hat (for particularly sunny days)
• Thick work gloves or mittens for handling caught fish and bait rigging
• Polarized sunglasses

In addition, if you've been specifically advised to bring other items that are not on this list, be sure to heed these recommendations. Many of the required items for our fishing excursions can be purchased at our lodge if you happen to forget anything.

Hiking/Tour Attire

Now, while the highlights of your trip will likely include your fishing excursions, these won't occupy your entire trip. Our packages also include activities like wildlife tours and various hikes, and you should have some basic items on-hand for these needs as well:

• Comfortable synthetic hiking socks
• Durable, waterproof hiking boots
• Long pants
• Light, layered clothing options for outdoor activities in warmer months
• Fleece jacket
• Warm hat(s) that can fit under a cap or ball cap
• Sunglasses with UV protection and polarization, especially for wildlife viewing purposes

Casual Attire

Finally, you need to ensure you're packed properly for the periods of your trip that don't involve any kind of outdoor activity. Much of your casual attire packing will come down to your specific expectations for the weather -- be sure to pack for both days and nights, as the temperatures may vary pretty significantly here. Once again, pay close attention to basic trip details like number of days, activities planned and more.

Miscellaneous Items

In addition to actual clothes, there are a few miscellaneous items you might consider packing that will make the trip simpler. Some of these items may also be purchased or rented on-site at our lodge, but many find it's simpler to just pack their own if they have room. These accessories include:

• Insect repellant
• Sunscreen (high-SPF, both UVA- and UVB-resistant)
• A small or medium-sized dry bag to hold items while fishing
• A small backpack or other bag for toting items
• Ziploc bags if needed
• Waterproof, durable cell phone case
• Protective sunglasses case

For more on what and how to pack for your upcoming Alaskan fishing trip, or to learn about any of our fishing vacations, wildlife tours, lodging amenities or other services, speak to the staff at Pybus Point Lodge today.