What you'll want to bring along
It's a jungle out there
Flats Fishing Essentials
#1 Sun Protection
You will be dealing with a tropical climate, on a flats boat without shade. Proper clothing and hat are a must especially if planning a multiple day fishing trip. Make sure they are light weight, light in color, and breathable. Face, nose, and ear protection is also important, a Buff a.k.a Gator is a great flats fishing investment, sunscreen only goes so far.
#2 Polarized Sunglasses
If truly wanting to see what’s out there while sight-fishing the flats, polarized sunglasses are a must! Amber tinted lenses tend to be a favorite amongst most flats fishermen. If you can’t see em, you can’t catch em.
#3 Footwear
Non-marking boat shoes or deck soles are appreciated, but not mandatory. Good ankle support and grip are most important as the boat will be wet at times. If you own wading shoes bring them as wade fishing potential does exist.
#4 Rain Jacket
Rain can come on fast, and leave even faster most of the time. As long as there’s no lightning, fish (and guide) don’t mind the rain.
#5 Lunch/Snacks
When chartering more than a half day, you'll likely want something to eat while on the water. An ice chest with plenty water is provided.
#6 Camera
If you don't take a picture, your friends and family won't believe you.
You will be dealing with a tropical climate, on a flats boat without shade. Proper clothing and hat are a must especially if planning a multiple day fishing trip. Make sure they are light weight, light in color, and breathable. Face, nose, and ear protection is also important, a Buff a.k.a Gator is a great flats fishing investment, sunscreen only goes so far.
#2 Polarized Sunglasses
If truly wanting to see what’s out there while sight-fishing the flats, polarized sunglasses are a must! Amber tinted lenses tend to be a favorite amongst most flats fishermen. If you can’t see em, you can’t catch em.
#3 Footwear
Non-marking boat shoes or deck soles are appreciated, but not mandatory. Good ankle support and grip are most important as the boat will be wet at times. If you own wading shoes bring them as wade fishing potential does exist.
#4 Rain Jacket
Rain can come on fast, and leave even faster most of the time. As long as there’s no lightning, fish (and guide) don’t mind the rain.
#5 Lunch/Snacks
When chartering more than a half day, you'll likely want something to eat while on the water. An ice chest with plenty water is provided.
#6 Camera
If you don't take a picture, your friends and family won't believe you.
What NOT to bring with you
#1 Large Bags & Coolers
Please do not bring large bags or personal coolers. It is important to have a clutter-free deck when fishing from a flats boat. Aboard the flats boat there is a cooler stocked with ice and plenty of room for small bags and personal belongings.
#2 Aerosol Sunscreen
Not only bad for you and the environment, aerosol sunscreens leave behind a residue that damages the flats boat and makes it slippery.
Please do not bring large bags or personal coolers. It is important to have a clutter-free deck when fishing from a flats boat. Aboard the flats boat there is a cooler stocked with ice and plenty of room for small bags and personal belongings.
#2 Aerosol Sunscreen
Not only bad for you and the environment, aerosol sunscreens leave behind a residue that damages the flats boat and makes it slippery.