So You Booked A Session With Us; Here’s What To Bring For Your Day On The Water!
To make sure you have the best day ever, you want to make sure to bring along a few key essentials to cover all the bases. Here is the Garrison Fishing Guides list of what to have when you come out for your fly fishing time on the water.
Hat, Sunblock, & Buff/ Mask
Sun protection is a major deal when going fishing. Sunblock on your face, neck, and ears is a necessity (I recommend SPF 30+), as some of our sessions will have direct sunlight for an extended time. Remember, you are also getting UV rays bouncing off the water back toward your face and body which results in double the sun's exposure. To protect your eyes from the glare, we always recommend wearing a favorite lucky fishing hat. I have always liked to wear a buff to protect the sun from my face and neck. In the times of COVID-19, it also doubles as a facemask.
Polarized sunglasses
Most people don’t realize how much of a difference polarization makes. Not only does it block harmful rays from hitting your eyes, but when we are peering into the water the polarization makes a massive difference when searching for fish. It makes all the difference between seeing the fish and not seeing the fish.
Clothing layers
The morning may start with a wet cold fog layer for a few hours and can easily raise 25 degrees with a hot sun and blue skies. Bring some light layers that aren't too heavy to carry around, especially on those longer days.
Durable shoes
The ground may be dusty, muddy, rocky, grassy, or anything in between. Make sure your footwear of choice can do it all, including getting a bit wet here and there for the perfect release.
Rod, reel, lines, & flies
We don’t require that you own gear when booking with us, BUT if you have your own gear, we encourage you to bring it along! We can discuss your equipment, rigging options, and even some recommendations to get even more dialed.
Bag
You don’t want your pockets filled to the brim when you are fishing. It's a good idea to have a comfortable and convenient way to carry (and not lose) all the gear on this list and more (camera, wallet, keys, water, snacks, trail gummies, etc.).
Hydration
You will want to keep water handy and make sure to stay hydrated. Lots of sun, walking, and often a long way from the car.
Legal documentation
Get those fishing licenses! $16.46 for the day and $51.02 for the year. If you need help with this, feel free to reach out and I am happy to assist. A ticket for fishing without a license is no joke.
Patience & Positivity!
There is a reason it is called ‘fishing’ and not ‘catching’. Keep the fundamentals in the front of your mind, take things slow and steady, enjoy every second. There could be worse things to do with your time than spending it on the water.
PC: Derek Roedel & Brian Larson of Reyr Gear
