The short but essential Alaska guided fishing trip packing list

I will be starting out my blog by posting some simple, short  but informative posts.

Here is a short list of things you should bring on your Kenai River guided fishing trip. 

1) Raingear: An absolute must! A high quality set of rain pants & jackets can mean the difference between being miserable and wet or nice and dry while out and about. I feel like I need to note that bringing the rain pants is very important as boat seats get wet not only from rain but also morning condensation. Avoid the annoyance of starting your day with a wet rear end by wearing your rain pants onto the boat the morning of your charter.

2) Sunglasses: Extremely important! Not only do sunglasses protect you from the bright glare from the water but also play a vital role in protecting your eyes from flying hooks, sinkers and lures. If you pay attention you will rarely see a fishing guide without some sort of eye protection on. Accidents happen in a split second and you only have two eyes. Protect them with a quality set of polarized sunglasses.

3) Warm wool socks: This is important as you may be getting into waders and walking in the water. The Kenai and Kasilof rivers are glacial run off. Cotton is terrible for warmth & insulation! Wool, merino or similar socks help greatly.

4) Bug spray: The bugs typically are not bad on the water, but if you walk back in the woods it can be another story. A small bottle of bug spray is good to have in your bag.

5) Sunscreen: The sun can be quite intense on the water. A small bottle of sunscreen is good to have. Please bring lotion style and avoid spray bottles as sunscreen damages fishing line and salmon can smell (and don't like) sunscreen.

6) Thermals: A nice set of thermals is great for wearing under waders or for early mornings.

7) Sunshirt: A long sleeved, hooded sun shirt such as those made by Simms provides comfortable sun protection while on and off the water.

8) Personal consumable items: Beverages or whatever you might want to eat for the day.

9) Hat: A brimmed or billed style hat not only keeps the sun off your skin and cut the suns glare, but also keeps your scalp from getting bitten by bugs.

10) Extra layer: Its good to have an extra layer just incase the weather changes. 




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