Get Fishing Faster: Essentials Checklist

Published on: Aug 29, 2025
Get Fishing Faster: Essentials Checklist alt

Your day on the water starts here — gear up with Sherwood Powersports & Marine! Whether you're chasing walleye on the North Saskatchewan or casting for pike at Pigeon Lake, preparation is key. At Sherwood Powersports & Marine, we’ve built the ultimate Fishing Essentials Checklist to make sure nothing gets left behind. 

THE ABSOLUTE FISHING MUST-HAVES

Everything starts with the basics.

Don’t leave shore without these core tools of the trade:

Fishing Rod & Reel Combo – Spinning for versatility, baitcasting for precision.
Fishing Line – Choose monofilament, fluorocarbon, or braid for your target species.
Tackle Box Fully Loaded:

▪️ Hooks (various sizes)
▪️ Sinkers/weights
▪️ Bobbers/floats
▪️ Swivels & leaders
▪️ Jig heads & soft plastics
▪️ Crankbaits & spinners

Live bait or artificial lures – Match the hatch!
Valid Fishing License – Always have it on hand. 

Live Fishing Bait

 

FISHING SAFETY & COMFORT GEAR

Stay protected and focused on the fish.

Life Jacket Fishing Gear

Life Jackets (PFDs) – One for each person onboard.
Polarized Sunglasses – See beneath the surface, reduce eye strain.
Sunscreen & Bug Spray – Don’t battle the bugs or the burn.
First Aid Kit – Better safe than sorry.
Rain Gear or Windbreaker – Conditions change fast out there.
Hat & UV-protective clothing – Stay cool, stay covered.

STORAGE & COOLING

Keep it fresh, cold, and dry.

Fishing Storage
Cooler – For drinks or your catch of the day.
Bait bucket or livewell – Keep your bait kicking.
Dry Bag – Protect phones, keys, and snacks.
Fish stringer or basket – Secure your haul.

TOOLS & TECH

The gear that makes landing (and releasing) fish easier.

Lowrance Fishing Finder

Pliers or multi-tool – Dehook like a pro.
Line cutter or clippers – Clean snips save time.
Measuring tape or bump board – Know what’s a keeper.
Fish finder or sonar unit – Don’t guess. Find fish.
Waterproof phone case – Capture the moment, not water damage.

FOR THE BOAT ANGLER

If you're heading out by boat, don’t forget the marine must-haves:
Anchor & rope – Lock in your honey hole.
Navigation lights – Required for early or late trips.
Bilge pump or bailer – Safety first.
Battery & charger – Stay powered all day.
Rod holders – Hands-free trolling.
Marine radio or whistle – Stay connected on the water.

BONUS EXTRAS FOR A GREAT TRIP

These extras turn a fishing day into a fishing experience:
Folding chairs or boat seats – Comfort matters.
Bluetooth speaker – Set the vibe.
Snacks & drinks – Fuel the fun.
Towel or cleaning wipes – For messy moments.
Camera or GoPro – Bragging rights, captured in HD.

Find it all: Fishing Gear, Tackle and Accessories at Sherwood Powersports & Marine!

From weekend warriors to serious anglers — we’ve got the gear that gets you fishing faster. Visit us today and get set for success on Alberta’s waters!