You do not need a giant tackle box to catch fish. A small box with the right basics covers most lake, pier and inshore fishing.
Terminal tackle
- Hooks: a few sizes, including small (#8 to #10) for trout and panfish and 1/0 to 3/0 circle hooks for saltwater bait
- Split shot and a few egg or pyramid sinkers
- Bobbers or a popping cork
- Swivels and a spool of leader line
Lures
- Soft plastics (paddle tails or worms) and a few jigheads
- A small spinner and a spoon
- One topwater lure for calm mornings
Tools and extras
- Needle-nose pliers or a dehooker
- Line cutters or small scissors
- A tape measure or ruler (size limits matter)
- Sunscreen, polarized sunglasses and a hat
- A copy of your fishing license on your phone
Tip: before a trip, check our spot pages for the best times and conditions, then pack for the fish that are biting.