A couple years ago, I made a trip to the East Cape of Baja California Sur (Mexico). It was my first trip there, but I had done extensive research prior to the trip. I read up on how to fish the various target fish, and set aside what gear I would want to bring for the trip.

As it turns out, I way overthought it. Had I brought a surf setup with some well-chosen lures and swimbaits, I could’ve saved myself the hassle of lugging all that gear around and dealing with the extra love and attention from airport security. If you still insist on bringing your own gear though, here’s an article that will help you get it there.

fishing_tubeFor the ultimate minimalist, the packing list for a Key West charter fishing trip is simple: hat, sunglasses, sandals, swimsuit, shirt, underwear (optional), sunblock, credit card, and ID to get on the plane.

After all, Key West charter outfits provide all the gear you’ll need to enjoy a great day out on the water. Local charter captains and guides will have all the top quality rods and reels, and all the latest lures and baits you’ll need to land a big one.

But the true fishing enthusiast doesn’t want to hear this. He’s been tying in the garage for months and is more than confident that his “Dave’s Super Permit Crab” or “Jaworski’s Bonefish Deluxe” are the flies that will take the Key West flats by storm. Not to mention the fact that he’s not going to travel all that way and leave his lucky rod and reel at home.

Photos: Pro Peche (above), Fishhound (top)