What to Bring on a Fishing Charter: The Complete Checklist

The must-bring checklist

Start here. These are the non-negotiables — miss one and you'll either be uncomfortable all day or, in the case of the license, unable to fish at all.

• California fishing license (every angler 16+) — plus the Ocean Enhancement stamp for ocean trips south of Point Arguello. Many boats sell one-day licenses onboard.
• Cash — for a one-day license, rod rental, fish cleaning, galley snacks, and the crew tip (often cash-only).
• Layered clothing — a base layer, a warm mid-layer, and a wind/waterproof outer shell. It's colder offshore than at the dock.
• Non-slip closed-toe shoes — wet decks are slippery; no flip-flops or bare feet.
• Sunscreen and lip balm (SPF) — sun reflects off the water and burns you faster than you expect.
• Hat and polarized sunglasses — cut glare and protect your eyes and face.
• Motion-sickness prevention — take it before you board, not after you feel sick.

Smart extras that make the day better

These aren't strictly required, but experienced anglers pack them every trip. They cover the small comforts and conveniences that the boat won't.

• Snacks and water or electrolyte drinks (check whether a galley is onboard).
• A small soft cooler or insulated bag to take your catch home.
• Resealable bags and a towel for handling fish and cleanup.
• A waterproof phone case or pouch for photos without risking your phone.
• A light rain jacket even on clear days — spray and weather change fast.
• Your own rod and reel if you have favorites; otherwise the boat rents gear.
• A change of dry clothes left in the car for the ride home.

Beating seasickness

Seasickness is the number-one thing that ruins a first charter, and it's almost entirely preventable. The key word is prevention — once you feel sick on a rolling boat, remedies work poorly.

• Take an over-the-counter motion-sickness medication the night before and/or the morning of, per the label, before you board.
• Get a good night's sleep and eat a light, plain breakfast — don't board on an empty or overstuffed stomach.
• Avoid heavy alcohol the night before.
• On the water, watch the horizon and stay in fresh air on deck rather than going below.
• Stay hydrated and nibble plain snacks like crackers throughout the day.

Dressing for the water

The temperature at the dock is not the temperature offshore. Wind, spray, and morning fog make the open ocean noticeably colder, and you can't add clothes you didn't bring. Layering is the answer because you can shed a layer as the day warms and add it back when the wind picks up.

Think in three layers: a moisture-wicking base, an insulating mid-layer like a fleece or hoodie, and a wind-and-water-resistant outer shell. Finish with a hat, polarized sunglasses, and non-slip closed-toe shoes. Skip the cotton if you can — once it's wet, it stays cold.

What to leave at home

Just as important as what to pack is what not to. A few items create problems on a working boat or simply aren't worth the risk.

• Open-toed shoes, flip-flops, or anything with no grip.
• Excessive alcohol — most boats limit it, and it worsens seasickness and dehydration.
• Bulky hard coolers that clog walkways (a soft cooler is better; many boats also have fish holds).
• Valuables and anything you can't afford to lose overboard or get wet.
• Glass containers, which are banned on many boats for safety.

The night before: a 60-second prep

Do this quick run-through the evening before your trip and the morning will be stress-free. Charters depart on schedule, and arriving about an hour early — already packed — means you fish instead of scramble.

• Confirm your departure time and arrive about an hour early.
• Buy your license ahead, or set aside cash to buy one onboard.
• Lay out your layers, shoes, hat, and sunglasses.
• Pack sunscreen, motion-sickness meds, snacks, water, and a soft cooler.
• Charge your phone and pack it in a waterproof pouch.
• Set aside cash for rentals, cleaning, and the crew tip.