| So you have just purchased your new boat. Now it is | | | | 5) Bait & Fishing gear- If you want to catch fish |
| time to deck it out! So what gear do you need on | | | | you are going to need some bait. Shrimp (prawns), |
| board? Below is a definitive list that every boater | | | | octopus and squid are just a few good varieties. |
| must read. | | | | Always remember once you have finished boating to |
| The items listed below are the items that pretty | | | | take all the bait off the boat with you. Nothing is |
| much any boat should have on board. The items | | | | worse than bait sitting in a boat until the next time |
| range from safety equipment that is required to | | | | you use it. On the plus side however at least you |
| comfort items that are sure to make your boating | | | | would have some maggots for bait! And don't forget |
| trips more enjoyable. | | | | the hook, line and sinkers. |
| 1) Safety Equipment - Every boat no matter what | | | | 6) Suncream, Hat, Polaroid Glasses & Clothes - |
| the size should have required safety equipment. | | | | Sun protection is vital when out on a boat. Keep out |
| Never go out on your boat without it. Safety items | | | | of the sun as much as possible. If you must be in the |
| include but not limited too an anchor, flares, life | | | | sun make sure you are wearing all these items. |
| jackets and marine radio. | | | | Polaroid glasses are especially valuable for fishing as |
| 2) Petrol - Obviously you need fuel to go out on | | | | they cut out the glare from the reflection of the |
| your boat. You should always take at least 50% | | | | water. |
| more fuel than you are expecting to use. | | | | 7) Towel - An obvious one but remember to not |
| 3) Water - Remember to take water, and lots of it. | | | | leave home without it. |
| Dehydration occurs a lot out on the open water. | | | | 8) People - boating on your own is a little boring and |
| People lose track of time and after a full day in the | | | | also quite dangerous. Always try to take at least |
| sun most people will become dehydrated. The trick is | | | | another person out with you. Not only will they give |
| to drink small amounts regularly. Be careful to make | | | | you company but they may also help you out if |
| sure children drink heaps of water too. | | | | trouble arises. |
| 4) Esky & Ice - This is more for comfort but an | | | | So remember, before you go boating make sure you |
| esky or chiller box will help keep your food and drinks | | | | have everything you need. A good idea is to write |
| cold. It can also be used to place any caught fish | | | | your own list so you don't forget anything. |
| inside and can also be used as an informal seat. | | | | |