Offshore Fishing Gear Checklist: Everything You Need Before You Leave the Dock

Nothing kills a great fishing trip faster than forgetting something essential at the dock. Whether you're running 10 miles offshore or pushing 50 miles into the blue, the right gear makes the difference between a safe, comfortable, successful trip and a miserable one.

This offshore fishing gear checklist covers everything you need to bring — from safety gear to the right clothing — before you untie the lines.

Safety Equipment

• Life jackets for every person on board
• EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon)
• Flare kit (check expiration dates)
• VHF radio — handheld backup recommended
• First aid kit
• Fire extinguisher
• Float plan filed with someone ashore

Navigation and Electronics

• GPS chartplotter — fully updated charts
• Depth sounder / fish finder
• Compass (backup in case electronics fail)
• Extra batteries / backup power

Fishing Tackle

• Trolling rods and reels — sized appropriately for your target species
• Offshore trolling lures — surface lures, skirted baits, deep divers
• Rigged ballyhoo or fresh bait if available
• Wire leader for wahoo targeting
• 100lb+ mono for offshore trolling
• Pliers, dehooking tools, gaff
• Cooler with ice for keeping fish fresh

Bar Jacks offers premium offshore trolling lures including the Mahi Super Chugger, Mahi Striker, and Tuna Striker — proven in South Florida bluewater.

Clothing and Sun Protection

Your clothing is your first line of defense against the sun, wind, and spray. Don't overlook it.

• Performance fishing hat — UPF-rated, water-resistant snapback
• Performance fishing shirt — UPF 44+, moisture-wicking, fast-drying
• Fast-drying fishing underwear — anti-chafe, built for all-day wear on the water
• Sunscreen SPF 50+ — reef-safe, waterproof
• Polarized sunglasses — reduce glare and help spot fish and structure
• Rain jacket or light layer — for early morning runs and afternoon squalls

Bar Jacks offshore fishing apparel is built specifically for these conditions. Browse our fishing hats, performance shirts, and fishing underwear.

Food, Water, and Fuel

• Fresh water — 1 liter per person per hour minimum in the heat
• Food and snacks for the trip duration
• Extra fuel — offshore trips consume more fuel than expected
• Fuel gauge check before departure

Communication

• Fully charged cell phone in waterproof case
• VHF radio on and monitoring channel 16
• Satellite communicator if going far offshore

Final Check Before Leaving the Dock

Before you cast off, do a quick walk-around: engine checks, bilge pump test, all safety gear in place, tackle rigged and ready, and everyone on board knows where the safety equipment is. A 10-minute pre-departure check saves trips — and potentially lives.

Good fishing. Stay safe out there.