What should I bring on a Lake Erie charter?
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What should I check before I pack?
Ask the captain what's included (rods, tackle, bait, fish cleaning, ice), where and when to meet, and whether food and drinks are allowed on board.
What goes in the bag?
- Fishing license for each angler, on paper or on your phone (which license?)
- Photo ID
- Layers, including a warm one, even in summer
- Rain jacket and pants
- Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen
- Shoes with soft, non-marking soles
- Food and water for the whole trip
- A cooler with ice for your fillets (ask whether the captain provides one)
- Motion-sickness medicine, taken as its label directs, if you're prone to it
- Your own medicines
- Cash or a card for fish cleaning and the tip, if you plan to tip
- A small towel and hand wipes
- A dry bag or zip bag for your phone
- For children: a life jacket that fits (ask whether the boat has child sizes)
What shouldn't I bring?
Hard-soled or black-soled shoes, glass bottles, and anything the captain asks you to leave behind. Ask about alcohol before you bring any; it's the captain's call.
What about life jackets?
The Coast Guard's advice is that the life jacket that works is the one you'll actually wear, that adult sizes may not work for children, and that a properly fitted foam jacket shouldn't ride up past your chin or ears. Ask where the life jackets are when you board.
Questions
What should I wear on a Lake Erie charter?
Layers, rain gear and soft-soled shoes. Bring a warm layer even on a warm day.
Do I need to bring a rod?
Ask your captain. On a listing here, the "What's included" chips show what the captain posted.
Should I bring food?
Yes, unless the captain says it's provided. Bring water too.