Preparing for a Fishing Tournament: Gear Checklist and Tips

Advice from Simrad^® Ambassador Flyn Jack

Fishing tournaments offer the perfect opportunity to showcase your skills, compete against fellow anglers, and, of course, chase that trophy catch. But a successful tournament begins long before you hit the water. Careful planning and the right gear are key to maximizing your chances on competition day. To help you prepare, we’ve combined a detailed gear checklist with useful tips from Simrad^® Ambassador Flyn Jack, a recent participant of the prestigious Bisbee’s Black & Blue Fishing Tournament.

Pre-Planning Your Strategy

According to Flyn, success starts with preparation. “Proper Preparation Prevents Poor Performance. Give yourself the best chance of encountering your target species by studying the tides, water temperature breaks and currents of the area you intend to fish. And use tools like the Simrad Companion App to pre-plan your route,” he says.

Here’s Flyn’s approach:

Research Fishing Spots: Use online reports and local knowledge to identify productive areas for the day.

Mark Waypoints: “Use your Simrad^® Chartplotter or the Companion App to mark waypoints and chart your route to productive spots. This ensures you’re always on track.”

Evaluate Conditions: Study tide charts, wind forecasts, and other factors that could affect fish behavior. “By understanding the environment, you can anticipate where fish will be.”

Gear Checklist: Essential Equipment

Flyn stresses that your gear can make or break your day on the water. Here’s his recommended checklist to ensure you're fully prepared:

Marine Electronics

Fishfinders and Chartplotters: Ensure your Simrad^® device is updated for accurate sonar imaging and navigation. “Reliable radar and sonar are critical in locating fish and avoiding hazards.”

HALO Radar System: Utilize features like Bird Mode to locate feeding fish by spotting birds over baitfish.

Autopilot System: Maintain steady navigation between hotspots, allowing you to focus on fishing.

Fishing Gear

Rods and Reels: Bring a variety to cover different techniques and species.

Tackle: Stock lures, hooks, and lines for the specific conditions of the tournament. Make sure all of your tackle is IGFA legal, and eligible for tournament use.

Live Bait System: Ensure your aerator or livewell is functioning to keep your bait fresh.

Safety Equipment

Life Jackets: Check that all participants have properly fitted life vests.

First Aid Kit: Be prepared for any minor injuries with a fully stocked kit.

Communication Devices: Carry a VHF radio or mobile phone for emergencies.

Miscellaneous Essentials

Weather Gear: Waterproof clothing and sun protection are must-haves.

Food and Water: Pack enough snacks and drinks to stay energized.

Storage Solutions: Use tackle bags or storage bins to stay organized.

Day-of Execution

When it’s time to compete, Flyn advises sticking to your plan but staying flexible. “Conditions can change quickly, so be ready to adjust your strategy if needed,” he says. Here are his key tips:

Launch Early: “Getting to your spot before the rush sets you up for success,” Flyn advises. Arrive early to capitalize on peak feeding times.

Monitor Electronics: Use your Simrad radar and sonar to track fish movements and adapt to changing conditions.

Stay Hydrated and Focused: Long days can drain your energy. Keep water and snacks on hand to maintain your focus.

Focus on Efficiency: Minimize downtime by pre-rigging rods and organizing tackle. Use your autopilot to hold position over hot spots.

After the Tournament: Reflect and Reset

Win or lose, Flyn encourages anglers to reflect on their days on the water. “Take time to review what worked and what didn’t,” he says. Using your Simrad^® MFD, save waypoints and sonar data for future reference, allowing you to refine your strategy next time.

Final Words from Flyn

“Tournament fishing is as much about preparation as it is about skill,” Flyn says. “With the right tools and a solid plan, you can maximize your chances of success. And remember, no matter the outcome, enjoy the experience and learn something new every time you’re out there.”

Flyn’s insights highlight how careful preparation, the right gear, and cutting-edge technology can give you the edge in all types of fishing. Whether you’re aiming for the trophy or simply seeking a rewarding day on the water, following these tips will ensure you’re fully equipped to succeed.