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Ready for the Long Haul: Gearing Up for a Chartered Saltwater Fishing Adventure in Florida

Trophy fishing in Florida’s beautiful blue water under its warm, bright sun is a dream come true for countless anglers across the country. It’s also hard to imagine a fishing experience that can match the adrenaline rush when that line starts whining out of the reel, following the run of a monster sailfish or tarpon. Even on the chartered trip of your dreams, however, being unprepared can make that bright warm sun and crystal turquoise water seem much less friendly. So pick up some new fishing shirts, pack the sunscreen, and ensure that your chartered trophy hunt is everything it should be. Here’s what you need to be prepared from head to toe.

Fishing Shirts

What to Bring and What to Ask

The first step when you’ve booked a charter is to learn the details. Different packages may or may not include amenities such as tackle, food, and other supplies. It’s good to find out whether these things are provided, and whether they’re included in the price or cost extra. Find out if you should buy a license beforehand or if you’ll buy one at the landing. You’ll likely need to bring along a cooler full of ice to transport your catches. Bring cash along on any charter for gratuities, galley purchases, a fish-cleaning service, and other services. Always pack sunscreen, and apply it early and often. Bring over-the-counter seasickness or motion sickness medication if it’s your first time on the ocean, or you know that you get seasick.

High-Performance Fishing Masks to Protect Your Face

Out on the ocean, the elements can be harsh on your face. The sun and the spray of the water can make for an uncomfortable time for an unprepared angler. A high-performance fishing mask should protect you from the elements, while featuring a cooling design that keeps you from overheating. The GillzMask™ from Gillz® is a perfect example of the right professional-quality fishing mask to keep your face protected.

Fishing Shirts to Protect Your Upper Half

Being on the open water under Florida’s sun is invigorating, but it does mean a good deal of sun exposure. For optimal coverage, you’ll need professional-grade performance fishing shirts. The right shirts will be made with high-performance polyester that offers UPF 50+ UV protection, while being light and breathable enough to keep you cool. They should also be moisture-wicking and stain-resistant, which are required features for top-performance fishing gear.

Fishing Pants to Protect Your Lower Half

Some anglers prefer shorts, which can work with the liberal application of sunscreen. However, a pair of performance polyester fishing pants offers the same benefits as the fishing shirt. The pants’ UV protection keeps direct sunlight off your skin but the fabric is sufficiently lightweight and breathable to provide cool, comfortable coverage.

Non-Slip Footwear to Prevent Falls

The best footwear for being on a boat is a pair of non-slip, rubber-soled ankle deck boots or deck shoes. On a wet deck, sturdy shoes with non-slip features are vital for your safety, especially if the water is choppy, and after you start pulling fish up onto the deck. Never wear sandals, flip-flops, or anything open-toed, and don’t wear anything you don’t want to get wet.

About Gillz®


When Kent Hickman was still just a boy growing up in his home state of Florida, he would take any chance he could to get out and fish. Kent eventually went on to fish professionally and join the tournament circuit. While fishing professionally, he had trouble finding fishing gear that stood up to the demands of professional anglers. He needed apparel that kept him protected from the elements, comfortable, and cool while out fishing in the blazing Florida sun. In 2009, he founded Gillz® to provide his fellow anglers with stylish shirts for fishing, performance fishing gear, fishing masks, accessories, and other high-quality fishing apparel. Now it’s your turn to join the growing fishing community that loves to wear Gillz® apparel.

Upgrade your fishing apparel to keep yourself protected, comfortable, and cool with Gillz® gear at Gillz.com

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