The excitement of preparing and packing for a trip can be one of the most fun or the most stressful parts of the trip! Here’s some things that are super handy to have for your day sight fishing for redfish on fly, that might not already be on the packing list. The Mississippi Sound and the Biloxi marsh are a one of a kind environment, and an amazing resource. It’s best to meet the day head on and prepared for what we’ll encounter on the skiff!
Polarized Sunglasses – Low Light Lenses
These lenses block the glare but let more light in than regular polarized shades. In winter the UV index doesn’t get very high, and fishing on cloudy days and low light mornings and evenings are prevalent conditions. Smiths or Costas in yellow or pink glass lenses have changed the game for my clients and me.
Boat Snacks
My sandwiches are famous from the gulf coast of Mississippi to Alaska, but my expertise ends there. There’s plenty of room for sports drinks, chips, protein bars, adult beverages or whatever else you want to bring for your day in the marsh. I’ll have waters and probably some La Croix and Gatorade too.
Sun protection
Buff up and keep that brimmed hat on. Warm buffs are great on the cold days of the mid winter. Chapstick is cool too.
Goretex
They say that every boat is a compromise, and my Maverick HPX-T is no exception – but Gore Tex takes up some of the slack. To float in 5 inches of water, you have to be ready to get some sea spray on the morning boat ride. I live in my Grundens goretex bibs and jacket from October til March. Being warm and dry is an important element of the “fun” equation, and it leads into my next point…
Laser focus/eagle vision
Always be ready for the next opportunity. It happens fast, juuuuuust as you’re starting to doze off… And redfish are a social creature. After one shot, be ready for another in quick succession. Stack that fly line back up and get your eyes ready to find the next player.
I will provide all the essential tackle and more- check out specifics at the “trip info” page on my website. If you’re on the fence about packing something or leaving it at home, send me an email any time too.
Thanks for reading!
Capt. Jacob Commer