The bare necessities for float fishing the Leaf River

A dry box keeps valuables, such as a cell phone, camera, keys, wallet and first aid kit, safe.

A kayak or canoe is just the ticket for a Leaf River float trip. Veterans of such floats have learned what they need and what to leave at home. Less and smaller are the keys to comfort and convenience.

Here are the basics:

• A dry box — This is the place for a cell phone, car key (leave the big ring with the clickers at home), a wallet, medication and other indispensable items. By its nature, a dry box will float, and should be tethered to the canoe or kayak. Many kayaks feature excellent dry storage.

• A cooler or ice chest — For a canoe day-tripper, a 28-quart cooler stocked with some ice and water or sports drinks should be fine for two people. There is also room for a sandwich or snacks. The cooler can fit neatly between the seats of a canoe, helping to evenly distribute the weight.

• A boat bag — Here is the place for sunscreen, hand towels, binoculars, a camera and anything else that needs to be within quick reach. Some camera companies offer water-resistant models that are not harmed if they get damp; the photos in this article were taken with the Pentax Model WG-1.

This bag is also a place for a first-aid kit, containing bandages, insect bite treatment, anti-biotic cream and perhaps a snake-bite kit.

• Fishing tackle – Resist the urge to take too much tackle. Two rod-and-reel combos and one tackle pack should be plenty. If live bait is to be used those containers of course need to be included.

• PFDs — Naturally, PFDs for all passengers should be worn at all times.

About David Hawkins 195 Articles
David Hawkins is a freelance writer living in Forest. He can be reached at hawkins2209@att.net.

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