Don’t have a bunch of fishing buddies to go on a trip with? Don’t worry! Many people enjoy fishing by themselves to unwind and connect with nature. While it can be fun with friends, plenty of anglers go fishing on their own. However, you should know some tricks to have a successful fishing trip by yourself. Learn how to prepare for your first solo fishing trip.

Tell Someone You’re Leaving

Anytime you go hunting, fishing, hiking, or camping on your own, you need to tell someone about your plans. Tell a friend or family member all the details they need to find you if something happens and you don’t return. Here’s the information to give them:

• Location of the trip (be specific)
• The time you will leave
• The time you plan to return
• Your phone number

If you’re worried that your friends and family won’t recall this information, you can write it down on a notepad and leave it somewhere easy to find, such as on the kitchen table. This way, if something unexpected does happen, your friends, family, and the police will be able to find you.

Look Up the Rules

Think you can fish on any body of water you see? Think again. Always verify that fishing is okay at the lake or river you’re planning to visit. Double-check to see that your fishing license is valid and that you understand the rules that are in place. For example, some lakes may not allow you to keep your catches. If you even bring a fish cooler to a location that doesn’t allow you to keep fish, a park ranger may stop to ask you some questions.

Practice Boat Safety

If you’re heading out on the water for your fishing trip, ensure you know what you’re doing. Have a lifejacket that fits you close at hand. Also, ensure you have a physical map of the area in case you get lost, and check to see that you have plenty of fuel before heading out. If you don’t have much boating experience, you may also want to bring some ginger just in case you get nauseous. Surprisingly, ginger is one way that mariners combat motion sickness.

Preparing for your first solo fishing trip will ensure that the experience is fun. You won’t have to worry about anything while you’re out on the trip. Just enjoy the sound of the water and focus on catching some fish!