Pack wrong for a Key West fishing trip and you’ll regret it before lunch. Sunburn, dehydration, and headaches hit fast out here. The right gear keeps you comfortable and focused, not distracted by what you forgot. Don’t let a missing item ruin your day on the water.

Key West fishing isn’t a casual stroll down the dock. The sun bounces off the water, turning the deck into a frying pan. The wind can shift in minutes. One moment you’re sweating, the next you’re soaked by a passing squall. The fish don’t wait for you to get comfortable. Preparation isn’t a bonus. It’s the baseline for a good day.

Clothing and Sun Protection That Work

Sunburn ruins more trips than bad weather. The Florida Keys sun doesn’t care if you’re a first-timer or a seasoned pro. It burns through clouds, reflects off the water, and finds every patch of exposed skin. The right clothing blocks the worst of it and keeps you cool when the air turns heavy.

• Quick-dry fishing shirts with UPF 50+ protection. These shirts breathe, wick sweat, and shield your skin. No sticky cotton. No heavy fabrics.
• Light-colored, breathable fishing pants or shorts. Dark colors soak up heat. Light fabrics let air move and dry fast after a spray.
• Polarized sunglasses. Glare blinds you to fish and strains your eyes. Polarized lenses cut through the surface, letting you spot movement below.
• Wide-brimmed hat or fishing buff. Baseball caps leave your neck and ears exposed. A wide brim or buff covers the spots that burn fastest.
• Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50+ recommended). Slather it on before you board. Reapply every couple of hours. The water strips it away faster than you think.
• Light rain jacket or windbreaker. Storms roll in without warning. A thin shell keeps you dry and blocks the wind when the temperature drops.

Every item on this list earns its place. Skip one, and you’ll feel it. The sun on your neck, the glare in your eyes, or the sting of salt on burned skin. Key West fishing trips last all day. Your gear needs to last, too.

Hydration and Fuel for the Long Haul

Dehydration sneaks up fast. The breeze fools you into thinking you’re not sweating. By the time you feel thirsty, you’re already behind. Food keeps your energy up, but water keeps you in the game. Don’t count on the boat’s cooler to have what you want.

• Refillable water bottle (at least 32oz). Plastic bottles run dry and clutter the deck. A big, insulated bottle stays cold and keeps you drinking.
• Sports drinks for electrolytes. Plain water isn’t always enough. Salt and sweat drain your system. A sports drink brings you back.
• Easy-to-eat snacks like trail mix or energy bars. Fishing is stop-and-go. You need food you can grab with one hand and eat between casts.
• Small cooler for drinks and food. Keeps everything cold and easy to reach. No one wants a warm sandwich at noon.

Long runs offshore drain your reserves. Deep sea fishing trips push your body harder than you expect. Pack more water than you think you’ll need. You’ll use it.

Motion Sickness: Don’t Wait for It

Even the toughest anglers get caught off guard by rolling seas. The motion builds slowly, then hits all at once. Nausea wipes out your focus and turns a dream trip into a countdown to dry land. Don’t gamble. Prepare before you step on the boat.

• Non-drowsy motion sickness medication. Take it before you board. Waiting until you feel sick is too late.
• Sea bands or acupressure wristbands. Some swear by them. They’re cheap, light, and easy to stash in your bag.
• Ginger candies or supplements. Ginger settles the stomach. Keep a few in your pocket for backup.
• Light, bland snacks like crackers. An empty stomach makes things worse. Small bites keep you steady.

Rough water on offshore fishing trips can surprise anyone. The best defense is a plan. Once seasickness sets in, the day drags. Stay ahead of it.

Documents and Essentials That Save the Day

Nothing stops a trip faster than missing paperwork or a dead phone. The right documents and a few smart extras keep you out of trouble and ready for anything.

• Valid photo ID. Needed for the boat, sometimes for the marina.
• Fishing license or charter confirmation. Most charters handle licenses, but always double-check. Bring proof of your booking.
• Cash for crew gratuity. Tips matter. Don’t get caught short at the dock.
• Phone in waterproof case. Saltwater kills electronics. A cheap case saves your contacts, photos, and maps.
• Small first aid kit. Cuts, scrapes, and hooks happen. A few bandages and antiseptic wipes go a long way.

Keep everything in a waterproof pouch or zip-lock bag. When you’re fishing the Key West flats, a soaked wallet or ruined phone can end the day early.

What the Charter Handles

Good charters take care of the heavy lifting. You don’t need to lug rods, reels, or bait. The crew brings the right gear for the fish you’re chasing. Focus on your comfort and let the professionals handle the rest.

• All fishing rods and tackle. Matched to the local fish and conditions.
• Live and artificial bait. Fresh, ready, and suited to the day’s targets.
• Ice for the fish box. Keeps your catch fresh until you hit the dock.
• Required safety equipment. Life jackets, emergency gear, and everything the law demands.
• Fishing licenses for the day. Handled by the charter, so you’re covered.

When you book with a quality crew, you get professional-grade equipment for Key West reef fishing and every other style. Bring your personal essentials. Leave the technical gear to the professionals. If you have questions about what’s included, we’re always happy to clarify what our team provides for your trip.

Ready to Experience World-Class Key West Fishing

Reel Fresh Fishing provides everything needed for an incredible day on the water. Call us at 305-849-3098 or book now to reserve your perfect Key West fishing trip.