Packing for Saltwater

Chasing bonefish overseas. Here's our saltwater packing list.

Every trip is different so every gear list will be different. So follow your outfitters’ advice. Ask them for their packing list. Think of scenarios like weather disruptions or an unplanned extended stay on a remote atoll. Pack smart.

When you book with an outfitter or their agent, they’ll provide you a carefully curated bespoke list specifically designed for that saltwater destination, at the location, and at the time of year you’re visiting. It will take into account the seasonal requirements, accommodation, target species, fishing tackle and fly selection.

Hopefully, they’ll even consider garment layering based on the temperature difference from where you are coming from.

Below is an extensive (but still generic) list based on my own planning for a one week saltwater flats trip chasing bonefish and GT’s, with some optional trolling.

Think of it as a general template list for your saltwater flats trip. Dial your gear back if you’re only chasing bones. Add other flies for mangroves or additional species such as Permit and Tarpon.

Don’t forget some gifts for the locals, your guides and cash for tips and incidentals too.

Carry on Bag (ideally roll-top waterproof)

• Phone & phone charger
• Passport and required Visa for destination entry
• Wallet - credit cards, ID & foreign currency in cash
• Flight Tickets & Itinerary (leave print copies at home too)
• Camera, charger & cables, batteries & storage cards
• Neck cushion and earplugs (if you use these)
• Headphones or earbuds
• Fishing Magazine (comment below if you want my recommendations)
• Medication (non-liquid only) and any sleeping aids
• Toiletries for the flight
• Sunglasses
• Extra clothing if heading into a cooler climate
• Notepad and pen
• Spare reel & line, a small bag of flies, just in case your expedition bag doesn’t make it to your destination. (Check with airline as some regard lines and hooks as weapons!)
• Rods in Rod Tube or Rod Bag (You might be able to carry on your rods depending on the airline’s carry-on specs - check with them first!)

Expedition Bag (Duffel bags are great)

• Photocopy of your passport
• Backup print-out of your itinerary including flight tickets
• Main camera, lenses, charged batteries, charger & cables
• Warm Jacket - pack at airport if coming from cold climate
• Headwear - cap and wide-brimmed hat in muted colors
• Robust sun gloves (UPF50) - bring two pair in muted colors
• Neckwear - insect & sun protection
• Headlamp - fully charged with spare batteries or charger
• 2 Sets of Polarized Sunglasses (Amber/Copper and Green/Blue)
• Fishing Shirts (3 or more)
• Fishing Pants (3 or more)
• Pyjamas –especially if you’re sharing a room!
• Togs or swimsuit
• A couple of casual clothing outfits
• Any special alcoholic or food treats (Customs approved of course)
• Toiletries and personal effects
• Medication (e.g. liquids that aren’t allowed in carry-on)
• Sunscreen & Insect Repellent
• Pre-moistened lens cloths
• Small roll of tape and few zip ties for unforeseen repairs
• Lightweight packable rain jacket

Fishing Tackle for Saltwater Flats

• 7wt or 8wt fly rod, reel, tropical floating line & backing
• Optional 10wt rod, reel, tropical floating line & backing
• 11wt to 12wt fly rod, robust reel & two tropical floating lines if you’re planning to targeting Giant Trevally (GT’s)
• Flats fishing boots
• Neoprene socks
• Polypropylene Liner socks
• Flats Bag - waterproof backpack, hip bag or sling pack (doubles as your carry on bag ideally)
• Flies – see our fly list below
• Saltwater leaders in 10, 12, 16 & 20lb - bring a few of each
• Fluorocarbon tippet – 12, 16, 20 & 40lb
• Plus 60, 80 & 100lb tippet to target GT or if trolling
• Reusable water bottle in your Flats bag
• Plastic garbage bags to store any wet clothes, boots, etc on your return flight
• Fly tying gear (optional)
• Flies - this is a whole different article!

• Christmas Island (CXI) Special in Pearl, Orange & Tan (bead-chain & lead eyes)
• Mantis Shrimp patterns in Tan
• Crazy Charlies in Orange & Pink
• Giant Trevally baitfish flies including:
• GT Brush Fly in Tan, Grey and Black in size 6
• Crystal Poppers in size 4
• Algae flies for Milkfish
• Crab flies for Triggers, Permit & Parrotfish

If you want to troll, bring some large red and white or purple and white flies. Bait patterns work best.

Your Flats Bag

• Sunscreen UPF70+
• Sun gloves
• Sports tape for blisters or hook injuries
• Tippet material in 12, 16, 20, 40, plus 60, 80, 100lb for GTs
• 6 leaders in 10, 16 & 20lb weights
• Quality Hemostats
• Nippers
• Small Pocket Knife
• Saltwater Pliers (never put your fingers near the mouth of a Triggerfish!)
• Camera
• Polarized Sunglasses
• Wide brimmed hat
• Clothing - cool & warm layers
• Rain jacket
• Nutritious snacks/energy bars
• Water (Pro tip: add electrolyte sachets)

Stay Safe with the Right Gear

On all expeditions, your aim is to remain safe, comfortable and have the gear you need on hand to ensure your success.

Being fully informed when investing in new gear means you can future-proof for future trips. This list is designed to help you think about what you might need to stock up on in the months and weeks leading up to your expedition and for any future trips.

I’ve held off putting any brand names against this extensive list of products in this particular post, but I have my favorites.

If you’re looking at any major purchases for rods, reels, prescription sunglasses or specialist apparel, feel free to drop me a note if you would like my private thoughts and recommendations. I may be able to expedite lead times and secure preferential discounts directly with the manufacturer in some cases – an important consideration if you’re working to a tight deadline and an even tighter budget.

I'll update this list regularly, so come back again closer to your trip and use this as a checklist.