Stephen’s list
Ready for whatever the Gulf sends back.
Planning a fishing trip can be exciting, and part of the fun is ensuring you’re well-prepared for the adventure. The following list is Stephen Babcock’s suggestions for items you might want to bring along to make your trip as enjoyable and comfortable as possible. These are not requirements but are based on his thousands of hours on the water to help you be ready for various conditions and needs. Whether obtaining the proper permits, ensuring you have the right gear, or preparing for a long day on the water, these tips are meant to enhance your experience and ensure a smooth, stress-free outing. Feel free to adapt the suggestions to suit your preferences, and confirm which items, such as fishing gear and sunscreen, will already be provided. Let’s get ready for a great time on the water!
01
Saltwater Fishing License
If you don’t already have a Louisiana saltwater fishing license, get the current license and authorization directly from the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. Save the digital or printed proof it provides and bring identification.
02
Recreational Offshore Landing Permit (ROLP)
For offshore trips, check the current ROLP rules for the species and trip type. Private anglers may need the free permit; charter clients are generally covered by the captain’s permit.
03
Boat shoes
No black sole shoes. Black soles leave scuff marks on the boat, which are hard to remove.
04
Refreshments
Bring whatever food and drinks you want for a whole day or night on the water. If you bring beer, only bring cans, no glass. If you bring sports drinks, don’t bring dark-colored flavors such as red. Lastly, no bananas on the boat!
05
Dry bag
If going offshore or overnight tuna fishing, a small dry bag is a good idea for carrying rain gear, a hat, glasses, and other personal items you may need. If you don’t have one, check with the camp; dry bags may be available.
06
Rainwear
If going offshore or overnight, rain gear is optional but encouraged. It need not rain to get wet offshore, and in the summer, showers happen every single day.
07
Sunglasses
Preferably polarized fishing glasses, if you have them, to lessen the sun’s glare.
08
Camera
Bring a camera to document the fish you catch or video the beautiful Gulf Coast or marsh sights. If we catch any billfish, we will tag and release them, so photos or it didn’t happen!
09
Headgear
A brimmed hat or ball cap is a good idea, especially for those getting thin on top.
10
Motion-sickness planning
If you get seasick, or aren’t sure whether you do, plan ahead. Use Dramamine or a similar product only as directed on its label, and ask a clinician or pharmacist about suitability, interactions, and drowsiness. A Reliefband or prescription scopolamine patch may be options to discuss with a clinician.
11
Sun protection
We usually have sunscreen on the boat, but confirm before the trip. If you bring your own, skip spray sunscreen because it can make the deck slippery and stain upholstery.
12
Cooler
Bring a cooler and ice to transport any lawful catch home.
13
Cash
Bring cash for shirts, hats, decals, snacks, or other purchases at Coco Marina. Ask the host or captain about current deckhand tipping guidance.
14
Reels & tackle
Please do not bring rods, reels, or tackle unless the host asks you to. The camp normally has what the crew needs.
15
Communication
Cell coverage can be spotty on the Louisiana coast. The boat may have satellite calling; confirm the current number with the host before departure. Confirm current Wi-Fi availability with the camp as well.
Tight lines,
Stephen Babcock