Top 10 Must-Have Items to Kick Off Your Fishing Season

Top 10 Must-Have Items to Kick Off Your Fishing Season

From the experts at Uncle Mike’s Outdoors – Canada’s Leading Sporting Goods Supplier

Spring has finally sprung, and you know what that means—fishing season is back! Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, having the right gear is key to making the most of those early mornings and long casts.

At Uncle Mike’s Outdoors, we’ve outfitted thousands of Canadian anglers with top-notch gear, from British Columbia’s mountain lakes to Newfoundland’s coastal waters. Based on what’s flying off our shelves—and what our staff personally swear by—here’s our definitive list of the Top 10 Essentials to kickstart your fishing season.

1. A Reliable Rod and Reel Combo

Your rod and reel are your bread and butter. For beginners or casual fishers, we recommend a medium-action spinning combo—versatile enough for bass, pike, walleye, and even trout. Brands like Shimano, Ugly Stik, and Pflueger offer dependable performance without breaking the bank.

2. Tackle Box with Assorted Tackle

A well-stocked tackle box is your portable command centre. Make sure it includes:

  • Jigs

  • Spoons

  • Crankbaits

  • Soft plastics

  • Hooks, weights, and swivels

Bonus tip: Use a waterproof tackle box to protect your investment from the elements.

3. Quality Fishing Line

Fresh line = fewer headaches. Swap out last year’s line for fresh mono, fluoro, or braid depending on your target species. Berkley Trilene and PowerPro braid are solid options for Canadian waters.

4. Fishing License

Don’t leave shore without it! Each province has specific licensing requirements and seasonal regulations. At Uncle Mike’s, we can help guide you to the right resources, or you can purchase many licenses online.

5. Proper Footwear

Slippery rocks, muddy banks, or wet docks—you need boots that grip. Look for waterproof, non-slip fishing boots or wading shoes for comfort and safety, especially if you’re heading into the backcountry.

6. Polarized Sunglasses

Polarized lenses cut glare and let you see below the surface—great for spotting fish and protecting your eyes during long days on the water. Trust us, once you fish with them, you’ll never go back.

7. Tried-and-True Lures

Every angler has their favourites, but you can’t go wrong starting the season with these Canadian classics:

  • Len Thompson spoons

  • Rapala Husky Jerks

  • Mepps spinners
    These lures cover everything from trout to pike and work well in both warm and cold water.

8. Live Bait and Bait Storage

Worms, minnows, or leeches—depending on your location and the rules, live bait can be a major advantage. Make sure you’ve got a well-aerated bait bucket to keep things fresh and lively all day.

9. Multi-Tool or Fishing Pliers

From removing hooks to snipping line, a good pair of pliers or a multitool like a Leatherman is essential. Don’t find yourself caught without one—especially when dealing with toothy northern pike!

10. Compact First Aid Kit

Safety first. Keep a small kit with bandages, antiseptic, and pain relievers on hand. Hooks and knives have a funny way of finding fingers.

Bonus Pick: Uncle Mike’s Season Starter Bundles

Not sure where to start? We’ve done the work for you. Check out our Fishing Tackle Pages, customized by region and target species—perfect for beginners and weekend warriors alike.

Tight Lines, Canada!
Whether you’re trolling the Great Lakes, hiking into a remote lake in Algonquin, or casting from the banks of the Fraser River, Uncle Mike’s Outdoors has your back. Drop by one of our locations or shop online for fast, Canada-wide shipping.

Here’s to a season full of fish stories, fresh air, and unforgettable moments on the water.

– The Uncle Mike’s Outdoors Team

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