Summer Fishing Gear Guide: What to Pack for the Water

There's a moment every summer angler knows. You're standing knee-deep in a cold river, the morning light just starting to cut through the trees, and everything else in the world disappears. It's just you, the water, and whatever's swimming beneath it.

I've had that moment more times than I can count. And over the years, I've learned that the right gear doesn't just make the trip more comfortable — it makes it more memorable. So here's my honest guide to what I'd pack for a summer fishing trip, featuring some of my favorite things we make here at Lakes Rivers Streams.

Start with Sun Protection You'll Actually Want to Wear

Summer fishing means long hours in the sun, and a good UPF hoodie is the single best piece of gear you can own. I wear mine on the water, on the trail, and honestly just around the house. They're that comfortable.

A few of my favorites from the shop:

• River Days | UPF Hoodie — This one captures that feeling of a perfect day on the water. Lightweight, breathable, and built for long days in the sun.
• Brown Trout Waters | UPF Hoodie — For the trout obsessed. If you know, you know.
• Trout Topo | UPF Hoodie — A nod to the maps we study before every trip. Great conversation starter at the put-in.

All three offer UPF sun protection, so you can stay out longer without worrying about a burn. That's a win in my book.

Personalize Your Gear with Decals

I've always believed your gear should say something about who you are. A good decal on your truck, your cooler, or your water bottle is a small thing that makes a big statement to fellow anglers.

The Darth Wader Decal is one of our most popular — and if you've ever waded a river in full gear, you'll get the joke immediately. It's the kind of thing that makes other anglers laugh and nod at the same time.

Stick it on your rig, your rod tube, or your tailgate. Own it.

Don't Forget the Camp Essentials

The best fishing trips don't end at the water. They end around a fire, replaying the day's catches (and the ones that got away). Two things I never leave home without:

LRS Card Deck — A beautifully designed deck of cards that's become a staple at every camp I've been to. Perfect for the evenings when the fish aren't biting and the stories start flowing.

River Friends | Woven Blanket — Summer nights by the water can get cool fast. This woven blanket is the kind of thing you'll reach for every single trip. It's also just really beautiful — the kind of thing you'd display at home between adventures.

A Few Tips for Summer Fishing

• Fish early and late. Summer heat pushes fish deeper during midday. The magic hours are dawn and dusk — plan your day around them.
• Go lighter than you think. Summer hiking to remote spots means every ounce counts. Pare down your gear to the essentials. Our Sling Packs are perfect for a light weight way of carrying all your needs for a day on the water
• Protect yourself from the sun. Seriously. A UPF hoodie, polarized sunglasses, and a hat are non-negotiable. You'll fish longer and feel better doing it.
• Stay hydrated. It sounds obvious, but it's easy to forget when you're locked in on a rising fish. Bring more water than you think you need. Luckily our sling packs come with a water bottle holder *wink, wink*
• Leave it better than you found it. Pack out what you pack in. The rivers and streams we love depend on all of us to take care of them.

Get Out There

Summer is short. The water is calling. Whether you're heading to a local creek or planning a week-long backcountry trip, I hope this guide helps you pack smart and fish well.

Everything featured here is available in the Lakes Rivers Streams shop. Made by an angler, for anglers — with a little art thrown in.

See you on the water.

— Rob