The Toolbox · Trip Pack List
Pick the trip and the season. You get a checklist built from Dan’s own kit and the things he names in his posts. Tick as you pack. The ticks stay on this device, so the list is still there when you load up.
The pack list needs JavaScript to build and tick. Dan’s full gear list is in the Armory, no script needed.
Lines under Basics are common sense, not gear picks. Some gear lines link to the maker or a store through lootcastpuff.com/go/, and some links may pay the site a few coins if you buy. It never changes your price or what makes the list. Full disclosure. Nothing you tick leaves your browser.
What goes on each list
The checklist builds with JavaScript, so here is the core of each trip in plain text, all from my own kit. Pick the trip and the season above for the full tick-box version, with the gear links and a printable page.
- Pond hour. Just you, a rod, and whatever the hell the water wants to throw at you today. Rod and reel: Ugly Stik rod; Shimano Sedona reel. Hooks, bobber, sinkers: Eagle Claw hooks; Bobbers; Weights. One lure: Floating Rapala minnow. Bait: Chicken chunks or diced hot dogs; Bread balls; Nightcrawlers and worms. Tools: Long-nose pliers; Rag or microfiber towel. Wear: Polarized sunglasses.
- Lake day. Whole day, everything you need, no tactical gear required. Rod and reel: Ugly Stik rod; Shimano Sedona reel. Line: PowerPro braid; Trilene 8 lb monofilament. Hooks, bobber, sinkers: Eagle Claw hooks; Bobbers; Weights; Swivels. Lures: Krocodile spoon; Rooster Tail spinner; Squarebill crankbait; Lipless crankbait. Bait: Nightcrawlers and worms; Chicken chunks or diced hot dogs; Bread balls. Tools: Long-nose pliers; Line clippers; Landing net (optional); Rag or microfiber towel. Wear: Polarized sunglasses. Food: Kirkland trail mix; Mandarin oranges; Ham sandwich with solid bread.
- Overnight camp. Pitching a tent in the rain is a timed event. The sky starts the countdown, not you. Before you go: Check the radar; Know your map. Shelter: Tent with a rainfly; 10-inch tent stakes; Large tarp; Second tarp or footprint; Paracord or rope. Sleep and dry clothes: Sleeping bag; Dry clothes; Trash bags or dry bags. Kitchen: Cast iron pan and spatula; Food of choice; Two gallons of water. Fire and light: Bic lighters; Flashlight. Tools and fixes: Fixed blade knife; Duct tape; Microfiber towel. Essentials: Toilet paper.
- Salmon River run. When in doubt, fish the bank. Before you step in: Check the flow; Check the dam release schedule; New York fishing license. Wading safety: Cleats; Wading staff; Wading belt; A buddy. Rod, reel and rig: Your river rod, reel and rig. From the everyday kit: Polarized sunglasses; Long-nose pliers; Rag or microfiber towel. Food: Kirkland trail mix; Mandarin oranges.
- Game night in the den. Hydration within reach. Snacks on standby. No obligations for the rest of the day. The rig: GameSir G7 controller; HyperX Cloud II headset; Gaming laptop; Xbox Series X. The room: Lights low or off; Frankincense incense; Robe. The side table: Kirkland trail mix; Mandarin oranges; Tuna mac; Triple-stacked peanut butter and jelly. Drinks: Water; Coffee; Homemade electrolyte drink. Clean hands: Damp rag for the snacks.
The fishing and camp trips also get a short Basics block that changes with the season, like sunscreen in summer and warm layers, hat and gloves in winter. Dan’s full gear list is in the Armory.
Throw five on it