What better way to bring this summer to a close than to head out on the pontoon with your fishing gear? Now that fall is here, and the weather is getting cooler, what better opportunity to head out to the great outdoors than now. Heading out onto the water is a great way to destress and enjoy what nature has to offer. If you're making this a family vacation or a solo trip, heading into nature has many benefits. Not only do fishing trips tend to be less stressful than heading into the city, but they are also a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of day to day life. Fishing is a great hobby for beginners and novices alike, a great way to spend time relaxing, whether that includes family or if it's a solo trip is up to you.

Preparing for a Fishing Trip

Packing for a fishing trip may seem daunting; however, it's easier than expected. Whether you're a novice fisher or new to the sport, there are many places to get the gear you need. If you are making this outdoor fishing trip a family event, it could be fun to take the family to pick their equipment such as their own fishing poles, bait, and tackless. Not only will the time on the water be a great time to spend time together as a family, teaching your family what to purchase before going on a fishing trip could be a great learning opportunity and bonding moment that everyone will remember for a long time.

What to Pack

Checking the weather before you head out for your fishing trip is going to be important. Depending on the type of fishing you are doing is going to determine the different gear you may need. Make sure you prepare for nights that may be cooler once the sun goes down. Perhaps pack an extra change of clothes in case you choose to get off the water and head into the town. With a low-key fishing trip, you won't need a lot of extra clothes and allows you to dress comfortably and casually through most of the trip depending on what your itinerary looks like.

Benefits of Fishing

Whether you are going on a fishing trip to aid your hobby or just to escape, being outside is going to help more than you originally anticipated. Being in the outdoors has been proven to reduce stress naturally. Studies have also shown that nature provides "positive distractions" and that being in nature slows down the part of the brain that tends to go into overdrive, causing depressive episodes. Entering into a change of scenery or pace will help slow you down and will allow you to relax. In these same studies, it has shown that walking in nature alone will help improve memory, creative thinking, and reasoning, so it's a no-brainer that scheduling your getaway is a must.

Where to Go

Doing some research as to where to take your fishing trip will be beneficial when you are determining where you will stay when you're not on the water, and any activities or sights you would like to see while you're out. Colorado has many different options for your relaxing vacation. If you are looking for a certain type of game while you're on the water, make sure you check the area you are heading to ensure you get the catch you're looking for.

When You're Not on the Water

If being on the water from dusk to dawn isn't exactly appealing, make sure you plan for some activities and things to do when you want a break from the water. Though the water is a serene getaway, spending any time in nature will be relaxing and enjoyable. Head out into the city like a local and testing out the local restaurants, hit the trails for a quick ride or hike or even just taking in the natural beauty of where you're at.


If you are considering a fishing trip, then there is truly no better time than the fall. Complete with beautiful scenery everywhere you look and weather that gives you ample opportunities to spend time outdoors. Whether you're a new or experienced fisher and going solo or with family or friends, make it a vacation to remember. Don't be afraid of getting off the water if you're wanting to switch things up, head into town, and experience it like the locals. Checking out different areas to head for your fishing trip is vital in determining your activities and lodging outside of your pontoon and is an excellent opportunity to grab snacks and treats for the water. Enjoy the relaxing time in nature and the proven destressing qualities it has for everyone.