For most of us, getting bonefishing involves flights. There is always the worry your bags might not find themselves in the same place, at the same time, as you.
So… what gets carried on and what gets packed. First, let’s see what the TSA has to say about it:
Tackle Equipment
Sharp fishing tackle that may be considered dangerous, such as large fish hooks, should be sheathed, securely wrapped, and packed in your checked luggage. Like other high-value objects, you may wish to pack expensive reels or fragile tackle that does not pose a security threat (small flies) in your carry-on baggage.
So… flies are OK. Now, I won’t carry on all my flies… that seems excessive, but you can bring a box of flies on the plane. If you can, you probably should.
The advice you hear most often is this:
I carry on rods, reels, camera gear and flies. Everything I need to get fishing.
If you have long pliers, that could be an issue as well. Tools can’t be more than seven inches long (and here, please, don’t say anything about the length of your tool).
One suggestion is to use a boat bag as your carry on. Load that bad boy up with gear, including your flies. Carry on your rods. Wear flats clothes on the plane.
