First I would like to say Hi, Im new to the site, but have been lurking around the last couple of days reading some of the threads, this is a great forum chalked full of information.

I will be picking up my New to me Used Fish/Ski Bass boat at the end of the week.(See Below) ;D ;D ;D This will be my first bigger boat, (have been using a 14 foot aluminum with a 7.5) I picked up a 1992 18 foot Astro Fish/Ski Combo, it has a 115 Merc on the back. My question is what are the essential items to carry on board, aside from the required safety equipment that the state and USCG require. Just seeing what items I need to add to my shopping list. For example, what tools do you keep on board, extra props, that kind of stuff.

Thanks and Tight Lines

Brian

first aid kit

toilet paper

flat head screw driver

a extra gallon of oil

spark plugs

extra plugs (live well and drain plugs)

fuses

extra batteries

flash light

cell phone

water

map of the lake Im fishing

life jackets one for every passenger

the little through float thing

a ore

rope

that's all I can think of I know Im forgetting something

oh and welcome to the site and congrats on the new boat.

    also might wanna keep bug spray and sunscreen   also   cleaning supplies   i always wipe my boat down when i get outta the water       rags and some cleaner       also i keep a little tool packet   sockets  wrenches screwdrivers  raingear  is  also a must have   and an extra hat  and sunglasses   never know when they will go overboard                      nice looking boat

Dont forget a trailer jack, spare trailer tire, and the tire tool in case of a flat on your trailer.

I always carry stuff in case i end up having to spend the night somewhere unintentionally.  Flashlight, knife, waterproof matches, etc.  Also I always keep an extra set of clothes in case I fall in (also have a couple of extra towels)  Toilet paper.

Add to list:

Duct Tape, assorted zip ties, and a set of battery jumpers.

Click here

Wow! I learned something stoppin' by here. Thanks Men.

Nobody mentioned WD-40, paper towels or Windex...Also, beef jerky, bottled water, extra batteries (for electronics), bandanas, aspirin, and a host of "What If" things one might need.

I would also add a Leatherman and a "Camper" Swiss Army Knife.

Strategically selected and stowed many of the items selected won't add too many pounds to your baby but the critical items are the safety items. The rest are good things to have "just in case".

It's for you to decide what is important.

Be safe and boat safe.

well another what if .....bring a 45 in case someone tries to jack your new boat.... :

but seriously.....wd 40 if you want it to move.....duck tape if you dont want it to move....simple as that

Install rod keepers if the boat doesn't have them.  I also keep a compass (gps is also good, but a luxury).  Small buoys can bee extemely handy too.  I use them to mark channels, other strucure or hot spots, or even the spot i just lost a rod.  I also mounted a plier holster to the side of fy fishing seat.  A camera is a good idea too (and extra batteries)