This section includes recommended supplies and information to prepare you for an emergency.
Living off the sea can be easily accomplished with proper preparation. The ocean is a perfect reservoir of food. Most deep-sea fish are edible and provide sufficient nutrients to sustain life.
A good fishing kit is easy to compile; most of the items that you will need are small in size and low in price. With the exception of a collapsible hand spear or gaff, everything should fit into a small package. Quantities are variable and will depend upon the size of your crew.
Hooks. You can never have too many hooks. Considering their size, 75 to 100 would not be too many. Include several different sizes and shapes. Use caution in storing hooks since a loose hook could damage the raft. Plastic boxes that snap shut firmly are a good idea, as are empty film cans since both are waterproof and will float.
Line. Include as much line as you can allow. The average fish caught in a survival situation is much smaller than you would think, so you must include light line, as well as heavy:
• 50 to 150 feet of 50-pound test monofilament
• 50 feet of both 15- and 25-pound test
Wire. Include a wire leader for large fish.
Weights. Include various sizes of weights. You might need a heavy weight to make the bait to sink rapidly past the smaller surface fish in search of the larger and deeper fish.
Knife. Include a sharpening stone for the knife.
Spear. A collapsible or folding 4-foot spear handle with detachable point is needed. Make sure to pack the spear head carefully.
A Metal Gaff Hook. You also will need a metal gaff hook. Please pack it carefully.
Book. A fish identification book for reference is handy to have.