Why You’ll Want to Travel With Half Past First Cast
Traveling for a fishing trip is a little different than your standard vacation. Instead of deciding which sandals to pack for the beach, you’re asking: “Why go with Half Past First Cast and not through the lodge themselves?”
A big part of the reason is because after plenty of trial and error, we’ve figured out the best ways to make fishing travel as smooth and fun as possible. And here’s the secret: having someone who’s already navigated those details (Hello, that’s us, Hanna and Pete, at Half Past First Cast) makes a world of difference.
Here are some of the ways that going with us stands to make your trip smoother and more productive.
Pack Light but Pack Smart
You don’t need to haul your whole tackle collection. Many lodges provide rods, reels, and tackle, so think about essentials you’ll want: polarized sunglasses, quick-dry clothes, sun gloves, and your go-to lucky hat. Keep it simple. Most lodges do your laundry and then you will have more room for souvenirs on the way home.
Hanna’s tip: I always use packing cubes to keep fishing gear and other items separate from casual clothes. There’s nothing worse than sunscreen leaking onto your favorite fishing shirt!
Keep Documents Safe and Handy
A fishing trip isn’t happening without your passport or other ID, licenses (if needed and we will let you know and send a link), and travel confirmations. I recommend keeping them in a waterproof pouch in your carry-on. Snap photos, too, so you always have a digital copy. Make sure that your passport is up to date and won’t expire within six months of the conclusion trip.
Pro move: Add travel insurance. Flights and bags sometimes go sideways, and you don’t want that stress clouding your adventure. We partner with a travel insurance company, go to https://partner.globalrescue.com/halfpastfirstcast/index.html and see which policy is right for you.
Respect the Sun and Sea
Fishing is an endurance sport and the biggest opponent is often the sun. Polarized sunglasses, sunscreen, buffs (if you don’t have one, I have one for you), and wide-brim hats aren’t optional – they’re essential. If you’re sensitive to motion, pack seasickness meds and test and apply them before you need them.
Hanna’s tip: My big-headed friends, I promise there are sunglasses out there that fit. Ask me which brands I’ve tried and loved. Also, we highly recommend the scopolamine patch (you need a prescription from your doctor). Don’t be a hero, don’t ruin your trip because you think you can handle the sea (it’s bigger than you). If you’re afraid of that or don’t like the side effects (primarily dry mouth) then find another solution to save your trip.
Explore Beyond the Boat
Fishing is the reason we travel, but think about local food, markets, and cultural moments that might make your destination more than just a place to fish. Leave room in your bag for that Guatemalan coffee or Panamanian hot sauce you’ll want to take home. Some lodges let you take home fish -- ask if you need to bring a cooler or can one be purchased onsite? Is the processing and boxing covered?
Hanna Tip: If you travel with me I will give you all this information, as you don’t know what you don’t know. I fill you in with plenty of time to prepare.
Why Travel With Half Past First Cast?
Here’s the truth: you can book a trip directly with a lodge, typically for the same price. But when you do, you’re just another name on the calendar. When you travel with Half Past First Cast, you’re traveling with someone who’s been there, fished there, and knows how to turn a fishing trip into a seamless, bucket-list-level adventure.
Here’s what I handle for you:
Coordinating transfers, so you don’t have to stress about getting from airport to lodge.
Making sure gear questions are answered long before you leave home.
Adding in the “extras” (getting the group together for dinner upon arrival, bringing items you will most likely forget, etc.) that lodges don’t always highlight.
Being your advocate if plans shift—because travel is smoother when you’ve got someone on your side.
At the end of the day, my goal is simple: I want you to focus on fishing and fun, not logistics.
Ready to Cast Off?
Fishing trips are about chasing fish and chasing adventure. With the right preparation and the right partner to plan alongside you, you’ll come home with incredible stories and zero stress.
So if you’re ready to plan your dream trip, let’s make it happen. Whether you’re eyeing Guatemala’s sailfish or Panama’s tuna, grande largemouth bass in Mexico or Louisiana, fishing with bears in Alaska, or Argentina’s golden dorado, Half Past First Cast is here to make sure your adventure starts the moment you say “yes.”
Contact us at fishmore@halfpastfirstcast.com for more information on where we can help send you and don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter to get dates on our next hosted trips
