How to plan a fishing trip

Many of you out there probably think that planning a fishing trip is just a matter of grabbing your pole and tackle box and the head out the door. You can't be farther from the truth. There are several things that need to be taken into consideration before you are ready:

1. Where are we going? It sounds as though it would be an easy question to answer but the place your going can be crucial to what you will need to pack. If you are going to a river or stream then you will want to bring hip waders since you will be in the water. If you are going to a lake then you depend on if you will be in a boat or on land needs to be answered. If you are going to be on land then you might need a chair and pole holder. If you are going to be in a boat then you might need some extra clothing since being on the water can sometimes be chillier than it is on land. If you are going o be fishing in the ocean then you might need motion sickness pills since it can get awfully rough. Where ever you go there is one thing you should always have and that is a life jacket.
2. What type of fishing will we be doing? This makes a big difference on what type of gear you will need to take. If you are going salmon fishing you don't want a light weight trout pole with 10 pound test line.  If you are going to fly fishing in a stream you don't want a heavy salmon pole. The same with your tackle you want it to match the type of fishing you do. If you are salmon fishing then either big lures like salmon plugs, artificial squid and needle fish or herring and anchovies if you like live bait. For trout fishing you might have your tackle box filled with triple teasers (they look like tiny metal fish), spinners and pop gear if you are trolling. If you are going fly fishing then you will most likely fill your tackle box with artificial flies. For any type of fishing though there are basics that will need: spare line (either for leader or if yours breaks), swivels (they are always good to have to hook your leader line on so you can change you lures easier), a fishing net, a hook remover,  a small knife and sinkers. 
3. What time are we going? The time of day can be very important to determine weather you will need bug repellant, flashlights, sunglasses and various other items. 
4. How long will we be gone? If it is an all day trip then food and drink might be a concern. If you are planning on just a few hours then you still might think about water or some other beverage but food might not be of a concern.  
5. Do I have enough fuel? Will you need to get gas in your car and if you are taking a boat you will need to make sure. Once you are where your going is there a fuel station near by just in case?