Ok, now this might be to the extreme, but when there is money to be had, one must be on top of their game. Anything short of your best is not acceptable. You have to live a healthy life style even in the fishing world. Now think about this. You have to be in shape to catch a small fish? Yes! You have to consider that in tournament fishing, it’s just not going out and throwing a line overboard and waiting for the fish to bite. There is pre-fishing, reading maps, thinking where to go next if the bite is off, not to mention long bumpy runs in the boat and standing in the boat for 8 hours at a crack. Not to mention you usually are not standing straight, since one foot is on the trolling motor most of the time.

    A regular exercise routine needs to be in place to fish all conditions. Lifting weights, an aerobic work out and a regular stretching routine will improve your mental attitude on and off the water. I know after I have been tossing a line for 8 hours my back and legs are had. Once I get home its time to stretch. It will improve your stamina on the boat and able to fish in most extreme conditions. Now don’t run off to your local gym and start working out. If you haven’t worked out in a while consult your Dr. and maybe a professional at your local gym to get started.

    Now that we have that covered, next is eating healthy. Now I know that I shouldn’t be the one to tell someone to eat healthy, cause I am guilty as the next guy, but I do try. Eating the right stuff will increase your energy level and mental toughness comes right with it. Not only on a daily basis, but I feel it is just as important if not more while you are on the water. Chose fruits over chips, water over soda and so on. It is so easy to grab a candy bar, chips and soda and hit the water but I will promise, if you eat better out there, you will feel better, last longer and think clearer.

    One the day of a tournament I usually do the following. First start the day off with a good breakfast. I always think better with a full stomach. I always have at least one big sandwich with. Then healthy snacks such as beef jerky, protein bar and fruit. Be sure you pack easy stuff to eat as well. You can’t afford to waist time pealing an orange. Don’t forget the water either. I usually have 2-3 bottles of water in the boat for a tournament, on a hot day more.

    Last but not least is a good night sleep. Try to get a good night sleep every night, but more importantly the night prior to a tournament. If you don’t, your body will be drained and your thinking skills will be decreased.

    Ok that covers a healthy lifestyle, not only for tournament fishing, but also for an overall life. So good luck and tight lines!