Eat the Right Snacks in the Boat

Pop tarts, Clif bars and PB&J (make sure it doesn’t have too much jelly, can’t have it dripping down your arms while flying down the river) are all great, easy, fast options for a day on the water….if you are in your 20s.

Now that I’m older and every comment from the doctor has “continued diet and exercise” typed and highlighted, I have made it my goal to plan my boat snacks.

• I cut up bell pepper, celery and throw in grape tomatoes.

• Lunch meat, cheese, mustard and even a slice of pickle rolled in lettuce or a tortilla wrap, so yummy.

• Protein bars that will satisfy my appetite, like Quest or One bars, which have very low sugar, high fiber and low carbs compared to most brands on the market.

• Nuts and tropical fruit (watch the amounts, although better for you than most other snacks, they are high in fats and sugars – know your limits and portion size).

• Popcorn….when you want a lot of something and don’t want to feel guilty. Either make your own, no butter and lightly salted, or there are plenty of brands, like Smart Pop, Skinny Pop and Boom Chicka Pop, that are low in fat and carbs.  You just have to look at the labels.

• Make sure you hydrate with tons of water all day long.

You can’t deny you spend all week agonizing over what tackle you are going to tie on so add this into your routine as well. Your partner may think you are crazy when they turn around and you are eating a red pepper like an apple but better eating habits will lead to a longer fishing career/hobby. I know that Pete did a double take the first time he saw me with that big red pepper. You’ll look better doing so, too.

All of this is tough to remember at 4 am. The trick is leave your keys in the fridge the night before so you don’t forget everything you worked so hard to prepare. Don’t look for excuses, look for solutions and keep fishing longer. After a while, you’ll crave a pepper more than a Snickers Bar (maybe).

P.S. Bananas in the boat are a still an absolute no no!!