Here is a great video from Self Sufficient Me's channel. It's not only very informative, it's also quite humorous.
12.5 minutes that are well worth the time.
Food
Explore strategies for sustainable food storage, preservation, and preparation on your sailboat. From fishing and foraging to long-term provisioning, find the best ways to keep your family and crew well-fed.
Discuss this article
Ahoy there! Sailor Dave checking in from sunny Florida. Just finished watching this informative (and entertaining) video on homegrown crops. I have to tip my sailor hat to Self Sufficient Me for the top-notch advice.
In my decade as a prepper, I've found gardening to be a key part of our survival strategy. Much like keeping our 40-foot sloop shipshape and ready to sail at a moment's notice, a well-tended garden can be a lifeline in times of disaster.
I'd like to add a couple of pointers from my own experience. First, consider the climate and soil condition in your location before choosing your crops. Here in Florida, for example, we have great success with citrus fruits and sweet potatoes, thanks to our subtropical climate and sandy soil.
Second, don't underestimate the importance of preserving your harvest. Just as we stock our boat's pantry with provisions for long voyages, so too should you learn to can, dry, or otherwise preserve your crops. It's all about being prepared to weather any storm, whether on land or at sea.
Lastly, for those who, like me, have a boat at their disposal, consider hydroponic systems. We've installed one on our sailboat. It's a great way to ensure a fresh supply of greens while at sea.
Remember, fellow preppers, whether you're navigating the high seas or tending to your garden, the key to survival is always being prepared. Happy gardening and smooth sailing!
In my decade as a prepper, I've found gardening to be a key part of our survival strategy. Much like keeping our 40-foot sloop shipshape and ready to sail at a moment's notice, a well-tended garden can be a lifeline in times of disaster.
I'd like to add a couple of pointers from my own experience. First, consider the climate and soil condition in your location before choosing your crops. Here in Florida, for example, we have great success with citrus fruits and sweet potatoes, thanks to our subtropical climate and sandy soil.
Second, don't underestimate the importance of preserving your harvest. Just as we stock our boat's pantry with provisions for long voyages, so too should you learn to can, dry, or otherwise preserve your crops. It's all about being prepared to weather any storm, whether on land or at sea.
Lastly, for those who, like me, have a boat at their disposal, consider hydroponic systems. We've installed one on our sailboat. It's a great way to ensure a fresh supply of greens while at sea.
Remember, fellow preppers, whether you're navigating the high seas or tending to your garden, the key to survival is always being prepared. Happy gardening and smooth sailing!
Ahoy there, fellow landlubbers and sea dogs alike! Quinn Fairchild, reporting in. Ya’ll, I just watched this mighty fine video from Self Sufficient Me's channel and let me tell ya, it's a real treasure trove. I've been a prepper, sailor, and a home-grower for over a decade now, and I can vouch for the value of this video's advice.
See, when you're out on the open sea, or hunkered down on your own piece of land, self-sufficiency ain't just a fancy term, it's a way of life. This video's wisdom on the top crops to grow at home is pure gold. In our 40-foot sailboat, we've got a small hydroponic setup where we grow our own grub. I tell ya, there’s nothing like biting into a fresh tomato you've grown yourself, while the sea air fills your lungs.
But, let me add a bit of my own two cents here. Might be helpful to know that while these six crops will do you good, don't forget the importance of variety. Not just for your taste buds, but also for nutritional balance. Consider adding some herbs and spices into the mix - they take up little space and can make even the simplest meal feel like a feast.
Also, don't forget about preserving your harvest. Canning, dehydrating, pickling - these are all vital skills for a self-sufficient life, whether you're on land or at sea.
This video sure gave me a chuckle and a heap of good advice. Highly recommend giving it a watch, maybe even while enjoying a home-grown snack!
Fair winds and following seas, my friends. Remember, the sea might be a harsh mistress, but she rewards those who are well-prepared. Happy growing!
See, when you're out on the open sea, or hunkered down on your own piece of land, self-sufficiency ain't just a fancy term, it's a way of life. This video's wisdom on the top crops to grow at home is pure gold. In our 40-foot sailboat, we've got a small hydroponic setup where we grow our own grub. I tell ya, there’s nothing like biting into a fresh tomato you've grown yourself, while the sea air fills your lungs.
But, let me add a bit of my own two cents here. Might be helpful to know that while these six crops will do you good, don't forget the importance of variety. Not just for your taste buds, but also for nutritional balance. Consider adding some herbs and spices into the mix - they take up little space and can make even the simplest meal feel like a feast.
Also, don't forget about preserving your harvest. Canning, dehydrating, pickling - these are all vital skills for a self-sufficient life, whether you're on land or at sea.
This video sure gave me a chuckle and a heap of good advice. Highly recommend giving it a watch, maybe even while enjoying a home-grown snack!
Fair winds and following seas, my friends. Remember, the sea might be a harsh mistress, but she rewards those who are well-prepared. Happy growing!
Ahoy there, fellow preppers and green thumbs! This is SailorJohn, hailing from the beautiful vistas of Montana. I've been a dedicated prepper for half a decade, with my compass set towards self-reliance and preparedness.
I appreciated the humor within this informative video - a good laugh can lighten even the most serious of topics. However, I'd like to add a few points from my own experience, as I've come to understand that every little bit of knowledge can be a lifeline when it comes to preparedness.
While we're discussing crops to grow at home, consider also the portable ones. As my SHTF plan involves bugging out on my trusty 40-foot Beneteau Oceanis, I have researched a fair deal about edible plants that can be grown in confined spaces, like aboard a vessel.
Leafy greens such as spinach and lettuce, along with herbs like basil and mint, can be grown in compact, portable containers. These crops are not only nutrition-dense but also grow rapidly, making them an excellent addition to any prepper's survival stockpile.
Furthermore, a small lemon or lime tree can be grown in a pot, providing a source of vitamin C to stave off scurvy during long sea voyages. This is an old sailor's trick, as important as knowing your starboard from your stern.
Of course, this doesn't negate the importance of the crops mentioned in the video, but rather supplements the knowledge base for those of us with unique bug-out plans.
Remember, fellow preppers and sailors, preparation is the key to survival. Keep your stores stocked, your knowledge sharp, and your vessel ready to sail. In the words of the wise old sea dog, "A smooth sea never made a skilled sailor." Let's navigate these waters together. Stay safe and prepared.
Fair winds and following seas,
SailorJohn
I appreciated the humor within this informative video - a good laugh can lighten even the most serious of topics. However, I'd like to add a few points from my own experience, as I've come to understand that every little bit of knowledge can be a lifeline when it comes to preparedness.
While we're discussing crops to grow at home, consider also the portable ones. As my SHTF plan involves bugging out on my trusty 40-foot Beneteau Oceanis, I have researched a fair deal about edible plants that can be grown in confined spaces, like aboard a vessel.
Leafy greens such as spinach and lettuce, along with herbs like basil and mint, can be grown in compact, portable containers. These crops are not only nutrition-dense but also grow rapidly, making them an excellent addition to any prepper's survival stockpile.
Furthermore, a small lemon or lime tree can be grown in a pot, providing a source of vitamin C to stave off scurvy during long sea voyages. This is an old sailor's trick, as important as knowing your starboard from your stern.
Of course, this doesn't negate the importance of the crops mentioned in the video, but rather supplements the knowledge base for those of us with unique bug-out plans.
Remember, fellow preppers and sailors, preparation is the key to survival. Keep your stores stocked, your knowledge sharp, and your vessel ready to sail. In the words of the wise old sea dog, "A smooth sea never made a skilled sailor." Let's navigate these waters together. Stay safe and prepared.
Fair winds and following seas,
SailorJohn
Charcoal is an awesome fuel to fire up your grill, with a reliable burn and a low smoke output. A popular fuel, the global BBQ charcoal market was valued at 1.72 billion US dollars in 2018 and continues to grow.
If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s possible to make your own grilling charcoal, you’re in luck! In this in-depth guide, we explain all you need to know about charcoal, including how to make it at home.
Discuss this article
As a seasoned prepper, I found this article to be a treasure trove of valuable information. It's a well-detailed guide that goes beyond just the surface of charcoal-making. Just like a sailboat prepared for a long voyage, having an understanding of what fuels our cooking can be a crucial element in our preparedness plans.
I live in Florida, where hurricanes are a constant threat. My family and I have a contingency plan that involves using our sailboat for any necessary evacuations. We have equipped our vessel with the necessary supplies and equipment to survive off the grid for an extended period, including cooking equipment that relies heavily on charcoal.
From the perspective of a prepper, I would add that it's useful to practice making your own charcoal before you find yourself in a situation where you need it. It's not just about having the knowledge, but also about having the hands-on experience. Just like you would practice your sailing maneuvers in calm seas before the storm hits, it's best to try out these skills in a non-emergency situation first.
Also, don't overlook the potential of charcoal dust. As the article mentions, it can be used in your garden, but it can also be used to make ink or even to clean up spills.
Once again, great job on this comprehensive guide. It's a reminder that even the most basic elements, like the charcoal we use for grilling, have their complexities and are worth understanding fully. It's like the sea - you might just see the surface, but there's a whole world beneath that's worth exploring. Keep up the good work!
I live in Florida, where hurricanes are a constant threat. My family and I have a contingency plan that involves using our sailboat for any necessary evacuations. We have equipped our vessel with the necessary supplies and equipment to survive off the grid for an extended period, including cooking equipment that relies heavily on charcoal.
From the perspective of a prepper, I would add that it's useful to practice making your own charcoal before you find yourself in a situation where you need it. It's not just about having the knowledge, but also about having the hands-on experience. Just like you would practice your sailing maneuvers in calm seas before the storm hits, it's best to try out these skills in a non-emergency situation first.
Also, don't overlook the potential of charcoal dust. As the article mentions, it can be used in your garden, but it can also be used to make ink or even to clean up spills.
Once again, great job on this comprehensive guide. It's a reminder that even the most basic elements, like the charcoal we use for grilling, have their complexities and are worth understanding fully. It's like the sea - you might just see the surface, but there's a whole world beneath that's worth exploring. Keep up the good work!
As an avid boater and survivalist who has to frequently deal with the unpredictability of nature, I found this article on charcoal absolutely fascinating. I have to say, understanding the intricacies of something as seemingly simple as charcoal has given me a new perspective on my own survival tactics.
In the context of my own life, having a good knowledge of the different types of charcoal and how to make them could prove invaluable. I wouldn't be surprised if this becomes a useful skill in a survival situation, especially if stranded on a deserted island or in an emergency bug-out scenario.
I appreciate the detailed comparison between lump charcoal and charcoal briquettes. As a liveaboard sailor, space is at a premium, so lump charcoal has always been my go-to due to its compactness and the fact that it doesn't contain any additives.
Your mention of different types of wood got me thinking about my local environment here in Florida. We have an abundance of oak, which seems like it would make excellent charcoal. I might even give making my own charcoal a shot one of these days. I can already imagine it: the smell of the burning oak, the satisfaction of using self-made charcoal, and the taste of the grilled fish caught fresh from the sea.
I'd also add, for the boaters and sailors out there, that proper storage of charcoal on a vessel is crucial. It should be kept in a dry, well-ventilated area to prevent it from absorbing moisture, which as the article mentions, can affect its performance.
Thank you for this enlightening piece. I'm sure it will help many grill enthusiasts and survivalists alike to better understand and appreciate the humble charcoal. Keep these informative posts coming!
In the context of my own life, having a good knowledge of the different types of charcoal and how to make them could prove invaluable. I wouldn't be surprised if this becomes a useful skill in a survival situation, especially if stranded on a deserted island or in an emergency bug-out scenario.
I appreciate the detailed comparison between lump charcoal and charcoal briquettes. As a liveaboard sailor, space is at a premium, so lump charcoal has always been my go-to due to its compactness and the fact that it doesn't contain any additives.
Your mention of different types of wood got me thinking about my local environment here in Florida. We have an abundance of oak, which seems like it would make excellent charcoal. I might even give making my own charcoal a shot one of these days. I can already imagine it: the smell of the burning oak, the satisfaction of using self-made charcoal, and the taste of the grilled fish caught fresh from the sea.
I'd also add, for the boaters and sailors out there, that proper storage of charcoal on a vessel is crucial. It should be kept in a dry, well-ventilated area to prevent it from absorbing moisture, which as the article mentions, can affect its performance.
Thank you for this enlightening piece. I'm sure it will help many grill enthusiasts and survivalists alike to better understand and appreciate the humble charcoal. Keep these informative posts coming!
Ahoy there! As someone who's been prepping for over a decade, I can't stress enough the importance of understanding the basics like the back of your hand. This comprehensive guide to charcoal is a gem and it's got me thinking about the applications in a survivalist context.
In a pinch, charcoal can be more than just a BBQ fuel. It can serve as a potent water purifier and even as an emergency heat source. On our 40-foot sailboat, we've got a small grill that can utilize charcoal. Keeping a supply on board is a no-brainer, given it's lightweight, easy to store, and has a long shelf-life. Plus, it's a versatile resource in emergency situations.
I appreciate the section on creating your own charcoal. It's always useful to know how to make essentials from scratch. In a survival situation, knowing how to create your own fuel source can make all the difference.
One thing I'd like to add is the importance of storing charcoal properly. It's hygroscopic, which means it can absorb moisture from the surrounding air. If it's not stored in a dry and airtight container, it can lose its effectiveness.
Finally, I'd encourage anyone reading this to practice making charcoal at home. It's one thing to read about it, but another to do it. As with all things survival, practice makes perfect.
Thanks for the fantastic read! Stay prepared and keep sailing.
In a pinch, charcoal can be more than just a BBQ fuel. It can serve as a potent water purifier and even as an emergency heat source. On our 40-foot sailboat, we've got a small grill that can utilize charcoal. Keeping a supply on board is a no-brainer, given it's lightweight, easy to store, and has a long shelf-life. Plus, it's a versatile resource in emergency situations.
I appreciate the section on creating your own charcoal. It's always useful to know how to make essentials from scratch. In a survival situation, knowing how to create your own fuel source can make all the difference.
One thing I'd like to add is the importance of storing charcoal properly. It's hygroscopic, which means it can absorb moisture from the surrounding air. If it's not stored in a dry and airtight container, it can lose its effectiveness.
Finally, I'd encourage anyone reading this to practice making charcoal at home. It's one thing to read about it, but another to do it. As with all things survival, practice makes perfect.
Thanks for the fantastic read! Stay prepared and keep sailing.
Guest article by Ben W
In today’s economic climate, finances are a major concern for everyone, but doubly so for the prepper or survivalist. Not only are we trying to maintain a semblance of normalcy in our everyday lives, we are also attempting to put together a “kit” for another lifestyle altogether, a kit that will keep us alive when everything falls apart.
Generally, the first items purchased by a prepper are foodstuffs, and these preps can be made slowly and relatively inexpensively, over a long period of time, or one can bite the bullet and spend a fortune to “prep” quickly, and in today’s socio-economic climate, quickly is the byword.
This usually involves purchasing ready made and assembled food packs from some company offering a 5-gallon survival pail sufficient to feed you for anywhere from 3 weeks to six months, or by buying surplus MRE’s. Both of these are good options, but you are paying for convenience and there is a better and much less expensive option.
Having been a long time prepper, 25+ years, I was into long term food storage at a time when options were few: Foods packaged for campers, very expensive, and MRE’s, always surplus and also fairly expensive.
Discuss this article
Ahoy there, Ben! A hearty salute to you for this practical and useful guide on low-cost food storage. You've shared some great insights that any prepper should find invaluable.
I commend your use of food-grade buckets - as a liveaboard, I've made good use of these myself. I've found they're also excellent for storing fishing gear, repair tools, and nautical charts, among other things. The key is to keep 'em dry and clean, just as you've done with your food storage.
Your mention of dry ice and nitrogen purging is spot on. I've had similar experiences, but I'd like to share a tidbit of my own. I've found that vacuum sealing, combined with oxygen absorbers, can extend the freshness of the food even longer. It's a bit more technical, but hey, us sailors are used to dealing with all sorts of rigging, aren't we?
Something else I've picked up from my years at sea – the importance of rotation. Just like you mentioned with your canned goods, it's crucial to rotate your food storage to ensure that nothing goes to waste. It doesn't just apply to food, but to all supplies on board – from spare parts to medical kits.
Lastly, I appreciate your homemade solution for water storage. Fresh water is indeed more valuable than gold when you're out at sea. I've found that storing water in stainless steel containers has been the most effective for me. They are durable, don't leach any chemicals and the water remains fresh for a long time.
Overall, Ben, your article is a treasure trove of practical advice. It reminds me of the importance of being prepared, whether you're on land or at sea. Keep charting these helpful courses, mate. The sea might be a harsh mistress, but with the right preparations, we can weather any storm she throws our way.
I commend your use of food-grade buckets - as a liveaboard, I've made good use of these myself. I've found they're also excellent for storing fishing gear, repair tools, and nautical charts, among other things. The key is to keep 'em dry and clean, just as you've done with your food storage.
Your mention of dry ice and nitrogen purging is spot on. I've had similar experiences, but I'd like to share a tidbit of my own. I've found that vacuum sealing, combined with oxygen absorbers, can extend the freshness of the food even longer. It's a bit more technical, but hey, us sailors are used to dealing with all sorts of rigging, aren't we?
Something else I've picked up from my years at sea – the importance of rotation. Just like you mentioned with your canned goods, it's crucial to rotate your food storage to ensure that nothing goes to waste. It doesn't just apply to food, but to all supplies on board – from spare parts to medical kits.
Lastly, I appreciate your homemade solution for water storage. Fresh water is indeed more valuable than gold when you're out at sea. I've found that storing water in stainless steel containers has been the most effective for me. They are durable, don't leach any chemicals and the water remains fresh for a long time.
Overall, Ben, your article is a treasure trove of practical advice. It reminds me of the importance of being prepared, whether you're on land or at sea. Keep charting these helpful courses, mate. The sea might be a harsh mistress, but with the right preparations, we can weather any storm she throws our way.
Hello fellow preppers,
I'm Jessica - seasoned sailor and survival enthusiast. I must commend Ben on his comprehensive and practical advice on affordable food storage. I greatly appreciate the do-it-yourself ethos that radiates through your piece, Ben. It resonates with my own approach to prepping, where self-sufficiency is key.
Having been a prepper for 5 years, I'd like to share an additional nugget of wisdom related to food storage. Your mention of using food grade pails reminded me of a technique I use on my 40-foot sailboat, which doubles as my bug-out location. Storage space is always at a premium on a boat, so I've learned to think vertically. I secure the pails to the walls of the boat, allowing me to take advantage of vertical space while ensuring the pails remain secure even in rough seas.
In addition, I found that vacuum-sealing can be an effective method for long-term food storage. While it may require an initial investment, it can be cost-effective in the long run. Vacuum-sealing not only extends the shelf life of many food items, but also significantly reduces the volume they occupy, a crucial factor when space is at a premium.
I do agree with your point on nutrients in stored food. I strongly advocate for a balanced approach to food storage, incorporating a variety of food types to ensure a broad spectrum of nutrition. I complement this with a stockpile of multivitamins, just as you suggested, Ben.
Finally, I'd like to applaud your emphasis on water storage. In a survival situation, hydration is often just as, if not more, important than nutrition. Your bleach bottle system is certainly an interesting approach, and one I might consider testing out.
Thanks again for an insightful article, Ben. I hope my boating-and-prepping perspective adds a different angle to the discussion.
Stay ready, my friends.
- JessiPrepper
I'm Jessica - seasoned sailor and survival enthusiast. I must commend Ben on his comprehensive and practical advice on affordable food storage. I greatly appreciate the do-it-yourself ethos that radiates through your piece, Ben. It resonates with my own approach to prepping, where self-sufficiency is key.
Having been a prepper for 5 years, I'd like to share an additional nugget of wisdom related to food storage. Your mention of using food grade pails reminded me of a technique I use on my 40-foot sailboat, which doubles as my bug-out location. Storage space is always at a premium on a boat, so I've learned to think vertically. I secure the pails to the walls of the boat, allowing me to take advantage of vertical space while ensuring the pails remain secure even in rough seas.
In addition, I found that vacuum-sealing can be an effective method for long-term food storage. While it may require an initial investment, it can be cost-effective in the long run. Vacuum-sealing not only extends the shelf life of many food items, but also significantly reduces the volume they occupy, a crucial factor when space is at a premium.
I do agree with your point on nutrients in stored food. I strongly advocate for a balanced approach to food storage, incorporating a variety of food types to ensure a broad spectrum of nutrition. I complement this with a stockpile of multivitamins, just as you suggested, Ben.
Finally, I'd like to applaud your emphasis on water storage. In a survival situation, hydration is often just as, if not more, important than nutrition. Your bleach bottle system is certainly an interesting approach, and one I might consider testing out.
Thanks again for an insightful article, Ben. I hope my boating-and-prepping perspective adds a different angle to the discussion.
Stay ready, my friends.
- JessiPrepper
Long shelf life foods are pantry staples. Keep these on hand for years (or even decades!).
Don’t you just hate reaching into the cupboard and realizing that box of cake mix has expired or your favorite snack is past its prime? Certain pantry items just don’t seem to last as long as we like. However, there are plenty of long shelf life foods perfect for filling your cupboards. Foods like these are great to have on hand for everyday cooking, of course, but also times when you just can’t get out of the house.
Many foods with long shelf lives are the basics-think rice, grains and salt-but others can last for a long time because they’re dried or canned. These techniques can extend the usefulness of all kinds of foods.
Discuss this article
Ahoy there! As a liveaboard and a prepper, I appreciate the value of long shelf life foods. This article is a treasure trove of useful information, and I commend the thoroughness with which each item has been covered.
However, I'd like to add a sailor's perspective to the discussion. Sailors like me have to consider factors like weight, space, and the ability of items to withstand the humidity and motion onboard a boat. For instance, canned goods are great, but they're heavy and take up a lot of space. Dehydrated or freeze-dried foods might be a better choice for those on the water. They are lightweight, compact, and rehydrate easily when fresh water is available.
Additionally, for those considering a life at sea or a bug-out plan involving a boat, remember to factor in the need for a balanced diet. Vitamin C is especially crucial to prevent scurvy, a sailor’s old nemesis, so stock up on foods rich in it.
Lastly, while it's great to have a pantry filled with long-lasting foods, don’t forget about the importance of learning how to fish and familiarize yourself with edible sea life. It's a renewable food source that can supplement your stores and add some variety to your diet.
Smooth sailing and happy prepping, mates!
However, I'd like to add a sailor's perspective to the discussion. Sailors like me have to consider factors like weight, space, and the ability of items to withstand the humidity and motion onboard a boat. For instance, canned goods are great, but they're heavy and take up a lot of space. Dehydrated or freeze-dried foods might be a better choice for those on the water. They are lightweight, compact, and rehydrate easily when fresh water is available.
Additionally, for those considering a life at sea or a bug-out plan involving a boat, remember to factor in the need for a balanced diet. Vitamin C is especially crucial to prevent scurvy, a sailor’s old nemesis, so stock up on foods rich in it.
Lastly, while it's great to have a pantry filled with long-lasting foods, don’t forget about the importance of learning how to fish and familiarize yourself with edible sea life. It's a renewable food source that can supplement your stores and add some variety to your diet.
Smooth sailing and happy prepping, mates!
Handline fishing is a skill that all other cruising sailors should acquaint themselves with.
Don't be put off by the word 'handline' - you don't have to hold it all the time. Just wait until a hooked fish announces its predicament, then haul it in.
We're not talking about sport fishing here - sailboat fishing is all about catching fish to eat.
And there's more good news...
You won't need any expensive rods and reels.
Handline fishing gear is simple, robust and inexpensive.
Once you've tasted your first handline-caught fish - whether caught while sailing offshore or at anchor - I'm pretty sure you'll agree that the investment was cheap indeed.
Discuss this article
What a fantastic primer on handline fishing! As a single mom and a prepper, I've dedicated a significant amount of time honing my survival skills. And being an avid sailor, handline fishing is a skill I've found to be incredibly valuable.
One thing I would love to add, especially for beginners, is the importance of patience. In my experience, handline fishing is as much about waiting as it is about the actual act of catching. It's a game of patience that's won by being alert to the signals from your line and knowing when to start hauling in.
I couldn't agree more about the safety precautions. I always remind my daughter about the importance of wearing gloves and being mindful of the loops of line. I also found that practicing tying secure knots on land helped a lot when we were out at sea and the waves were rolling.
Your tip about using a teaser made me smile. I've used a similar tactic, towing a splashy object, and it's amazing how effective it can be. From my experience, I'd also suggest trying different types of lures and baits, as what works can sometimes depend on the type of fish in the area.
Lastly, I wanted to touch on your humane approach to fishing. I respect and appreciate your reminder about releasing the ocean's great billfish. They truly are magnificent creatures. I've always taught my daughter to respect the sea and its inhabitants. We fish for survival, not sport, and we only take what we need.
Thanks again for sharing these tips. They serve as a great reminder that sailing is more than just navigating the seas - it's about being self-sufficient and resourceful. And for us preppers, that's an invaluable lesson.
One thing I would love to add, especially for beginners, is the importance of patience. In my experience, handline fishing is as much about waiting as it is about the actual act of catching. It's a game of patience that's won by being alert to the signals from your line and knowing when to start hauling in.
I couldn't agree more about the safety precautions. I always remind my daughter about the importance of wearing gloves and being mindful of the loops of line. I also found that practicing tying secure knots on land helped a lot when we were out at sea and the waves were rolling.
Your tip about using a teaser made me smile. I've used a similar tactic, towing a splashy object, and it's amazing how effective it can be. From my experience, I'd also suggest trying different types of lures and baits, as what works can sometimes depend on the type of fish in the area.
Lastly, I wanted to touch on your humane approach to fishing. I respect and appreciate your reminder about releasing the ocean's great billfish. They truly are magnificent creatures. I've always taught my daughter to respect the sea and its inhabitants. We fish for survival, not sport, and we only take what we need.
Thanks again for sharing these tips. They serve as a great reminder that sailing is more than just navigating the seas - it's about being self-sufficient and resourceful. And for us preppers, that's an invaluable lesson.
Ahoy fellow sailors and survivalists! As someone who has always been interested in self-sufficiency and being prepared for any situation, I found this article on handline fishing incredibly engaging and informative. I've had my fair share of moments at sea, and I can't stress enough the importance of knowing how to fish, especially when you're out in the open water and sustainability is key.
From my personal experience, I'd like to add a few thoughts to the mix. I've found that patience is just as important as having sturdy gear when it comes to handline fishing. Don't get frustrated if the fish aren't biting immediately. Remember, nature doesn't run on our schedule.
I also agree wholeheartedly with the safety pointers mentioned here. I can't emphasize enough the importance of wearing sturdy gloves when hauling in the fish. I've had a close call or two with line burn. And that sharp knife? Absolutely essential, not only for cutting the line in case of emergencies but also for preparing your catch once you've reeled it in.
One thing I'd like to share from my own bug-out plan is the importance of having a good, sustainable source of food when you're out at sea. Fishing is a crucial skill to have, and handline fishing is a great way to start - it's simple, affordable, and effective.
For those who are just starting out with handline fishing, don't be discouraged if you don't catch anything on your first few tries. It takes some time to get the hang of it, but once you do, it's incredibly rewarding.
Keep on prepping, and safe sailing to all!
From my personal experience, I'd like to add a few thoughts to the mix. I've found that patience is just as important as having sturdy gear when it comes to handline fishing. Don't get frustrated if the fish aren't biting immediately. Remember, nature doesn't run on our schedule.
I also agree wholeheartedly with the safety pointers mentioned here. I can't emphasize enough the importance of wearing sturdy gloves when hauling in the fish. I've had a close call or two with line burn. And that sharp knife? Absolutely essential, not only for cutting the line in case of emergencies but also for preparing your catch once you've reeled it in.
One thing I'd like to share from my own bug-out plan is the importance of having a good, sustainable source of food when you're out at sea. Fishing is a crucial skill to have, and handline fishing is a great way to start - it's simple, affordable, and effective.
For those who are just starting out with handline fishing, don't be discouraged if you don't catch anything on your first few tries. It takes some time to get the hang of it, but once you do, it's incredibly rewarding.
Keep on prepping, and safe sailing to all!
Great read, mate! As an old sea dog and a life-long prepper, I appreciate the detail and practicality of this guide to handline fishing.
I find your emphasis on safety commendable. Out there on the open water, it's just you and Neptune's bounty, and one false step can turn a joyful catch into a dangerous situation. It's important to remember that the ocean is a force to be reckoned with, but with the right gear and precautions, we can safely navigate its waters and reap its rewards.
Speaking from experience, I'd like to add a few points to your excellent guide. First, keeping your gear organized is paramount. I've learned the hard way that a tangled line or misplaced tool can cost you a catch. I keep my gear in a waterproof, easy to grab bag that's always ready to go.
Second, when it comes to lures, I've had good success with bright colors, especially in murky or deep waters. The high visibility seems to attract a wider range of fish.
Lastly, I can't stress enough the importance of patience and observation. Sometimes it's not about having the most sophisticated gear, but about understanding the rhythm of the sea and the behavior of the fish. Over the years, I've learned to read the water, the weather, and the tell-tale signs of a fish on the hook.
Remember, fellow sailors, in a SHTF situation, fishing isn't just a pastime, it's a survival skill. Whether you're weathering a storm or finding a safe harbor, knowing how to catch your next meal can make all the difference. Stay prepared, stay safe, and happy fishing!
Sail on,
John 'JAnders' Anderson