We're three weeks out from our veterans fishing weekend in Jacksonville, November 6 to 8, 2026, and the question I hear most from guests is simple: what do I bring? Here's the list I'd give a buddy.
What we cover
Every Calm Seas Project trip is all-expenses-paid for our guests. Lodging, boats, guides and food are on us, and the schedule is already planned. You don't need to show up with a tackle box or a cooler. The whole point is that you can just show up.
What to bring
- Layers. Early November in Jacksonville can feel like summer by noon, but mornings on the water can be cool and windy. A light jacket or hoodie and a rain shell go a long way.
- Sun protection. A hat, polarized sunglasses if you have them, and sunscreen. The sun off the water hits harder than you think.
- The right shoes. Something with grip that you don't mind getting wet. Boat decks get slick.
- Meds and essentials. Pack any prescriptions you need, plus an extra day's worth, in a waterproof bag. Bring your ID too.
- A small dry bag. Keep your phone, wallet and keys dry. Bring a charger as well.
What to leave at home
The pressure. You don't need to be a good fisherman. You don't need to talk if you don't feel like it. Some of the best moments on our trips happen when nobody's saying anything at all, just watching the line and the water. Bring yourself and we'll handle the rest.
Know someone who should be there?
If there's a veteran or first responder in your life who could use a weekend like this, point them to calmseasproject.org. If you want to help put more guests on the water, that's where donations go too.
Sources: The Calm Seas Project · Upcoming Jacksonville event
