Fishing enthusiasts who intend to travel by plane may wonder how they can carry their favorite equipment. Fortunately, many airlines, including United Airlines, allow fishing gear in checked baggage. However, there are a few rules and restrictions to keep in mind when packing.
If you plan to travel with your fishing gear on a United Airlines flight, it’s important to know their policy regarding the weight and size of your gear. Knowing these rules in advance can save you from unexpected charges or delays at the airport.
Before storing your fishing rods and reels, make sure they meet United Airlines weight and size requirements. Per company policy, it is allowed as checked baggage, but charges may apply if the gear exceeds size and weight limits.
In order to avoid additional costs, it is recommended that you pack your equipment carefully and compactly. Remove all detachable parts and fix them properly inside the case. Use bubble wrap or foam to protect fragile parts of your gear, such as fishing rod tips, from shipping damage.
First of all, it is important to note that the United States airline only accepts one piece of fishing equipment per customer as checked baggage. This includes two fishing rods, a reel, a landing net, a pair of boots and a tackle box. All of these items must be properly stored in an appropriate container. The container must not exceed 115 linear inches (292 centimeters) in length + width + height and must not weigh more than 50 pounds (23 kilograms). Equipment over 80 inches (203 centimeters) cannot be accepted on itineraries that include a United Express® flight.
In addition, there may be a charge for checking the first or second bag, and any fishing equipment carried in excess of the free baggage allowance will be charged at the applicable excess baggage rate. It’s also important to keep weight limits in mind, as items over the weight limit will be subject to standard baggage service charges.
Although United Airlines personnel take care to handle all baggage with care, they are not responsible for any damage to your equipment. It is therefore essential to properly pack and protect your equipment before handing it over to checked-in baggage services.
To prepare your fishing gear for the trip, start by gathering all the necessary items and placing them in a sturdy container that meets the size and weight requirements. If possible, take fishing rods apart and pack them in a protective case to prevent damage. The reel should also be removed from the rod and stored in a separate case or container.
The landing net should be securely attached to the outside of the container to prevent it from being damaged. Place the fishing boots in a bag or container and store them in the same container as the rest of the gear. Finally, store your lures in a box and pack them into the container with the rest of your gear.
It should also be noted that United Airlines may require you to sign a limited release form in the event of damage in transit. This form will generally only cover loss or damage to your gear and not loss of fishing opportunities. It is therefore important to insure your equipment beforehand.
By following these tips and packing your gear properly, you can ensure it arrives safely and ready for your next fishing adventure. Don’t let the hassle of packing deter you from traveling with your gear – take the opportunity to explore new fishing spots and create unforgettable memories.