How are you staying hydrated on the water?
Chugging back water only when you feel thirsty? Steadily sipping all day? Weighing down your pack with litres of water? Stretching your one water bottle to last you for the entire day? Have you cut your day short because you ran out?
Staying hydrated is a big part of your safety, how well you perform on the water, safely arriving back home, and even getting back to work the next day feeling great and not suffering from the effects of dehydration.
We've been through it all, and have suffered from a lack of water, all while being surrounded by it!
A long day on the water should end because you've run out of daylight, not because you've run out of water. Fortunately, staying hydrated doesn't have to be complicated, and we have solutions and strategies for you!
A Lightweight Water Filtration System We Trust
One of our favourite combinations for summer fishing is pairing the Katadyn BeFree Water Filter Bottle with a Katadyn Steripen UV Water Purifier.
Together, they create a lightweight, compact water purification system that's ideal for anglers covering lots of water throughout the day.
The BeFree bottle is one of the easiest water filters we've used. The soft-sided bottle collapses down when empty, taking up very little room in your pack or vest, and weighs next to nothing. Whenever you come across a suitable water source, simply fill the bottle, screw on the filter, and you're ready to filter your water (note that the filter for the bottle must be soaked for at least 30 minutes prior to use to work effectively, always follow product instructions).
The BeFree filter is designed to remove bacteria and protozoa while also filtering out sediment that can make water unpleasant to drink. Because it filters the water before you drink it, it's an excellent first step in producing clean water from natural sources.
Why Add a Steripen?
While the BeFree filter handles the vast majority of contaminants, adding a Katadyn Steripen provides another layer of protection when you're treating questionable water sources.
The Steripen uses ultraviolet (UV-C) light to neutralize microorganisms—including viruses—that physical filters alone don't address. It's a compact device that fits easily into your pack and takes only a minute or two to treat a bottle of water.
The important thing to understand is that UV purification works best in clear water. If the water contains sediment or suspended particles, those particles can prevent the UV light from reaching everything it needs to sterilize.
That's why these two products complement each other so well.
Start by filtering the water through the BeFree into a clean bottle. Once the water is clear, use the Steripen to complete the treatment. Together, they create a simple, highly effective purification system that's easy to carry anywhere your fishing takes you.
Whether you're hiking remote trout streams, spending a full day on a backcountry lake, or exploring unfamiliar rivers, it's a setup that gives you confidence you'll always have access to safe drinking water.
Important: BeFree filters should be soaked for 30 minutes before first use to activate the filter media properly. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper operation and maintenance.
When Weight Isn't an Issue
Of course, there are plenty of situations where you don't need to filter water at all.
If you're fishing from a bass boat, drift boat, or spending the day at the cottage, carrying plenty of water is often the easiest option. In those cases, one of our favourite pieces of summer gear is the YETI Rambler Jug.
Available in large capacities, these insulated jugs are built to keep drinks cold throughout even the hottest summer days. When the air temperature climbs into the high 20s or 30s, having genuinely ice-cold water available can make a huge difference in how much you actually drink.
Let's face it—most of us are far more likely to stay hydrated when the water is cold.
The large capacity also means you can easily carry enough water for an entire day without worrying about running out, making these jugs an excellent choice whenever space and weight aren't limiting factors.
Stay Safe and Fish Longer
Hydration is one of those things that's easy to overlook but is a common issue for many anglers. A little planning before you head out can make the difference between finishing the day feeling energized or feeling completely drained.
For anglers who spend long days walking rivers or hiking into remote water, a lightweight filtration setup like the Katadyn BeFree and Steripen makes it easy to carry less while still having access to safe drinking water whenever you need it.
If you're fishing from a boat or the cottage, a large insulated YETI jug keeps cold water within easy reach all day long.
However you choose to stay hydrated, make it part of your regular fishing routine. Your body—and your fishing—will thank you for it.
