With winter setting in and outdoor activities winding down, it’s the perfect time to give your fishing equipment the attention it deserves. Taking a moment to organize and store your gear properly during the colder months can ensure a hassle-free return to fishing in the spring. Let’s explore some simple yet effective tips to keep your fishing gear in excellent condition, courtesy of insights from MassWildlife’s Angler Education Coordinator.
Maintaining Rod and Reel Combinations:
- Rod Inspection: Start by removing terminal tackle, then detach the reel from the rod. Inspect the rod for any damage, such as broken reel seats or damaged guides. Address these issues at a tackle shop or explore online resources for DIY repairs. Wipe down the rod, reel seat, and handle. Apply lubricating oil to reel seat threads to prevent rusting.
- Reel Care: Depending on your fishing frequency, consider changing the line. If you fish infrequently, this may not be necessary. For regular anglers, strip off the old line and re-spool with new line. Adjust the drag setting to reduce strain on the drag gears. Wash the reel, wipe it down, and lubricate all moving parts with reel oil.
- Reassembly and Storage: Reattach the reel to the rod and store the combination upright or laying down in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight. Storing it un-rigged is ideal for preserving the rod and reel components.
Organizing Terminal Tackle:
- Assess Tackle Condition: Examine hooks, bobbers, weights, lures, etc. Remove broken or rusted items, loose fishing line, and any other debris accumulated over time.
- Neat Arrangement: Organize your tackle bag or box, ensuring everything is neatly arranged. Keep live bait gear separate from lures, and organize lures by style or target species. Soft plastics should be stored in their original packaging to prevent melting or chemical reactions with other materials.
Caring for Fishing Tools:
- Tool Maintenance: Clean and inspect your fishing tools, including a hook removal tool, nail clippers, a knife, and any other essentials. Ensure they are in good working order.
- Rust Prevention: Address any rust on tools by lightly sanding it with steel wool and applying lubricating oil. Consider replacing tools beyond repair or those not used in years.
Waders and Boots Care:
- Cleaning and Storage: Wash down waders and boots, regardless of the material. Store them away from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight.
- Leak Detection: Winter is an ideal time to patch leaks and mend straps. Turn waders inside out, use rubbing alcohol on high-stress areas, and circle leaks with a marker for easy identification.
Taking these steps during the winter months ensures that your fishing gear remains in optimal condition, ready for action when the warmer days of spring arrive.
Image/Source: Mass.gov
