The angler's relationship with his equipment is a sacred one. Fishing tackle provides us with many hours of great fishing experience. In return, if we can spare but a few minutes to take care of it, we will be avoiding expensive trips to fishing shops for repairing and replacing equipment.
Maintaining fishing tackle is not a difficult task. It can easily be carried out by the most inexperienced of fishermen with materials that are easily available. What is usually lacking is the knowledge. This article aims to provide the novice fisherman with instructions and tips on how to care for his or her fishing tackle.
Fishing Reel
Fishing reel is one of the most delicate parts of fishing tackle because it is composed of moving parts. Regular maintenance and lubrication of fishing reels will greatly extend the lifespan of your fishing reel and ensure that it provides you with many hours of enjoyable fishing.
Always use freshwater to rinse out your reels, especially if you've been saltwater fishing. Dry the reel gently with a soft towel and use WD-40 or other similar sprays for lubrication, and to retard the effects of corrosion. Do not forget to put a drop or two of oil on your level wind gear.
Once in a while the reel should be carefully examined for nicks and cuts. Clear nail polish should be used to fill in any scratches on the reel. This is also a good moment to tighten the screws on your reel. This could make the crucial difference between your successfully landing a large catch, or your reel disintegrating under the strain.
If you are storing your fishing tackle for prolonged periods, it is also a good idea to loosen the drag on reel. This will prolong the life of the metal crush washers on the drag stack.
Fishing rods
Although fishing rods are probably the sturdiest part of fishing tackle, many rods have been broken by getting caught in doors, getting banged about in boats, or due to improper storage. Always take special care to ensure that your rod does not get involved in such unfortunate accidents.
Rods can also be periodically rinsed with freshwater to prolong their life. Do ensure that you dry them properly afterwards. The guides are the most delicate parts of fishing rods. These must be checked for snags by running a cotton tipped swab through and through. Always inspect the guides after saltwater fishing for signs of corrosion.
Fishing line
A fishing line is one of the most important parts of fishing tackle as your ability reel in fish depends on the strength and sensitivity of the line. When fighting a fish, the line tends to rub against rocks, logs, other fish, or hard objects. The consequent abrasions weaken the line. Hence it is very important to check for nicks and abrasions that weaken the line. If you find that a portion of the line is frayed, then it is a good idea to cut it off, rather than to have the line part when you are reeling in a good catch.
Mono filament line can also be damaged by prolonged exposure to excess sunlight or heat. Keep your fishing tackle in a cool, dry, shaded area when not in use. Avoid keeping fishing tackle in hot car trunks or in the back seat of the car where they are exposed to direct sunlight. Bulk line should also be stored in a cool and dark place.
Balance
A good fishing tackle should be well balanced. Always ensure that the rod, reel, line, and lure are compatible with each other. Do not use a light outfit with a heavy line or a heavy lure with a light outfit. Improperly balanced fishing tackle will not only be more susceptible to breakages and damages, but will also degrade your fishing performance.
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