How To Keep Your Gear in Working Order

Tackle is expensive and in salt water it can really take a beating. Here's some simple steps toward saving that tackle.

Difficulty: Easy

Time Required: 30 minutes

Here's How:

1. When you return from a fishing outing wash your rods and reels immediately.
2. Use soapy water and a soft brush. Water from a hose will not break up dried salt. Soap and a brush is the only way.
3. Use the brush and soapy water on all reels and rods. Make sure to get every eye on all the rods.
4. Take every lure and hook that you used and wash them in the soapy water. This prevents the hooks from rusting.
5. The same goes for any tools. Wash pliers, cutters and knives in the soapy water.
6. Make sure everything has dried before you store your tackle. Turn all rods and reels upside down to allow any standing water to drain.
7. A small rag very lightly coated with a good reel oil should be used to wipe everything down after drying.
8. Follow the manufacturer's instruction on reel lubrication. Remember, if you think you are using too much oil, you very probably are. A little goes a long way.

Tips:

1. If you use too much oil in a reel, the oil will ooze and seep on the next trip. You will find your hands coated, and fish do not like the scent of oil!
2. Have a place to hang drying rods and reels upside down so the water will drain.
3. Always store rods vertically either hanging or free standing - never leaning.