By Fishing Guide Shane Goodner -
http://www.catchemall.com/One of the least talked about, but most important, subjects in the world of fishing is proper care and use of your tackle. To me, there is nothing more essential than the care and proper use of your fishing tools … and that applies to expensive and cheap tackle alike.
"The inside of a quality reel more closely resembles a jet aircraft engine rather than a simple fishing tool ..."Since there are many different kinds of equipment involved in everyday fishing, this discussion will feature rods and reels. I have thousands of dollars invested in rod and reels and to ensure I don’t invest another thousands of dollars, I always do my very best to ensure that they are well cared for and properly used.
Rod Care & Storage - It doesn't take a genius to understand that a rod is made for hooking and fighting fish and doesn't double as a boat paddle or a samurai sword. Follow these simple rules and your rod may outlive you.
I cringe every time I see someone lay a rod down in a boat or on the ground. There should never be an instance when this should occur; it’s the number one way for damage to occur. Before you know it, you have stepped on the rod and broken it or smashed an eyelet. I have rod tubes mounted all over my boat to insure that mishaps such as these are avoided.
As far as rod storage goes, I have cedar rod racks at home that have sturdy and padded areas for each of my rod and reel set-ups and these also match the furniture in the room. The point is have a proper place for your rods whether it's in the boat or at home. Bank fishermen can buy holder's that can be easily attached to a belt or planted in the ground to keep your rod away from harm.
Another instance where rods are damaged centers around hook-sets. Fishermen should always be aware of their rod positions when getting ready to set the hook. Getting caught off guard by a bite and then slamming your rod into the side of the boat or metal seat pedestal has claimed many rod lives. Be aware of your body position at all times and have your rod at the proper angle. The only thing your rod should ever touch during a hook set is air and that 'snapping sound of a broken rod' is something you will never have to hear.
Reel Maintenance - Next up is reel use and care. Whether you are a baitcaster, spinning, or closed- faced spinning man or woman, you must take your reels to a qualified reel tech for a thorough cleaning at least once a year. This will ensure that your reels stay smooth and trouble free, and will truly make them last years and years longer. No more drawers full of old worn-out reels.
Thinking you can do this yourself and save money is wishful thinking. The inside of a quality reel more closely resembles a jet aircraft engine rather than a simple fishing tool and a person can ruin a reel by attempting to clean or repair one yourself. Again, anytime I see someone place a reel on the ground, it sends tremors through me because nothing good can come from it. Dirt and gravel don't mix well with a well balanced reel and will quickly destroy the best equipment made.
Storing reels in prolonged heat or cold is another sure way to hamper the proper handling of your tackle. Since your reels are most likely to stay mounted on the rods, treat them with the same respect. All the same rules apply.
Part of the enjoyment of a successful fishing trip is to experience the pleasure of a well balanced rod and reel. By following a few simple yet overlooked ways of avoiding damage to your tackle will make your outdoor fun more enjoyable and stress free.
