6 Tips To Maintain The Fishing Gear
Fishing has become a passion for many. Unfortunately many of those who do indulge in it do not know the art of maintaining their equipment. In order for the fishing gear to perform in an apt manner, it needs to be given its due importance and maintenance done from time to time. A rod that is damaged may lose the bait or spoil the reel, both of which would not go well with any angler. Do inspect the rod from time to time so that the required actions can be taken. Ignoring it or hasting with its usage is an act that is known to be done by the inexperienced that then are not even expected to be successful in their attempts. Make sure to check that the fishing gear has the strength required to catch a fish before taking off towards the waters.
Following are some tips that might help you maintain your gear in top notch condition.
1) Guide: The line needs to run smoothly through the guide for optimum performance. If it does not, there is a good chance that the line would get damaged. Further, one may also lose some tackle. The guide can only be replaced. Take a piece of nylon and run it through the guide. If it sticks, it means that guide needs to be replaced.
2) Guide Wraps: An ill maintained guide wrap doesn't really have an impact on fishing. However, a worn out guide wrap can cause a rat problem while storing. Rewrap it to make sure that doesn't happen. For those who are not comfortable doing it themselves, there are always the local bait shops to help you do it. You may also hire a professional to do the same.
3) Reels: Checking the reel seat needs to be done from time to time. This is because over time, corrosion occur causing residue buildup. When this happens, the reel cannot settle properly thus causing problems while fishing. You can clean the sticky material with the help of a sponge. Make sure that you rinse it properly and dry it with the help of a towel. Leaving it wet would solve no purpose.
4) Blank: A blank with dings, cuts or slices can easily break while being used. In order to check whether it is in perfect condition, slide your hand on it and feel for any roughness. If there is any, replace it.
5) Grips: The grips can be cleaned with warm water or a soap solution. In case they are really bad, take help of a fine steel wool.
6) Ferrule: To ensure connection between the two sections, run a light coat of paraffin onto the ferrule.
Last, store the rod in such a way that there is no tension on the blank or the tip (this is why it is never advised to keep then leaning on the walls). It is always better to use a rack and keep it straight. Remember, if the rod is in good shape, it will not only give better results on your expeditions but also live longer.