Tackle Maintenance

Now, you might be used to The Log talking about boat maintenance a lot — and that’s because it’s without a doubt, very important. But that isn’t the only thing you should be keeping maintained. Maintaining fishing gear may not be the most glamorous part of angling, but it’s absolutely one of the most important. For any angler hoping to get the most out of every cast and every fight, keeping rods, reels, line, and tackle in top shape is essential. Fishing gear takes a beating, especially in saltwater environments. Salt is particularly harsh, attracting moisture that eats away at metal parts and leaves corrosion in its wake. Combine that with sand, dirt, and daily wear and tear, and it’s easy to see how even quality equipment can quickly degrade if left unchecked. Without regular maintenance, reels can seize, drags can stick, guides can pit, and line can weaken — all of which could cost an angler that dream catch. Worse yet, neglected gear can become unsafe, as weakened line or rusty hooks can snap or break at inopportune times, posing risks to both angler and fish. Caring for gear starts right after a trip, especially for those fishing in saltwater. A...