Fishing is one of the most popular outdoor activities in America. It can be a leisure activity like a guided fishing vacation or a competitive sport between professionals. The popularity of fishing has grown exponentially with the proliferation of television shows and social media platforms dedicated to fishing.
One essential accessory that any fisherman needs for their sport is rods used to catch fish. Rods come in different lengths, weights, types, etc., but they typically all have a line on them that helps fishers land their catches. It’s essential to take care of your rod by storing it properly when not in use, so it lasts as long as possible and doesn’t get damaged or break easily. Here are some tips about how you can best care for your fishing rod.
Do not leave your fishing rod in direct sunlight when not in use.
Direct sunlight can damage your fishing rod. It will weaken the rod’s material, mainly if you leave it in direct sunlight for extended periods. There have been cases where fishers have left their fishing rods in the sun, and the line broke off when they tried to use it. This is usually because too much heat weakens the metal tubing that holds the fishing line together. The best place to store your fishing rod is in a closed room or cupboard whenever you are not using it.
Please do not leave the line on your fishing rod when you store it for an extended period.
While untreated, lines left on rods will harden over time and become brittle. This can damage the line and make it difficult to cast when you’re ready to use your fishing rod. If you need to store a fishing rod for a long time, the best option is to take the line off entirely or re-spool your fishing rod with a new line.
Never dry your fishing rod by placing it in front of an open flame
This includes using a heat gun or blows dryer on your fishing rod. Heat and pets can damage the rods and cause them to crack and break. This is especially important for bamboo rods, which may catch fire under a direct flame.
Never try to straighten a bent fishing rod while it’s wet
Some fishing rods will bend, while others may even break from being straightened from a bent position while they are wet. It’s best to wait until the fishing rod dries before trying to make it straight, or better yet, replace your fishing rod if it has been damaged.
Never leave your fishing line on the ground without support
Always make sure that the end of your fishing line is resting against a solid surface or on a fishing rod holder to prevent it from getting tangled. Never leave the end of your fishing line on the ground, as this can cause it to get dirty and damaged as dirt and other objects will be dragged over it.
Store your fishing rods in a specially made fishing rod storage bag
A fishing rod storage bag is a great way to keep your rods safe when they’re not being used. They are specially designed to hold multiple fishing rods without the risk of damage while keeping them organized and easily accessible. A fishing rod storage bag can even be strapped onto the back of a boat, so you have quick access to all of your rods when you’re out on the water.
Remove the fishhooks from your fishing rod before transporting it
It’s essential to remove the hook from your fishing rods to avoid injuries. When transporting a fishing rod, hold the line with one hand, so you only have to grab the handle where there are no hooks. If a hook does get stuck in you during transportation, take a pair of pliers to pull the pinout of your skin care.
If you take proper care of your fishing rod, it can last for many years before needing to be replaced. If you end up replacing your fishing rod, make sure that the replacement is suitable for the type of fishing you plan to do so you do not have to go through the trouble of caring for it again.
It’s also essential to have a high-quality rod that can stand up to years of use without breaking or bending easily. Depending on their intended use and price point, fishing rods are typically made from metal, graphite, glass, fiberglass, or bamboo. Choosing the correct type of fishing rod can be a lengthy process, but it may save you time in the long run by preventing your rod from getting damaged. When purchasing a new fishing rod, make sure to read reviews before deciding, so you know the pros and cons of each option.