Are you an open water angler? Are you sitting in your home dreaming of being out on the water? Then this is the perfect time to start preparing for the spring and making sure all you equipment is in top working condition. Here are some things I do over the winter to prepare my equipment for the spring.
I like to start with reel maintenance which I believe is one of the most over looked and important thing that should be none every year. The reel is the work horse of the whole system and its flawless operation is critical to its performance. For about 20 minutes a reel you can have your reels operating and looking like new and lasting you a life time of use. There are a few kits on the market that include everything you will need. I personally like the Ardent Reel Kleen kit myself, it cost around $20 and will last you a few years before you will need another one. If you have never taken your reel apart don’t get discouraged there are some great videos online, and the guys over at wired2fish have a great video on the whole process so go and check them out.
After all my reels are cleaned and oiled I start removing the line from the previous season, this process is different for different types of lines. For mono and fluorocarbon line I change mine a little differently than most people; I only change about 2 cast worth of line at a time leaving the remaining line on the reel. This saves me time by only replacing the line that’s been used, but I change it more frequently because I am out fishing more than most. Braided line has a lot longer life then say mono or fluorocarbon but I get two years out of braided Line by spooling it onto another reel. This puts the used line next to the spool and the clean unused line for this season. I change my line because after all it’s the one thing between me and my trophy of a life time, do you want to take that chance with a 2 or 3 year old line.
Next make sure to check your rods are free of cracks and the eyes from scratches and chips. If the eyes get damaged they can cause weak areas in your line and will eventually cause it to brake. Take caution when transporting them to and from the water I suggest getting rod covers they are inexpensive and will keep your rods safe and looking like new.
Remember spring will be here before you know it.
Tight Lines