How to Store Fishing Rods? Steps Here for You!
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As an experienced angler, you must know the best places to fish each season. You also know how to choose the fishing rods you need and have a good idea of each fish’s favorite lure. But how do you understand how to store fishing rods?
You must be very tired after every fishing trip, and you usually don’t take the time to clean your rod and store it properly. In the long run, your fishing rod will become very fragile.
So, a smart angler must have ways to clean his fishing rod and store it.
This article today will surely be a great help to you!
How to Store Fishing Rods?
It may seem a bit complicated to store your fishing rods. But doing so will ensure the longevity of your rods and will also give you a perfect fishing experience.
So read carefully and follow the steps below!
Step 1: Take it apart
If you plan on storing your rod for a long time, remove the line and reel from the rod first. This is so that it can be cleaned and stored better.
Step 2: Check the parts
After disassembling your fishing rod, this is a good time to inspect your gear for any damage or wear and tear. Please pay particular attention to the guides and the tip of the rod.
If there are any indentations on the guides, you can sand them to smooth them out. However, if they are already broken, you must replace them promptly. Otherwise, your line may get stuck or damaged by the guides during storage, giving you trouble the next time you use them.
Step 3: Loosen the resistance
Whether it’s a baitcasting reel or a trolling reel, it often consists of many small mechanical parts, which can be damaged by tension over time. That’s why you should loosen the line reel drag. Doing this will also help you avoid creased lines and bent blanks.
Step 4: Clean the rod
Before storing your fishing rods, ensuring they are clean and dry is a good idea. This is even more important if you have been fishing in salt water, which can corrode your gear over time.
If you have been fishing in salt water, remove the line from your rods and reels and give them a full clean before storing them so that it will prevent residual salt from affecting your rod or reel.
Notes: How to clean fishing rods rightly? Â
- Clean after every time you fish in salt water
If you fish in freshwater, you only need to clean your fishing reels every four to five times. However, saltwater is extremely corrosive, and you must rinse your rods and reels before storing them. Removing your line and reel before storing your saltwater rod is a good idea. - Clean your guides often
Whether fishing for bass in the winter or catfish in the summer, your rods can accumulate a lot of buildup, such as vegetation or minerals. This can easily lead to line breakage. You can easily clean the inside and outside of your guides by using cotton swabs or a small soft plastic brush. However, never use a wire brush. Keep these items with you when fishing, and do clean as you go to prevent serious buildup. - Be Gentle
Avoid scrubbing your fishing rod hard, and do not use abrasive tools to clean it. You only need warm water, vinegar, or mild detergent for a thorough cleaning. - Ensure thorough drying
Remember that moisture can lead to rust and other damage. So make sure you dry your rod and reel well after cleaning.
Step 5: Use rod covers
Rod covers provide effective storage for your rods. They will also protect and keep them from getting tangled when you carry them. Please make sure they are the right size, though. Any pressure on the rod can bend it or create a weak spot in the blank.
Step 6: Store vertically
Whether you use a dedicated rack or mount the hanger to the wall, keeping the rods upright will prevent the blanks from bending. If you must store them horizontally, check that the tip is not weighted and bending the blank; otherwise, the rod will permanently bend over time.
Notes for suitable placesÂ
- Store in a dry place
Moisture destroys all kinds of materials, and fishing rods are no exception. Gears and guides may rust if stored in a damp place. Storing your rods off the ground is one way to protect them from moisture. You may also consider purchasing a dehumidifier or sleeving them in silicone tape. - Keep away from heat sources.
While rod sections are resistant to low temperatures, heat can damage them, especially the bonded parts of the rod. It would be best not to store your rod anywhere the temperature is consistently above 110°F. It may be convenient to store your rod in your car or truck temporarily, but this is not recommended in the summer.
Can I Store Fishing Rods Horizontally?
Of course, you can, but following these tips for storing your fishing rods horizontally, safely, and securely is best:
1. Use a ledge or shelf system
- Using a ledge or rack is the best way to store your fishing rods horizontally. These systems provide secure storage while keeping your fishing rods organized and easily accessible when you need them.
- Be sure to use screws or other securing parts that can hold the weight of the rod without damaging it. If you choose to keep your fishing reels, use them as well.
2. Securely fasten the rod in place
- When storing multiple fishing rods together on a ledge or shelving system, ensure they are securely fastened. This will help prevent damage due to accidental collisions.
- Store fishing rods away from direct sunlight and heat sources such as radiators, air conditioners, and fireplaces. This is because prolonged exposure may cause the fishing rod material to warp. If possible, try to keep it in a cool and dry place.
Tips for Protecting Your Fishing Rods (Three Tips)
Your fishing rod is a great investment in pursuing your favorite hobby. Proper maintenance of them will help ensure many seasons of use.
- Tips1：Treat your rod gently.
Even though fishing rods can withstand great force while fishing, they are still very fragile. Even small bumps and knocks can cause scratches and nicks, which can weaken the rod and cause it to break. Be careful not to bump into anything when carrying your rod, and place it on a flat surface in your vehicle. A rod cover can help protect the rod while traveling. - Tips2：Maintain your reel annually.
Your reel is your most critical piece of equipment, and you should do everything possible to keep it in top working order. Having it fully serviced once a year at the end of the fishing season will ensure you maintain its performance. Please take all the parts apart and clean each individually to keep it in good condition. - Tips3：Waxing the collar.
Regularly wiping the rod’s collar (joint) with candle wax or paraffin wax will prevent friction, prevent rod wear, and allow you to separate parts more easily.
Don’t let a broken rod ruin your fishing trip! Regular maintenance will extend the life of your gear. Invest in quality storage and transport options to keep your rods safe. Performance and functionality can be maintained with a few simple precautions. Taking steps now to prevent rod damage can save you money in the long run.
Summarize
Once you get into the habit of doing this, you’ll find that your fishing rod maintenance isn’t a big deal. Thoroughly cleaning your rods and reels, finding the right way how to store fishing rods, and making small adjustments to how you transport your rods will become a habit. And, when you notice that your equipment lasts longer, you’ll be glad to invest the time and effort to take good care of them.
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