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Salt Water and Freshwater Fishing Tackle

Tackle for salt water fishing isn't really an accurate description for most pieces of fishing tackle. You can fish almost any piece of tackle you choose to but they were never really built for the harsh conditions that are found around salt water. Even leaving a reel that hasn't been fished inside a moored boat would see corrosion commencing quickly, with fine salt spray finding its way into any opening.

There are exceptions with Alvey reels taking the title as Australia premier salt water resistant 
reels. These reels are Australian made for Aussie conditions and I actually rinse mine out in the 
surf to get rid of any loose sand that may find its way into the workings. This would be suicide for almost any other reel but the Avey fishes on. Others are also more resistant than others but truly every care should be taken to minimize exposure to the elements if you wish to get longer life out of your tackle.

Fishing tackle care and maintenance can go a long way to keeping your tackle in top shape, 
especially if your gear has been exposed to saltwater. Salt is a tackle killer with many a seized 
reel being unrecoverable after a drenching on the beach or by a wave over the side of the boat. 
While reels such as Alveys laugh at salt water emersion spinning reels and overheads need constant maintenance and care.

Reels should have their drags locked then lightly rinsed in warm mild soapy water to remove any 
grime and salt which may have accumulated on it. Rods and lines will be happy a light wash down. Once the reels have dried the drags should be loosened and all tackle put away safely till your next trip. Where possible this should be in a darker area as light can have detrimental effects on fishing line.

Hooks and fishing lures can also be rinsed, however in the case of hooks it is much more sensible to keep them in sealed packs until such time as they are required and in the case of used hooks simply replace them. Trebles on lures should also be checked and replaced if necessary as a rusting hook loses its edge and a sharp hook can be the difference between catching and not landing a fish.

Freshwater Fishing Tackle

Our three big freshwater fishing tackle species we chase bass, barramundi, yellowbelly and trout. 
The more northern parts of Australia are the prime freshwater fishing impoundment areas for tackle busting barramundi. Awoonga and a vast array of other dams hold trophy metre plus fish in abundance and these big girls can put a lot of strain on poorly chosen freshwater fishing tackle.

Flyfishing gear has also made its way strongly into the freshwater scene. Almost exclusively used 
for targeting brown and rainbow in the likes of Lake Eildon and Eucumbene fly fishing tackle is now being used for other freshwater targets. Barramundi on fly gear may bring a few giggles but in more open country watching a monster barra inhale a surface fly before exploding from the water is a site to behold. Bass and saratoga are attracting the attention of dedicated wand wavers as well.

For the most part our freshwater fishing tackle has really only been saltwater tackle brought to the fresh. Aside from spinner baits and insect and animal pattern lures we can't really lay claim to 
truly dedicated freshwater fishing tackle.

Freshwater rods and reels aren't really specifically designed as such but if the truth be known are 
probably better suited to fresh rather than saltwater use. As with other fishing tackle it is prudent 
to gently wash and dry your gear after each fishing trip. It should also be stored in a dry dark 
area if possible away from vermin which may at times find fishing gear tasty.

Tackle Titbits

Fishing Tackle Warranties

Be aware that in most cases warrantees and guarantees of fishing tackle don't cover corrosion 
caused by poor maintenance and care. Fishing reels in particular to are very susceptible to salt 
spray and rust and corrosion will destroy a poorly maintained reel quickly.

Support your local tackle store where possible

You have an early start fishing in the morning when you remember you are missing a very important piece of gear. Online stores can't possibly deliver in time so you have to hope that enough people have supported the local tackle shop to keep it open for emergencies like this.

Test your Tackle

Never take anything for granted with fish tackle. Fishing reel drags are always smooth out of the 
box. Hooks aren't always sharp, the eyes of ganged rigs may not be closed properly or any one of a million other pitfalls may be waiting to bite you. Preparing your gear and checking you have what you need and it is in top condition will make for more successful and enjoyable fishing trips.

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