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.
Fishing Tackle
Saltwater and Freshwater Tackle
Tackle Boxes
Buying Online
|
