How to Get a Fishing Pole Ready

fishing poles image by Scott McCarty from <a href='http://www.fotolia.com'>Fotolia.com</a>

Sometimes fishing equipment may sit unused for long periods. Unless properly stored, the fishing pole may be dusty, dirty or damaged after such a period and require a tuneup. A prudent angler never just grabs a pole after a long period without use and goes fishing. He takes time to make sure the rod and reel is ready to catch that trophy fish.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Soft brush
Clean soft rag
New spool of monofilament
Light machine oil
Practice casting lure

Step 1

Remove dust and debris from rod and reel using a soft brush or compressed air to clean the entire outfit. Rinse the entire rod and reel with a garden hose and place in the sun until dry.

Step 2

Inspect the fishing pole from tip to butt for cracks or breaks. Examine the rod guides for scratches or nicks that might abrade the line.

Step 3

Check that the cork or foam on the rod butt is firmly attached. Make sure the reel attachment screw threads and nut are not damaged and hold the reel securely.

Step 4

Remove old fishing line by pulling it off the spool; discard it at a local recycling center. Open the reel's bail and thread new line through the rod guides and attach to spool. Turn the reel handle to close the bail, and fill the reel's spool to within 1/8-inch of the spool's lip.

Step 5

Examine reel for dirt or debris between the spool and the frame. Check that the bail is smooth (no nicks) by running your fingers over it. Look for loose parts on the reel, especially the handle, spool and drag. Lubricate moving parts with a light machine oil.

Step 6

Test the rod and reel when cleaning is finished. Attach a practice lure and make several casts to ensure that casting and retrieval work correctly. Test the drag and make sure it is smooth and even.

Tips & Warnings

Read the owners manual for your for maintenance tips.

Let a professional service the reel annually.

Resources

Zebco website - reel maintenance

Article Written By Daniel Ray

Daniel Ray has been writing for over 15 years. He has been published in "Florida Sportsman" magazine. He holds an FAA airframe and powerplant license and FCC radiotelephone license, and is also a licensed private pilot. He attended the University of South Florida.

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