It’s time to check those rods and reels….

Check your rod tips for wear as they’re always the first area to show signs of wear or grooving. If worn check the rest of the running guides. Use a Q-tip. Run it along the inside of the guides. If the guides are worn they’ll pick up fibers from the Q-tip.

Check your reel seats to ensure nothing is loose and the screws are turning smoothly.

Clean cork handles using a 50/50 solution of bleach & water. Scrub with a used toothbrush. Rinse & let dry. They come out looking and feeling like new again.

Check those reels. Your drags should be left in the off position when not in use. If necessary clean and lube your reels. Check to ensure all the screws are tight.

Fly lines should be cleaned and checked for roughness and wear. If necessary replace lines. Always replace leaders if they are mono. Check your fluorocarbon leaders for nicks and scrapes, but remember that fluoro won’t degrade like mono does.

Double check your knots and backing.

I can’t count the numerous times I’ve seen a trophy fish lost early in the season because of equipment failure.

All the best and tight lines in the new season.

Wayne…