7 Ways to Store Fishing Tackle

Your fishing tackle is one of the busiest and filled gears that you’ll probably bring when fishing. Therefore, you must stay organized with all the stuff that you have in there so that you can easily reach it out whenever you need it. This way, it would also be easier for you to focus on catching your target fish than searching for your tools.

You can use plenty of ways to store your fishing tackle. For example, you can make cabinet storage, a separate spool box, lure storage with velcro straps that you can attach to your fishing shirt, and even under-stair storage. You have to run your imagination and creativity, and you will see endless possibilities in storing your fishing tackle.

When it comes to fishing tackle, you want it clean and organized as much as possible. You don’t want your fishing line to get tangled with your other fishing line or artificial lures. So, in this article, allow us to give you some tips on how you can store your fishing tackle more efficiently. 

What is a Fishing Tackle?

A fishing tackle is a piece of equipment that anglers use when fishing. Think of it as an organizer where you have to put all other fishing gear like hooks, fishing lines, sinkers, floats, lures, and fishing rods. Don’t get confused about the term “Fishing Tackle” as a fishing technique, because it is not. It may sound like it’s a manner used for tackling a fish, but it’s actually just a piece of equipment where anglers put their fishing gear and tools.

The word “tackle” refers to the apparatus for fishing, which has been around since 1398 AD. Some anglers call fishing tackle as fishing gear, but this term is more appropriate in the context of commercial fishing. On the other hand, fishing tackle is more suitable in the context of recreational fishery.

The Most Common Tools that You Can Find in a Fishing Tackle

Hooks, artificial lures, baits, sinkers, bobbers, and fishing lines are some of the most common tools that you can find or put in a fishing tackle. It entirely depends on your preference for the fishing gear that you want to place in your fishing tackle. You can use a simple toolbox as a fishing tackle, and here are some tools that you want to have in there.

1. Hooks – These are devices for catching various fish species, which come in many various shapes and sizes. It connects the fishing line and the artificial lures or baits to be more effective in catching fish. Hooks also come in different materials, and choosing depends on your purpose and applications. Therefore, fishing hooks are for holding types of artificial, processed, dead, or live baits while acting as a foundation for false representations of fish prey.
   1. How Did Hooks Start? Historically, hooks or gorge came from an archaic word meaning “throat.” It is a thing and long piece of bone or any stone attached to a thin line, in which most ancient people used gorges to capture fish.
2. Fishing Lines – This material is a cord that you can use so that you can control the movement and presentation of your artificial lure or live bait under the water. In modern fishing, fishing lines are from synthetic substances like nylon, polyethylene, dacron, and Dyneema.
   1. How Did Fishing Lines Start? New fishing lines were mostly from leaves or plant stalk. Later on, fishing lines came from horsehair or silk thread, with catgut leaders. The evolution of modern industrial machinery in 1850 was the time when linen or silk are the primary materials used to manufacture fishing lines. 
   2. Different Kinds of Fishing Lines. The most popular fishing lines are monofilament, Fluorocarbon, and braided fishing lines.
      • Braid Fishing Lines. They come in thinner diameter, which allows better casting and higher line-reel capacity. Braid offers little to no stretch and memory that makes them suitable for deep-water fishing. It is because it will enable large swimbaits and deep-diving crankbaits through the water. Then, it will deliver solid hooksets on your target fish. The non-stretch nature of braid means they are highly sensitive so that you can identify even the very subtle fish bites.
      • Fluorocarbon Fishing Lines. To all types of fishing lines, Fluorocarbon is the newest to the fishing industry. It looks almost similar to a monofilament fishing line and has close features with braided fishing lines. Fluorocarbon is also ideal for fishing deep-diving baits. The fishing line will sink low so that you can keep your bait in place. Plus, they would also look transparent under any water.
      • Monofilament Fishing Lines. It is the most common fishing line used by many anglers – both professionals and amateurs. Plus, they are the cheapest fishing line to buy, which makes them the top choice in the fishing market. Monofilament fishing lines have a wide range of use and can excel in different situations. 
3. Sinkers – Some anglers call it as plummet. Regardless, it is a weight used to increase the distance when casting. Sinkers come in different shapes, but round shapes are the most popular choice. 
4. Fishing Reels – It is a device for reeling in and out of your fishing line. Modern fishing reels come in three different types with different purposes.
   • Spinning Reels – This reel is suitable for advanced anglers. Spinning reels feature a spool that sits parallel to the primary axis of the fishing rod. They hang beneath the rod when in use. This setup is slightly different from its counterparts that rest on top of the rod during use.
   • Spin-cast Reels – This kind is every beginner’s ‘go-to’ fishing reel because it provides excellent value for some fishing applications and anglers. Spin-cast Reels are almost the same with Spinning reels in appearance, except that they fit in with a plastic cover.
   • Baitcasting Reels – This kind is the most advanced of them all. Baitcasting reels rest perpendicularly to the fishing rod. This kind of fishing reel can handle more extensive fishing line and can cast farther even when fishing with more massive fishing lines and lures. It also has an impressive drag system for better control.
5. Live Baits – The most common natural and effective baits are those prey species of the fish. Worms, leeches, minnows, and baitfish are some of the most common baits.
   • Earthworms. One of the most accessible live baits that you can find, which is best to use for freshwater fishing. 
   • Grubs and Maggots. These are bait when it comes to trout fishing.
   • Grasshoppers, Ants, and Flies. These are all-around baits that you can use for both freshwater and saltwater fishing.
   • Croaker and Shrimp. These are the fish’s favorites. Croaker and shrimp can be useful in any kind of fish, especially bass fish.
6. Some Bite Indicators – Bobbers and other mechanical or electronic devices will help you indicate that there are some activities on your hook or your fishing line. It can be a fish bite, or your fishing hook got stuck in some structures under the water.
7. Jigheads – It is a hybrid sinker or hook, but it is still better if you can put some types of jig heads with different weights and styles. Some special jig heads have blades for added attraction, while others have weed guards for protection to snags in dense vegetation areas. It’s best if you can buy quality jig heads but always set your budget.
8. Leaders – Most leaders have coated wire or titanium body, which helps to catch fish species that have some teeth. So, make sure to put some on your tackle box because you’ll never know when to use them.

What are the Ways to Store Your Fishing Tackle?

Whether you have a large or small space at home, there are many ways that you can do to store your fishing tackle. Don’t you feel devastated seeing tangled fishing lines on your other fishing gear? We know how it feels, so here are some ways to help you store your fishing tackle. 

1. Create a Tackle Container. You can use various tackle containers for organizing and carrying your terminal tackle. Some of the most popular options are tackle boxes and tackle bags. These containers will help you take, organize, and store your tackle box without any hassle. 
   1. Hard-Plastic Tackle Box. These are an excellent all-round choice regardless of the type of fishing that you will do. The plastic material is so durable that it can withstand even rough treatment. Plus, it is also water-resistant. 
   2. Tackle Bags. The material of most tackle bags may be soft-sided, but you can pick some that are water-resistant. The best thing about tackle bags is that you can just sickle it on your body for secure handling. Also, bags can have different compartments and pockets for storing other fishing tools. The flexibility of tackle bags makes them useful for anglers who are always on the go.
   3. Specialized Containers. These are only ideal for specific fishing gear, especially the large ones. This method is a more customized tackle management system, depending on your fishing style. For example, one container is for lures, the other is for jigs, and another big one for your fishing rods.
2. Cabinet Storage – This kind of cabinet can only fit in the back of most SUVs, but it is a great way to store your fishing rods and other gear when you’re on a road journey. 
3. Shelving Rack – You can make a DIY shelving rock, and it doesn’t have to be expensive. You can just screw some of the short sections of wire shelving, and you will already have an organized tackle box.
4. Spool Box – This kind of storage set up with a latch closure is perfect for holding up to six spools of fishing line that have 1 inch broad. Spool box will make sure that you have tangle-free fishing lines, and they are very convenient to bring anywhere.
5. PVC Fishing Rod Holder – You Can also start a fishing gear organizer if you have some extra PVC pipe and a foam pool noodles. Drill some10-inch holes that are 4 inches apart on the PVC pipe. Cut slits in the foam noodle using a utility knife. Then, assemble your new PVC fishing rod holder according to the sizes of your fishing rods.
6. Lure Storage – This method storing Fishing Tackle is so convenient that you can attach it to your fishing clothes using velcro straps. Lure storage is an excellent addition to your fishing arsenal.
7. Camo Cabinet – This kind of cabinet will give you plenty of space and storage for all your fishing gear and tools. You can make something that has two adjustable shelves with locking drawers to keep everything secure.
8. Under-Stairs Storage – If you have some space underneath the staircase in your house, why not utilize it for all your fishing tools? The best thing about this kind of fishing tackle storage is that it is out of the way, yet it’s easy to find whenever you need it.

How to Organize a Fishing Tackle Box?

Whether you have the perfect artificial lure or most expensive fishing tool – these are all useless if you can’t use them because you can’t seem to find it. On the other hand, it is a total waste of time digging into your tackle box while fishing. If only you knew how to get organized, none of these situations would happen. 

When it comes to fishing, believe it or not, getting organized with your tackle box contributes to our success. It will allow you to get the right fishing gear as quickly as possible, which increases your success rate. So, here’s how to organize your fishing tackle the right way.

• STEP 1: Empty Your Tackle Box. Take everything out of your tackle box, empty all shelves, cases, and sections. Then, wipe down every chapter and each part. Make sure that your tackle box is clean before reloading it with your fishing gear and tools.
• STEP 2: Make Partition. Partitions and separating the tackle by broad categories will make your life a lot easier. Start by taking all your spinnerbaits, crankbaits, soft plastics, topwater, and chatter baits. Group them and create separate piles for each. Once done, you can start putting back those tackles back to the box according to their group.
  • PRO TIP! It will also help you if you organize it according to their color.
• STEP 3: Soft Plastic Lures Goes in Your Bag. As much as possible, you want to put all your loose soft plastics in plastic bags. Then, organize it according to their type or size.
• STEP 4: Put Small Tackles in a Plastic Container Before Putting it in Your Tackle Box. Your swivels ad leaders should have a house of their own before you put them in your tackle box. Make sure that the plastic container will fit in your tackle box. This way, you’re preventing the possibility of mixing those small tackles to your other fishing tools.
• STEP 5: Put Labels for Every Section. It doesn’t make you a forgetful person, but it only shows your organization skills. Things are a lot easier to see if you have names on it, especially if you’re looking at a lot of stuff.
• STEP 6: Get Rid of Those Excess Fishing Tools. Yes, you need some additional tools. However, it doesn’t mean that you have to bring all your excess fishing gear. So, do yourself a favor and remove some items that won’t use like too many spinnerbaits, crankbaits, and artificial lures. If you have been getting confused about what you should get rid of, start looking at those fishing tools in your tackle box that you didn’t use last year. Just leave at home for future use.

These simple steps in organizing your tackle box will help you find the perfect artificial lure to use, and pick the appropriate tool quickly. It reduces the time of “digging” and searching, which only means more time catching your target fish. 

7 Tips on How to Sort the Gear and Tools in Your Fishing Tackle

Once you have decided whether you will get a tackle box, a bag, or a container – it’s now time to sort and store the fishing gear and tools. The most efficient way to do it is by sorting them based on their size, type, and weight. When it comes to sorting your tackle box, here are some things that you have to consider.

1. Group the tools in your tackle box with the same purpose. This way, it would be easier for you to choose the right gear whenever you need it.
2. Organize your artificial lures based on their purpose. Separate those lures that are for large-mouth fish from the small ones. For example, put the large-mouth bass crankbaits on the left part of the tackle box — place minnow baits in the middle, and topwater lures on the left.
3. As much as possible, sort your soft-plastic baits according to their colors. It is because mixing various shades of soft-plastic lures can cause colors to bleed. Also, take note that some baits can consume soft-plastic chemicals. Therefore, never mix your baits with your artificial lures.
4. When storing your hooks, sinkers, floats, and other small terminal tackle – it’s better if you can use trays and some utility boxes with small compartments.
5. Get a tackle box that will allow you to adjust the tray dividers so that you can store artificial lures with different sizes.
6. Using clear plastic lids will make it easier for the inside of your tackle box.
7. Labels will keep the tools and gear in your tackle box to get more organized.

Organizing your fishing gear in tackle box can make your life easier, especially if you’re a frequent fisher. Installing storage racks, labeling your containers, and investing in a rod rack are some of the ways for a cleaner fishing tackle. Nonetheless, efficient tackle management can save you time and money.

How to Store Fishing Equipment and Tools?

Just finished fishing, and now is the time to store your fishing tools and pieces of equipment correctly. Doing it ensures that your devices are free from any damage due to improper storing and mishandling. So, we’ve included some tips that you can do when it comes to storing your different fishing equipment. 

• How to Store Your Fishing Equipment? These pieces of equipment involve all mechanical and electric fishing tools that you may have. It includes fishing rods and reels.

1. You must check your fishing rod before and after fishing so that you can see any worn guides and loose winding wraps. Make sure to remove and replace any guides that have nicks or grooves. If you noticed that they got exposed, repair it immediately using few wraps of winding thread. Then, coat it with a rod spar varnish.
2. Waders are prone to leaks, so make sure to check them regularly. You can find those drops easily, but pinhole leaks are a bit challenging. The best way to check for any pinhole leaks is to go into a dark place and use a flashlight to inspect it. Once you find the spot, encircle it with a pen and patch with a waterproof adhesive. 
3. Clean and store your waders so that you can preserve the synthetic or rubber materials to its natural form.
4. For monofilament and braided lines, check for any wear. Whenever necessary, make sure to replace it and store it in loose coils. On the other hand, you can use dish detergent when cleaning your fishing lines.
5. Replace all sharpen rusty or bent hooks. They are harmful to the fish, and it will only give you poor performance.
6. In sharpening your filet knives, you can use a 65 to 120 gritstone. Then, clean and dry the blade with light oil before storing it.

• How to Store Your Fishing Reels? Here are some tips that you can do when storing your fishing reels. It is essential to follow some of these tips to avoid rusting of all moving parts in your fishing reel.
  • After fishing – make sure to clean, grease, and oil your fishing reels. Don’t forget to wipe and oil the real handle and seat hardware as well. Remember to lubricate all moving parts to avoid any corrosion.
  • Clean your fishing reels thoroughly with soapy water and let them dry fully.
  • You can grease the small moving parts with Vaseline. Apply this material through all parts of the reel and wipe off some excess.

• How to Store Your Fishing Rods? Storing your fishing rods ensures that you can maintain its flexibility. You have to be mindful of their strength because some fishing rods are sensitive to certain conditions. So, here are some tips that you can do to store your fishing rods after a long day of fishing.
  • When disassembling your fishing rod, it’s better if you can restore each part using rod sleeves to prevent any mismatch on the tip and butt sections.
  • When storing your fishing rods, place them vertically or horizontally to avoid bending. Storing them at room temperature ensures that it will maintain its strength, especially for graphite or fiberglass rods, which are sensitive to warm places.
  • Use a cloth soaked in lukewarm water mixed with detergent or vinegar to your fishing rod when cleaning it. This process is essential, especially after fishing in saltwater.
  • Rub some paraffin or candle wax on the joints of the rod to avoid rusting.
  • Inspect for any dirt on the fishing rod, and use a soft-bristle brush to remove it. For more accessibility, an old toothbrush works too.
  • Make sure to loosen your drag before storing your fishing rod and reel so that the fishing line will not pull the rod.

• How to Store Your Boat? If you own a boat for fishing, here are some tips for storing it. 
  • You can run fogging oil through the cylinders so that you can winterize your engine. Make sure to replace your spark plugs, water filter, and lower unit oil regularly.
  • To avoid water retention on the boat, trim its outboards down. However, make sure to attach it to a sawhorse in the upright position if you’re going to trim it down.
  • Make sure to add a gas stabilizer before filling your tank to prevent any unwanted moisture on your boat.
  • When removing the battery of your motorboat, place it in a warm and dry place. 
  • Ensure that the interior compartments of your boat are always dry when not in use, or before you put its cover on for storage. If you don’t have a cover, you can use a shrink-wrapping to wrap your boat and prevent any falling debris, animal waste, and nesting.
  • If you’re going to store your boat on a trailer, make sure to jack up the wheels place a cinder block.
  • Always inspect all trailer lighting harnesses, directionals, and brake light harnesses so that you can be sure that your lighting system is intact.
  • Replace your first aid kits, flashlight, life jackets, and bug repellent regularly. You can also add other items that will be useful for different seasons.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can You Take Fishing Tackle on a Plane?

You can take your fishing tackle on a plane, but make sure to put it in your checked luggage. As much as possible, avoid adding it to your carry-on bag because airport authorities may confiscate it. Rake note that any sharp fishing tackle such as large fish hooks may pose a threat. Therefore, you have to sheathed, securely wrapped, and packed them in your checked luggage. On the other hand, you may pack your fishing reel and some fragile tackle that is not a threat to the airport’s security,

Why Is It Called Fishing Tackle?

The word “tackle” refers to the apparatus for fishing, which has been around since 1398 AD. Fishing gear is the other term that anglers call it, but this term is more appropriate in the context of commercial fishing. On the other hand, fishing tackle is more suitable in the context of recreational fishery.

What Is in a Fishing Kit?

The material that you will put in your fishing kit depends on what you need. Generally, anglers put some fundamental survival kid that’s easy to carry. You may also add some hooks, high test line, various artificial lures, knife, bobbers, and sinkers. 

Final Words

Storing your fishing tackle is essential so that you can easily reach your fishing gear and tools whenever you need it. You can do several ways when it comes to organizing your fishing stuff. You can make cabinet storage, lure storage with velcro straps, a separate spool box, and any form of storage. Your fishing tackle needs to be clean and organized to avoid tangled fishing lines and more time searching for the tools that you need.