Is there anything worse than reaching for a hemostat or a pair of split ring pliers, or even line cutters, and realizing just a second too late that the thing is seized with rust?
Well, maybe losing a trophy is a bit worse. But fishing tool abuse is no joke, and you can prevent it.
This short post will help keep your fishing tools in tip-top shape, so that very issue doesn’t greet you on your first spring trip on the water.
Rinse and Dry After Every Outing (Especially in Saltwater)
If you use a pair of split ring pliers or a steel disgorger in freshwater, we’ll keep it real with you. You can probably put them away and they’ll be fine on your next outing.
But you shouldn’t, because moisture causes rust; and don’t even think about trying to get away with that with any fishing tools that ever see saltwater use.
It doesn’t matter what they’re made of, stainless steel or not. If you use a fishing tool in saltwater and it has steel on it, it’s going to be rusted the next time you get it out.
That is, unless you fastidiously rinsed, cleaned and dried it prior to storing it.
Store in a Cool, Dry Location
It might seem like it’s a good idea to store your pliers and line cutters in your tackle box or bag, but this actually isn’t the best idea.
Soft-sided bags will absorb salt which accelerates corrosion, and soft plastics, in your box, will absorb and release saltwater that will actively rust your fishing tools.
During the offseason, get a separate tackle tray or keep your fishing tools (and any knives you carry) in a drawer somewhere away from your other tackle.
For Badly Rusted Fishing Tools
Let’s say you pull out a pair of split ring pliers, or a line cutter, or a hemostat, and that thing is seized with rust. Don’t throw it out just yet. You may be able to save it.
First, drop some gun oil, WD-40, or another penetrating oil, water displacer or lubricant onto the pivot point. If you can get it to work, the rust is probably not that bad. If it is still seized, trash the tool.
If you get the thing to move, get a steel or brass brush, or some steel wool, and scrub away all the rust. It’ll take a little elbow grease but you should be able to do it.
After you’ve removed most of the rust, give the thing a light coat of oil, then don’t make the same mistake again that caused it to get rusted in the first place.
Pick Up Some New Fishing Tools Today
Got some fishing tools that are too far gone? No worries, you can replace your line cutters, nippers, split ring pliers, and other tools online at Johnny Jigs. Check them out first and then stock up before spring comes in earnest.
For more information about Fishing Tools and Nlbn Lures Please visit: Johnny Jigs.