After‑Each‑Trip
- • Rinse: Reel, line, flies (mandatory after salt); pat dry.
- • Rod: Wipe sections/ferrules; inspect guides for nicks.
- • Flies/Boxes: Open boxes to air‑dry; discard rusty hooks.
- • Waders/Boots: Hang to dry away from heat; unguard gravel cuffs.
Rod Care
- • Ferrules: Clean with dry cloth/isopropyl; paraffin film if loosening.
- • Transport: Always in a tube; never lean where doors/tailgates close.
Reel Care
- • Post‑rinse: Back off drag; dry fully.
- • Lube: Maker‑specified points, light, 2–3×/season (don't over‑oil).
- • Drag Types: Sealed — don't open; Click‑pawl — single drop on paw/post.
Lines / Leaders / Tippet
- • Clean: Mild soap + soft cloth; dressing sparingly on floaters.
- • Inspect: First 10–15′ for cracks/coils; trim back if cracked.
- • Replace: Leaders after two heavy wind‑knots; store tippet away from heat/UV.
Flies & Hooks
- • Dry: Thoroughly (boxes open).
- • Sharpen: Fine file, three light passes/side.
- • Hardware: Replace loose dumbbell eyes/split rings.
Waders & Boots
- • Dry: Inside/out; never on direct heat.
- • Zippers/Seams: Lube zips; patch pinholes with Aquaseal.
- • Decon (invasives): Freeze 48 hrs or soak in 5% salt solution; then dry fully.
Off‑Season Storage
- • Rods: In tubes; reels in breathable pouches; drag backed off.
- • Lines: Large, loose coils; avoid tight bends.
- • Environment: Cool/dry; silica packs in boxes/bags.