Newsletter - KAS 3/2002
Down Time Keeps Fishing Gear in Top Shape
By Colin Crawford
When was the last time you gave your
fishing rod the once over?
Chances are that it was at
the very start of the season, and how many times have you been on the water
since that time? It is essential that anglers periodically inspect and
maintain their rods and components to assure peak casting and
fish fighting performance. A few minutes invested in checking the
blank, real seat, guide wraps and grips may also save you money in the
long run. Here are some tips that I use when inspecting my rods so they
maintain their top performance on the water.
Pull a strip of nylon hose through each guide. If the material sticks or
threads, there's probably a nick in the guide which could lead to
line damage. Replace the guides as necessary. Most local dealers
offer this service for a very nominal fee.
Inspect guide wraps for hints of wear. Re-wrap if necessary or seal any
loose ends with a dab of clear nail polish or epoxy. Again, a local
dealer may provide this service for a very reasonable charge.
Clean the cork grips by gently rinsing with a warm water and soap
solution. If fish scales and slime
prove stubborn, gently rub the grips with a piece of fine steel wool.
If the rod is fitted with EVA foam grips, wipe them with a soapy
dish rag, then rinse in cool water.
Check
the reel seat for any buildup of residue, or evidence of corrosion. The
reel will not set properly with "gunk" on the seat, and the seat may be
difficult to move or could even seize up if corroded. This
can be
remedied by rubbing with a soapy sponge, rinsing with cool water
and drying thoroughly with a towel. The use of WD-40 (or similar)
will help prevent corrosion.
If utilizing a two-piece rod, rub a very light coating of paraffin onto
the ferrule. This not only makes for a firm, sure connection, but also
makes it easier to separate the sections.
Store the rod(s) in a horizontal or vertical rack as opposed to leaning
against a wall or stacking in a corner where the rod might bend and
actually take a "set."
Run your fingers over the length of the blank. Should you detect any
dings, the rod may have incurred damage that may cause it to break
during use.
When it comes time to add that new action to your arsenal, you need only
to visit your local dealer. There you will find all kinds of rods from
ultra light panfish rods to salt water varieties.
But, take some time now that winter grips the lakes and inspect your
rods and components and you will have more time on the water
this spring.
Alan has more in store for you on the KAS
site so go and visit
New items on the KAS web Site :-
1)Maps to many dams
2)Calendar of Events
3)Downloadable PC Diary for your fishing
trips
4)Link to Solunar Charts for yout fishing
times
5)Easy downloadable booklet for Juniors
and Beginners
6)Full listing of Zimbabwe records (right
up to date)
7)Links to overseas angling sites
Go on visit the site and find out where
the fun in fishing is !!!
Well this should keep you busy this week.
I heard that there excellent fishing in
the Gache Gache so I'm off to Kariba for a few days. Will let you know
if the rumours are true . 107 Mozzies was the last catch.
Kariba Angling members do
not forget subs are due !!!!!
Cheers and tight lines
Jenny