Tackle Box Essentials

THE NOVICE NINE

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1 ) Line –

You have a few options here including mono, braid and fluorocarbon. However for most applications, my first choice is the classic Stren (mono). Introduced in 1958, it was probably the single most important advancement in the fishing industry. It is the most versatile of the 3 and out preformed all other line types when I was testing the Glaucus Hand Line Survival Card.

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2 ) Hooks –

Again lots of options here, but for almost everything freshwater I turn to this old favorite. The snell knot used to tie the leaders to the hooks provides an even, straight pull during the “hook-set” and the baitholder barbs on the shaft help keep your bait in place. The only real hassle with these is finding a good way to store them in your tackle box. Check out (Extras & Upgrades) for storage solutions.

3 ) Swivels –

These small coupling devices allow your rig to rotate and avoid tangling during line retrieval. The secondary benefit, is it keeps your weight from sliding down the leader. There are many styles but I prefer the “snap” variety, which simplifies things when changing hooks/ lures.

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4 ) Weights –

There are many variations here, but this assortment of split shot makes it easy to attach and remove weight so you can adjust your fishing depth. This weight is also what allows you to cast your line.

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5 ) Bait –

With bait fishing we are relying on scent and color to entice the fish as opposed to artificial lures/ flies that rely on color and presentation. These two types are nice to have in your box because they have a relatively long shelf life in comparison to live bait. However, do not forget to stock up on night-crawlers before your next outing.

Note: An old-timer once advised me to mix Alka-Seltzer in with the power-bait. He claimed the bubbles that this mixture produced helped in water with low visibility. I have never tried this nor am I suggesting you try, but man that guy caught a lot of fish.

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6 ) Bobbers –

Did you know that most fly-fishers are really just bobber fishers? Of course, they do not use the term bobber, fly fishers refer to them as “strike indicators”. We use Bobbers to detect strikes and also to adjust our fishing depth.

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7 ) Rod & Reel –

My go-to option when fishing with my boys. At 7&8 they can be tough on equipment and Ugly Stik\’s can take a beating. I recommend an Ultra Light because there is nothing like catching a big fish with a light action rod.

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8 ) Pliers –

Easily one of the most overlooked piece of gear, don\’t wait until your on the water desperate for a pair. These are my favorite due to the over-sized finger holes and grip coating. Used for everything from hook removal, line cutting and barb crimping.

9 ) TACKLE BOX –

And finally, a box for which to put it all in.

EXTRAS & UPGRADES

Coming soon