What Sells: Fishing Gear

Rods, reels, lures and tackle boxes are just some of the many different types of fishing gear sold online. Collectors buy older tackle boxes that are sold with their contents, in the hopes of finding interesting and valuable lures. Vintage rods and reels are also quite popular; some sell for hundreds or thousands of dollars.

Like many other sports, fishing has a vast array of specialized equipment. The following websites can help you identify and describe your items:

http://www.antiquefishinglures.com/

http://www.antiquelures.com/

http://www.antiquetackleobserver.com/

http://www.fishresource.com/basics.asp

http://www.nflcc.com/

http://www.tacklecollecting.com/

Look for these signs of wear and tear:

• Cracked, split or warped wood
• Corrosion on metal parts
• Chips, cracks and worn paint on lures
• Missing parts

Improperly disassembling and storing fishing tackle can cause damage or deterioration. Avoid problems by following these next steps:

• Remove the reel from the rod. Wipe the reel clean with a towel. Put it into its storage bag or case, but do not close it tightly. Allow air to reach the reel so any moisture remaining in and on it can evaporate.
• Use a towel or cloth to dry and clean the rod. A spray window cleaner will safely remove any dirt or greasy film. After the rod has been wiped dry, place it in a cloth bag. Do not get the bag wet. Now place the rod, inside its bag, into the rod case or tube.

Keep both the rod and reel in a cool, dry, dark place away from sunlight when possible. Be sure you do not seal either the rod or reel case tightly during long storages. When storing a reel for a few months, it’s best to remove the line from the reel, clean it and store it in large loose coils to extend its life.

For shipment, be sure you have a hard case in which to place the rod and reel. If a case is not available, disassemble the tackle, wrap each item individually in bubble wrap, and place the parts in a sturdy box in a bed of packing peanuts.