Outdoor Blog

How to Store Fishing Rods the Right Way

Published

3 years ago

July 28, 2021

Storing your fishing rods the correct way could mean the difference between keeping them for a while or having to get new ones.

The life of your rod is very important because buying fishing poles can be very expensive. Anglers take great pride in their fishing reels and rods, and they take care of their rods to prevent corrosion. Here are the best ways to care for your various fishing equipment so they’re ready for the next fishing season.

Why Does Proper Fishing Rod Storage Matter?

If you want to be a more serious fisherman, you need to take good care of your equipment. Not only your fishing rods but your reels and waders too. Everything is so expensive these days that you can’t just store things however you feel like it.

Most people like to keep their fishing poles in the garage

You need proper storage solutions to ensure that you can use your equipment for a long time. The most important thing about storing your fishing poles is to keep them out of the sun. These may be outdoor equipment, but they aren’t made to be exposed to the sun for long periods of time.

Another way to keep them out of the sun even if they’re inside is to keep them away from the garage door if your rack is in the garage. You could be doing work outside with the garage door open, and the sun could be hitting your fishing poles the entire time.

Before you put your fishing rods up for storage after you use them, you need to wash and dry them properly. If you put them up without washing them, rust can build up and ruin your fishing rods. Just because you use fishing poles on the water doesn’t mean that prolonged water exposure is good for them.

The most important part of this routine is that you dry the poles until there’s absolutely no water left.

How to Store Fishing Rods

There are two ways that you’ll need to store your rods: at home and on fishing trips. You’ll be storing your fishing rods at home a lot more often than on fishing trips. There are a few ways that you can correctly store your fishing rods at home.

And, these storage solutions work best in the garage or shed. Also, you can buy storage racks or DIY them.

Wood Rod Rack

This is a rack that you can buy, and it’s very nice. It’s a wall rack that has several different functions and saves lots of storage space. This rod holder is also very good-looking, so you can hang it in the house if you wanted to. You could try to make this type of fishing rod holder, but you should really know your way around a workbench.

If you choose this rack, you won’t be disappointed with how it looks.

Commercial Rod Rack

This is the most popular fishing rod storage rack because all you have to do is buy it and set it up. You might not be super into arts and crafts, so this rack is perfect for you. There are several different kinds of racks that you can buy, but they all optimize your garage organization.

You can also get racks that have places for all of your fishing gear. Some racks have moving parts and reel seats too!

DIY Wall Rod Rack

This is a very creative way to store your fishing rods, and it includes a PVC pipe and pool noodles. First, you make holes in the PVC pipe that are big enough to hold the end of your fishing rods. Next, mark on the pool noodle how far apart the fishing rods will be.

Cut slits into the pool noodle where your fishing poles will hit them. Finally, put the handle end of your fishing pole in the PVC pipe hole and slide the rod tip into the pool noodle slit.

DIY Overhead Rod Rack:

For this rack, you’ll need to purchase some materials to make them, such as PVC pipe J hooks, double-sided weatherproof tape, soft foam, and wood screws. You’ll need to hang J-hooks from the rafters of your garage, two per fishing rod, and as many pairs as you need for how many fishing rods you have.

If you don’t have wooden rafters in your ceiling, you can always buy some two-by-fours and use those. You can use some foam to cushion the J-hooks. Then, put your fishing rods in the J-hooks.

How to Store Fishing Rods to Go On A Fishing Trip

When you’re on the go, it might seem easy to just toss your fishing poles into the bed of your truck or into the trunk of your car. However, you really shouldn’t do this. Stacking your fishing poles on top of one another risks breakage and entanglement.

You need something that will keep all of your fishing gear organized and secure. Some companies make drawers that will slide in and out of truck beds very easily. They will fit all of your reels, rods, bait, and waders. Some drawers even have enough room to store whatever you catch too!

You’ll want to make sure that whatever drawer system you buy is waterproof, and you’ll need to check its dimensions to ensure that it fits in the back of your truck. If you don’t have a truck or just don’t like the idea of the drawers, you could get a rooftop rack.

These have their advantages and disadvantages. If you are bringing a kayak and plan on keeping it on top of your car, you’ll need to look into the drawers. If you don’t plan on taking a kayak, a rooftop rack is a great option if you want to keep your rods out of the way.

The last option for those who don’t have the ability to put things on top of their car is just a portable rod rack. It comes with brackets that you mount to the wall wherever you plan on keeping your fishing rods indoors. Then, you can lift the whole thing off of the brackets and take it on the go.

They’re very lightweight and small enough to keep inside the trunk of a compact car. When it comes to the rest of your gear, you should look into quality tackle boxes. The best boxes have special compartments to keep your lure, spools, and hooks.

These boxes should be waterproof and easy to clean. A good box will also have enough space to keep the fish you catch and be accessible enough that you can clean it out with a hose.

Different Types of Fishing Rods

You can always get a cheap rod from Walmart or Amazon, but it makes more sense to spend a little more money. This way, you can save money in the long run. However much money you want to spend on a rod, you need to store them the same way. Also, you need to store the different rods the same way.

Freshwater Rod
Saltwater Rod
Fly Fishing Rod
Spinning Rod

Freshwater Rod

Freshwater casting rods are made from fiberglass and graphite, and the handle is usually made out of PVC foam or cork. As the name suggests, these fishing poles are meant to be used when going catfish or bass fishing. They typically have between five or eight guides, and they are about five to nine feet in length.

There are a few different varieties of freshwater rods, but the bait-casting and closed-spin casting rods are the most popular.

Saltwater Rod

Saltwater rods are made from corrosion-resistant materials because the salt causes the corrosion process to speed up. The main thing that designates saltwater rods from freshwater rods is the guides. These rods have guides that are made of corrosion-resistant metal.

Saltwater rods should have shock absorption because you need to keep tension on the fishing line.

Fly Fishing Rod

Fly fishing rods are specifically used for fly fishing. Lighter in weight than other types of fishing poles, these rods are usually made out of graphite or fiberglass.

Fly fishing is very popular in freshwater lakes and rivers.

Fly fishing line is different from regular fishing line, so you should make sure that you’ve purchased the correct kind for your pole. Another difference is that the guides, line rings, are very close to the actual rod. This rod is very well-balanced.

Spinning Rod

This is the most common type of fishing rod. They’re lightweight, and they have spinning reels that are good for beginning anglers. You might remember this kind of rod from the first rod you might have had as a kid. This type of rod holds the spinning reel underneath the rod while the guides face down.

There are a few different varieties of spinning rods, as far as length and style are concerned.

Basic Tips About Storing Fishing Gear

Your fishing gear should be super important to you. Keeping the same gear for a long time can make sure that you save money. There are certain things that you should do to make sure that you keep your gear for as long as you can. Try to maintain all of these things in your fishing routine, and you’ll have your gear forever.

First, you should loosen the drag on the line before you put up your fishing rod. If you just put the rod up for storage without doing this, you might risk pulling the rod or breaking the line. You don’t want to have to reline your rod every time you go fishing, so just loosen the drag and then put it up.

It could save you lots of time when you’re getting ready for a fishing trip. The next tip has to do with storage for the off-season. You should disassemble your rods to clean and oil them. Your rods need this kind of treatment a few times during the fishing season, and you should definitely do it before putting them in storage for the off-season.

You’ll get all of the grime and water remnants out of the areas of the pole that you can’t normally see. Another tip about storing your fishing rods is about taking apart your rods. You should use rod sleeves to keep all the parts together when taking the rods apart.

The worst thing that could happen when you’re deep cleaning your rods is that you lose a piece. You need to make sure that that doesn’t happen, and the easiest way to do that is with rod sleeves. If you find that your equipment is rusty or corroded, you should wait until the end of the fishing season to replace or repair the pieces.

It’s hard to get rid of rust or corrosion, and the best thing that you can do for your equipment is to replace it. However, you might as well wait until the end of the fishing season because you don’t want the new equipment to start rusting too.

If you find that your gear is constantly getting new rust and corrosion, you should look into your cleaning routine and find ways to improve it.

Another tip is to clean and dry everything within an inch of its life before you put it up between fishing trips, and this tip is especially important between fishing seasons. Fish have a very powerful odor, and that means that your fishing gear will too.

Also, if you put metal hooks up without properly drying them off, you could come to get ready for the first fishing trip of the season and find that all of your hooks have rust on them. It’s better to be over-prepared than have rusty hooks.

Keeping all of your equipment in one place might seem like a no-brainer, but it’s not always to some people. You don’t want to be running all over the garage or wherever you keep your gear just to pack up for a fishing trip. It’s best to have some sort of workbench to start rigging your gear before you leave so that you have less to do once you reach your fishing destination.

Bouncing off the idea of a workbench in the last tip, you should have a workbench that is specifically dedicated to fish. You don’t want to scale a fish on the kitchen counter, so do it out in the garage near where you keep your fishing gear.

It makes the most sense to keep the smelly, bloody process of scaling the fish outside. The last tip is about cleaning the knife that you scale fish with. This knife should be cleaned, oiled, and sharpened after every use. You don’t want any bacteria entering the fish while you’re cleaning it to be eaten.

Conclusion

Whichever way you want to store your fishing rods, remember that there is a right way and a wrong way. You shouldn’t just lay them around without any rhyme or reason. Position them upright if you can, and make sure that they’re clean before you put them up.

You should look into buying or making a fishing rod storage rack because it’s the best way to ensure the long life of your fishing rod.

Outdoor Blog

Gear You Should Snag for the Great Outdoors This Season

Published

2 months ago

September 25, 2024

Caleb Cole

Outdoor enthusiasts know that having the right gear can make all the difference. Whether you’re hiking, camping, hunting, or engaging in any other outdoor activity, quality equipment ensures not only safety but also a better overall experience. As we head into a new season, it’s time to refresh your gear collection with essential items that will enhance your adventures. In this article, we’ll explore five pieces of must-have outdoor gear, focusing on both practicality and comfort.

Shooting Glasses Are Essential for Outdoor Adventures

If you’re heading out for a shooting range session or a hunting trip, investing in a quality pair of shooting glasses is non-negotiable. Eye protection is critical when engaging in any activity involving firearms, and shooting glasses are designed to keep your eyes safe from potential hazards like debris, shell casings, and even harmful UV rays.

Shooting glasses are a key safety measure that helps shield your eyes from impact and glare. The lenses are typically made from high-impact resistant materials that can endure tough conditions, making them a must-have for hunters, target shooters, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Beyond safety, these glasses often come with polarized lenses to improve visibility in various lighting conditions. By incorporating shooting glasses into your outdoor gear, you’re ensuring not only better safety but also improved performance during your time in the wilderness.

What Should You Look For During Black Friday Hunting Gear Deals?

One of the best times to stock up on essential outdoor gear is during Black Friday. Black Friday hunting gear deals provide an opportunity for hunters to snag high-quality items at significantly reduced prices. Whether you’re after apparel, backpacks, or specialized equipment, Black Friday sales often feature steep discounts on top brands that every outdoor enthusiast should take advantage of.

This sale season is ideal for upgrading your hunting wardrobe and stocking up on essential gear that may normally be out of your price range. From weather-resistant jackets to durable boots and base layers, hunting gear can be pricey, and Black Friday is the perfect time to invest in the best equipment. By keeping an eye out for deals during this shopping period, you can save money while ensuring you’re well-prepared for your next big adventure.

Multi-Tools Are a Must-Have

Want to know the most versatile pieces of gear you can carry? It is a multi-tool. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or hunting, having a tool that can serve multiple functions is a game-changer. Multi-tools come equipped with a variety of features such as knives, screwdrivers, pliers, and scissors, all compactly housed in a single device that easily fits in your pocket or pack.

The practicality of a multi-tool is hard to beat. It allows you to tackle unexpected tasks, from cutting rope to repairing gear, all without needing to carry a full toolbox. When you’re out in the wild, you want to be prepared for anything, and a multi-tool ensures you’re ready to handle small emergencies or make quick fixes with ease.

Insulated Water Bottles Can Improve Your Outdoor Experience

Staying hydrated is one of the most important aspects of any outdoor activity. Whether you’re embarking on a long hike or spending hours in a hunting blind, having an insulated water bottle can make a difference. Insulated bottles have features that help to keep your drinks at the desired temperature for a long time, which is especially useful during extreme weather conditions.

These bottles maintain the temperature of your beverage—whether cold or hot—so you can enjoy refreshing water in the summer or a warm drink during chilly morning hunts. Insulated water bottles are also typically made from durable materials, meaning they can withstand the rigors of outdoor use without breaking or leaking. Investing in a high-quality insulated bottle ensures that you stay hydrated and comfortable throughout your outdoor excursions.

Durable Backpacks Can Enhance Your Outdoor Experience

A good backpack is the cornerstone of any successful outdoor trip. When you’re out in nature, you need a reliable, durable pack to carry all of your gear comfortably. Look for backpacks that are built to withstand harsh conditions, provide ample storage, and have ergonomic designs that distribute weight evenly to prevent strain on your back and shoulders.

Modern outdoor backpacks come equipped with multiple compartments to help you stay organized, as well as specialized features like hydration bladder compatibility, rain covers, and reinforced straps. By investing in a durable, well-designed backpack, you’ll have the capacity to carry everything you need—whether it’s extra clothing, food, or hunting gear—while maintaining comfort during long treks.

Outdoor Blog

Are You Ready for Autumn Adventures? How to Prep for an Unforgettable Outdoor Fall Guys Trip

Published

3 months ago

August 26, 2024

Caleb Cole

As autumn rolls in, the great outdoors beckons with its crisp air and colorful foliage. For those gearing up for an adventurous Fall Guys trip—think hiking, camping, and maybe some deer hunting—the preparation is half the fun and all the necessity. With a myriad of activities to choose from, how do you ensure your fall excursion is not only exhilarating but also safe and comfortable? Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the most of your outdoor escapades this fall.

Choosing Your Adventure

First things first: deciding what type of fall outdoor activity tickles your fancy. Are you looking to conquer trails with breathtaking autumn views, or are you gearing up for a weekend of tranquil camping beside a glistening lake? Perhaps, the thrill of tracking and observing wildlife is what you’re after.

Each activity demands a different approach and preparation method. Start by defining what your fall guys trip looks like. Is it a quiet escape into the wilderness, a challenging hike, or a dedicated hunting expedition? Once you’ve nailed down the type of trip, you can start tailoring your prep list to match the demands of the activities you’ve chosen.

Plan a Camping Trip

If camping is on your agenda, meticulous planning is essential to enjoy both the spontaneity and serenity of nature without a hitch. When you plan a camping trip, think beyond just a tent and a sleeping bag. Consider the overall length of your trip, the climate of your chosen destination, and the size of your group. Are you venturing into bear country? If so, bear-proof containers for your food and trash are a must.

What’s the weather forecast? Ensure your gear is appropriate for colder nights and unpredictable weather patterns. A well-planned camping experience means securing the right campsite, bringing sufficient food and water supplies, and ensuring you have the necessary permits. Also, be aware of the leave-no-trace principles to keep your environmental impact to a minimum. Planning with precision ensures you’re free to relax and revel in the beauty of the season without unnecessary interruptions.

Gear Up for Deer Hunting

For many outdoor enthusiasts, fall is synonymous with deer hunting season. If this is the core of your guys trip, gearing up appropriately cannot be overstressed. Your deer hunting gear is your ticket to not only success but also safety. Start with the basics: a reliable hunting rifle or bow, suitable ammunition, and a quality scope or binoculars for spotting your target.

Clothing is next on the list; opt for layers that can easily adjust to changing temperatures and are also camouflaged to blend in with the fall environment. Don’t skimp on a good pair of boots—comfort, warmth, and durability are key when you’re on the move. Also, essential gear like a hunting license, deer tags, a first-aid kit, and even a GPS or compass should be non-negotiable items in your pack. Remember, the right gear not only enhances your chances of a fruitful hunt but ensures you can do so safely and responsibly within the ecological balance.

Map Your Route

Mapping your route is crucial whether you’re hiking, camping, or hunting. This involves more than just selecting a trail or a campsite; it means understanding the terrain, noting water sources, identifying potential shelter spots, and being aware of exit points in case of emergencies. Topographic maps, GPS devices, and even mobile apps can be incredibly useful tools for this.

Spend time familiarizing yourself with the area through these resources, and always carry a physical map and compass—you never know when technology might let you down. It’s also a good idea to inform someone about where you plan to go and expected return time is a safety must. Properly mapping your route not only helps in avoiding getting lost but also maximizes your interaction with nature, letting you find those hidden spots that make a trip memorable.

Prepare Physically and Mentally

The physical demands of outdoor activities, especially in the unpredictable weather of fall, should not be underestimated. Start conditioning your body weeks in advance, particularly if your trip involves strenuous activities like long hikes or hunting. Cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hikes with a loaded backpack can prepare your body for the exertion to come.

Equally important is mental preparation. Familiarize yourself with survival skills, such as how to start a fire, basic first aid, and how to stay calm in unexpected situations. A physically and mentally prepared adventurer is more likely to enjoy the trip and handle potential challenges effectively.

Pack Smart

The final step in preparing for your outdoor trip this fall is packing. Since fall weather can be highly variable, layering is key. Include a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating middle layer, and a waterproof outer layer. Besides clothing, pack essential gear tailored to your activities—this could include a sleeping bag rated for colder temperatures, waterproof bags to keep gear dry, cooking equipment, food supplies, and safety items like a whistle, flashlight, and multi-tool. Be mindful of the weight and volume of your pack; every item should justify its place in your backpack by being essential or serving multiple purposes.

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

5 months ago

June 26, 2024

Jonas Muthoni

BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.