AS SEEN IN THE JAN/FEB 2008 ISSUE

“Organization” is the key to angling success!

There are different kinds of fishermen across Florida. Some have been reeling in trophies for decades, whiles others only dream of catching the “big ones.” Many anglers prefer serene backcountry settings, while others are addicted to the adrenaline rush and limitless bounties of the deep blue. Regardless of experience or preference, some things are a certainty; the right equipment and an organized tackle system lead to angling success.

How many times has it happened to you? The deck of your boat becomes littered with tackle – leaders…lures…loose terminal gear…you name it. The mess was caused by either a faulty tackle box or forgetful fishing partners who insist on lifting tackle trays without making sure their snapped shut. Once the tackle is all over the deck, sprawled all over your dash, seats and coolers, it somehow manages to get drenched with saltwater. From there, it's only a matter of time before everything begins to rust and deteriorate. Throw a large cobia or wild dolphin into the mix and watch all that tackle fly!

Don’t feel bad though, you are not alone. It has happened to every fisherman and always seems to occur at the worst possible time when you need a particular jig, hook or swivel in a jiffy. Fortunately, todays tackle storage systems have come a long way toward helping us protect our investment (at today's tackle prices – terminal gear has to be considered an investment!) and toward keeping our fish-catching equipment right where we need it most – well-organized and within easy reach.

Undisputed leaders in the tackle storage industry such as The Plano Molding Company (www.planomolding.com) and Flambeau (www.flambeauoutdoors.com), – have taken the concept of tackle organization to a whole new level with storage solutions so complete that they now refer to them as “tackle systems!”

What to look for in a complete tackle system:

If you haven't yet purchased a tackle system or are looking to upgrade your current storage solution for better organizational benefits, considering the following will keep you headed in the right direction:

-Durability. You definitely don't want your neatly organized tackle system to fall apart on you. Purchase only top-quality gear manufactured with durable components. Hardcore fishing is not for sissies; your tackle storage system shouldn't be built like one.

-Is the tackle storage system watertight? Most tackle systems are made of material that is waterproof, but saltwater can still creep inside through the cracks. This could form mildew and rust on your expensive equipment if there is not adequate ventilation. Look for complete tackle systems with removable compartments to air out wet terminal gear.

-Size matters. The size and function of your tackle system should largely depend on your intended use. Tournament fishermen need quick access to a variety of gear and a relatively light storage system. The same goes for shore-bound anglers who may have to carry their tackle to the beach or jetty, so it only makes perfect sense to keep weight a consideration. On the flip side, many fishermen use the same equipment and prefer to stow their tackle on board. In this scenario, you can afford a bit more weight in exchange for extra storage space.

It is always nice to have a little extra space for gear other than lures, weights, etc. A compartment for a pair of pliers is a plus, and some tackle systems even come designed with a pocket for a flashlight; always handy when fishing during low-light conditions.

Make-sense storage solutions: 

Leader Containers– Every wonder how to keep pocket-size leader spools well-organized and right where you need them. This nifty little solution is just what the leader doctor ordered. Ideally suited for six pocket-size spools with convenient exits for the line, you’ll never have to search for leader again.    

Connectable Satchels – While nearly all anglers utilize plastic tackle trays, new connectable satchels can now be combined to create double-sided units with upwards of 17 compartments. That’s ample room for all your plugs and hardware.

Worm Wraps – the perfect idea for storing grubs, twister tails, plastic shrimp and other soft-bodied baits, Worm Wraps keep your soft-plastics neat, organized, away from the harmful elements and within easy reach.  

Specialty Boxes – Stop fumbling for tiny jigs, lures, small egg-sinkers and loose hooks, clear o-ring-sealed accessory boxes provide the ideal solution for a countless number of small items. With one, four or six individual compartments, swivels, split-shots, and everything else you can imagine can now have a permanent home of its own.  

Tackle Box of Tomorrow - For anglers who enjoy the traditional look and feel of a tackle box, modern rack systems are the way to go. These durable tackle boxes neatly hold multiple storage trays in various sizes both as drawers and loosely while still providing more than ample space for bulk storage items.

Marine Boxes - O-ring sealed for water-resistance with a comfortable molded handle and top access storage, brightly colored orange marine boxes are the answer for tools and safety equipment. While it may not be tackle, this sort of gear is crucial in the event of a mechanical breakdown or emergency situation.

If you are not yet convinced that organizing all of your terminal gear offers many advantages, consider the following:

-Quick rig exchange. Whether you are in the midst of competing in a high-dollar tournament or just enjoying a casual Sunday morning on the water, no one likes wasting time changing terminal tackle. With lures, leaders and hooks well-organized, you’re bound to spend more time in the water and less time fumbling for a barrel-swivel. This fact alone translates into more fish in the box. .

-Versatile anglers are just that - versatile! In fact, it is not uncommon for an angler to fish in the ocean during one trip and in the backcountry the very next. If your gear is organized according to what environment and what conditions you will be facing, you will likely have a much more successful trip. Better yet, organize two different tackle systems; one for shallow-water fishing and the other for your offshore pursuits.

-No tangled lures! That’s the worst; you get out on the water and are all set to go, only to find that all of your lures and leaders are tangled in a huge mess. You end up spending an hour of your valuable fishing time trying to make heads and tails of the jambalaya. By utilizing a tackle system designed specifically to separate lures and keep them from tangling, you are going to save yourself a ton of time.

Get out there and get hooked up. You’ll undoubtedly experience greater success if you show up well-organized!

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