4 fly-fishing gear hacks to help you perform better on the water

#4  RODS

I’ve busted three fly rods and witnessed several others taken out, all in predictable and preventable—and non-fishing—mishaps. As a result, I’ve developed strict protective protocols. First, never keep loose rods in a vehicle. They’re just too vulnerable, as I discovered years ago when a crate of camping stuff shifted and took out a beloved 5-weight. Instead, secure your rods in a rack or keep them in their cases. Next, use extreme caution around those ancient enemies of the fly rod: doors That includes door on buildings, and doors on vehicles, especially trunks and tailgates.

Another excellent way to break a rod is by stumbling when getting in or out of a boat. To avoid that, hand your rod to someone or set it down in a safe place before making your move. When hiking with a rigged rod, meanwhile, hold it butt first. That may feel a little unnatural, but your body is much sturdier for clearing branches out of the way than your rod. And if you trip, you’ll almost certainly fall forward and instinctively put your arms out; it’s much better that the reel and butt hit the dirt instead of your rod tip.