In Tasmania, we are coming to the end of our wild trout fishing season and there are a few tips on gear storage and care you might like to look at.

Fly Lines — first up a general clean of your fly line is a good idea, then if not using it for a few months, strip it off the reel and hang in large loops (say a metre in dia.) store in a dry cool place.
This stops the line coating from shrinking/expanding while stored on the reel and allows a much better casting performance when again used. Nothing worse than having tightly coiled fly line jamming the rod rings and ‘bunching up’ on the water when presenting to that first feeder next season. Check for cracks in the surface, if numerous and deep, replace line.

Reels — take apart and clean the old grease out. Put in new grease, vaseline or petroleum jelly are good. Lightly smear the casing, gears and spindles before reassembly. Check your backing to make sure it is still OK.

Rods — check ring bindings for wear, rings and rod surfaces for damage. Store in dry place and a protective tube. If manufacturer has not supplied one, then PVC pipe is excellent with capped end fittings.

Waders — again check for damage, make sure they are dried out then hang in dry and airy place.