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How To Move Your Fishing Equipment
Casey Bond • May 28, 2023
How To Move Your Fishing Equipment
Posted in: I'm Moving, How To Pack, Movehacks, Moving Advice
May 12, 2023 Casey Bond
If you’re getting ready to move, you might dread getting your prized fishing gear packed up and transported. Any fishing enthusiast knows all too well that this equipment is delicate and expensive, so a lot of care needs to go into prepping and packing it the right way. And if you’ve been fishing all your life, you probably have a ton of rods, reels, lures, lines, and everything in between to sort through and organize.
How To Prep Your Fishing Gear Before You Pack
Before you get too deep into the packing process, it’s important to prepare all of your gear first. Here’s what to do:
Clean your gear
To avoid transferring grime or allowing debris to cause damage, give your equipment a thorough cleaning as you would before storing for the off-season. Break down your fishing rods by removing the reel, and then wipe down the rod with a damp cloth to remove any dirt, grime, or salt.
“You can ensure your rods are packed tightly enough by shaking the cases a bit. If you don’t hear any rattling or movement, you’re good to go.”
Make sure to clean the guides, reel seat, and grip thoroughly, too. You can use a soft brush to clean the exterior of the reel, paying special attention to the line roller, bail arm, and spool. Open the reel and carefully clean the internal components, such as the gears and bearings. Apply a light coating of reel oil to the bearings and a dab of grease to the gears. And always allow your gear to dry completely before reassembling and storing, otherwise you could end up with rust.
Check for damage
Inspect your gear for any signs of damage or wear. If you find any issues, make a note and then schedule time on your calendar to get them repaired before using the equipment at your new destination. (This also helps you know if your movers may have caused any damages to your equipment, or not.)
Sort your tackle
Now is a good time to get rid of any extra junk you’ve accumulated in your tackle box. So go through it and discard any damaged or rusted lures, hooks, and sinkers (we’ll discuss how to dispose of old gear in the next section).
How Do I Dispose of Old Fishing Gear?
First, if you have any gear that’s in decent condition (rods, lifejackets, waders, etc.),
consider donating them to a local organization instead of throwing them away. In addition to charities, there may be community organizations, schools, or outdoor programs that could use your stuff. You can also contact your local recycling center to find out if anything is eligible to be recycled.
Monofilament Recovery and Recycling Program
When disposing of old fishing gear, it’s important to consider the potential environmental impact and follow proper disposal methods. Old fishing line can get caught around wildlife and plants, while hooks and other sharp objects could be swallowed by animals and injure them.
If you’re getting rid of any used fishing line, you may be able to find a monofilament recycling bin in your area–often found at boat ramps, marinas, or tackle shops – and deposit the used lines there. If there aren’t any recycling bins nearby, cut the line into small pieces to minimize the risk of entanglement, and throw it out in your regular household trash.
“Extreme heat or cold, as well as harsh, direct sunlight can cause your equipment to fade, crack, or lose its shelf life. Make sure you store your gear in a dry, cool, and well-ventilated area to prevent any damage.”
Consider repurposing old fishing net material for other uses, such as garden trellises or craft projects. Otherwise, dispose of it the same way you would for lines, by cutting the net into smaller pieces and tossing it in the trash.
For hooks, sinkers, and other metal or sharp pieces, place them inside a sturdy container like an old Gatorade bottle or Coke can, or wrap them in protective material before throwing them away to reduce the risk of injury.
How To Wrap Your Fishing Gear Properly
Once you have all your gear cleaned and sorted, you can get ready to start packing.
What you’ll need
- Fishing rod cases or PVC tubes: You’ll need specially designed protective tubes or cases for transporting fishing rods, which keep them from getting damaged during the move. If you don’t already have a rod case, you can purchase one or make your own using PVC pipe from your local hardware store.
- Bubble wrap: This or a similar cushioning material is essential for protecting your reels and other delicate equipment.
- Packing tape: Use this to seal your rod cases, secure bubble wrap around your gear, and reinforce cardboard boxes.
- Moving blankets or towels: These will provide additional padding for your equipment and protect it from scratches.
- Cardboard boxes: You’ll need sturdy boxes to pack your tackle box, reels, and other smaller items.
- Wooden or plastic crates: In some cases, cardboard won’t be durable enough, especially when protecting extra delicate and sentimental items like mounts and other keepsakes (more info on packing these later).
- Permanent marker: You’ll need to clearly label your boxes and rod cases so you know exactly what’s inside.
How To Pack Fishing Rods for Moving
Your fishing rods are going to require some special attention when packing. They’re delicate, and also an awkward shape. It’s easy for rods to get broken if they’re not packed properly.
- Remove the reel from the rod (if you haven’t already): This will make the rod easier to handle and reduce the risk of damage. If you have a two-piece rod, separate the sections for easier packing.
- Organize rods by size: This will help you determine what size case(s) you’ll need, and how many.
- Obtain a rod case or tube: A fishing rod case is designed to protect the rod during transport. You can find these at sporting goods stores like Bass Pro Shops or Dick’s Sporting Goods, or online retailers like Amazon. Alternatively, you can create a DIY rod tube using PVC pipes and end caps from your local hardware store. If you go this route, measure your rod sections and choose a tube with an appropriate length and diameter to accommodate them (you can pack about three together — don’t pack too tightly). You’ll want to add a few inches to the length of the longest rod you’re packing.
- Wrap the rod sections: Even if you’re using a rod case with built-in padding, you should wrap each rod section with bubble wrap, focusing on areas like the tip, guides, and reel seat. Use packing tape to secure the bubble wrap in place, but avoid applying tape directly to the rod.
- Insert the rod sections into the case or tube: Carefully slide the wrapped rod sections into the rod case or tube. If you’re using a PVC pipe, make sure the end caps are securely attached. You may add extra padding, such as foam or bubble wrap, inside the tube to keep the rod sections from shifting during transit.
- Seal and label the case: Once the rod sections are in the case, close and securely fasten it. Use a permanent marker to label each case with your name, contact information, and a description of the contents (aka “fishing rods”) to prevent any mix-ups or confusion.
- Do a shake test: You can ensure your rods are packed tightly enough by shaking the cases a bit. If you don’t hear any rattling or movement, you’re good to go.
- Pack your cases: Once your fishing rods are packed in their tubes or cases, place them in a sturdy cardboard box. Fill any gaps with packing materials like packing peanuts or bubble wrap to prevent them from moving around during transportation.
How To Pack Fish Mounts and Keepsakes
Your fishing rods aren’t the only large, delicate items to worry about when moving. In fact, you might have irreplaceable mounts, trophies, or collectibles that you absolutely can’t afford to have damaged. Follow these steps when packing these types of keepsakes:
- Prepare your boxes: If you’re using standard-sized cardboard boxes, reinforce the bottom with packing tape. For larger or especially delicate items, you may want to invest in some sturdier crates that can’t be crushed or damaged as easily. Line the bottom of your containers with a layer of bubble wrap, foam padding, or packing peanuts for extra cushioning.
- Wrap fishing mounts: For mounted fish, wrap the entire mount with bubble wrap, ensuring the fins and tail are well protected. For delicate or fragile keepsakes, wrap each item individually with bubble wrap, packing paper, or foam sheets. Secure the wrap with packing tape.
- Pack the items in the boxes: Mounted fish should be packed individually and insulated so there is no movement inside the box. For everything else, place the heaviest and sturdiest items on the bottom of the box. Smaller items can be placed in smaller boxes or plastic containers with lids and stacked on top. Fill any empty spaces with packing peanuts or crumpled packing paper to prevent movement.
- Label the boxes: Clearly label each box with a description of the contents and indicate if the contents are fragile.
- Load your boxes: Keep the boxes with delicate items separate from heavier items, and avoid stacking them under heavy or bulky items. Place these boxes in an area of the truck where they are least likely to move around during transport.
If you have very large mounts — or simply don’t want to take an ounce of risk — consider hiring a company that specializes in transporting taxidermy, such as Trophy Transport or Taxidermy Freight. It could cost you a few hundred dollars or more to use these services, but it could be well worth your peace of mind.
Transporting Boats and Dinghies
If you also have your own fishing boat, that can add a layer of complexity to your move. There are a few options available for hauling a boat to a new location:
- Overland transport: This involves hauling your boat in a boat trailer that’s pulled by a specialized vehicle. You’ll need to ensure your boat is properly secured in the trailer. Out of all the options, this one tends to be the most cost-effective.
- Water transport: If you’re transporting a boat between coastal areas, you may need to have it shipped via a tug or barge. This option is more expensive due to added costs of fuel, port fees, and more.
- Air freight: Boats that are too big and heavy to be towed on the road may need to be shipped by air freight. This is usually only necessary for superyachts or cargo ships, not modest fishing boats. However, if you need your boat moved quickly, this may be an option.
- Container shipping: This is a more cost-effective way to ship boats internationally. The boat is loaded into a flat rack or enclosed shipping container, then sent off by truck or rail before being loaded onto a larger vessel for transport to the final location.
You can minimize the cost of transporting your boat by looking for shared load opportunities, where multiple boats are shipped together.
Looking for movers to help? Click here.
How To Unpack and Reorganize Your Fishing Equipment
Once you’ve reached your new home, it’s time to get unpacked and organized. The good news is that the prep work you did before moving should make this a fairly simple and straightforward process.
- Choose the right room. Ideally, you will have a dedicated area in a room available to store all of your fishing equipment. That may be your garage, basement, she-shed, or any other place where you can set up and work on your gear with enough space and comfort.
- Watch out for extreme temperatures and light. Extreme heat or cold, as well as harsh, direct sunlight can cause your equipment to fade, crack, or lose its shelf life. Make sure you store your gear in a dry, cool, and well-ventilated area to prevent any damage.
- Use rack storage: Open wall space can be used to hang fishing rods, either with horizontal rod racks or vertical hanging systems, keeping them safe from damage and freeing up floor space.
- Pack in clear storage bins: For larger items like life vests, waders, and nets, it’s best to keep them in clear, stackable storage bins so you can keep them out of the way but still easily see where things are. It’s a good idea to also label the bins so you can quickly scan and find what you need.
- Install pegboards: A pegboard on the wall is a great place to hang smaller accessories like pliers, scissors, and fishing hats. Use hooks or clips for a customizable and easily accessible storage solution that doubles as a display.
- Store soft plastics: Use plastic binder pages or zippered plastic bags to store and organize soft plastic lures. Group them by type, color, or size, and store the pages or bags in a binder or a designated storage container.
- Keep line organized: Keep fishing line spools in a line spool box or a homemade spool holder made from PVC pipe, dowels, or a shoebox.
- Consider custom storage solutions: If you have a bigger budget and/or a lot of equipment, you might want to look into storage options that are designed for fishing gear. For example, you could purchase a fly fishing rod closet that allows you to store your rods without having to break them down every time you use them. Or you could build a storage cabinet specific to the types of gear you own that fits your unique space.
For some people, the sport of fishing is more than just a hobby. It’s a way to escape the pressures of work and social obligations, connect with nature, and improve mental health. If fishing is an important part of your life, you want to make sure that your precious gear and keepsakes are well cared for. So if you need to move, taking the extra time and care to prep, pack, and move your equipment will ensure it arrives in your new home in tact and ready to take out on the water.
Imagine the look of pure joy on your partner's face as you unveil a meticulously planned surprise trip. Crafting this moment involves understanding their travel desires deeply and tailoring an experience that resonates with their passions.
Marina life refers to the lifestyle and activities associated with marinas, which are docking facilities for boats and yachts. Marinas are usually located along the waterfront, providing access to various water-related activities such as boating, fishing, and water sports. Marina life offers a unique and exciting experience for people who love the water and the outdoors. Marinas are essential for waterfront communities as they provide a range of economic and social benefits. Marinas attract tourists and boaters, which creates new revenue streams and employment opportunities for local businesses. Additionally, marinas provide a safe and secure location for boats, reducing the risk of environmental damage and promoting sustainability in local waterways. Marinas also create a sense of community among boaters and other visitors, providing opportunities for socialization, education, and cultural exchange. The best parts of marina life are docking, dining, and discovering. Docking, dining, and discovering are the most exciting and rewarding aspects of marina life . Docking provides a safe and secure location for boats, while dining offers a unique waterfront experience and contributes to local economies. Discovering offers a range of activities for boaters and visitors, promoting tourism and creating a sense of community among boaters. Together, these three aspects of marina life offer a complete and fulfilling experience for anyone who loves the water and the outdoors. Docking Docking is an essential aspect of marina life. It refers to the process of bringing a boat into a marina and securing it to a dock. Docking in a marina provides several benefits to boaters. For instance, it offers a safe and secure place to moor a boat, which protects it from harsh weather conditions such as strong winds and waves. Additionally, marinas have staff on hand to assist with docking, which can be particularly helpful for novice boaters. Different types of boats can dock in marinas, ranging from small personal watercraft to large yachts. Docking in a marina also offers several advantages over using a private dock. Firstly, marinas are equipped with various amenities such as showers, laundry facilities, and electrical hookups, which are not usually available on private docks. Secondly, marinas offer access to a wider range of services such as fueling stations, pump-out stations, and boat repairs. Finally, marinas often provide a community of fellow boaters, which creates a social and supportive atmosphere for people who share a love for the water. Dining Marina life is not only about boating but also about dining. Marinas typically have restaurants, cafes, and bars that cater to boaters and other visitors. Dining in marinas is an excellent way to enjoy waterfront views while sampling local cuisines. Restaurants in marinas offer a wide range of menus, from seafood to fine dining, to casual family-friendly options. Many marina restaurants have outdoor seating, which provides a beautiful ambiance and a great spot to watch boats go by. Dining in marinas also plays an important role in local economies. Marinas attract tourists who are interested in boating and waterfront activities. They offer a unique dining experience that is different from typical restaurants, and this brings new customers and revenue to local communities. Marina restaurants also provide job opportunities for local residents, contributing to the overall growth of the local economy. Discovering Discovering is an essential aspect of marina life, which refers to the many activities available in and around marinas. Marina life offers a wide range of activities, such as water sports, fishing, hiking, biking, and shopping. Boaters can take advantage of the marina's location to explore nearby attractions such as beaches, museums, and other cultural sites. Marinas also play an important role in promoting tourism in local areas. They offer unique experiences for visitors who are interested in boating and waterfront activities. Marinas also provide opportunities for local businesses such as hotels, shops, and tour operators to promote their services to boaters and other visitors. Furthermore, marinas offer an excellent community for people who share a love for the water. Boaters can meet and socialize with other boaters, exchanging experiences, and learning from each other. Marinas often organize social events and activities, such as fishing tournaments and regattas, which create a sense of camaraderie among the boating community. Conclusion Docking, dining, and discovering are the best parts of marina life. Docking provides a safe and secure place for boats to moor and access to essential amenities, while dining offers a unique waterfront experience and contributes to local economies. Discovering provides a range of activities for boaters and visitors, promoting tourism and creating a sense of community among boaters. Marinas play a significant role in waterfront communities, offering unique experiences for people who love the water and contributing to local economies. Whether you are a seasoned boater or a first-time visitor, marina life has something to offer for everyone.
Transporting Powerboats of All Sizes in the USA by A1 Auto Transport
Whether you’ve purchased a boat in another state, are moving house, or transporting the vessel cross-country, the process can seem daunting. The first thing you need to do is decide whether you want road or sea transport. Usually, this choice is based on convenience, price, the boat’s size, etc. But this isn’t the only decision you’ll need to make. Here, we’ll review the most popular ways to transport a boat cross-country, discuss the price, and offer tips to make the process easier. The Most Popular Ways to Transport a Boat Cross-Country There are several ways to transport your boat cross-country. Which one you choose depends on many factors. 1. Shipping a Boat Cross-Country Over Land The most popular method for shipping a boat cross-country is over land. Here, you have several options to choose from. The first option is shipping the boat on its trailer. If you’ve purchased a boat-motor-trailer package, you may be able to transport the boat on your own, without hiring a professional. While this method is cost-effective, transporting a boat by yourself can be risky, especially if you haven’t done it before. First of all, you need to have a vehicle that can handle hauling the load. If you don’t, you can always rent a truck, but this leads to a higher total cost. Plus, transporting a boat on your own can be time-consuming. Many boat owners are uncomfortable with hauling the boat by themselves and decide to hire a professional. Professionals can load boats on flatbeds or step-deck trailers and transport them from one location to another. To be hauled over land, your boat needs to fulfill certain requirements: It can’t be wider than 12 feet The total height can’t exceed 13 feet, 6 inches The total gross weight can’t be more than 80,000 pounds If your boat meets all the requirements, you can hire a professional to deliver it with a flatbed or multi-boat trailer. There’s another option if your boat is larger: transportation via truck. Because of the ship’s size, this method would be more expensive. You’ll need to pay for overweight or oversize permits and possibly escort vehicles. 2. Shipping a Boat Cross-Country by Ship A yacht transport ship may be the best option for shipping large or high-end boats. This is a significantly more expensive option and involves a lot of paperwork. If you opt for this shipping method, be careful about the company you hire. The company should be experienced, reputable, and professional. If you have a smaller boat, you can ship it inside an enclosed container or roll-on roll-off (RORO). The container option is great because it allows you to send other belongings besides the boat. The downside is that securing the boat inside the container can be tricky. Boats often shift during transit and get damaged in the process. If you go for the RORO option, you’ll need to drive your boat to the agreed location, secure it, and pick it up at its final destination. This method is secure, and there’s less risk of damage, but it’s also more expensive. 3. Drive the Boat Yourself Many boat owners decide to make an adventure out of transporting their boat cross-country. While this is a good option for short-distance trips, it can be challenging and time-consuming if you need to travel large distances. There’s always the option of hiring a professional captain to transport your boat from point A to point B. Keep in mind that this can be expensive as you’ll need to pay for the fuel, insurance , and flying the captain home. Plus, you’ll need to be prepared for potential additional costs due to mechanical issues, severe weather conditions, etc. How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Boat Cross-Country? There’s no universal formula for calculating the cost of shipping a boat cross-country. The final cost depends on your boat’s size, the desired transportation method, the total distance, the season, etc. If you want to get an estimate, you’ll need to provide the pickup and drop-off locations and exact boat measurements. Here are the measurements you’ll need: Boat length – This is measured from the tip of the bow to the middle of the stern. Since boat lengths can limit your options in terms of transportation methods, this measurement is vital. Boat height – This is measured from the keel (the boat’s lowest part) to the boat’s highest part. Before measuring the height, take off any removable parts. Boat width – This is the distance between the boat’s widest part. Here are a few examples of estimated costs for shipping an 11-foot boat according to the A-1 Auto Transport website : Shipping a boat from Los Angeles to Las Vegas costs around $740 and takes roughly 2-4 days. Shipping a boat from Seattle to Phoenix costs around $3,920 and takes approximately 4-6 days. Shipping a boat from Miami to Denver costs around $5,680 and takes roughly 6-8 days. How to Prepare for the Boat Shipping Process If you decide to hire a professional to transport your boat, you’ll need to prepare your boat before turning it over to the company. First of all, you’ll need to ensure there’s no fuel in the tank. Then, you’ll need to disconnect all electrical components, including alarms. Since any loose items can get damaged during transportation, removing them is best. This includes electronics, antennas, valuables, anchors, etc. Most boat transportation companies won’t be responsible for any damage caused by loose items in your boat. Lastly, you’ll need to secure the doors, windows, and hatches inside the boat. Keep in mind that the preparation process depends on the company you hire. If you’re not sure what to do, ask the employees to explain. How to Choose a Boat Transportation Company If you want to have peace of mind knowing your boat will reach the destination safely, hiring a professional boat transportation company is the best choice. However, finding the right company can be difficult. The first thing you should look for is experience. You want to hire a reputable company that has completed hundreds of successful jobs and has many satisfied customers. Do your research online, read the reviews, and you’ll be able to determine whether a company is the right fit for you. In addition, it’s essential to ensure the company does its business in line with the DOT regulations. You don’t want to encounter problems along the way because of missing paperwork, licenses, or insurance. Ask to see the company’s paperwork before hiring them. Lastly, pay attention to how the employees treat you. They should be professional and ready to answer all your questions. If they are rude or unprofessional, the company may not be the best choice. Transport Your Boat Safely Although it may be tempting to transport the boat yourself to reduce costs, this isn’t the best idea, especially over long distances. Hiring professionals may be a more expensive option, but it has numerous benefits. They have the equipment, knowledge, and experience to transport your boat safely and quickly. Most importantly, you can be 100% sure your boat is in safe hands.
Starting your own business is rewarding for many reasons. You get to set your own schedule, be your own boss, and create the perfect work environment. This can be a great fit for parents living with disabilities because you also have more time with your family and the opportunity to make a living without having to deal with workplace discrimination. If you’re living with a disability, chances are you’re no stranger to juggling responsibilities and overcoming obstacles. These qualities are vital in getting a small business up and running. If you’re wondering how to get started, the following tips will point you in the right direction. Consider a home-based business. Many traditional workplaces fail to meet accessibility standards , and too many employers are reluctant to make the necessary accommodations for employees with disabilities. While this is gradually changing, it’s still frustrating and discouraging to feel excluded from the workforce. One way to avoid accessibility and mobility hurdles entirely is to start a home-based business. You’ll be able to create your own accessible workplace, and you’ll have more time to devote to your family and fledgling business. Your next step will be to decide what type of home-based business is right for you. Although most people picture IT or other computer-based jobs when they think about working from home, a home-based business isn’t limited to the technology sector. There are many other possibilities , such as reselling, pet boarding, beauty services, selling handmade goods, online tutoring, consulting, and so many more. Connect and plan. Once you have a business idea, it’s time to make a plan. Although you likely have plenty of self-starting energy and resilience, there is no need to go through this stage alone. Consider reaching out and using entrepreneurship resources that are designed to help small business owners. For example, you can access webinars, online business mentoring sessions, or connect with other small business owners through your local chamber of commerce. This kind of social support offers both learning opportunities and an important sense of belonging. Your business plan should articulate everything about your business, from how it will function to how you’ll access your target market. A business plan is also important for gaining investment, funding, and loans. At this stage, you’ll need to decide how to structure your business . A limited liability company (LLC) is a great option for parents with disabilities because it involves less paperwork, offers more flexibility, and has tax advantages. You can save money by filing yourself or using a formation service . Get special funding. Once you’re armed with your business plan, you’re ready to explore the many special funding opportunities available to disabled business owners. In addition to federal funding , there are grants available to qualifying disabled people from various foundations, non-profits , and private organizations. You can access these by searching online databases or contacting your local Small Business Development Center for support. Even if it takes a bit of digging to find funding, try not to get discouraged. There are people who specialize in helping people with disabilities get the financial funding they need. While starting a small business can be a great fit for disabled parents, it pays to be prepared for some challenges. Fortunately, small business ownership is more accessible than ever before, and a disability doesn’t have to come between you and a productive professional life. To get started on your business ownership journey, make sure you choose the right set-up, connect with others for support, take advantage of special funding, and embrace the entrepreneurial spirit. This is the kind of insightful and inspiring content you can find on The Marine Web blog .
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