Tip #2 Guilty As Charged!

Here is something we have all done at one time or another. And even professional fishing guides on the river have been observed doing it at times.

Today's improvements in rod guide materials such as hardloy, ceramic and silicone carbide have resulted in extremely long-wearing guides. But enter the "designer hooks;" those manufactured from extra-hard alloys and "laser-sharpened" to pin point precision. These very popular super hooks can and will damage the interior surfaces of today's modern guides when anglers use the guide as a hook holder.

Tiny scratches on the guide's surface caused from the hook's barb will begin abrading the surface of the fishing line. Eventually the line's breaking strength may be substantially reduced over time without the angler being aware of the condition.

Placing your hook in the support feet of the guide is little better. Tension exerted on the guide when reeled up snug will eventually crack the varnish or expoxy used to seal and strengthen the rod wrapping thread securing the guide. Eventually deterioration will set in and the guide will become loose or fall off.

The solution is simple; use the hook holder at the base of the rod. Or if your rod doesn't have one, insert the hook into the cork or foam grip when necessary.

Klondike Kid

Return to Outdoor Tips Index

Home