Money Saving Tips For Fishing Trips

Fishing tackle can definitely be expensive!

There are so many lures out there that it's hard, I admit, to resist adding one more to your tackle box every time you go into the tackle store. So, in the spirit of saving a little money, here are a few tips.

Hooks and Lures

Most species of fish will go for a lure or a spinner. Most of the lures on the market today come complete with swivel, split ring and a hook, which is usually made from a hardened metal"which is great until you get snagged on a branch or log. That usually means the loss of the lure. So for years now I have been changing the hooks on my lures, right out of the package, to a softer hook that will straighten out when snagged.

Many people think that if the hook will straighten out on a snag then it will also straighten out on a fish, but this isnt true. When a lure gets snagged, the point of the hook is typically penetrated into the structure. This puts the stress right on the point of the hook. Then, when you pull, the hook either straightens (if it's soft) or breaks the line (if it's hard). When the hook is caught in a fish's mouth though, the stress on the hook is on the bend of the hook, not on the point, and you will not get it out.

Usually I change the hooks of my lyres to a Gamakatsu Si-wash hook because it has a longer shank and open eyes, which makes adding the hook on to a split ring or a swivel really easy. Use pliers and close that eye after the hook is attached. Go ahead and grab a pack of Si-wash hooks when you're out buying lures next time. Just remember to match the size of your lure's hook to the Si-wash hooks.

Lines and Leaders

You need to consider many things when putting your line on to a reel, and I think Shimano reels are the best on the market. From their offshore reels to the cool new digital control reels, they have something for every fisherman. I don't use any thing else but Shimano.

If you're buying one shot, larger spool when you re-spool, here's a cost saving tip. Instead, go to your tackle store and have them re-spool. Why? Because your average one shot spool has about 220 yards of line, but you only need between 120 and 175 yards as a rule. The rest goes to waste! Let the store do it and you'll pay only for the amount of line they put on your reel. You can save about 50% doing this.

If you save your spools and have the tackle store spool the diameter you use most often for mainline, then, when you need new line, re-spool the reel with the bulk line. I like fifteen to twenty pound test.