By Marc Bush, Mack's Lure Pro Staff
As salmon season comes to a close and I begin gearing up for the next year, my mind naturally shifts to Walleye fishing. My excitement lies with catching Columbia River Gold.
First, I dig into my Walleye duffle bag to take stock of what I need to replenish. You can never have too many leaders when it comes to Walleye fishing. The truth is, I never know which color pattern these toothy predators will prefer. To be fully prepared for my customers and any fishing scenario, I start the season stocked with a variety of color combinations. At least a dozen of each, my go-to are the Mack's Lure Smile Blades, and my favorite colors include: UV Glo Burst, Gold Sparkle and Motor Oil Mirror.
Next, I meticulously check every rod and reel to ensure they’re in top shape and ready for action. These setups will be working hard for four months, so I can’t afford any surprises. I inspect the reels to confirm the drags are functioning properly and fully loosen them for storage. A touch of oil on the gears keeps everything running smoothly. I also check the first 100 feet of line for quality. If it needs replacing, I’ll strip it down to the backing to start the season with fresh, reliable line.
PRO TIP: Examine the reel seats of your rods to ensure they’re secure, and check the guides for cracks or missing inserts.
There are many options for leader storage, but I want to focus on one that stands out: the Pips Box & Leader Caddy from Mack’s. This compact storage solution is perfect for keeping your leaders organized and accessible. With its ability to easily fit in your jacket pocket, it’s a must-have for any serious angler's tackle bag.
While some anglers opt for pool noodles or other products for storage, the Pips Box & Leader Caddy offers unparalleled convenience and durability. Plus, it floats—so you won’t have to worry about losing your leaders in the water!
As you prepare for your next fishing adventure, think about what you’ll need and tie up more than you think you’ll require. Experiment with various color patterns and don’t hesitate to try new ones.
Most importantly, have fun and stay safe out there—consider bringing along a friend who doesn’t fish much; you might just gain a new fishing buddy.
Tell us about your experience with the Pips Box & Leader Caddy. How does it improve your fishing experience?
Credit for this epic photo goes to Bryan Mulligan.
Description Details Tips The Smile Blade provides lifelike action at speeds as slow as 1/4 mph and is easily tuned. Adjust to a wide-angle ...
View full detailsDescription Details Tips The Pip's Box and Leader Caddy allows you to easily store heftier hooks with longer leaders, as well as drop shot ...
View full detailsDescription Details Tips The Wally Pop Crawler is a proven setup featuring a Smile Blade and Cha Cha Float inside fluorescent tubing, which...
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