Holiday Check
Planned your summer holiday? Everything ready? You've probably checked everything you need to; or have you? If you are unsure whether your tackle is adequately prepared, here are a few checks to help you on your way to enjoyable and hopefully successful angling sessions.
Water:
If you have chosen the country and your body of water, it is suggested that you gather the necessary information with regard to regulations. This should include information on fishing licences and regional and national byelaws for anglers. Nothing could be worse than travelling a great distance to your holiday destination and finding out that you are not allowed to fish there. Plenty of information can be found in the Internet. Further information sources are the tourist information centre, the local water authority and the environment agency. To prepare yourself, it is worth reading reports concerning the relevant waterways. The Internet, once again, is a great source of information.
Cast an eye over weather reports for the region to ensure that you have perfect angling weather. It might be worth looking around for alternatives in the local area. Having knowledge of the water could greatly increase your chances of success - take your time. A great source of information is angling colleagues who know the water. Finally, don't forget to find out if there is a local tackle shop for fresh bait.
Check your tackle:
Rod:
Have you got the right rod with the right length and the right casting class, or do need a new one? Control guides and guide inlays; are they secure, has the varnish started to crack? Does the screw reel mount operate correctly or does it slip? Is the grip material in working order, or does it need to be cleaned or replaced?
Reel:
Test the bail arm on your reel, the drag setting and the crank arm for correct operation. A few drops of oil in the right place should help the reel run better.
Line:
Is the old line that is spooled on the reel still good or does it show signs of wear and tear? It might be worth considering replacing it, or at least keeping a new line in reserve should the worst come to the worst and the old line breaks under strain.
Rod holder, bite alarms, etc.:
Ensure that all your equipment is in proper working order before setting out. Spare batteries for your bite alarms are a must!
Umbrella and tentage:
If you need an umbrella or a tent on your holiday, check the material for tears, check lines and check tent pegs, etc.
Accessories:
Hooks, swivels, sinkers, floats, feeders and other special accessories should be checked completely. Make sure that you are prepared for all situations by taking the correct accessories. If you are lucky enough to have a tackle shop close at hand, you will be able to acquire missing items, if not, you might find that you will have to make your own float! It is much easier to ensure that you take everything - don't forget nets or gaff.
Clothing:
To few anglers pay enough attention to clothing. There has been plenty of changes in the market for angling clothing. The are plenty of affordable items for all types of weather conditions. Waders should be checked for waterproofing. A repair kit, to cover small holes is a must. If you have a car, it is worth taking a change of clothes, should a sudden downfall soak you to the skin.
Packing:
If you have all your tackle items, it is time to pack. Your rods should be placed in transport tubes or sturdy rod holdalls. Take care when loading / unloading you luggage to ensure that you don't break your rods. Feed and bait should be stored separately.
Make a checklist and follow it. These few pointers should help you on you way to an enjoyable angling holiday.
We wish you plenty of success!
But, before you go. Here are a few product tips - maybe you are missing the odd item?!
Tight lines
Your Askari Team!
Kogha Legend Fly
The perfect fly rod, suitable for use on a large variety of waters for a wide range of fish species.
http://shop.askari-fishing.co.uk/90583.85.585
Kogha Sea Bull Beachcasting Long Cast Reel
A monster of a reel. It is ideally suited to sea work but can be used effectively in freshwater.
http://shop.askari-fishing.co.uk/97397.85.585
Perca Rod Transport Tube
Unfortunately, it is often the case that rods break during transport. These tubes provide an additional level of protection.
http://shop.askari-fishing.co.uk/90546.85.585
Salmo Angling Carryall/Rucksack
The 2 separate rod bags, 1 external pocket for ground spikes, and 4 further external pockets for other accessories provide an immense amount of storage space for a plethora of angling utensils.
http://shop.askari-fishing.co.uk/90424.85.585
Salmo Reel Case
This reel case provides storage for up to 8 reels. The seperate compartments are fitted with adjustable velcro fasteners.
http://shop.askari-fishing.co.uk/96768.85.585
Kogha Dip Bag
This practical angler’s bag contains 6 empty dipsticks.
http://shop.askari-fishing.co.uk/84547.85.585
Salmo Picnic Rucksack
A practical rucksack with everything you need for a picnic.
http://shop.askari-fishing.co.uk/90624.85.585
Perca Camouflage Multi Use Bag L
A large, versatile bag with a practical transport strap. It is perfect for storing a camera or items of fishing tackle.
http://shop.askari-fishing.co.uk/84442.85.585
Set - Askari Baseball Cap and Perca Cap Light
The perfect protection from strong sunlight during the day, and a great help for finding your way at night.
http://shop.askari-fishing.co.uk/74113.85.585
Deluxe Anglers’ Boots
Resilient boots with grip-sure profiled soles.
http://shop.askari-fishing.co.uk/84515.85.585-40
Trekking Pants
Robust trousers with a fitted material belt. The leg zippers let you shorten the trousers to 3/4 length and further, to shorts
http://shop.askari-fishing.co.uk/101380.85.585-L