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With mullet undisputedly becoming increasingly difficult to come by, especially in the south east, there is absolutely no room for an entirely avoidable cock-up, so...
This is by no means an exhaustive list, in that the checks to be conducted will vary, depending on what kit comprises your normal load-out. That said, hopefully it will suggest to you the sort of things that may need attention, or which are often forgotten. In no particular order, and assume 'if applicable':
Weighing scales:
- All scales - check for absolutely correct readings (I use verified weights in 2.5 / 5.0 / 7.5 / 10.0lb combinations) - to the ounce, at least, and even more accurately, for scales offering finer gradation
- If electronic, check the battery, and if there is any lack of confidence in it, replace. Ensure that a backup battery is carried, and is still 'in date'
- Backup set of scales? - repeat as above
- If non-electronic, check any springs for corrosion and ensure unrestricted movement, including any indicators / pointers
Landing net:
- Net head, for damage, rips, rot and corrosion of any screw threads or points of attachment / articulation; clean and lubricate as necessary
- Net handle, for proper operation / telescoping, physical damage and signs of failure, corrosion and adhesion of screw threads or locking mechanisms; clean and lubricate
Photo tripod / support:
- Check for physical damage and signs of adhesion, failure, corrosion of screw threads and locking mechanisms; clean and lubricate
Rod supports
- Check for physical damage and signs of failure, corrosion and adhesion of moving parts, screw threads and locking mechanisms; clean and lubricate
Camera
- Check for signs of damp, corrosion and adhesion with regard to buttons, also the tripod mount screw thread; clean and lubricate the latter, if needed. Place in a bag of rice for a few days if there is any likelihood at all that damp may become an issue
- Check the batteries, and if there is any lack of confidence in them or signs of corrosion, replace. Ensure that backup batteries are carried, and are still 'in date'
Reel(s)
- Check for signs of corrosion and adhesion of any part of the mechanism, especially the drag. Check the line guide(s) for wear and any sharpness. Clean and lubricate, if needed - strip down and clean if there are significant issues apparent. Obtain a schematic online, if required
- Check the line, and if there is any lack of confidence in it whatsoever, or obvious signs of damage / abrasion, replace; this is always a good idea anyway, after a lengthy closed season - don't forget the Anglers National Line Recycling Scheme.
Rod(s)
- Check for signs of corrosion and adhesion of the reel seat mechanism. Check the line guides for wear and any sharpness, and check the ring supports for corrosion, damage and signs of failure; make sure the line guides are clean and correctly aligned
- Check the rod blank for signs of damage and potential failure
Hooks
- Check for signs of corrosion - these can rust while still in their packaging in a tackle box, and then become prone to failure - the same applies to flies and spinners; regarding the latter, check for sharpness
Desiccants
- Renew desiccant silica gel packages, distributed / placed strategically adjacent to tackle elements which are prone to rusting and water damage, particularly the electronic scales and camera, but also hooks etc
Consumables - check that there is an adequate supply of the following:
- spool(s) of line for hooklinks
- hooks
- swivels
- float stops
- rig putty or soft split shot, olivettes
- 'go to' floats
- leger weights
- feeders
- starlights
Other items - check for presence and serviceability:
- catapult - check elastic for wear and degradation, check the points of pouch attachment for signs of failure / damage
- forceps / disgorger - lubricate, remove rust
- nail clippers / scissors (line clippers) - sharpen and remove rust, then lubricate
- torch / headlight - check batteries for corrosion and power output
- backpack - check straps for signs of failure, zips for corrosion and adhesion
- waders / boots - checks for punctures, damage and signs of perished rubber
- weighing sling - wash and disinfect, if necessary
- gloves (early / late season)
- warm hat (early / late season)
- hand towels / dishcloths
Misc
Parking Apps (RingGo, PayByPhone etc) - update as necessary
- download the latest updates - the apps may not work if you don't have the latest version, and downloading on the bankside may be problematic / unachievable
- make sure you know your login details, and have them immediately to hand
- update your vehicle details, if necessary
Now all you need is some mild weather and to catch one of the b*stard things...
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