Keep Moisture Out of a Tackle Box – Our 4 Proven Methods

Have you ever opened your tackle box to find rust creeping onto your favorite lures and hooks? Moisture can cause all sorts of problems, from rust problems and gear damage to mold and mildew, making your tackle less effective and reducing its lifespan. That’s why it’s very important to keep moisture out of your tackle box. Today, we’ll share how to keep your tackle box dry and how this helps extend its shelf life.

Whether you already know some techniques or not, read on—this article might just add something new to your methods.

Check our recommendations on Best Tackle Boxes For Fishing Trips – Top 6 Reviewed

What Will Happen If My Tackle Box Has Moisture?

Moisture in a tackle box can lead to several issues, impacting both the tackle and the box itself. Understanding these consequences can help you take proactive steps to keep your gear in top condition.

Rusting of Hooks and Lures

One of the most immediate and noticeable effects of moisture is the rusting of hooks and lures. Mixing hooks with salt-packed jigs can accelerate rusting. Hooks stored in utility boxes with high moisture levels tend to rust quickly, especially if they have been exposed to saltwater. Salt is a significant factor in promoting rust when hooks and jig heads are stored together.

We’ve also covered a detailed article on storing hooks in the tackle box correctly. You should give it a read!

Deterioration of Tackle Materials

Leaving jigs out in the rain or not drying them properly before storage can lead to deterioration. Rusted worm hooks lose their sharpness and effectiveness, reducing their ability to catch fish. In some cases, rusted hooks may even break, rendering them useless.

This deterioration extends to other tackle materials, compromising the overall quality and lifespan of your gear.

Potential Damage to the Tackle Box Itself

Moisture can also affect the tackle box itself. Even waterproof bags and boxes are not entirely immune to moisture. When water enters the tackle box, it can create a damp environment that promotes condensation, further spreading moisture to other contents.

This ongoing moisture exposure can weaken the structure of the box, especially if it is made from materials that are not entirely waterproof. Over time, this can lead to the box becoming less effective at protecting your tackle.

To ensure your tackle stays in top condition, it’s essential to choose the right material for your tackle box. Learn more about the best materials for a tackle box here.

Use Our Techniques to Prevent Moisture & Rust

Keeping your tackle box dry involves several effective techniques. These methods can help prevent moisture buildup, rust, and other damage to your fishing gear.

1. Using Desiccants

Silica gel packs are readily available from pharmacies, electronics stores, and shoe stores. These packs are designed to absorb moisture and are often found in various packaging materials. To renew their effectiveness, microwave the packs periodically to remove any absorbed moisture.

Anti-rust inserts are another useful tool for preventing moisture-related damage. Their effectiveness in saving hooks from rust is second to none.

The Inhibitor VCI Pro Chips release a vapor that inhibits rust, providing an additional layer of protection for your tackle.

2. Covering Tackle Bags

Using garbage bags as a quick and cost-effective method to cover tackle bags is a great idea. While not the most elegant solution, it is highly effective in keeping water out.

Prefer tackle bags with built-in rain covers. These built-in covers offer a more integrated and convenient solution for protecting your tackle from rain.

3. Draining and Drying

Drilling small holes in tackle boxes to allow water to evaporate instead of condensing inside is another factor. This helps keep the interior dry and reduces the likelihood of rust.

Opening tackle boxes and leaving them near a heater to dry out overnight helps remove any moisture accumulated during the day.

Using dehumidifiers is effective in drying out tackle quickly. This is particularly effective for larger collections of tackles that need thorough drying.

Boot dryers are also effective for drying tackle bags by blowing warm air, effectively removing moisture from the fabric and seams.

4. Preventing Saltwater Damage

Rinsing tackle with fresh water after use in saltwater is crucial to prevent rust. Salt accelerates rust, so removing it promptly is essential.

Using buckets to rinse all hooks, plugs, lures, and weights ensures that all salt is removed before storing the tackle.

Some Additional Tips From Our Fellow Anglers

• Avoid mixing hooks with salt-packed jigs, as the salt can cause hooks to rust quickly.
• Keep only essential gear exposed to the elements, while storing spare gear in smaller boxes within sealed trash bags to minimize the risk of moisture damage.
• Do not put wet lures back into tackle boxes. Ensuring that lures are dry before storage can significantly reduce the risk of rust.

How Much Moisture Is Bearable?

While it’s challenging to avoid all moisture, it’s essential to understand how much can be tolerated before damage occurs to the terminal tackle itself. The threshold of bearable moisture varies depending on the material and design of the tackle box, as well as the type of tackle stored within it.

Some moisture is inevitable, especially when fishing in the rain. Opening a tackle box to retrieve lures or hooks can introduce moisture, but the key is to manage and minimize it.

After a rainy fishing trip, taking your boxes out of the compartment in the bag and opening them up to dry is a practical approach. This practice helps reduce the condensation that can accumulate, even when not fishing in the rain.

Tackle Materials and Their Attributes – When Moisture is The Main Concern

Choosing the right materials for your tackle box is crucial in keeping moisture at bay. Different materials offer varying levels of protection, so it’s important to understand their attributes and benefits.

Plastic (PVC) Tackle Boxes

Plastic (PVC) tackle boxes are a popular choice among anglers due to their waterproof nature.

PVC material is effective in keeping moisture out. PVC is inherently waterproof, making it a reliable option for protecting your tackle from rain and splashes.

Examples: A notable example is the Plano hard tackle box. A Plano portable bag with a fold-over top and rubberized bottom provides an additional barrier against water ingress.

These tackle boxes are particularly effective in keeping contents dry during heavy rain. Plano hard tackle boxes are known for keeping everything dry even during severe rainstorms. This durability and waterproof capability make plastic tackle boxes a dependable choice for anglers facing unpredictable weather conditions.

Waterproof Backpacks and Bags

Waterproof backpacks and bags offer a flexible and effective solution for keeping tackle dry, especially for those who frequently fish from the shore or in boats.

Using rain covers designed for hiking packs with elastic edges can fit snugly over various bag sizes, providing an effective shield against rain.

Examples of Specific Brands/Models

Bass Pro Bag: The Bass Pro bag comes with a built-in rain cover, making it a practical option for keeping tackle dry.

Cabela’s Advanced Angler Large Tackle Bag: This bag offers significant capacity and protection against moisture.

World Wide Sportsman Hawks Channel Gear Bag: This bag is effective for shore fishing and suitable for various fishing conditions.

Waterproof backpacks and bags are versatile and efficient for both shore fishing and boat fishing. These bags are designed to withstand harsh conditions, ensuring that your tackle remains dry and in good condition.

Shop Now: Best Fishing Backpack & Tackle Backpack (Top 10)

Best Storage Practices for Tackle

Proper storage of your tackle can prevent moisture buildup and extend the life of your fishing gear. Here are some best practices:

Keep Tackle Indoors Overnight – Keep your tackle indoors overnight to avoid exposure to moisture and condensation that can occur outdoors. This practice ensures that your gear remains dry and ready for the next fishing trip.

Avoid Sealing Wet Tackle –  Ensure that wet lures, hooks, and other gear are dried thoroughly before storing them in a closed environment to prevent rust and mildew.

Use of Waterproof Boxes and Backpacks – For long trips, use waterproof bags and boxes, such as Plano boxes. These waterproof containers provide an extra layer of protection against moisture, ensuring that your tackle stays dry even in wet conditions.

How to Maintain Tackle Condition?

Regular maintenance of your tackle is essential to keep it in optimal condition and prevent rust and other damage. Here are some tips:

Check and Replace Desiccant Packs: Use desiccant silica gel packs to absorb moisture. Regularly checking and replacing these packs ensures they remain effective in keeping your tackle dry.

Separate Storage: Store used and new hooks separately. This prevents moisture from used hooks from spreading to new ones, reducing the risk of rust.

Apply WD-40: Apply WD-40 to hooks and weights. WD-40 displaces moisture and provides a protective coating that prevents rust, helping to maintain the condition of your tackle.

You should also check some of the best alternatives to tackle boxes for fishing purposes.

FAQs

How often should I check the silica gel packs in my tackle box?

It’s a good idea to check the silica gel packs every few weeks. These little silica gel packets work hard to absorb moisture and keep your gear dry, but they can only hold so much before they need some TLC. If you notice they’re feeling a bit heavy or damp, it’s time to reactivate them. You can do this easily by heating them in the oven or microwave, which dries them out and makes them as good as new. Keeping an eye on these packs ensures your tackle stays dry and rust-free, so your fishing trips are always successful.

Can I use other types of desiccants besides silica gel packs to keep my tackle box dry?

Absolutely! Besides silica packs gel, there are other desiccants like clay packs or calcium chloride that you can use. These alternatives can also do a great job of soaking up moisture. However, silica gel packs are a favorite because they’re reusable and very effective. You can find them in many stores, and they’re easy to reactivate when they get saturated. Using desiccants is a simple way to keep your tackle box dry and your gear in great shape, no matter the conditions.

What should I do if I accidentally drop my tackle box in the water?

If your tackle box takes an unexpected plunge into the water, don’t panic! The first thing to do is remove everything from the box and spread it out to dry. Pat your lures, hooks, and other gear with a towel to get rid of excess water. Then, place them in a well-ventilated area or use a dehumidifier or heater to speed up the drying process. It’s important to make sure everything is completely dry before putting it back in the tackle box to prevent rust and other damage. Taking these steps quickly can save your gear and keep it in good working order.

Are there specific tackle boxes designed to be more moisture-resistant?

Yes, there are tackle boxes specially designed to keep moisture out. These boxes often come with airtight seals, waterproof materials, and built-in drainage systems, which provide extra protection against water and humidity. Brands like Plano offer hard tackle boxes that are very effective at keeping contents dry, even in heavy rain. Investing in a high-quality, moisture-resistant tackle box is a smart choice if you want to ensure your gear stays dry and in top condition, no matter the weather.

Is it necessary to rinse lures and hooks used in freshwater fishing?

While it’s more critical to rinse lures and hooks used in saltwater due to the corrosive nature of salt, it’s still beneficial to rinse them after freshwater fishing. Freshwater can contain dirt and debris that can stick to your gear and cause wear over time. Rinsing your soft plastic lures and hooks with clean water helps remove this residue and keeps your gear in better shape. It’s a small step that can make a big difference in extending the life and performance of your fishing tackle.