Leaving the workbench for the lake without a couple of essential tools can cut a day on the water to a short boat ride. I ask a lot from my gear and I play hard. I expect it to work seamlessly through all the conditions I put it through anytime I’m on the water. Every once in a while, something just doesn’t quite work the way it should and you’ve got to have the right tools available to make that fix or you or your party may be out of commission.
For on the water reel maintenance, I have found it easier to actually carry the tool supplied with the reel. It’s a wrench and screw driver tool. In addition, keep a mini Phillips screw driver, reel oil, grease, and a small bottle of Reel Magic on hand to clean and lubricate reels and spools. I do keep a small set of split ring needle nose pliers (with wire cutters). I find these to be versatile and can grip, cut, and replace hooks if necessary.
And finally, the last two items are a hook sharpening stone and a Scotch Brite scouring pad. In our busy day-to-day lives it can be hard to replace hooks, so the stone can sometimes save the day. Also, along with the rusty hooks, I find the simple Scotch-Brite pad to quickly rub away corrosion and stains off favorite lures. I prefer this to using a chemical while on the water and in fish.
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