If you have ever left your fishing rod out in the rain or dropped it in the water, you have probably asked yourself this question: can fishing rods get wet? Let’s dive into this question, as well as how to clean and store your fishing rods properly.
Can Fishing Rods Get Wet?
Fishing rods can get wet and are specifically designed with this in mind. Many of the materials that make up a fishing rod are hydrophobic, meaning they do not absorb water. However, excess moisture leads to premature failure and corrosion, so it is important to keep them dry when not in use.
Many of the materials that go into the construction of a fishing rod are hydrophobic, meaning they resist the absorption of water. Some of these materials include cork, EVA foam, Silicon Carbide, Titanium Carbide, fiberglass, and carbon fiber. All of these materials exhibit varying levels of water resistance, making them perfect for the construction of a fishing rod that will spend most of its usable life getting wet.
Although most elements of a fishing rod are water-resistant, they will prematurely break down over time if they are subjected to excessive moisture levels. One area I see fishing rods being stored often is an outdoor shed. If you live in a high humidity climate, you will need to use a dehumidifier in the shed or move the rods inside. Moisture and water are known as universal solvents; because of this, it is crucial to keep your fishing rod dry when not in use.
Can Fishing Rods Get Rained On?
Fishing rods can get rained on when out fishing, but make sure you dry all of the components of your fishing rod once you are off the water. Keeping your rod dry and away from excess levels of moisture will increase your rod’s overall lifespan.
It is important to mention that rainwater is slightly acidic, increasing its ability to break down materials over time. There are specific areas around the world that are known to have high acidity levels in the rainwater. Two of the most popular areas for acid rain are the east coast of the United States and Northern Europe. If you live in any of these areas, it is vital to store your rods out of the rain, preferably in a cool, dry place.
Also, if you do get rained on while you are fishing, make sure that you spray down all your fishing rods and reels with clean, fresh water when you get back to your house. Once your rods are washed and dried, then you can place them in a cool, dry place.
Can You Leave Fishing Rods Outside?
Fishing rods can be left outside, but it is not recommended and can decrease the overall usable life of your rod. The harsh outdoor elements, including rain, snow, heat, and sun exposure, can all slowly damage your fishing rod over time. It is best to keep your fishing rods and reels stored out of the elements.
One factor that is often overlooked regarding the care of fishing rods is sun exposure. The sun emits high levels of radiation that slowly break down materials over time. You have probably noticed the damage solar radiation can inflict on things that are left outdoors. One way you can see if your rod has been exposed to high solar radiation levels is by looking for a cloudy finish on your rods.
How Do You Properly Store Fishing Rods?
Fishing rods are best stored in a fishing rod holder in a cool, dry place. Storing rods in a fishing rod holder does a couple of things that will increase the overall lifespan of your rods. First, it will limit bends/curves in the rod when not in use. The most common way I’ve seen rods stored is placed on the floor leaning up against the wall with a huge bend in them; this isn’t ideal and can lead to premature failure. Second, the rod holder secures your rods and keeps them out of the way. Having your rods stored vertically drastically reduces the chances of rods being broken or scratched. If you have owned fishing rods for any length of time, you will understand what I mean about random incidents that lead to broken rods in your home. Keeping your rods in a rod holder decreases the chances of accidentally breaking any of your equipment.
I recommend installing a fishing rod storage rack somewhere inside your house where your fishing gear will not be susceptible to harsh conditions, such as high humidity, heat, or freezing temperatures. Though these elements will not destroy your fishing gear the first time they are exposed to the elements, they will slowly age your equipment, causing them to fail prematurely.
How to Clean Your Rod After Fishing
- Wash your entire rod and reel with fresh water
- Spray a rod and reel cleaner on your fishing setup. Many fishing brands make rod and reel cleaners, but I have always been impressed with Penns Rod & Reel Cleaner.
- Once a rod and reel cleaner has been applied, grab a clean towel and work the cleaner around your entire fishing setup. Do not forget to clean the rod’s guides since they will typically have the largest build-up of salt and other debris.
- Once applied and rubbed into your rod, let your rod air dry and store in a cool, dry place.
So next time you are out fishing, don’t worry about your fishing rod getting wet. Just make sure that when you get off the water, properly clean your fishing rod and reel and store them in a cool, dry place away from the elements.