Fishing is a popular hobby for many people. However, finding a place to store all that gear can be a challenge, especially if space is limited. The garage can be an ideal place for storing fishing equipment, as long as it is organized properly.
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Assessing Your Needs
The first step is to take an inventory of all your fishing gear and assess your storage needs. Some questions to consider:
- How many rods and reels do you have?
- What types of tackle boxes and accessories need to be stored?
- Do you have a boat, trolling motor, or other large items?
- How much room will be needed for future purchases?
Taking measurements of your garage space will also help you plan out where to put everything. Be sure to leave room for walkways and getting in and out of vehicles.
Rod and Reel Storage
Rods and reels take up a lot of space, so storing them properly is key. Here are some good storage options:
- Wall-mounted rod racks – Excellent for conveniently displaying rods and keeping them protected. Can be purchased or homemade.
- Ceiling-mounted racks – Utilize wasted vertical space by hanging rods overhead.
- Rod tubes – PVC pipe or commercial rod tubes neatly store multiple rods in one container.
- Rod locker cabinet – Large cabinet with built-in rod racks stores rods and reels behind closed doors.
Reels can be stored on the rods, detached in small parts bins or tackle boxes, or upright in a special reel rack.
Tips for Rod and Reel Storage
- Avoid bending rods by storing them either completely horizontal or vertical.
- Store rods and reels off concrete floors to avoid moisture damage.
- Detach and store reels separately during off-season to relieve strain on rods.
- Use reel covers to keep out dust and protect from nicks and scrapes.
Tackle Storage Solutions
Keeping all those small tackle items organized is essential for any angler. Here are some tackle storage ideas for the garage:
Plastic Storage Containers
Clear plastic containers with lids allow you to neatly sort and identify contents. They protect gear from dust and moisture and can be stacked to save space. Use for:
- Extra fishing line
- Sinkers, hooks, and small tackle
- Tools like pliers, clippers, and knives
- First aid kits
- Fishing licenses and paperwork
Utility Shelves
Install shelving units on a garage wall to hold labeled plastic storage bins. Great for storing:
- Bulk terminal tackle like swivels, leader line, weights
- Soft plastics in divided trays
- Extra spools of line
Leave room between shelves for large tackle boxes.
Hanging Storage
Utilize vertical wall space by hanging storage solutions. Options include:
- Overhead tackle racks
- Mesh bags to hold soft plastics
- Pegboard fitted with custom hooks
Tackle Boxes
Invest in one or more good-quality tackle boxes to hold assorted terminal tackle, rigs, small tools, and frequently-used items. Store in a dry, secure place off the floor.
Clothing and Accessory Storage
Fishing clothes, hats, sunglasses, and other gear used on the water needs proper storage as well. Ideas include:
- Mounted coat racks for hanging jackets, waders, and hats
- Shelving unit for folded clothes and accessories
- Plastic bins or storage crate for rain suits and boots
- Wall hooks for nets, gaffs, tackle vests, and other gear
Keep electronics like fish finders protected in a cabinet or sturdy storage container.
Larger Item Storage
For boats, motors, and other large fishing gear, the garage needs some creative storage solutions.
Overhead Storage
Use the ceiling space by installing pulley systems or fixed racks to get boats, kayaks, paddles and oars up and out of the way. Many garage ceiling storage systems are rated for heavy weights.
Vertical Floor Spaces
Stand boats and other taller gear upright and secure to the wall or a custom rack. This helps maximize floor space.
Organized on Trailer
Keep your boat neatly organized on its trailer rather than trying to remove it from the garage for storage. Install good shelving in the boat to stow gear so it’s ready to go.
Wall Racks and Hangers
Specialized racks, hangers brackets, and slings can keep kayaks, paddles, life jackets, and other items neatly stowed on garage walls.
Space-Saving Racks
Special ceiling-mounted pulley systems allow you to easily raise trolling motors, battery chargers, and other equipment up and out of the way.
Label and Organize
No matter what storage solutions you implement, clearly labeling everything will keep your garage fishing gear organized and accessible. Other organizing tips:
- Group like items together in labeled bins.
- Store the most-used items at the most convenient levels.
- Keep an inventory list of all gear and tackle.
- Designate a space for off-season items not currently in use.
- Regularly purge unused and damaged items.
Maintenance
A few simple maintenance steps will keep your fishing gear in good condition:
- Check rods/reels for corrosion and damage before storing for off-season.
- Spray rods and tackles boxes with silicone to prevent rust and sticking.
- Keep floors clean and dry to avoid slipping hazards.
- Seal concrete if needed to prevent moisture absorption.
- Use dehumidifiers or moisture-absorbing products if high humidity is an issue.
Security
Your collection of fishing gear likely has substantial monetary value. Keep it secure with these tips:
- Install good locks on all garage doors and windows.
- Attach rod/reel locks to high-value equipment.
- Mount shelves high enough that valuables are not easily reached from outside.
- Install motion sensor lights outside garage.
- Install a security system if possible.
- Keep garage closed and locked when not in use.
Conclusion
Storing fishing tackle and equipment in a garage can be challenging, but very doable with good organizational and storage solutions. By fully utilizing shelves, racks, overhead space, and other specialized storage options, even the smallest garage can accommodate a substantial amount of gear. Labeling and maintaining equipment will keep the space functional and secure. A little creativity and DIY handiwork can provide anglers the perfect garage for protecting their investment while keeping gear conveniently accessible for every fishing adventure.