Nearly 58 million Americans enjoyed fishing in 2024, and many fishers plan to continue their passion in the coming years. If you’re one of them and planning a move, you might be dreading packing and transporting your prized fishing gear. Any fishing enthusiast knows all too well that this equipment is delicate — and expensive. The average angler spends more than $1,000 on fishing-related expenses yearly, and the cost of trips and high-end equipment can easily drive up that amount.
Since fishing gear requires a significant investment, a lot of care needs to go into prepping and packing your equipment correctly. And if you’ve been fishing all your life, you probably have a ton of rods, reels, lures, lines, and everything in between to sort through and organize. Fortunately, this guide can help you with tips on inventory, gear prep, outdated equipment disposal, packing, and transporting your fishing equipment.
Inventory Your Equipment
Can you rattle off every piece of fishing equipment you own from memory? Even if the answer is yes, you may still benefit from a pre-move inventory.
Taking stock of your fishing gear helps you stay organized as you settle into your new home. Rummaging through packed possessions, frantically attempting to find your waders or favorite rod, probably isn’t how you want to unwind after a move. Fortunately, you can prevent post-move meltdowns by following these 5 practical inventory tips:
1) Begin With Dry, Clean Gear
Don’t attempt to organize muddy tackle boxes or mildew-scented coolers. Clean and dry your gear before you take stock of your fishing essentials. This also helps you identify outdated or damaged gear that won’t make it to moving day.
2) Make a List
Write down every item that’s part of your fishing collection. Don’t worry about breaking your gear into separate categories — you can do that later. For now, just focus on listing every fishing pole, reel, underwater camera, and bait bucket you have.
Be specific when you list items, and include detailed descriptions. Rather than simply writing “fishing pole”, list your pole as a “black St. Croix Triumph Travel rod”. Include serial numbers when applicable.
Don’t forget about items in easily overlooked areas, such as the fillet knives you keep in the kitchen. You may want to pack these knives with your other fishing gear rather than your kitchen essentials, but ultimately it’s up to you. Just make sure the system makes sense and can be easily written down.
3) Break Your List Into Categories
You can organize your list by category or storage spot. For example, you could list electronics, such as fish finders or acoustic monitoring devices, together. You could also make a separate category for items in your shed and gear in your basement or closets.
4) Create a Packing Checklist
Now that you know what fishing equipment you own and where it’s located, create a packing list for your move. Consider listing one item per line so you can easily check off packed equipment. You may find organizing your packing checklist by room or having an indoor/outdoor list helpful.
5) Photograph Fishing Gear
To process your claim, your insurance company needs proof that your Daiwa Dendoh Marine Power fishing reel went missing during the move. Photograph all your equipment, big and small, and keep printed and digital copies of the pics. Consider attaching receipts or sales slips to printed photos. Include the URL or store name where you purchased the gear if you’re creating a digital inventory.
How to Prep Your Fishing Gear Before You Pack
Before you get too deep into the packing process, it’s important to prepare all of your gear first. If you don’t, you’re risking damage to your equipment. Here are the steps to take to make sure everything is ready:
Clean your gear
To avoid transferring grime or allowing debris to cause damage, give your equipment a thorough cleaning as you would before storing it for the off-season. Break down your fishing rods by removing the reel, and then wipe down the rod with a damp cloth to remove any dirt, grime, or salt.
Make sure to clean the guides, reel seat, and grip thoroughly, too. You can use a soft brush to clean the exterior of the reel, paying special attention to the line roller, bail arm, and spool. Open the reel and carefully clean the internal components, such as the gears and bearings. Finally, apply a light coating of reel oil to the bearings and a dab of grease to the gears. You should always allow your gear to dry completely before reassembling and storing, or you could end up with rust.
Check for damage
Inspect your gear for any signs of damage or wear. If you find any issues, make a note and then schedule time on your calendar to get them repaired before using the equipment at your new destination. This also helps you know if your movers may have caused any damage to your equipment.
Sort your tackle
Since you’re already going through it all, now is a good time to get rid of any extra junk you’ve accumulated in your tackle box. Find and discard any damaged or rusted lures, hooks, and sinkers, and sort out anything that’s in better condition that you might want to sell or give away.
How Do I Dispose of Old Fishing Gear?
Recycling and donating
If you have any gear that’s in decent condition (rods, lifejackets, waders, etc.),consider donating them to a local organization instead of throwing them away. In addition to charities, there may be community organizations, schools, or outdoor programs that could use your stuff. You can also contact your local recycling center to find out if anything is eligible to be recycled.
Lines, nets, and hooks
When disposing of old fishing gear, it’s important to consider the potential environmental impact and follow proper disposal methods. Old fishing line can get caught around wildlife and plants, while hooks and other sharp objects could be swallowed by animals and injure them.
If you’re getting rid of any used fishing line, you may be able to find a monofilament recycling bin in your area–often found at boat ramps, marinas, or tackle shops – and deposit the used lines there. If there aren’t any recycling bins nearby, cut the line into small pieces to minimize the risk of entanglement, and throw it out in your regular household trash.
“Extreme heat or cold, as well as harsh, direct sunlight can cause your equipment to fade, crack, or lose its shelf life. Make sure you store your gear in a dry, cool, and well-ventilated area to prevent any damage.”
Consider repurposing old fishing net material for other uses, such asgarden trellisesor craft projects. Otherwise, dispose of it the same way you would for lines, by cutting the net into smaller pieces and tossing it in the trash.
For hooks, sinkers, and other metal or sharp pieces, place them inside a sturdy container like an old Gatorade bottle or Coke can, or wrap them in protective material before throwing them away to reduce the risk of injury and environmental damage.
How to Wrap Your Fishing Gear Properly
Once you have all your gear cleaned and sorted, you can get ready to start packing. Here are the steps to take to make sure all of your fishing equipment makes it to your new home in top condition.
What you’ll need
The first step to packing properly is having the right materials, and it’s especially important when packing up expensive, small, and delicate items like fishing gear. Have these items on hand before you get started:
- Fishing rod cases or PVC tubes: You’ll need specially designed protective tubes or cases for transporting fishing rods, which keep them from getting damaged during the move. If you don’t already have a rod case, you can purchase one or make your own using PVC pipe from your local hardware store.
- Bubble wrap: This or a similar cushioning material is essential for protecting your reels and other delicate equipment.
- Packing tape: Use this to seal rod cases, secure bubble wrap around your gear, and reinforce cardboard boxes.
- Moving blankets or towels: These will provide additional padding for your equipment and protect it from scratches.
- Cardboard boxes: You’ll need sturdy boxes to pack your tackle box, reels, and other smaller items.
- Wooden or plastic crates: In some cases, cardboard won’t be durable enough, especially when protecting extra delicate and sentimental items like mounts and other keepsakes.
- Permanent marker: You’ll need to clearly label your boxes and rod cases so you know exactly what’s inside.
How to Pack Fishing Rods for Moving
Your fishing rods are going to require some special attention when packing. They’re delicate and also an awkward shape compared to furniture or appliances. It’s easy for rods to get broken if they’re not packed properly.Here are the steps to take:
- Remove the reel from the rod (if you haven’t already): This will make the rod easier to handle and reduce the risk of damage. If you have a two-piece rod, separate the sections for easier packing.
- Organize rods by size: This will help you determine what size case(s) you’ll need, and how many.
- Obtain a rod case or tube: A fishing rod case is designed to protect the rod during transport. You can find these at sporting goods stores like Bass Pro Shops or Dick’s Sporting Goods, or online retailers like Amazon. Alternatively, you can create a DIY rod tube using PVC pipes and end caps from your local hardware store. If you go this route, measure your rod sections and choose a tube with an appropriate length and diameter to accommodate them. You’ll want to add a few inches to the length of the longest rod you’re packing. You can also pack about three together, but make sure you don’t pack too tightly.
- Wrap the rod sections: Even if you use a rod case with built-in padding, you should wrap each rod section with bubble wrap, focusing on areas like the tip, guides, and reel seat. Use packing tape to secure the bubble wrap, but avoid applying tape directly to the rod.
- Insert the rod sections into the case or tube: Carefully slide the wrapped rod sections into the rod case or tube. If using a PVC pipe, make sure the end caps are securely attached. You may add extra padding, such as foam or bubble wrap, inside the tube to keep the rod sections from shifting during transit.
- Seal and label the case: Once the rod sections are in the case, close and securely fasten it. Use a permanent marker to label each case with your name, contact information, and a description of the contents to prevent any mix-ups or confusion.
- Do a shake test: You can ensure your rods are packed tightly enough by shaking the cases a bit. You’re good to go if you don’t hear any rattling or movement.
- Pack your cases: Once your fishing rods are packed in their tubes or cases, place them in a sturdy cardboard box. Fill any gaps with packing materials like packing peanuts or bubble wrap to prevent them from moving around during transportation.
How to Move Fishing Bait, Lures, and Liquids
Bait and tackle often require a little more care during a move. After all, these fishing staples can be messy, fragile, or dangerous. Moving some of these items may even be illegal, depending on where your move takes you.
Fishing Bait
Soft plastic bait or sealed plastic baggies can be moved in their original packaging. You can place these containers in a tackle box or a small moving box. Consider placing plastic bait in an insulated cooler if you’re moving on a hot day.
Keep in mind that there are typically restrictions for moving live bait across state lines. For example, Missouri doesn’t let anyone transport live bait across state lines due to concerns about ecosystem disruption. If you’re moving out of state, make sure you know what’s legal to move through each state you pass through and at your destination.
For a local move, your state may let you transport live bait in your personal vehicle. Moving companies often refuse to transport anything that’s alive, including worms and other fishing bait.
Sharp Lures
The same hooks that can snag a prize-winning fish can slice through your or your movers’ fingers. Wrap lures separately in foam sheets or place them in tiny, tightly sealed containers. You can also use storage boxes designed specifically for lures.
Make sure you label lure-filled boxes so movers know what’s inside! “Sharp items–fishing lures” can be a helpful warning.
Liquids and Oils
Bottles of reel oil and fish attractant can easily break, leaving you with a messy surprise when you unpack. Make sure you pack liquids in leak-proof containers double-wrapped in plastic bags. Sealable pouches are also an option.
Store liquids or oils upright in your moving boxes, and label boxes with leak prevention in mind, using phrases such as “Keep upright”, “This side up”, or “Do not tip.”
If you are concerned about potential injuries or leaks, consider placing bait, lure, and liquids in your vehicle rather than on the moving truck.
How to Pack Fish Mounts and Keepsakes
Your fishing rods aren’t the only large, delicate items to worry about when moving. You might have irreplaceable mounts, trophies, or collectibles that you absolutely can’t afford to have damaged. Follow these steps when packing these types of keepsakes:
- Prepare your boxes: If you’re using standard-sized cardboard boxes, reinforce the bottom with packing tape. For larger or especially delicate items, you may want to invest in some sturdier crates that can’t be crushed or damaged as easily. Line the bottom of your containers with a layer of bubble wrap, foam padding, or packing peanuts for extra cushioning.
- Wrap fishing mounts: For mounted fish, wrap the entire mount with bubble wrap, ensuring the fins and tail are well protected. For delicate or fragile keepsakes, wrap each item individually with bubble wrap, packing paper, or foam sheets, and then secure the wrap with packing tape.
- Pack the items in the boxes: Mounted fish should be packed individually and insulated so there is no movement inside the box. For everything else, place the heaviest and sturdiest items on the bottom of the box. Smaller items can be placed in smaller boxes or plastic containers with lids and stacked on top. Fill any empty spaces with packing peanuts or crumpled packing paper to prevent movement.
- Label the boxes: Clearly label each box with a description of the contents and indicate if the contents are fragile.
- Load your boxes: Keep the boxes with delicate items separate from heavier items, and avoid stacking them under heavy or bulky items. Place these boxes in an area of the truck where they are least likely to move around during transport.
If you have very large mounts — or simply don’t want to take an ounce of risk — consider hiring a company that specializes in transporting taxidermy, such as Trophy Transport or Taxidermy Freight. It could cost you a few hundred dollars or more to use these services, but it could be well worth your peace of mind.
Need additional box-packing tips? Check out our handy post, How to Pack a Moving Box Like a Pro: The Basics.
Special Considerations for Fragile or High-Value Gear
Sometimes it’s not ideal to toss fishing gear in a box labeled “Shed stuff” and hope for the best. Fragile or high-value gear requires extra TLC during the move.
Here are some fragile or expensive fishing essentials that may require special attention:
- GPS units
- Underwater cameras
- Fish finders
- Sonar systems
- Portable battery packs
- Specialty rods and reels
- High-end tackle kits or boxes
For peace of mind, you may want to keep these items close during your move. Consider transporting them in your vehicle rather than the moving truck.
Electronics should be wrapped in bubble wrap, foam, or similar cushioning. Use the original boxes if you have them. If not, use a hard-sided package or container with plenty of padding.
“You can ensure your rods are packed tightly enough by shaking the cases a bit. If you don’t hear any rattling or movement, you’re good to go.”
Label boxes clearly so movers can easily identify containers with electronics or fragile gear. Use a thick-tipped, dark-colored permanent marker so your words are easily visible and read.
Make sure these high-value items are all part of your fishing inventory list. Hold on to receipts if you have them, and take photos of expensive or hard-to-replace fishing gear. This can be helpful if you need to file an insurance claim.
Transporting Boats and Dinghies
If you also have your own fishing boat, that can add a layer of complexity to your move. There are a few options available for hauling a boat to a new location:
- Overland transport: This involves hauling your boat in a boat trailer that’s pulled by a specialized vehicle. You’ll need to ensure your boat is properly secured in the trailer. Out of all the options, this one tends to be the most cost-effective.
- Water transport: If you’re transporting a boat between coastal areas, you may need to have it shipped via a tug or barge. This option is more expensive due to added costs of fuel, port fees, and more.
- Air freight: Boats that are too big and heavy to be towed on the road may need to be shipped by air freight. This is usually only necessary for superyachts or cargo ships, not modest fishing boats. However, if you need your boat moved quickly, this may be an option if you’re also willing to pay the very high cost.
- Container shipping: This is a more cost-effective way to ship boats internationally. The boat is loaded into a flat rack or enclosed shipping container, then sent off by truck or rail before being loaded onto a larger vessel for transport to the final location.
You can minimize the cost of transporting your boat by looking for shared load opportunities, where multiple boats are shipped together.
Looking for movers to help? Click here.
How to Unpack and Reorganize Your Fishing Equipment
Once you’ve reached your new home, it’s time to get unpacked and organized. The good news is that the prep work you did before moving should make this a fairly simple and straightforward process.
- Indicate the right room. Ideally, you will have a dedicated area in a room available to store all of your fishing equipment. That may be your garage, basement, she-shed, or any other place where you can set up and work on your gear with enough space and comfort. If you’ve hired movers, make sure that they know where all the boxes labeled “fishing equipment” go. Color-coding can help with this.
- Watch out for extreme temperatures and light. Extreme heat or cold, as well as harsh, direct sunlight, can cause your equipment to fade, crack, or lose its shelf life. Make sure you store your gear in a dry, cool, and well-ventilated area to prevent any damage.
- Use rack storage: Open wall space can be used to hang fishing rods, either with horizontal rod racks or vertical hanging systems, keeping them safe from damage and freeing up floor space.
- Pack in clear storage bins: For larger items like life vests, waders, and nets, it’s best to keep them in clear, stackable storage bins so you can keep them out of the way but still easily see where things are. It’s a good idea to also label the bins so you can quickly scan and find what you need.
- Install pegboards: A pegboard on the wall is a great place to hang smaller accessories like pliers, scissors, and fishing hats. Use hooks or clips for a customizable and easily accessible storage solution that doubles as a display.
- Store soft plastics: Use plastic binder pages or zippered plastic bags to store and organize soft plastic lures. Group them by type, color, or size, and store the pages or bags in a binder or a designated storage container.
- Keep line organized: Keep fishing line spools in a line spool box or a homemade spool holder made from PVC pipe, dowels, or a shoebox.
- Consider custom storage solutions: If you have a bigger budget and/or a lot of equipment, you might want to look into storage options that are designed for fishing gear. For example, you could purchase a fly fishing rod closet that allows you to store your rods without having to break them down every time you use them. Or you could build a storage cabinet specific to the types of gear you own that fits your unique space.
If fishing is an important part of your life, you want to make sure that your precious gear and keepsakes are well cared for. Taking the extra time and care to prep, pack, and move your fishing equipment will ensure it arrives in your new home intact and ready to take out on the water.