Many folks tackle a summer cleanout at their house or camps. Boxes are loaded with lawn sale junk, thrown out, or rehomed. Amongst this hoarded stuff is usable and old hunting and fishing gear.
As sportsmen age, we tend to have way more gear than we will ever use. There are extra flies, lures, rods, clothes, and gear that would be welcomed by new anglers. Kids are not picky. To them anything is new. Hand me downs are no big deal.
Find a home for your surplus gear.
Everyone has a local kid, newbie, or family member that would enjoy expanding their tackle boxes and outdoor closets. What may seem like junk or worn out/used stuff to you could be priceless to a new outdoorsman.
Back in the day, my neighbors knew that I was a kid that loved to fish. As gear became available, it was passed down to me. One gift was an old AA vise and assorted fly tying materials. I still have and use that old vise. This gift started me on the fly fishing path.
When we are given hand- me- down gear, we use it respectfully. The plugs had pike teeth holes in them, the spinners were tarnished, the vest had a few holes, but all of the gear had great stories. I accepted them with gratitude. The only request was to pass along the same traditions.
During local fishing derbies, I donate extra gear to the kids. Rods and reels are rigged and ready accompanied with a sack of hooks, lures, baits, and hats. The kids with no tackle go home with a start to becoming a better angler.
I am not saying to give away your most expensive stuff, just the stuff that you never use anymore.
Hook a Kid up!
Montana Grant
