Help me! I can’t stop buying tackle!

By Capt. Mel Berman, 970-WFLA

If we really wanted to be honest with ourselves, a couple-three rods and reels should be more than enough to satisfy most of our fishing requirements. Yet, after a mere few years of fishing, our tackle collection somehow magically grows exponentially. I personally have gotten to the point where I purchased one of those multi-rod tackle racks on wheels – and today that sucker’s cram full of rods and reels of every size, shape and description.

Is it a compulsion? Is there a cure? Should I sign up for “Tackle Buyers Anonymous?”

My only consolation is that this personality flaw is apparently quite common with most of the fishing addicted.

I recently went on a trip with my friend, guide and radio competitor, Capt. Ray Markham. We met at his waterfront home in Terra Ceia, launched and had a very productive fishing day.

Upon our return, Ray took me proudly into his garage to show off his pet project. There in the ceiling were many – and I do mean many rod racks fastened to the ceiling. And every available slot was crammed with rods and reels of every configuration.

His collection made me feel like a downright piker when it came to accumulating fishing outfits.

”Just how many fishing combos do you have Ray,” I asked incredulously. “I think at least 85,” he replied sheepishly. “Why in the world would you need all those rods and reels,” I asked.  “Believe or not Mel, I get to use almost every one of those babies,” he said, as if to justify his tackle addition. “Yeh—sure Ray.”

But it does take one – to know one! And I must fess up – If I see a new rod or reel design that looks oh so perfect for my fishing needs, I can’t resist the temptation. Going to the nearest tackle store to get the feel and heft of that new fishing innovation, I cannot overcome the urge. Almost uncontrollably, my hand reaches for the credit card and yes, I walk out with my latest possession.

Now us guys always rag on women about their impulsive shopping habits – purchasing handbags, shoes, and other perceived must-have items that when acquired seems to satisfy their inner being.

But you know, truth be known, us anglers are just as bad – and maybe worse.

Well this year, I have resolved that I must fish with the tackle I now have on hand. I promised myself that I would simply ignore the urge to buy that newer, lighter, longer, more sensitive rod that everyone’s talking about. And I’m really good to go on that score – that is until my next trip when one of my buddies hauls out his new rod and/or reel and invariably says “Here Mel, try this!”  And yes, I’m hooked once more. I must have it!

Now, next time I go fishing, if one of the guys has the urge to hand me his new fishing outfit to try, I would very much appreciate it if he resists that devilish temptation.