Hey all - this is a new one for me. Just starting to put together some basic gear for saltwater fishing as I've always been a freshwater guy. Grew up in the interior but on the Island now so trying to get into things. Thought I'd get a head start by picking up some used gear on FB Marketplace. Got a pretty good deal on a couple of tackle boxes with a fair bit of hootchies, plugs, spoons, and flashers etc. All in all a good head start in putting a basic kit together from what I know. Only thing is... they kinda stink. Well, more than kinda... they more or less reek. Didn't notice when I picked them up, but when I sat down at home to take a closer inventory was very apparent. I was planning to give them a rinse out and re-organize anyway, but I think I'll need to go harder than that to scrub the smell out.
So, any ideas on best methods to get rid of or at least reduce the stink, without inadvertently putting any chemical smells or the like on the gear that will turn the fish off? I have them sitting and airing out open outside right now. I am thinking pull all the gear and soak in some hot water and vinegar or maybe oxyclean? I'm thinking bleach would be a mistake. As for the box itself, maybe some sort of vinegar baking soda treatment? If we can get any length of damn sun I'll give them some UV treatment too. Any thoughts or experiences?
So, any ideas on best methods to get rid of or at least reduce the stink, without inadvertently putting any chemical smells or the like on the gear that will turn the fish off? I have them sitting and airing out open outside right now. I am thinking pull all the gear and soak in some hot water and vinegar or maybe oxyclean? I'm thinking bleach would be a mistake. As for the box itself, maybe some sort of vinegar baking soda treatment? If we can get any length of damn sun I'll give them some UV treatment too. Any thoughts or experiences?