Tips on cleaning tackle and tackle box?

[Mikecouil]

I'm 29 years old and I'm quite embarrissed that I don't know the answer to this. I grew up in L.A. if that is a valid excuse and just moved to Minnesota about 8 years ago. Last year I decided to start learning how to fish and bought a couple used tackle boxes completely loaded with gear at an auction. I had a lot of good fortune with the stuff, so much so that I haven't had to buy anything new other than line and hooks.

I just pulled both Plano tackle boxes out and they are in MUCH need of cleaning. Some of the spoon baits and hooks are rusting and rusting the stuff near it. I assume I have to throw out all the rusty stuff, but what about the older baits that have paint peeling and stuff? Do I toss those too? Is there a way to strip the paint or prevent it from coming off further? What about the stuff that is just gunky and needs to be cleaned? What about the box itself. It's filthy. I assume I can't use regular cleaners. Do I have to buy special cleaner?

Your help is appreciated. I could ask my neighbors or any of the other locals but I wouldnt' hear the end of it for weeks. I'm already teased relentlessly for my overall lack of outdoor knowledge.

[makosteve66]

empth the box completely and wash out with soap and worter. spread and old shhet or newspaper on the didning room table and start sorting. Totally rusted or chrome peeling - get rid of, wooden pliungs it you want to give em a shot a re-fininshing why not, the only this to lose is time. good trick with hoogs and jigs that are starting to rust but are noth that bad, soak'em overnight in coke or pepsi wash off good the next day spot paint jigs where finish damage - testors model glue in metallic silve works great. sharpen the hooks and yake a black permenan marker and color the hooks - keeps em sharp and prevents rust. wash plastics in a mile diss detergent and dry well, then sprinkle lightly with babp powder - prevents the sticking to themselves or the box.

going foward - always was all rigs with freshwater afer use in salt and dry well before putting them away.

Last;y, if they are too far gone - toss'em, ther price of new ones will make you appreciate caring for them

[Mikecouil]

Thank you very much for the advice. I really appreciate it.

[oceanluvr30]

Home Depot was selling a pretty nice toolbox a couple of months ago which has an anti-rust feature. Replaced my old Plano and have been using this ever since with great results. The brand of the toolbox is Flambeau...