I was looking for some advice (more of a poll of sorts) on the subject of storing plastic jig bodies. I recently had surgery and have been unable to return to work (and won't until December 1st). This has left me with a ton of time on my hands. I started powder painting about 1000 jig heads as I took inventory of what colors I am needing. In the process of going through my tackle, I came to the realization that I might have a problem. I don't really like labels, but I have decided that I am one or ALL of the following when it comes to jigs:

1.) Hoarder
2.) Collector
3.) Addict

I stopped counting at 8,000 jig bodies (a very easy count as everything is still in original packaging). Sounds like a fish story, but I can assure that it isn't (almost 4,000 of those are Thump Buddies...and if you know just how durable those are, you know I can't possibly use that many in 10 lifetimes). This leads me to the question that I have. I am having a horrible time organizing this much tackle. I prefer taking at least some of everything that I own (i.e. at least a few jig bodies of each style, color, etc...) but this has gotten increasingly difficult as there is so much packaging and it has also gotten increasingly more difficult to actually know exactly what I have. I know that I am truly blessed to even have this problem, so I hate to sound like I am complaining...BUT, I need help!!!

I am wondering what the pros and cons would be of taking these baits out of the original packaging and storing them in my tackle boxes (obviously plastic boxes with dividers) would be?? An obvious advantage would be that the baits would take up much less space. But is there a disadvantage to having the baits exposed?? I can't think of a disadvantage, but haven't ever stored my tackle that way and I just don't know. Any thoughts or suggestions are greatly appreciated!!

P.S. See you in the morning Lane!!

Chris

I leave them in the packages and separate them in Sterilite plastic storage containers. I have 2 of them that goes in the boat every trip. The ones I use the most are in a smaller box with a handle on the lid.
I found that putting them in separate spaces in boxes with dividers consumes way too much space.
Just my 2 cents.

Thanks Todd!! That is currently how I have all of my "backup" baits stored (Sterilite containers) and that works well. I have a separate box for each brand of plastic that I use most...those Thermocline bodies are hard to beat, especially when the fish are a little more finicky and want a smaller profile bait

I appreciate the input....hope you are enjoying Fork!! I haven't been in awhile and I miss fishing the bridges in my tube in the fall!! Thanks again.

Chris Muschalek

Chris: If you need help pairing down your inventory, let me know. I'll take some off your hands!

Well, at least you're not an ADDICT HOARDING YOUR COLLECTION'S!! Get you a few of these...
http://www.basspro.com/Bass-Pro-Shops-Ex...12042405182739/
I have 4-5 of them and most retail packages of plastics fit in the zipper binder bag's. Personally I have 3 binder's dedicated to the 3 sizes and styles of Crazy Angler plastics, a binder just for Panfish Assassins, another for Slider's & the big beaver-tail baits. I keep all my tube plastics in divider boxes.

That is exactly what I use..

1 for crappie jigs the other for sassy shad, and other soft plastics.

Man I thought I was a tackle whore. You got me beat Chris.

This may sound weird, but it works ..... for bass fishing I have thousands of soft plastics and I have them all in bags and carry them in a large soft side cooler from Walmart.

You can pick the size you want and fill it up, then when you want something just dig through it.
Your favorite will be close to the top.

I keep all mine in boxes


You can keep 48 different colors in a box, so with 5 I have roughly 240 kinds and colors (the empties have been filled, and my Mikes are in the folder in front of my bag). Problem is, some get deformed if you store upright. I bought one of these: http://www.basspro.com/Bass-Pro-Shops-XP.../1303290621381/ to carry them flat. Works good, makes it easy to pick styles and colors. I keep my nibbles and line in the top, and you can fit another two 370s in each side for heads and pliers, scissors, ect. You can call or email plano and they will send you as many dividers you want for free.
Now, problem is...I fish with handties 98% of the time!

That's impressive SlabHappy!

Nicely packed.

Thank you so much everyone!!! You all had some great input and ideas. I almost feel ready to tackle this daunting task!! If you see me around, I already told Lane I would be handing out samples.....I will be in a Metallic Tahoe with a Constant Pursuit Outfitters decal on my back window

Chris

Have fun today Chris,
Looks as though the weather is going to co-operate!

How do you get any fishing done with that many colors? Thats a cool box with every color of the rainbow but looks like one could waste to much time changing colors, if I was guessing you only use 5 or 6 of those colors and the rest just in there to fill a empty slot. Not dogging you at all so don't take it that way!!!

Thanks Matthew!! It turned out to be great weather and great fishing...2 limits before noon isn't too bad!