self sealing silicone tape (Tommy Tape)

[blueroof]

I picked up a great tip. Anyone use self sealing silicone tape to attach reels to ice rods? They sell this stuff under the name Tommy Tape or Rescue Tape, I believe 3M has a brand too. I picked up a couple rolls, the stuff is sweet. The tape only sticks to itself and is able to be readjusted as long as it isn't stretched too much. The more it is stretched, the better it seals to itself. It won't mar cork handles and pull filler out like electrical tape can if left on too long. It also stays soft and pliable in the extreme cold and doesn't shrink and leave sticky spots. I've previously used shrink tubing and electrical tape, this stuff is far better than either.

It's a bit pricey, $6 per 10 ft., but you only need a bit over a foot per rod/reel combo.

LB

[waskawood]

I have used this for years and it is a fantastic product. I bought some new reels this fall so I cut the tape off the old reels and it does not leave any residue. I have done at least 8 reels with my roll and have enough left to do several more.

[hawkeye43]

Where did you get it??????

[metrojoe]

I use this on all my ice rods also. It works great. It's nice not having to deal with the sticky mess that electrical tape can leave behind.

I picked up mine at Home Depot, but I imagine most major home/hardware stores carry it.

[slipperybob]

Good idea, I should give this a try. I'm using electrical tape at the moment.

[fishinJohn]

I sent an email to St. Croix saying I hated their reel holding rubber and they responded saying use Tommy Tape. I mentioned that to my local bait shop owner and he rolled his eyes and muttered "pss, tommy tape". I am glad to hear it is a good product for this. I have always disliked electrical tape for its residue.

[aczr2k]

When Matt J. set my new rods up last year at Thorne Bros he used masking tape first just on the cork handle to protect, then just used electrical tape, shouldn't have a problem taking that off.

[TMF89]

Anybody ever try hockey tape? Never even heard of it being used, but the idea just popped into my head.

[spotter]

If you put the first couple wraps of elecrical tape on upside down then flip it over you wont leave a mess when you take it off. but i do like the rods with seats.

[Phred52]

Hawkeye43, The place I found Tommy Tape was at our local Runnings Big R farm supply! In the Electrical section. Hope that helps you out. Phred52