Quick Answer
Clean your gear immediately after hunting to prevent eelgrass buildup, use a stiff-bristled brush to remove large clumps, and then soak the gear in warm water mixed with a small amount of mild detergent.
Removing Eelgrass Clumps
When removing eelgrass clumps from your gear, use a stiff-bristled brush to scrub the area, paying close attention to crevices and folds where the eelgrass tends to accumulate. For particularly stubborn clumps, you can use a tool like a credit card or a similar flat, flexible tool to scrape them away. Be careful not to scratch your gear in the process.
Soaking and Rinsing
To remove any remaining eelgrass residue, soak your gear in warm water mixed with a small amount of mild detergent. A ratio of 1 tablespoon of detergent per gallon of water is a good starting point. Soak the gear for 15-30 minutes, or until the water runs clear and any remaining eelgrass residue is removed. After soaking, rinse your gear thoroughly with clean water to prevent any detergent residue from interfering with future hunts.
Preventing Future Eelgrass Buildup
To prevent eelgrass buildup in the future, consider applying a waterproof coating to your gear, such as a silicone-based spray or a wax-based coating. These types of coatings can help prevent eelgrass from adhering to your gear in the first place, making cleanup much easier. Additionally, when hunting in eelgrass-prone areas, consider wearing a wetsuit or other protective clothing to prevent eelgrass from coming into contact with your skin.
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