On Mon, 18 Oct 2004 23:58:06 GMT, "Michael Zierdt"
wrote:

I usually bring them back to Indiana.

Well, not surprisingly, I'm going to be the contrarian. I'd vote that if
possible, do the same again, and here's why: There is lots of data about gear
and heat effects (look at warnings on fly lines, for example), there is probably
relatively little data on cold effects. While I suspect the rods will be fine
(although I've never stored any at those temps) and the reels, depending on
construction, will _probably_ be fine (but if they had _any_ non-metal parts,
ala cork, I'd have a concern), but I'd not want to leave my lines, leaders,
tippet material, etc. in -40 F temps, so I'd go ahead and take the reels back to
"town." And since I don't know what else "etc." might cover, I'd not be able to
offer an opinion.

You obviously aren't sure either, hence your question, and have a concern.
Therefore, IMO, since if it were me, I'd be taking the reels home, and possibly
some other "etc.," gear, I'd probably just go ahead and play it safe (hey, other
things can happen over the winter in such a cabin) and take everything. As
always, YMMV.

HTH,
R