Overview
Tackle is a common English term with several related senses. In sport it usually denotes an action to stop or dispossess an opponent. In angling and general fishing it denotes the collection of gear an angler uses. In mechanics and traditional sailing a tackle refers to an arrangement of ropes and pulleys, commonly called a block and tackle, used to gain mechanical advantage for lifting or hauling loads. By extension, tackle is used metaphorically to mean taking on a task or problem.
Sporting tackles
Different sports regulate and shape tackling techniques. In rugby and American football a tackle typically involves physically bringing a ball carrier to ground or halting forward progress; rules restrict dangerous contact and determine how possession continues. In association football (soccer) a tackle is generally an attempt to dispossess an opponent, often with the feet, and is penalized if reckless or high. Other sports, such as Australian rules football and ice hockey, have distinct tackling or checking rules tailored to safety and game flow.
Fishing tackle
Fishing tackle is the ensemble of equipment used to catch fish. Core items include rods, reels, lines and hooks, supported by terminal tackle such as weights, floats, swivels and leaders. Specialized forms of tackle exist for fly fishing, surfcasting, trolling or ice fishing; material choices and rigging depend on target species, environment and technique. Proper selection, storage and maintenance of tackle affect success and longevity.
Block and tackle (mechanical)
A block and tackle is a system of one or more pulley blocks with a rope or cable threaded between them. By increasing the number of supporting rope segments, the arrangement reduces the input force needed to lift a load, trading force for rope travel. Such systems have long been used in maritime work, construction and theatre rigging. Safe use requires rated components, correct rigging and awareness of load limits.
Safety, regulation and language
Safety and rules differ by sense: sporting bodies set foul and concussion protocols; fisheries authorities regulate tackle use for conservation; engineering standards govern lifting tackle and inspections. Linguistically, tackle derives from nautical vocabulary for equipment and has broadened into everyday speech, where to "tackle" a problem means to begin addressing it directly.