I checked a box of flies and a reel post 9/11 with no questions asked, but then again I was flying to Montana. they probably see a lot of that.

Best bet is to consult the FAA list of items allowed to carry (http://www.tsa.gov/interweb/assetlibrar ... ms%20list') or call the airline ahead of time. you can always ask when you check in, and if there's a problem usually they'll just take the questionable objects and hold them in the cabin for you until you reach your destination.