How to Maintain Fishing Reels
Those who love fishing know how dirty their reels can get after a day out on the water. Over time, exposure to dirt, sand, bait residues, salt and water can cause your equipment to rust, corrode and seize up. This guide gives you tips on how to maintain fishing reels and keep your equipment in good working order.
Things you will need
WD-40 Specialist® Silicone Lubricant
Small brush
Distilled water
Microfibre cloths
Screw drivers
Step 1
Basic maintenance
After every fishing trip, basic maintenance requirements include cleaning the outside of the reel with a damp microfibre cloth and perhaps adding a light layer of protectant and lubrication. WD-40 Multi-Use Product works well to provide routine care with a trusted and easily available product.
Step 2
Clean the reel coil
After several uses (5 or more), we suggest cleaning the reel plus, a light lubrication of the visible moving parts i.e. those that you can see in the reel after removing the coil. We suggest using WD-40 Specialist Water Resistant Silicone Lubricant, which has excellent cleaning and lubricating properties. Its formula is compatible with all metals, plastics, rubber and wood.
To reach the reel coil, unfasten the central screw and remove the wire coil from the reel assembly. Inspect the internal and external components and remove any particles or foreign elements with a small brush. Optionally, immerse the reel in distilled water for several hours. Rinse and dry with a clean microfibre cloth and be sure not to lubricate the friction unit. Mystery Tackle Box offers a video explanation if you wish for a visual aid to the cleaning process.
Step 3
Lubricating the bail and line spool
If you want to properly maintain fishing reels, then the bail join also needs some attention. The opening and closing action should be consistent and smooth, and caring for the joints with the WD-40 Specialist Silicone Lubricant can help with regularity. Add a few drops to the line spool to lightly lubricate the inner bearing.
Step 4
Final cleaning of the exterior
After finishing maintenance on the moving parts, wipe away any excess lubricant from the reel and other components. Tighten visible screws (with the appropriate screwdrivers) and administer a final coating of WD-40 Specialist Silicone Lubricant. This step is especially important before long storage during the off season.
In summary
Storing a handy can of WD-40 Multi-Use Product or WD-40 Specialist Silicone Lubricant in your tacklebox along with a small cloth offers a quick and easy solution for basic maintenance of your fishing gear. It can also come in handy with boat motors and other marine equipment.
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