Maintaining Your Fishing Gear: How to Clean Your Reel

By Alex Henderson

July 5, 2023


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Fishing is one of the most venerable pastimes in existence, and fishing tackle, like rods and reels, requires regular upkeep to keep them functioning correctly. Cleaning a fishing reel can be a daunting task for those who are inexperienced with angling gear maintenance. In this article, we’ll uncover the basics of cleaning a fishing reel so you can get back out into the water with confidence. Whether you’re new to fishing or just want to brush up on your knowledge, there’s something here for everyone! You’ll learn how to properly take apart and clean all types of reels, along with tips on storage where applicable. So grab your supplies, and let’s get started on making sure that your tackle stays in tip-top shape!

Gather the necessary equipment and materials – cleaning brush, cloth, lubricant, rod, and reel.

Getting ready for a day of fishing means making sure you have all the necessary equipment and materials. To start, a good cleaning brush is essential for keeping your rod and reel in tip-top shape for your next adventure. A cloth will also come in handy for wiping down any excess dirt or grime that may accumulate on your gear. Additionally, having a proper lubricant on hand will ensure that your reel stays silky smooth and functions properly. Lastly, a reliable rod and reel are crucial to landing that big catch, so make sure you have the right tools for the job and get ready to reel in the big one!

Disassemble the fishing reel by removing the spool and handle.

Disassembling the fishing reel is the next crucial step in the cleaning process. Begin by removing the spool, which is the part that holds your fishing line. This can typically be accomplished by loosening the drag (which controls the tension on the line) and then unscrewing the knob that holds the spool in place. Once you’ve removed the spool, inspect it for any damage or wear and tear. If it appears to be damaged, it may be time to replace it.

Next, remove the handle of the reel by taking out the screws that attach it to the body of the reel. Be sure to keep track of these screws so you don’t lose them during the cleaning process. Similar to the spool, inspect the handle for any damage or wear and tear. If it looks like it’s seen better days, it may be time to replace it as well.

By removing these parts, you’ll have greater access to the internal components of the reel, including the gears and bearings that make it function smoothly. This will enable you to clean these parts more thoroughly and ensure that they continue to work properly for years to come.

Clean the outside of the reel with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris.

After a long day of fishing, the last thing you want to do is deal with a dirty and grimy reel. Not only is it unappealing to look at, but it could also affect the performance of your gear. Cleaning the outside of the reel is a simple task that can make a big difference. All you need is a damp cloth to wipe away any dirt and debris that has accumulated on the surface. This will not only keep your reel looking shiny and new, but it will also protect it from any potential damage caused by buildup. Don’t forget to give your reel a little extra care by wiping it down after each use so that it stays in tip-top shape for all your future fishing adventures.

Use a soft-bristled brush to get into tight crevices that are hard to reach with a cloth.

Taking care of your belongings is important, especially if you want them to last for a long time. But sometimes, it can be difficult to give them the thorough cleaning they need, especially when it comes to tight crevices that are hard to reach with a cloth. This is where a soft-bristled brush comes in handy. With its delicate yet effective bristles, you can easily reach and clean those hard-to-reach areas without damaging the surface of your item. Whether it’s a delicate piece of jewelry, a decorative figurine, or an intricate electronic device, a soft-bristled brush can be your best tool for keeping it clean and well-maintained.

Apply lubricant to gears and other moving parts on your fishing reel.

To ensure your fishing reel works smoothly and effectively, applying lubricant to the gears and other moving parts is essential. Without proper lubrication, the friction between the parts can cause wear and tear, leading to performance issues and even irreversible damage. Fortunately, lubricating your reel is a simple task that can be done in just a few quick steps. By taking the time to properly maintain your gear, you can minimize the risk of malfunctions and ensure that your next fishing trip is a success. So, grab some lubricant and get ready to give your reel the care it deserves!

Reassemble your fishing reel by screwing in the handle and spool.

Reassembling your fishing reel can be a slightly tricky process, but it’s an essential step to ensure your gear is functioning correctly. Begin by screwing the handle back onto the reel body, making sure you use the appropriate screws. It’s vital to screw the handle back in tightly to prevent any wiggling or shaking, which could lead to frustration during your next fishing trip.

Next, it’s time to reattach the spool – remember, this is the part of the reel that holds your fishing line. Begin by threading the line through the guide and onto the spool. It’s important to ensure the line is evenly spread across the spool to prevent any tangles or knots while you’re fishing. Once you’ve finished threading the line, screw the knob back in place to hold the spool securely.

Once the spool and handle are securely fastened, you’re ready to test your reel’s smooth action. Give the handle a few turns to make sure everything is functioning correctly – the spool should turn smoothly and easily without any wobbling or shaking. If you notice any issues with the reel’s operation, it may be time to inspect the internal components more closely or seek professional maintenance.

Conclusion

As you can see, maintaining a fishing reel is an easy and straightforward process. When it’s done properly, your chances of having a successful fishing trip increase drastically. The more often you clean and lubricate your reel, the better off it will be. Not only does it keep the components from wearing out, but it also allows for smoother casting and retrieves. After following the steps outlined in this blog post, you should have a well-maintained and reliable fishing reel that will last for years to come!

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