Welcome to the essential guide on cleaning your fishing reel. Saltwater, sand, and dirt can wreak havoc on your valuable spinning reel, diminishing its performance over time. In this article, we'll provide you with a step-by-step walkthrough of basic maintenance tasks that you should perform regularly to keep your spinning reel in top condition. By following these steps, you'll not only extend the lifespan of your reel but also ensure that it continues to perform optimally. Additionally, regular cleaning will help remove saltwater and corrosion buildup, which can otherwise lead to degradation or even seize your spinning reel.
You can refer to the following documents
1. The Comprehensive Guide to Fluorocarbon Fishing Line: Everything You Need to KnowHere's a comprehensive guide on how to clean your spinning reel:
- Begin by tightening the drag on your reel. This action expands the seals, preventing water from entering during the cleaning process.
- Rinse the reel using a gentle water pressure setting. Avoid using high-pressure water, as it can push salt and dirt deeper into the reel instead of washing them away. Be cautious not to expose the braided line to excessive water, as this can cause it to slip later and compromise drag pressure. To prevent this, cover the line with a cloth while rinsing. If possible, use warm water, as it is more effective in breaking down saltwater and sand residues.
- After rinsing, wipe down the reel with a smooth cloth and allow it to air dry in a suitable temperature-controlled area. At this stage, loosen the drag to prevent stress on the drag washers and seals.
- Once the reel is dry, remove it from the rod and unscrew the drag knob to access the spool.
- Carefully wipe away any sand, residue, or dirt from the inside of the spool and other exposed areas of the reel.
- Apply a small amount of lubricant, preferably a non-corrosive material like inox, to the moving components of the reel, including the handle, bail arm, and line roller.
- Wipe away any excess lubricant carefully to ensure smooth operation.
- For a thorough cleaning, use a microfiber cloth, similar to a glasses cleaner, to polish the reel and spool. This step is particularly effective for silver reels, restoring their shine and making them look like new.
- Place the spool back into the reel and screw the drag knob back on, keeping the tension loose until your next fishing outing. This helps reduce stress on the reel during storage.
By following these steps regularly, you can maintain the performance and longevity of your spinning reel, ensuring it remains in optimal condition for many fishing adventures to come.
I perform this cleaning routine after every fishing session, especially if I've been fishing in saltwater environments. If you want a visual guide on how to clean your fishing reel, check out our step-by-step video tutorial available in our member's area.
What to do if your reel still isn't smooth after cleaning
However, if your reel still isn't performing smoothly even after cleaning, there are additional steps you can take. While the cleaning steps outlined above are essential maintenance, there may come a time when your reel requires professional servicing. It's advisable not to attempt to disassemble your reel unless you're confident in your abilities. Modern reel technologies, such as magseal and monococque single-piece reels, have made it increasingly complex to dismantle reels without causing damage. In such cases, it's best to seek assistance from an authorized reel maintenance and repair center. These professionals can perform tasks like regreasing, changing drag washers, cleaning gears, shims, and bearings. Contacting the manufacturer directly, such as Daiwa or Shimano, and sending your reel to their recommended repair center is often the most reliable option. Alternatively, you can consult the tackle store where you purchased the reel for guidance.
Tips for Buying a Used Fishing Kayak: Additions and Corrections
If you have any additional information to add or corrections to suggest for our guide on buying a used fishing kayak, we welcome your feedback. Additionally, don't hesitate to explore our Kayak Buyer's Guide for comprehensive information on the latest fishing kayaks available on the market. This guide provides valuable insights into their performance, stability, range of accessories, and pricing. If you have any suggestions or corrections, please feel free to reach out to us via email.
