How to Clean a Fishing Reel
It's not necessary to spend a bunch of money on a fishing reel to get one that will last. The lifespan of the reel will depend on how well you maintain it. Even a cheap reel will last a long time if it's properly cleaned and maintained. An expensive reel will bite the dust if it's left filled with salt, sand and other debris. If you want to get your money's worth out of your reel, you'll have to keep it clean. It's not that hard and takes only a little bit of time.
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Things You'll Need
- Cotton swabs
- Phillips head screwdriver
- WD-40 or reel grease
- Clean towels
- Paper towels
Instructions
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1
Find a clean area to take the reel apart. Since you'll be removing some screws and parts, a kitchen table would be the perfect spot at which to do your work. You'll be able to contain all your parts in one place, so nothing gets lost.
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2
Remove the reel from the rod. You can now place the rod somewhere out of the way, since you won't be needing it for a bit. Lay your towels out on the table. You'll be working on one and using the other to hold your parts.
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3
Unscrew the handle of the reel. Usually this is done by unscrewing the handle in a counterclockwise direction. If the handle is held on by a screw, you should be able to unscrew it with your fingers. The handle should then easily remove itself from the reel. Place the handle on one of the towels.
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4
Spray a little WD-40 on the outside of the reel. Wipe the outside of the reel with some paper towels. You are basically cleaning off any dirt that is on the outside of the reel.
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Unscrew the four screws that are visible on one side of the reel. Take note of how the screws are holding the reel together. Place the screws on the towel with the reel handle. Remove the plate and place it on the towel with the other parts.
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6
Look at the reel and note where the gears are. Use your cotton swabs and remove any dirt that you can see. If you're using WD-40, spray a small amount onto each gear. If using reel grease, place a few drops onto each gear.
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7
Put the reel back together again. Simply reverse all the steps you just went through to take the reel apart. Once you've got the parts back on the reel, you can put the reel back on the rod. You're now ready to go fishing again.
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Tips & Warnings
Spray your rod and reel off with fresh water every time you use it. Clean your reel right away, if it drops in the sand. Clean your reel at least once every year.
