Fishing in saltwater can be a great experience, but it can also be tough on your fishing gear, especially on your reel. Saltwater can cause corrosion and damage to the moving parts of your reel, making it difficult to use and potentially damaging it beyond repair. That’s why cleaning your reel after each use in saltwater is important. Here are some recommendations on how to properly clean your fishing reel after saltwater use.
1:First, remove the line from the reel
This can be done by cutting the line or by using a line spooler to take the line off.
2:Disassemble the reel as much as possible
This means removing the side plate, handle, and other removable parts. Be sure to take note of how the parts come off, so you can put them back together correctly.
3:Clean all the parts with fresh water
A toothbrush or an old, soft-bristled brush can scrub away any salt or debris from the parts. Use a mild detergent if necessary, but be sure to rinse the parts thoroughly with fresh water to remove any soap residue.
4:It’s essential to remove all the water to prevent rust or corrosion
Use a cloth or a rag to dry all the parts thoroughly. You can use a hair dryer to dry hard-to-reach areas like the inside of the spool or the side plate.
5:Lubricate all the moving parts of the reel
This will help to keep them working smoothly and prevent corrosion. Use a lubricant specifically for fishing reels and apply it to the gears, drag system, and other moving parts.
6:Reassemble the reel
Make sure to put all the parts back together correctly and tighten any screws or bolts removed.
7: Store the reel in a dry place
Saltwater can cause corrosion even after the reel is cleaned, so storing it in a dry, cool place to prevent further damage is important.
By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your fishing reel will be in top working condition for your next saltwater fishing adventure. Remember to clean and lubricate your reel after each use in saltwater and store it in a dry place. With proper maintenance, your reel will last for many years of fishing enjoyment.
FAQ About Clean a Fishing Reel After Saltwater Use
1. How often should I clean my saltwater fishing reel?
It’s recommended to clean your saltwater fishing reel after each usage in saltwater to stop corrosion and damage to the moving parts. If you can’t clean your reel after each use, make sure to clean it at least once a month to ensure it stays in good working condition.
2. How do I disassemble the reel for cleaning?
To properly disassemble the reel, you’ll need to remove the side plate, handle, and other removable parts. Be sure to note how the parts come off, so you can put them back together correctly. Be sure to consult your reel’s manual before disassembling it.
3. How do I scrub away salt and debris from the parts of the reel?
Use a toothbrush or an old, soft-bristled brush to scrub away any salt or debris from the parts. Be gentle while scrubbing to avoid damaging the reel. Use a mild detergent if necessary, but rinse the parts thoroughly with fresh water to remove any soap residue.
4. How do I lubricate the moving parts of the reel?
Use a lubricant specifically for fishing reels and apply it to the gears, drag system, and other moving parts. This will help to keep them working smoothly and prevent corrosion. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the lubricant.
5. How do I reassemble the reel after cleaning it?
Ensure that all the parts are back together correctly and tighten any screws or bolts removed. Make sure the reel is securely assembled, and test its movement to ensure it is working properly.
6. How can I store the reel to prevent further damage?
Saltwater can cause corrosion even after the reel is cleaned, so storing it in a dry, cool place to prevent further damage is important. Keep the reel in a dry, clean place and away from direct sunlight.
