Real Maintenance For Your Reels
This segment of Kid Kast will address an essential function of any fisherman. Proper reel care includes both cleaning and lubrication, and if done correctly can extend the life of your equipment.
Reels can be one of the most expensive items in your boat. For anyone that has been shopping for a reel recently, you know that they can range in price from around $10.00 up to a staggering $500.00. There are many brands and styles, but they all need the same attention to be kept in good condition. Just as you would with your car, set aside some time for this crucial task.
Here is a list of the necessary items you will need to get started on a total tune-up of a reel:
- Q-tips
- Small screwdriver kit (like those used for eyeglass repair)
- Small rag
- Small pair of pliers
- Reel oil & reel grease (not the same thing!)
- Towel or cloth (MUST be soft and light colored, will explain later)
When any reel is purchased, be sure to hang on to the box and instructions. If necessary, you can refer to these when taking your reel apart. After gathering all of your supplies you are ready to disassemble the reel. Each piece you remove needs to be placed on the soft towel in order (this can be done side-to-side or up-and-down). The softness of the towel will keep items from bouncing off the table and getting lost, and the light color of the towel will enable you to see all the pieces clearly. I’m definitely speaking from past experience here!! By keeping your parts in order, it will make for an easier time putting the reel back together. You don’t want to be left with extra parts when you are done and no idea where to put them! (Past experience again...)
After you have removed all parts possible, it is time to get out the cotton swab and rag. The cotton swab will assist you in removing dirt from hard-to-reach places, and for other spots you can use the rag. Once all the dirt and grime is removed you can begin the lubrication process.
For fast-moving parts (gears) you want to use reel oil and for slower-moving parts (such as the line guide and handle) you will use reel grease. Be very careful not to use too much grease or oil as it will leak out over time and cause you to lose your grip on your rod. After lubrication is complete, you are ready to reassemble your reel. Since taking things apart tends to be a whole lot simpler than putting them back together, don’t be afraid to dig out that box and instructions at this point. After you have done this a few times, it will get much easier—I promise!
As a professional fisherman who is on the water up to 200 days a year, I like to clean my reels at least two to three times a year. For less frequent use, a person would still need to complete this total maintenance at least once a year. Keep in mind, these steps are for regular preventative maintenance. If you start noticing problems with your reels, they should be looked at as soon as possible. I often have to add oil for those fast parts in between my regular cleanings.
This is a great rainy day project and is very important for extending the life of your equipment, which could be very costly to replace. It can also improve your casting by eliminating problems before they start. If you have future fishermen in your house, let them take part in this project. This will teach them a skill that they wouldn’t otherwise have, and encourage them to take good care of their belongings as well.
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