It can seem like a lot of effort cleaning baitcasting reels after each fishing trip. However, most fishing reel faults can be put down to the fact that it was not cleaned properly and now has corroded parts or instead underperforms. This is an anglers most frustrating problem. Even more so if it is one of their favourite baitcasting reels that has been affected. 

Preparing your fishing trip however should incorporate a full cleanse of your tackle and equipment, and the most important is probably your fishing reel. A good reel will last you a long time as they are built with only the best parts, but if you dont look after it you will run into problems much much sooner. .

There are however, a few things you can do in order to keep your reel in tip-top shape.

The first thing you need to do is to take the reel off the rod, and then remove the handle – these usually have a reverse locking system so you just need to unwind it. When you have done that, take a damp cloth and wipe over the bits of the reel that you can see. When you do so, be sure that you use clean water and especially not salt water as this will corrode inside.

Next, you will need to remove the sideplate. Depending on your reel, some will unclip, unwind or perhaps even unscrew. If in doubt, check the manual. Then its just a case of removing any dirt with a swab and picking out any other debris that may have found its way inside. Once in a while, you should also use some grease or other lubrication on the bearings and gears as this will help to keep them fresh and working as new. When you have done this part, put the sideplate back on.

Before reattaching the handle, give it a good wash too. Its likely to be covered in dirt, bait and a whole lot more!. In most cases, a rinse with water will be fine but if it is very mucky then wash it when you get in with soapy water.

As you can see, if doesnt take much to look after a reel, and if you do you will keep it performing like it did when you first got it. If you ever have a reel stop working while you are trying to retrieve a fish, perhaps its time to look into the maintenance of your reel. Fishing reels, especially some baitcasting reels, are not cheap, so look after them.

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