How to Care for a Spinning Reel

Both experienced and novice anglers fish with spinning reels, which hang below the handle of the fishing rod. Fishermen use them to catch nearly any species of fish that swims. Available in a wide variety of sizes, anglers use spinning reels in freshwater and saltwater. Many fishermen use the same spinning reels for many seasons. One reason they are able to do so is because they care for their reel, whether they are using it or storing it.

Things You'll Need

  • Damp rag
  • Towel
  • Cotton swabs
  • Reel oil
  • Screwdriver
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Instructions

    • 1

      Store the spinning reel in a dark, dry place, especially if it is loaded with fishing line. Exposure to sunlight causes the line to become brittle and break easily, and prolonged exposure to damp conditions can damage the reel by causing rust. Store the reel in a place that it won't be stepped on or otherwise damaged.

    • 2

      Wipe the spinning reel with a damp rag after each use and dry it with a towel. This is especially important in saltwater, but anglers who fish in freshwater can also prevent rust by wiping down their reel. Don't put away the reel until you are sure it has dried completely.

    • 3

      Clean the exterior of the reel with a damp cotton swab after every couple of weeks of use. Dust and other objects can build up on spinning reels, especially in areas that you do not reach with a damp rag and towel. Some places that you should clean with a cotton swab include on the underside of the spool, where the handle meets the reel, and where the bail flips up and down.

    • 4

      Remove the reel's handle by spinning counterclockwise the knob on the side of the reel opposite the handle. Pull the knob off and then pull the handle off. Apply a drop or two of fishing-reel oil to the spot where the grip meets the handle and to the rod where it is connected to the reel handle.

    • 5

      Unscrew the screw that holds the bail on the spool and apply oil to the spot where the bail meets the reel.

    • 6

      Remove the reel spool by turning the knob on top of it counterclockwise. Pull the knob off and then pull off the spool. Apply oil to the moving parts on the underside of the spool and to the interior of the knob.

    • 7

      Reassemble the reel handle, spool assembly and the bail. If any oil runs down the reel, use the towel to spread it in a thin layer across the rest of the reel. If not, apply a small amount of oil to the towel and rub it on the reel's surface.