Fishing can be a great way to relax and enjoy nature. However, if you are fishing in saltwater, you need to take some extra steps to take care of your equipment. Saltwater can have damaging effects on your fishing reel, causing corrosion and rust that can compromise its functionality. Therefore, it is essential to clean your reel properly after saltwater fishing. Here are some tips on the proper method for cleaning your reel after a day out in the saltwater.
Step 1: Disassemble Your Reel
First, take apart your reel by removing the spool, handle, and other parts. This will allow you to clean and inspect each piece thoroughly. Make sure to put the screws and smaller pieces in a safe place where you won’t lose them.
Step 2: Rinse Your Reel with Freshwater
Fill a bucket with cold freshwater and submerge your reel in it. Swish it around to remove any residue, dirt, or sand. Doing so will help to get rid of any salt or sand that might be stuck in the crevices of your reel.
Step 3: Remove Remaining Saltwater Residue
Use a soft-bristled brush to scrub away any remaining saltwater from your reel’s components. Make sure to go over tough spots repeatedly to ensure that you remove all the salt buildup. It’s important to be gentle while doing this to avoid damaging the internal components of your reel.
Step 4: Soak Your Reel
After thoroughly scrubbing your reel, leave it submerged in the freshwater for an additional 10-15 minutes. This will help to get rid of any residual saltwater that didn’t come out during the initial rinse.
Step 5: Dry Your Reel
When you’ve finished soaking your reel, drain out the freshwater and wipe off any excess moisture with a soft microfiber cloth. You can use a hairdryer on low heat to slowly dry the reel, but make sure to avoid overheating it. Alternatively, you can leave the reel out to air dry overnight.
Step 6: Reassemble Your Reel
Finally, once your reel has dried completely, begin reassembling it taking care to apply a little bit of oil or lubricant to the internal components. This will help to prevent rust and corrosion and extend the life of your reel. Make sure to apply the oil and lubricant sparingly since too much can attract debris and dirt.
Taking care of your equipment is an important part of maintaining its longevity. Proper cleaning is a critical step to ensure that your reels operate smoothly and efficiently. Make sure to follow these steps carefully after a day out on the water to keep your saltwater fishing reel in top shape for future trips.