Reel maintenance

[Elkman]

How many out there oil or lube their reels? And if you do, want procedure do you us.

[Fin Addict]

I do a complete takedown/ultrasonic cleaning/lube and reassembly of all of my reels that are used for saltwater at least annually. I do my freshwater gear as needed. Keep your instructions that come w/ the reel and follow them. Generally light grease (I use Penn Lube)for gears and light reel oil (Abu Garcia) for other areas. Do not over lube as it will attract dirt and do more harm than good.

[Mattman]

Just before open water and just before first ice I usually take down every reel and at minimum just inspect it. Most of the time it gets a cleaning and some fresh grease and the bearings get a shot of oil. Look for parts that may be a problem in the future and possibly order their replacements before they crap out on me so I don't have any downtime.


Better to have and not need than to need and not have!

Matt Davis

[Bill R]

I check and lube all reels every winter. I tournament fish using shimano reels that are over 20 years old and still have no problems. You take care of them and they'll serve you long and well.