“Never been wet!” – Yeah, right.

“Never been wet!” – Yeah, right.

We’ve all heard it before:

“This reel’s hardly been used.”
“It should still be under warranty.”
“It feels fine to me.”

These are just a few of the classic lines we hear when reels come in running rough, seizing up—or worse. The truth is, even the most pampered-looking reel can have internal issues caused by water, salt, or neglect. And most of the time, the damage is already well underway long before it shows on the outside.

Take this reel, for example: it looked mint, but internally it told a very different story. Water had snuck in—most likely from rods being left in the gunnels while towing or from being blasted with a hose during washdowns. Both super common, and both surprisingly damaging.

A few simple habits can make all the difference:

• Stow rods inside the boat while travelling, especially on long trips.

• Avoid high-pressure hosing. Instead, use a light mist and a soft cloth to wipe down your gear after each trip.

Winter is prime time for reel servicing.
Most reels get a bit of a break over the colder months, so it’s the perfect opportunity to give them some TLC. Not only are service departments generally quieter, but getting them done now means they’re not sitting idle with salt, rust, and corrosion quietly chewing them apart.

A little maintenance now can save you a lot later—and ensure you’re ready to roll when the fish are biting again.

Just something to think about. 🎣