Will Saltwater Ruin My Fishing Reel ? ( Here is the Truth)

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Fishing is a popular pastime. It is a great fund and adventure to be outdoors enjoying the scenery and fresh air. It can be both a relaxation and a great workout. However, many people are concerned about the effects of saltwater on their fishing reel. 

If you’re using a regular or freshwater spinning reel in saltwater, you need to be extra careful to avoid ruining it. The salt can corrode the reel and cause it to malfunction. You should rinse the reel with fresh water after each use, and be sure to dry it thoroughly. It’s also a good idea to lubricate the reel regularly with a corrosion-resistant lubricant.

A Quick Guide : What is the best Saltwater Spinning Reel under 100

So will saltwater ruin my fishing reel? 

The answer is, it depends on the type of reel you have and how often you use it in saltwater. If you have a saltwater-specific reel, it’s designed to withstand the corrosive effects of saltwater. But if you have a freshwater reel, it’s not as resistant to saltwater. So, if you use your freshwater reel in saltwater often, it will eventually start to corrode and break down.

While it is true that salt water can damage and corrode a reel, there are ways to protect your reel and make sure it lasts for years to come. Here are few tips to save saltwater from corrosion.

How to Protect Fishing Reel From Saltwater Damage ?

Rinse your Reel with Freshwater  After Each use

Whether you’re using a baitcasting reel, spinning reel or spincast reel, it’s important to rinse it with fresh water after each use in saltwater. This will help to remove any salt and sand that can corrode and damage your reel.

This is the most important thing you can do to prolong the life of your reel. Rinse it with fresh water as soon as possible after each use, and allow it to dry completely before storing it. If you can’t rinse it right away, at least soak it in fresh water for a few hours.

Lubricate your reel regularly

Lubricating your reel will help keep it in good working order. Every few months, disassemble your reel and lubricate the moving parts. This will help prevent corrosion and keep your reel working smoothly.

Inspect your reel for signs of corrosion

Even with the best care, salt water can eventually damage your reel. Inspect it regularly for signs of corrosion, such as rust or pitting. If you see any damage, disassemble the reel and clean all the parts. This will help prevent the damage from spreading. 

Replace worn parts

Over time, parts of your reel will wear out and need to be replaced. This is normal wear and tear, and is to be expected with any piece of equipment. When you notice a part starting to wear out, replace it as soon as possible. This will help prevent further damage to your reel.

Store your reel in a dry, protected place

 When you’re not using your reel, store it in a dry, protected place. A storage box or tackle bag is a good option. This will help keep your reel clean and dry, and will protect it from the elements. 

Can I use Freshwater reel in Saltwater ?

Yes, you can use a freshwater reel in saltwater. However it is not a good practice at all. To use freshwater reel in saltwater, you need to take some precautions to prevent damage to your reel. Rinse your reel with fresh water after each use, and avoid letting sand or grit get inside. Lubricate your reel regularly, and inspect it for signs of corrosion. If you notice any damage, disassemble the reel and clean all the parts. Store your reel in a dry, protected place when you’re not using it. With a little care, your freshwater reel will last for years, regardless of how often you use it in saltwater.

What do you do if you drop a reel in saltwater? 

If you drop your reel in saltwater, the first thing you should do is rinse it off with fresh water. Then, disassemble the reel and clean all the parts. Once everything is clean and dry, reassemble the reel and lubricate the moving parts.

How to clean a saltwater fishing reel

You’ll need a few supplies to clean your reel, including a soft cloth, distilled water, lubricating oil, reel grease and a toothbrush. First, disassemble your reel, if possible. Next, soak all of the parts in distilled water for 30 minutes. After that, scrub all of the parts with the toothbrush, being careful not to damage any of the delicate parts. Once you’ve scrubbed the reel, rinse it off with fresh water. Next, lubricate all of the moving parts with oil, and then reassemble the reel. Finally, apply a thin layer of reel grease to all of the exposed metal parts.

Cleaning a saltwater fishing reel is important to extend its life and keep it in good working condition. By taking the time to clean your reel after each use, you’ll be able to enjoy your time spent fishing for years to come.

What are the best saltwater Reels? 

There are many different types of saltwater reels on the market, and the best one for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. However, some of the best saltwater reels on the market include the Shimano Stella SW, the Penn International VI, and the Daiwa Saltiga.

Conclusion

Saltwater can be tough on fishing gear, but if you take the time to rinse and lubricate your reel, you can enjoy many years of fishing adventures. With a little care, your reel will last for years, regardless of how often you use it.

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