Keep Your Reels Running Smooth

This is usually the time of year I try to clean and maintain all my reels for the upcoming fishing season. It’s a good idea to clean and lubricate your reels at least once a year. It’s the same philosophy as with your car: don’t wait until something goes wrong to take action. The saying “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” was never more true. You don’t want your reel blowing up when you have a trophy fish on the line. There are things you can do at home, and other things you should leave to a professional. Let’s start with what you can do at home

Easy Maintenance
One thing that’s easy to do and should be performed every time you get back from fishing: wash your reels down with a mild soap and water. This is especially important if you’ve been fishing in saltwater. Hose the reels down, and take a couple of minutes to wash down your rods (especially the line guides). Saltwater can take a real toll on your gear. An old toothbrush is perfect for getting into tight spaces and removing sand, egg goo and dirt. Next, take time to lubricate your reels. A good three-in-one light penetrating oil or the reel oil that came in the box with your reel helps prevent rust and keeps moving parts working well. You can remove the reel cover and apply a couple of drops to the gears. Remember, just a couple of drops as the gear oil goes a long way. Also, tighten any screws that hold your reel cover together. Check these screws every time you go out. It only take a second and can lead to a major disaster if the reel comes apart while playing a fish. Don’t ask me how I know this. Finally, make sure to check that your reel is seated properly on the rod and that it is tightly fixed to the rod.

You’d Better Take It To The Shop
There are some reel problems that should be handled by experts. If you have a lot of sand and dirt in your reel, or its badly rusted, you are probably better off having a pro take a look. Also, even high-priced reels have plastic washers that wear out, and it’s best to have an expert replace them. If the line guide moves independently of the handle, or doesn’t move at all, take it to the shop.

Where To Go For Professional Help
Here’s a couple of places to go if your have a “reel” emergency:

2 Bro’s Tackle, 900 McKinley St., Eugene, (541) 434-1133, 2brostackle@gmail.com

Ollie Damon’s, 236 SE Grand, Portland, (503) 232-3193, www.olliedamons.com

See You On The Water,
Action Jackson

(Please send comments or questions to Action Jackson at 268-6944 or www.actionjacksonfishing.com)