How To Clean Baitcaster Reel?

It’s no secret that keeping your reel in top condition is critical to your success as an angler. Not only does it make casting easier and more accurate, but it also helps you land more fish. In this guide, we’ll show you how to clean baitcaster reel and keep it running like new.

Cleaning your reel is simple, but it should be done regularly. However, you don’t need to pour it in beautiful, soapy water every time you use it. A quick rinse after saltwater fishing is usually all needed to keep your reel in good condition.

Every few months, you should give your reel a more thorough cleaning. Dirt and grime buildup can cause corrosion; this will help remove them. When your reel is clean, it can perform at its best and last a long time.

Before knowing the whole process of reel cleaning, you need these things discussed below to get your work done properly and efficiently.

Here’s what you’ll need to clean your baitcasting reel:

• A Soft Cloth (Towel)
• A Mild Soap or Detergent
• Reel Oil
• Reel Grease
• Isopropyl Alcohol
• A clean, Dry Cloth
• WD-40 or Another Lubricant (Optional)

Now let’s take a look at the steps you need to follow in cleaning your bait cast reel.

How to Clean Baitcaster Reel Step By Step

Step 1: Cleaning the Exterior of Your Reel

The exterior of your baitcaster reel is important to keep clean. This will help your reel run smoothly and last longer. Here are some tips on how to clean it:

1. Start by gently wiping down the exterior with a soft cloth.
2. Be sure to remove any debris or dirt stuck to the reel.
3. If grease or grime has accumulated, a mild detergent can help remove them.
4. Dry the reel thoroughly after rinsing it with clean water.
5. Once the exterior is dry, apply a coat of lubricant to help protect it from rust and corrosion.

Step 2: Cleaning the Interior of Your Reel

Before cleaning the inner part of your reel, you need to disassemble it first. To properly dismantle your reel follow the given steps below:

To properly disassemble your reel, you will need the following:

• Phillips Head Screwdriver
• Ruler or Caliper
• Allen Wrench
• Knife
• Lighter (or heat gun)

You may have the manufacturer guide for your reel that will come in handy during this process. No need to worry about it if you don’t. The process will be walked through step-by-step.

Disassembling of Baitcast Reel

1. Using a Phillips head screwdriver, remove the 4 screws on the exterior of the reel. In most reels, there are 2 screw attachments on each side.

2. Once the screws have been removed, use a ruler or caliper to measure the distance between each screw hole. Later, you will be able to determine where to place the Allen wrench.

3. Next, use an Allen wrench to remove the screws that hold the gear cover in place. The gear cover usually has two screws on either side. During this process, make sure you don’t lose any screws.

4. After all of the screws have been removed, use a knife to cut through the adhesive that holds the cover in place. You can also use a heat gun or lighter if you prefer. This process should be done very carefully to prevent burns.

You have successfully disassembled the reel, and it is ready for internal cleaning. Let’s take a look at how to do that:

Read Our Detailed Review of: Best Baitcaster Combos 2023

Internal Cleaning Of Baitcaster Reel

1. Start by removing the spool from the reel. To do this, simply unscrew the knob on the side of the reel and pull the spool out.
2. Once the spool has been removed, use a soft cloth to wipe down all of the exposed parts of the reel. Ensure that dirt, debris, or build-up is removed.
3. Allow all lines and spools to soak for about 15 minutes in warm, soapy water. Any buildup on the spool or lines can be removed by doing this.
4. Next, use mild soap or detergent to clean the spool. Alcohol, such as isopropyl, can also be used.
5. You will need to rinse the lines and spool off with clean water after they’ve soaked and allow them to dry properly.
6. Once the spool is dry, apply a coat of reel grease to all the moving parts. As a result, the reel will run smoothly.
7. After that, apply a small amount of reel oil to the bearings. This will help keep the spool spinning smoothly.

Step 3: Handles Cleaning

The reel’s handle may be coated with dirt and oil because of your sweaty hands during fishing. You should also clean this part to avoid corrosion and maintain its smoothness. Here are some tips on how to clean handles:

• First, unscrew the handle from the reel using a Phillips head screwdriver. Once the handle is detached, soak the handle in warm, soapy water for about 10 minutes; add a degreaser or isopropyl alcohol to the solution to break down the oils and dirt.
• Next, use a soft brush or cloth to scrub away any dirt or build-up that may be present on the handle. The handle should be rinsed with clean water afterward.
• Using a soft cloth or towel, dry off the handle once it has been cleaned.
• Finally, apply grease or oil to the handle before reattaching it to the reel. This will help keep the handle smooth and prevent it from rusting.

Step 4: Final Touching and Reassembly

Now that the reel is clean, it’s time for a final touchup. First, inspect all of the parts for any damage or wear. Replacing damaged parts before reassembling the reel is necessary if they are damaged.

Next, apply a small lubricant to all the moving parts. As a result, the reel will run more smoothly.

Finally, reassemble the reel and apply a coat of WD 40 or another lubricant to all exposed parts. This will help protect the reel from rust and corrosion.

Congratulations! You have now successfully cleaned your baitcaster reel. Follow these steps regularly to keep your reel in good working condition.

Pro Tips to Maintain Reel for Long Lasting

Here are some extra tips that I’ve learned from experienced anglers to keep your baitcaster reel in good condition.

• The reel should be kept dry and free of salt water. After each use, the reel should be thoroughly rinsed and dried.
• Apply a thin layer of oil on the moving parts after every few uses or as needed. This will help keep the reel lubricated and prevent rusting.
• Make sure the reel is kept cool and dry when not in use.
• Avoid dropping or banging the reel, as this can damage the internal parts.
• Take the reel to a professional for service if it is not working properly. The warranty may be voided if you attempt to fix it yourself.
• Before using the reel, have a look at the manufacturer’s instructions. This will help you avoid damage and get the most out of your reel.

Want to Know about How to Set Up a Baitcasting Reel Read it Here

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should you clean a baitcaster?

It’s important to keep your baitcaster clean and well-maintained, especially if you use it frequently. How often you should clean it will depend on how often you use it and how saltwater-resistant it is. Generally, you should aim to clean your baitcaster at least once a month. The reel must be cleaned more often in saltwater if you intend to use it in that environment.

Can you oil a baitcaster with WD-40?

No, it is not good for oiling. It can damage the reel and cause it to break down faster. it is a petroleum-based product that will break down the lubricants in the reel, causing it to seize up and eventually fail. If you must use a lubricant on your fishing reel, use a high-quality reel oil specifically designed for fishing reels. This will help prolong your reel’s life and keep it working properly.

Is WD-40 good for fishing reels?

Yes, but only for external parts. You should never use it on the internal parts of your reel, as it can cause damage.

Final Verdict

Regularly cleaning your bait caster reel will ensure it remains in good working condition. This guide provides easy-to-follow steps to help you clean every nook and cranny of your reel, so it can perform its best when you need it most. Have you ever cleaned your baitcaster’s reel yourself? Try it now if you haven’t already!