How to Fix a Fishing Reel
The robust design of modern fishing reels helps them withstand wear and tear. The reels are engineered and designed with premium features that allow for lasting and reliable operation. But let’s face it; there are times when even the best fishing reels fail to deliver optimum performance. If yours is like this, then this guide will teach you how to fix a fishing reel.
No angler, regardless of their experience level, is immune from fishing reel problems. Sometimes disaster strikes at the most unexpected time. It could be a simple problem like snagging lures, broken rods, or twisted lines. However, the worst yet inevitable fishing reel problem you can encounter is a worn out reel.
Now, we know you are already perplexed by the idea of fixing a fishing reel on your own, especially if it is one of the best fishing reels in the market. You think you are not skilled enough to take the bull by the horns, worry not. Once you go through this tutorial, you will not forgive yourself for underrating your ability. You will be surprised to realize it’s very easy and only calls for your effort and concentration. Here are the requirements:
- Water: you require water for washing the salt debris on your fishing reel. It’s also important in rinsing off grime and dirt stuck in the internal parts of the reel.
- A piece of clean cloth: you require a soft piece of cloth which is absorbent enough. The cloth will be used to wipe the reel dry before applying the lubricant. The cloth is often overlooked but don’t fall into the trap. If the lubricant or oil mixes with excess water, it affects the overall performance of the reel.
- Lubricants and cleaners: there is a variety of these products in the market. All you need is a cleaner that can remove the contaminated grease or oil and a good lubricant.
- Wrenches: the wrenches will be used to loosen up the tight nuts.
- Screwdriver: the material and construction of your fishing reel dictate the type of screwdriver you can use for assembling and disassembling.
- Cotton swabs: this will help in applying grease or cleaning the unreachable areas of the fishing reel.
- Tweezers: some parts of the reel like the springs and wire clips are small and are best handled with tweezers. It ensures the small parts fit properly and are not left lying around.
- Toothbrush: the toothbrush is used to remove stubborn grime of wipe down the hard to reach areas.
How to Fix a Fishing Reel: The Exact Procedure
Once you’ve prepared all the required tools, it’s time to get down to business. We will guide you through these five how to fix a fishing reel steps. We are pretty sure once you go through this article, you will have no fear.
Step #1: Disassembling the fishing reel
This is the first and very important step. I know you are anxious and scared of disassembling your reel. The first thing you need to do is go through the fishing reel’s manufacturer’s manual. Different brands feature different parts, but the disassembling process is the same.
Almost every reel has a drag, handle, and the spool. Since you are doing this for the first time, arrange all components in order. Lay the parts on a mat starting with the one disassembled first to the last.
Add a masking tape beneath each component. Mark the parts with numbers in order of their disassembling. Be careful with all the screws, if you forget where each came from you will have a hell of a time when assembling the reel. If possible number the crews as well.
Step #2: Identify worn out parts and replace them
Once you have disassembled all the parts, you will be able to easily identify all the ones that are worn out. The most prone parts are plastics parts like pinion yokes as well as brake shoes and clutch cams. If any of these parts are worn out, replace it. Confirm the state of the drag washers and the line guide too.
Step #3: Grease the reel
When applying grease, use biodegradable products (soft brush or cotton swab) and a toothbrush to protect the plastic and fiber components of the fishing reel.
Apply the grease to the gear teeth to prevent it from scattering. Remember to clean the internal parts before greasing. When cleaning the bearings use a cleaner and spin them to ensure all sides are clean.
Step #4: Assemble the parts
This should be an easy step especially if you adhered to step one. If you remembered to number all the parts in a sequence, all you need to do is follow that sequence in reverse order. Make good use of the screwdriver, tweezers, and the wrenches.
Step #5: Change the leader
This step should be done only if you assembled the other parts properly. To replace the old line, let the new line pass through the guide’s eye. Open the bail of the fishing reel and attach the line. Close the bail, lay the reel’s spool down and spin the bail. Load the fishing reel until it’s approximately 0.125 inches from its rim.
Fixing your fishing reel is as simple as that. All it takes is a little knowledge and a small amount of effort to get your fishing reel back to its optimum condition. Just remember to take your time especially when reassembling the reel so as not to misplace or install components incorrectly.
