As many of us know saltwater fishing is something close to addicting.   Once you take up fishing for Lingcod, Halibut and Tuna you are less likely to go wow over some trout or bass.  (I apologize up front to those of you who haven’t learned this, it’s okay since you don’t know better YET)

One problem with ocean fishing is dealing with the corrosive effects of saltwater.   A good ocean reel can run you anywhere from fifty dollars up to several hundred.   It’s a good investment as when you hook into that 100 pound halibut you want to know your reel isn’t going to take a dump at 300 feet.

The problem is if you don’t clean your reels a ocean reel can go from pristine to junk in a month or two if not properly cared for.

Below you will find some tips on keeping your reels from getting pitted or corroded from the salt water.

• Always rinse off your rod and reel with fresh water after a fishing trip.  This is a bare minimum.  Saltwater left on stainless steel will pit it in practically no time.  This only takes a minute or so but it can really extend the life of your fishing reel.
• Make sure to keep your reel lubricated.  Many ocean reels come with oil and will have a screw housing that can be removed to add reel grease.  This will help the inner workings from becoming warn out and potentially being a breaking point.
• There are a variety of off the shelf cleaning products that also can be used to clean the salt water also.
• A more simple solution is a cup of formula 409 in a gallon of water.  Then using a cloth wash down all of the parts of the reel.

If you take this simple steps your reel should last a long time and serve you well.  If you have any cleaning tips please feel free to send us a comment.