Fly Reel Cleaning Tips Blog
Fly Reel Cleaning is an important part in keeping your gear in top shape and working properly. I have some Hardy Fly Reels which I’ve been using for 30 years for my main trout fishing in the East and West. As far as I can tell they are as good as the day I bought them. I honestly do not ever remember loosing a trout because the reel let me down.
I believe this is mainly because they are very well designed and that I clean them very well several times a year.
How to Clean a Fly Reel
Strip the line and backing off the reel. Remove the spool from the reel. Use a Q-tip dipped in a cleaning fluid to remove the grit, dirt and old oil from the inside of the reel and the back of the spool. Wipe all of it down thoroughly with a towel. Wipe the spool firmly with a towel where the backing and line were. Apply a light coat of oil to the inside of the reel and the back of the spool unless the reel manufacture’s instructions specify not to. Do not allow any oil to get inside the spool where the line and backing go. Replace the new backing and use an Albright Knot to attach the line to the backing.
Always go by the reel manufacturers instructions so that you do not void a warranty.
Next week we will discuss caring for your fly rod.