Your fishing gear takes a beating. Salt, sand, sun, and general abuse add up. A little maintenance goes a long way toward keeping equipment working season after season.
Rods
Rinse with fresh water after every saltwater trip. Salt crystals are corrosive and work into guides and reel seats. A quick spray-down prevents long-term damage.
Check guides for grooves or cracks – damaged guides fray line. Run a cotton ball through each guide; if it catches, the guide needs replacing.
Store rods vertically or in rod racks. Leaning them in corners puts stress on the blank.
Reels
Rinse reels with fresh water, but don’t blast them with a hose – that forces water into bearings. A gentle rinse and wipe-down is better.
Oil and grease reels annually at minimum, more often with heavy use. Most reels have accessible points for oil. Full tear-downs require more skill but aren’t difficult to learn.
Back off the drag when storing. Compressed drag washers lose their grip over time.
Line
Monofilament has memory and weakens with UV exposure. Replace it at least once a season, more often if you fish frequently. Braid lasts longer but still needs inspection for fraying.
Strip off the first 20 feet periodically – that section takes the most abuse from casting and fighting fish.
Tackle
Rinse hooks and lures after saltwater use. Dry them before storage to prevent rust. A light coat of oil on hook points keeps them sharp.
Organize tackle boxes seasonally. Throw out rusted hooks and dried-out soft plastics. Restock what you actually use.
The Payoff
Well-maintained gear performs better and lasts years longer. Fifteen minutes after each trip saves hundreds in replacement costs.
