How to Fix a Sandy Fishing Reel: A Quick and Easy Guide

Updated at: 27/02/2025

Saltwater fishing is undeniably rewarding, but the harsh marine environment takes its toll on your equipment, especially your fishing reel. Sand, the nemesis of any angler, can infiltrate the delicate mechanisms, causing frustrating malfunctions and hindering your next big catch. A sandy reel can lead to poor performance, including inconsistent casting, line slippage, and even complete failure. Ignoring the problem will only worsen the damage, potentially leading to costly repairs. Fortunately, cleaning and fixing a sandy fishing reel is often simpler than you think.

This guide provides a straightforward, step-by-step process for restoring your reel to its former glory. Whether you're dealing with a minor sand intrusion or a more significant issue, we'll walk you through the essential steps, equipping you with the knowledge and confidence to tackle the job yourself and get back to enjoying your favorite pastime. Let's dive in and get that reel spinning smoothly again!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Dish soap
  • Bucket
  • Multi-tool set with various screwdrivers
  • Grease
  • Towel
Safety Guidelines
  • Always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying sand or small parts.
  • Before disassembling, take photos or make notes of how the reel is put together to aid reassembly.
  • Use appropriate tools for the task to avoid damaging delicate reel components. Avoid using excessive force.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Disassemble the Reel

    • Remove the drag system by turning the dial all the way to the left until it comes off.
    • Place the removed drag system parts on a towel in the order of removal to make reassembly easier.
    • Remove the screws from the top part of the reel, placing them on the towel in the order of removal.
    • Remove the remaining screws and parts, keeping track of their order on the towel.
    Remove the remaining screws and parts, keeping track of their order on the towel.Remove the remaining screws and parts, keeping track of their order on the towel.Remove the remaining screws and parts, keeping track of their order on the towel.
    Disassemble the Reel
    • Twist the remaining part to the left to open the reel.
    Twist the remaining part to the left to open the reel.
    Disassemble the Reel

  2. Clean the Reel Parts

    • Clean all the parts thoroughly with soap and water.
    Clean all the parts thoroughly with soap and water.
    Clean the Reel Parts

  3. Lubricate the Gears

    • Grease the gears after cleaning.
    Grease the gears after cleaning.
    Lubricate the Gears

  4. Reassemble the Reel

    • Reassemble the reel in reverse order, using the towel as a guide.

Read more: Ultimate Fishing Reel Cleaning & Maintenance Guide: Prevent Corrosion & Extend Reel Life

Tips

  • Place the removed parts on a towel in the order they were removed to ensure easy reassembly.
  • Place the parts down right after the other to keep the exact order for reassembly

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Over-tightening the drag

Reason: Over-tightening the drag can damage the internal components of the reel, leading to increased friction and potential breakage.
Solution: Adjust the drag to a setting that provides adequate resistance without excessive tightness.

2. Using the wrong type of lubricant

Reason: Using the wrong lubricant (e.g., grease instead of oil) can attract sand and grit, further hindering the reel's performance and causing damage.
Solution: Use a specialized reel lubricant designed for saltwater fishing reels.

FAQs

My reel is completely jammed with sand. Is it still fixable?
While a heavily sanded reel is more challenging, it's usually still fixable. Follow the cleaning steps carefully, paying extra attention to thoroughly removing all sand. If the reel remains jammed after cleaning, it might require professional attention.
What kind of lubricant should I use on my fishing reel after cleaning?
Use a reel-specific lubricant, often a light oil or grease. Avoid using WD-40 or other general-purpose lubricants, as these can damage the internal components. Apply a small amount to the moving parts according to the manufacturer's instructions.
How can I prevent sand from getting into my reel in the future?
Regularly rinse your reel with fresh water after each saltwater fishing trip. Consider using a reel cover to protect it when not in use. Also, be careful when handling your reel near sandy areas.