How To Clean A Baitcaster Reel: A Dirty Secret
See how to clean a baitcaster reel in just a few minutes. These easy maintenance tips will keep your baitcaster going strong for years to come.

The video provides instructions on basic maintenance for a baitcast reel, specifically oiling and greasing the reel. Steve Rogers from Steve Rogers Outdoors explains that oil is for bearings and grease is for gears. Steve demonstrates how to apply a small drop of grease to the worm gear and a drop of oil to the slide where the level wind slides back and forth.
Also you'll see how to oil the bearings on the inside of the reel and the spool, and how to grease the gears using a Gear Lube Port. Steve cautions to be careful not to use too much grease on the worm gear as it can catch debris, and recommends doing this maintenance regularly to improve the performance of the reel, especially in casting distance.
Key takeaways from this video:
- Basic maintenance for a baitcast reel includes oiling and greasing the reel.
- Oil is for bearings and grease is for gears.
- Apply a small drop of grease to the worm gear and a drop of oil to the slide where the level wind slides back and forth.
- Oil the bearings on the inside of the reel and the spool.
- Grease the gears using a Gear Lube Port.
- Be careful not to use too much grease on the worm gear as it can catch debris.
- Regularly performing this maintenance can improve the performance of the reel, especially in casting distance.
Steve shows how to remove the side plate of the reel to access the bearings inside, then applies a thin layer of oil across the bearings, ensuring that it seeps down into the inside of the bearing. Also be sure to apply the same method to the spool's bearing, ensuring that the oil runs down the shaft into the bearing.
If the paddles on the reel get stuck be sure to oil them too. Basic oiling and greasing maintenance can be completed within a few minutes, and it can significantly improve the reel's performance, particularly when it comes to casting distance.
Then grease the gears using a Gear Lube Port, which is a feature of some baitcast reels. Make sure that you work on a surface where you cannot lose the small pieces of the reel while doing this maintenance. And be sure to take caution not to over-tighten the plate after greasing the gears.
This is a valuable instruction on basic maintenance for any baitcaster reel. Following the instructions can help you optimize the performance of your reel and improve your overall fishing experience.
Watch the how to clean a baitcaster reel video here:
About Steve Rogers Outdoors:
Steve is the founder of Steve Rogers Outdoors, a platform dedicated to sharing his expertise with fellow adventurers. Through his website, social media channels, and in-person events, Steve provides valuable insights on topics ranging from gear selection to wilderness safety and conservation.
As an author, Steve has published several articles and guides on outdoor recreation. His work has appeared in leading publications, including Backpacker Magazine and Outside Online. He is also the author of "Hiking 101: A Beginner's Guide to Hitting the Trails," a comprehensive introduction to hiking for novice explorers.
When he's not exploring the wilderness, Steve enjoys spending time with his family and his loyal dog, Ranger.
Keep your baitcaster clean,
Bert
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