Trails » Fishing » Fishing Reels & Line » Penn Fishing Reels » How to Clean Penn Fishing Reels

How to Clean Penn Fishing Reels

How to Clean Penn Fishing Reels

boating image by nTripp from Fotolia.com

Penn is a well-known manufacturer of fishing reels popular with fresh and saltwater anglers. As with any fishing reel, especially those used in saltwater, regular cleaning is imperative to keeping your reel working properly. Corrosion due to saltwater, sand and moisture will eventually cause an expensive reel to stop working. This is the last thing anglers want to happen when they are reeling in the "big one." With a little extra care and cleaning, your Penn fishing reel should last for years.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:
  • Screwdriver
  • Plastic container large enough to accommodate the fishing reel
  • Water
  • Dishwashing soap
  • Hairdryer
  • Cotton swabs
  • Reel grease
Step 1
Remove the Penn reel from your fishing rod by unscrewing the metal straps that are holding it to the rod. The reel should easily slip from the rod.
Step 2
Rinse off your Penn fishing reel with warm, soapy water before starting to disassemble it. Place the reel in a plastic container filled with dishwashing detergent. Allow the reel to soak for about 10 minutes, to loosen any dirt, or wash it from the fishing reel. Allow the reel to completely dry, before you start taking it apart. Use a blow dryer set on low to quicken the process.
Step 3
Lay a clean towel on a flat surface such as a workbench or kitchen table so you will be able to keep track of all the parts.
Step 4
Remove the handle from the reel by turning it counterclockwise. If the handle does not come off, check to see if there is a screw in the end of the handle. If so, remove the screw holding the handle in place--the handle should lift from the reel. Place the handle and screw on the towel.
Step 5
Unscrew any screws that are visible and holding the faceplate in place, and lay them on the towel with the other parts. Blow onto the reel to loosen up or blow away and debris that is still clinging to the reel.
Step 6
Wipe off any excess dirt or debris remaining on the reel using a cotton swab. You might need several swabs to remove all the dirt, as it is best to change a dirty swab for a clean one.
Step 7
Oil the inside of the reel with reel grease. Place a drop of oil onto every movable part and gear inside of the reel to keep it moving and functioning properly.
Step 8
Replace all the parts on the Penn fishing reel by reversing your steps.

Tips & Warnings

 
Penn manufactures a reel cleaning spray that you can use after every fishing trip. The spray will help remove any salt buildup and moisture, which in turn will prevent corrosion.
 
Wash off your reel after every saltwater fishing trip to help maintain its functioning capabilities and life.
 
All fishing reels need a detailed cleaning at least once a year. If you use your Penn reel regularly, you might be required to clean it several times a year.

Article Written By Joyce Starr

Joyce Starr is a professional writer from Florida and owns a landscaping company and garden center. She has published articles about camping in Florida, lawn care and gardening and writes for a local gardening newsletter. She shares her love and knowledge of the outdoors and nature through her writing.

Write for Trails.com

  • Editor's Pick

    Backcountry Camping Tips

    Backcountry Camping Tips

    You've already tried car and RV camping. You've camped at commercial campsites that had a convenient restroom and water supply. Now, you want to explore the road less traveled. Backcountry camping, also known as primitive camping, is a wonderful way to explore the remote...

    More Backcountry Camping...

  • Popular Article

    Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

    Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

    Pismo State Beach, California, has many attractions and activities including camping, swimming, hiking and wildlife viewing. Birdwatching is one of the primary activities in the area. The park also has the largest over-wintering colony of monarch butterflies in the natio...

    More Beach Camping...

  • Featured Video

    Common Sense Hiking Tips

    Common Sense Hiking Tips

    The first and most fundamental thing is never hike alone. There are too many situations, especially as an unexperienced hiker, where you may find yourself without anyone to help you. So the buddy system works and applies very much in hiking.

    More Camping Basics...

Outdoor Gear & Equipment

ALL NEW Trails Gear Store powered by:

Trail Finder

US Map

Search by Keyword