So your favorite reel started to make some strange noises when reeling and the drag doesn’t work like it used to.
That’s the first sign you need to lubricate your reel again.
Or maybe it just needs to be cleaned.
Anyway, some anglers throw reels away after their first weird sound and the slightest malfunction.
But you can fix those and avoid wasting a good reel (unless you give it to someone) with basic maintenance such as rinsing with water and regularly applying new oil and grease to moving parts.
Before we start with the list I want to clarify one thing – When do you use oil and when do you use grease?
Oil is a liquid lubricant that is ideal for lubricating small, high-speed moving parts, such as bearings and gears. Grease, on the other hand, is a thicker lubricant that is better suited for larger, slower-moving parts, such as the main gear and drag system.
Now that you know the most important things, let’s see the best options on the market.
The Best Reel Oils
One more thing. You’ll need to choose between two types of oils. Here is a brief overview of them:
Synthetic Vs. Mineral Reel Oils
When it comes to choosing a reel oil, you’ll have to decide between synthetic and mineral oils.
Synthetic oils are typically more expensive, but they offer superior performance and protection. They also tend to last longer and are less likely to break down over time.
Mineral oils, on the other hand, are less expensive and widely available. They still offer good protection, but they may not perform as well as synthetic oils.
Best Fishing Reel Oil on the Market
After researching various reel oils, I’ve found that the following are the best on the market:
- Penn Reel Oil: This oil is specifically designed for fishing reels and offers excellent protection against corrosion and wear. It’s also easy to apply and doesn’t leave a sticky residue.
- Lucas Oil Product 10690: Made of high-quality petroleum oils and additives to provide excellent rust and corrosion protection. It’s the highest regarded oil on the market.
- Ardent Reel Butter Oil: This fully synthetic oil is perfect for bringing old reels back to life. It contains anti-gumming agents and provides long-lasting protection against wear and corrosion.
- Liberty Oil: This high-quality synthetic oil is perfect for all types of fishing reels. It’s long-lasting and provides excellent protection against corrosion and wear.
- Daiwa Reel Oiler: This oiler is perfect for those who want to apply oil with precision. It comes with a needle applicator that allows you to apply oil exactly where you need it.
- Interflon Fin Super (Aerosol) 300 ml Can: This synthetic oil is perfect for those who want to apply oil quickly and easily. It comes in an aerosol can that allows you to spray oil exactly where you need it.
Let’s move on to the grease options.
The Best Grease for Fishing Reels
The main parts you should apply grease to are drive and pinion gears, drive shaft post, and clutch pawl.
| Grease | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Quantum Hot Sauce | This is a full synthetic grease designed for minimal friction, so you’ll have a very smooth reel with very little oil. |
| PENN Reel Oil and Lube Angler Pack | Includes both reel oil and grease for optimal maintenance. The grease is formulated to protect against wear and corrosion. |
| Yamalube Marine Multi-Purpose Grease | Water-resistant and provides excellent protection against rust and corrosion. Formulated to withstand extreme temperatures and pressures. Suitable for both freshwater and saltwater use. |
To end this post, I hope these lists helped you choose a lubricant to get your reels in top conditions in no time.
If you know some other good options I missed, feel free to let me know and write a comment .
Until the next one, tight lines!
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of lubrication is recommended for Shimano fishing reels?
Shimano recommends using their own brand of lubrication products, such as Shimano Bantam Oil and Shimano Bantam Grease. However, other high-quality lubricants can also be used, such as Penn Reel Oil and Lucas Oil Product 10690.
How does saltwater affect the choice of oil for fishing reels?
Saltwater can be corrosive to fishing reels, so it is important to use a lubricant that is specifically designed to protect against saltwater corrosion. Some of the best options include Penn Reel Oil, Quantum Hot Sauce, and Ardent Reel Butter Oil.
Can multi-purpose 3 in 1 oil be used safely on fishing reels?
While multi-purpose 3 in 1 oil can be used on fishing reels, it is not recommended. This type of oil is not specifically designed for fishing reels and may not provide adequate protection against corrosion and wear.
Are sewing machine oils suitable for lubricating fishing reels?
Sewing machine oils are not recommended for lubricating fishing reels. These oils are typically too thin and may not provide adequate protection against corrosion and wear.
What are the best alternatives to WD-40 for protecting saltwater reels?
While WD-40 can be used to protect saltwater reels, there are better options available. Some of the best alternatives include Penn Reel Oil, Quantum Hot Sauce, and Ardent Reel Butter Oil. These lubricants are specifically designed to protect against saltwater corrosion and provide long-lasting protection for your fishing reel.
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