Your spinning reel is one of the most important pieces of kit you own. Whether you're chasing kahawai off the rocks or targeting snapper from the shore, a well-maintained reel lasts years longer than one that's been tossed in a bucket or left on the floor of the shed. Here's how to store your spinning reels properly and keep them ready to fish.
Why Proper Reel Storage Matters
Spinning reels are precision instruments. Salt, dust, UV exposure, and physical knocks all degrade performance over time. Poor storage leads to corroded bearings, warped spools, and line memory all of which cost you fish and money. A few simple habits make a big difference.
1. Rinse and Dry Before Storing
After every session especially saltwater fishing rinse your reel with fresh water and let it dry completely before putting it away. Never store a wet reel. Moisture trapped inside the housing accelerates corrosion on internal components.
2. Loosen the Drag
Before storing, back off the drag to its lightest setting. Leaving the drag tight compresses the washers over time, reducing their effectiveness. A loose drag keeps the washers in good shape between sessions.
3. Get It Off the Floor
Storing reels on a shelf or workbench is better than the floor, but the best option is a dedicated wall mount. Keeping your reel elevated and secure protects it from accidental knocks, moisture from concrete floors, and the general chaos of a busy shed or garage.
Our Spinning Reel Wall Mount is designed specifically for this a clean, wall-mounted solution that holds your reel securely, keeps it off surfaces, and looks sharp in any space. It's 3D printed right here in New Zealand and built to handle the coastal environment.
4. Keep Reels Out of Direct Sunlight
UV exposure degrades fishing line and can warp plastic components over time. Store your reels somewhere cool and shaded a shed, garage, or dedicated gear room works well. If you're mounting them on a wall, choose a spot away from windows or direct afternoon sun.
5. Store Reels Separately from Rods
Reels and rods stored together can knock against each other, scratching surfaces and damaging guides. Use a wall mount for your reels and a separate rod storage solution for your rods this keeps everything organised and protected.
If you're also looking to sort out your rod storage, check out our Vertical Rod Clip it pairs perfectly with the reel mount for a complete wall-mounted setup.
6. Check Your Line Before the Next Session
When you pull your reel off the wall before a trip, give the line a quick check. Look for fraying, discolouration, or excessive memory. Replacing old line before a session is far less painful than losing a fish because of it.
The Bottom Line
Storing your spinning reels properly doesn't take much effort rinse, dry, loosen the drag, and get them up off the floor on a solid wall mount. Your gear will last longer, perform better, and be ready to go whenever the conditions line up.
Browse our range of wall-mounted reel storage and take the first step toward a properly organised fishing setup.