I just got news that we are going to Destin Fl. Apperently there is a big cove that you can go out in, and its only like 4 foot, so you can literly walk around and fish for random fish....My question is, I know that salt water has an effect on freshwater reels, but is it THAT big of a problem?? Like will I be allright using it for about a week? or do I need to buy a new reel...(i would be using my baitcasters).

Thanks

I think it depends on the reel. Some freshwater reels can deal with the salt better than others. Make sure there are no magnesium parts. And I would be sure and spray it gently with freshwater after every outing and clean and oil it when you get back.

If it was a spinning reel you wouldn't have as much of a problem, but baitcasters seem a bit more sensitive to salt if they are not made for it. I'd be more apt to bringing a heavier spinning reel if you have one instead of the baitcaster.

Have fun.

-D

Let us know what reels you plan to use. Some reels, like Shimanos are saltwater wothy IF cared for properly.  You will need to clean the reel(s) immediately after every trip out.  Rinse off the reels and towel dry off the excess water.

The use of a towel or cloth will also help to remove any unseen debris and salt.  Take your reel apart enough to also clean out the innards or any water or salt that could have gotten into the reel.

Shimano has a maintenance pdf file for spinning and casting reels. Go to their site and download it. Even if you don't have Shimano reels, the steps could be paralleled for your reels.

Bottom line is to make sure you remove anything that can cause corrosion and you will be alright. And don't forget to clean the blank and guides too. But then again, maybe I am a bit anal, but I like my stuff to be working 100%. :

Casting gear will be alright, but spinning gear might be more convenience. I use both in the salt.

thanks guys..I have a shimanos and abu garcia revo's...so thats what I will be using.

If it's not a reel made to handle salt (Sealed bearings,etc), it will be damaged.  (on top of the cosmetics which hate salt)

There are a few reels made for both, like the Tierra.

Which one did you want to use?

Well, if they have a chance of getting damaged, I probably wont use them....I may just buy bigger spinning reel and rod (cheap one) to use for the salt.....But I'm still going to bring my bass stuff down and hopefully hit up some local lakes (if I can).

My Shimano Calcuttas, Shimano Strasdics(spinner) have always done just fine in saltwater. My (20 yr old) Shimano Bantam Magnumlite 2000GT has caught more trout, snook and redfish then I can remember and is as good of shape today than it was 20 yrs ago.  Rinse you rod/reels off with the hose but do NOT force water into the reel.  Oil afterwards if you want.  Try not to submerge the reel into the water. If you do then have it broken down and cleaned.  REMEMBER to rinse with FRESH water as soon as you get done fishing.  Don't wait till next day or the salt will dry.

what do you mean by rinse....like lightly wipe off excess water, or hold it under the sink?

Bass Xl,

My service recommendations for reels that have had extensive saltwater exposure and/or those that have been submerged in saltwater.

Lightly rinse reels with freshwater using a spray bottle. Avoid excessive water from a high pressure source (hose). Reason is that this could push salt, sand and/ or debris inside the reel. Wipe down the reel w/rag or towel after rinsing.

This is a good practice after every salty fishing trip.....

Good Luck & Tight Lines!!!!

When I lived in Miami I used a couple Shimano Symetres and they lasted for years and years.  Just rinse them off after fishing in the salt.

As for the rinsing, I would just hose them down thoroughly and let them dry.  I never towel dried them, but I suppose that couldn't hurt.  Make sure you hose the rod down too to get all the salt off.  That stuff can do nasty things to a rod and reel.

thanks for all of the responses!