When some of you guys put the gear away for the winter, do you loosen the drag, turn off the brake and loosen tension knob?

Not sure if it matters or not, want to hear some opinions.

Thanks

I loosen the drags at the end of every trip.  So yes, loosen the drags and the spool tension.

Yes , it definately matters.

Loosen the drag star this takes the compression off of the drag pads and the drag spring washers. No need to Loosen the cast control cap. Make sure the reel is dry, package the reels in an old sock or anything that will absorb moisture.

Here is how I pack mine.....winter reel storeage..

If you know how, do a deep clean and lube before putting the reel/s to rest for the winter. Wipe down the rod/s with a clean cloth, make sure they are dry, then I like to wipe my rods down with a silicon gun cloth. Store rods in a vertical rack or once the reel is removed hang the rods from the tip, I don't lay them down or store them horizontal at all (some of my custom rods are over 13 years old).

Good Luck & Tight Lines!!!!

Store rods in a vertical rack or once the reel is removed hang the rods from the tip, I don't lay them down or store them horizontal at all (some of my custom rods are over 13 years old.

I thought hanging them by the tip would damage the guide at the end of the rod. Not true??

A small loop of string through the tip top and a hook eye in my basement works fine for me.

The Rooster,

I hang my rods from the rubber padded cup hooks you can get. That and 3.5oz to 4.5oz hanging from a standard cup hook through the tip top isn't enough weight to hurt the shock ring in it.

Remember I don't hang my rod/s with the reels attached, I also don't store during the season in my shop racks, any of my rods with the reels attached...

Tight Lines!!!!!

My line stays tight during winter. Keep your tree stands, I'll walk the bank.

Thanks for the info, I hate storing for the winter, no more fishing. :-[

Follow Reel Mechanic's instructions.

Be sure to stand rods straight up towards the ceiling in your room.

Be sure to take tension off reels meaning both the spool and drag.

Be sure to clean everything.

And follow what Reel Mechanic says to do.  

I take the reels apart, clean and lube and then store them on their boxes inside of a  plastic bag.

Except for a couple of combos that a keep ready to go at all times.