Well i have a freshwater reel, and im wondering what the difference is with a saltwater reel. Could i use my reel in saltwater?

Saltwater reels are made of anti-corrosive material so the salt doesn't rust them out. You can use your freshwater reel but you have to rinse out all the saltwater.

thats what i thought, so it wouldnt hurt a saltwater reel in fresh water tho?

Nope I use my saltwater reels in freshwater.

Many people do with no problems, me being primarily a salt water fisherman I like using the right equipment.

Well i have a freshwater reel, and im wondering what the difference is with a saltwater reel. Could i use my reel in saltwater?

Sure, you can...at least once!

Seriously though, depends on the reel and the materials of construction. A high quality reel would probably be ok. Me, I prefer being sure and only use reels that I know can handle the salt. Going the other way is no problem.

There really is not a whole lot of difference between a cheap sw reel and a freshwater reel, both imo are not appropriate for long time use in the brine. There are factors to consider other than the just the reel. Inshore or offshore, bait or artificial, target species, rod, and whether we are talking casting or spinning gear.

My motto......Never take a knife to a gunfight.