Tips For Cleaning Your Fly Fishing Gear

All too often, fly fishermen become a bit lazy by the end of the season.  Many times they will just store their gear away dirty.  After spending good money on all this equipment, isn't it worth taking a few minutes to clean it now so it last longer and works correctly later?

The bottom line is your fly fishing gear will serve you better and last much longer if you store it away clean and dry.  Let's not forget that when Spring rolls back around, it will also make it easier to get back out on the water and enjoy the sport.

So, what exactly can you do for your fly line, reels and flies when you store them away for the winter?  Great question!  To help you answer that question, we have highlighted some quick yet effective tips to help you clean and store your gear.

Fly Line- Leaving your fly line wrapped tightly on the reel for a few months while dirty will mean it will not float properly in the Spring.  To clean your line, use mild dish soap and warm water and let the line soak.  When you dry the line, use a paper towel and slowly run the line through the towel.  This will allow you to feel for any nicks in the line.  If you find too many, get rid of the line and start with new line in the Spring.  Otherwise, store then line loosely off the reel until its time to respool in the Spring.

Fly Reel- If your fly line is dirty, then so is your reel.  Cleaning your reel is easy.  You can use the same type of warm water and mild dish soap mixture mentioned above.  Pull the reel apart and use a soft bristled tooth brush to get rid of the grit.  Rinse the reel and towel dry.  It is best to let the reel remain apart overnight and dry out completely.  Sparingly lubricate the reel when you put it back together.

Flies- The winter is a great time to organize your gear.  When you store away your flies, store them between 2 paper towels.  This will help to wick away any moisture which may remain in your flies.

Fly Rod- Use a warm water and mild dish soap mix to wipe down your fly rod.  Be sure not to neglect your handle.  When you're done, let the rod air dry overnight, then store in its sleeve.

Even though fly fishing isn't necessarily a winter sport, taking time during the winter to properly store your gear is a must.  By following these few easy tips during the off season, you will be ready to hit the streams and rivers much more quickly when Spring rolls back around.