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Last Updated on April 26, 2025 by Paul Clayton
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Can You Use Vaseline On Fishing Reels?
When it comes to taking care of your fishing gear, a little maintenance can make a big difference! One common question anglers ask is: “Can I use Vaseline on my fishing reels?” It might seem like a handy solution, but the truth is a little more complicated.
While Vaseline has its uses, it’s not the best choice for keeping your reels in top shape. In this guide, I’ll dive into the dos and don’ts of reel lubrication, explain why specialized oils are a better bet, and help you keep your favorite reels spinning smoothly for seasons to come!
Key Takeaways:
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Vaseline Isn’t Ideal for Reels:
Vaseline (petroleum jelly) is not recommended for general fishing reel lubrication. It’s too light, evaporates quickly in heat, and can cause reels to stiffen or lock up. -
Drag Washers Exception:
Vaseline can be used lightly on fiber drag washers to keep them pliable, but should be avoided on other reel components. -
Use Proper Reel Oils:
Specialized products like Corrosion X and synthetic fishing reel oils are designed to withstand the rigors of fishing environments, providing better performance and protection. -
WD-40 Warning:
WD-40 should never be used on reels; it’s a degreaser that can break down the essential lubricants inside the reel. -
Top Reel Lubricants:
Recommended products include Lucas Oil Products 10690, Ardent Reel Butter, and INOX-MX8 EP grease for optimal care. -
Routine Maintenance:
Regular application of correct grease and oil extends reel life, maintains performance, and protects against rust and corrosion. -
Kitchen Oils Are a No-Go:
Oils like olive oil or coconut oil are unsuitable — fishing reels need specialized, corrosion-resistant oils.
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Can you use Vaseline in a drag washer?
For everyday use, though, I don’t recommend lubricating the whole reel, except for the drag washers. Vaseline will soak into the fiber washers and leave them pliable. If that reel is exposed to the elements (especially in hot climates) in a garage, boat, etc., it will run out of the reel too quickly because it is a light, low-lube.
What kind of oil do you use for fishing reels?
At the tackle shop, the owner recommends Corrosion X for my reels. Just spray
into the inside, careful not to get the drags soaked. No grease or oil is needed. I also use synthetic oil at times.
What is the best spray for fishing reels?
Drip-free, versatile, and incredibly long-lasting, this lubricating aerosol spray is ideal for use on saltwater and freshwater fishing reels. It functions as both a lubricant and a protective coating, protecting delicate reel components from rust and corrosion. The spray itself is transparent, non-staining, and odorless.
How to extend the life of your fishing reel?
Regularly applying fishing reel grease and oil will go a long way toward extending the life of your fishing gear. Just like other gear involving complex moving parts, fishing reels will start to wear down without enough lubrication. Gears, drag washers, bearings, and sliding mechanisms require regular lubrication to function optimally.
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Related Questions
What oil do you use to lubricate a fishing reel?
1# Lucas Oil Product 10690 Fishing Reel Oil Best Protection Against Corrosion And Rust. This oil is a mixture of oils and additives. They mix and work perfectly to lubricate all parts of your fishing reel. It is suitable for reels used in both saltwater and freshwater fishing.
How do you lubricate a fishing reel?
This video has been included to clarify the topic. Credit goes to Mason M
Do you oil or grease the bearings on a fishing reel?
Fishing Reel bearings are generally supplied dry, without any grease or oil. However, many Reel Repair shops still like to flush out the bearings to ensure they are dehydrated. You can now blow them dry with compressed air or allow them to air dry for up to 24 hours.
Can you use WD-40 on fishing reels?
Because WD-40 is a degreaser, it breaks down grease and oil. Never use it to lubricate a reel. The basic rule of thumb is to sparingly grease gears and oil everything else. Too much grease and oil impede the spool and reduce casting distance.
How often should you oil a Baitcaster?
Keep them clean and dry, and don’t submerge them. You should be able to oil them from time to time lightly and maybe do a deep clean every 2-3 years, depending on the severity of use.
What do you use to lubricate a fishing reel?
How do you take care of a Baitcaster?
Maintenance Tips Baitcasting Reels A clean and oiled brake case will ensure quiet casting performance. Lightly oil the Super Free support bearing and drive shaft bearing. Clean and oil-level wind system. Grease may also be used for high-usage reels to prevent further wear and tear or corrosion.
What can I use to oil my fishing reel?
Well, you can’t use olive oil or coconut oil; it’s not a salad or a stir-fry we’re 
talking about! Lubricating fishing reels requires a little more sophistication.
The best option is to use a specific fishing reel oil designed to withstand the watery environment in which your reel will be exposed. These special oils reduce friction and protect against corrosion, helping your reel perform like a champion. So remember, the details for reel oiling are essential—don’t just raid your kitchen cupboard!
It’s all about using the right tool (or in this case, oil) for the job.
How do you oil a fishing reel bearing?
This video has been included to clarify the topic. Credit goes to The Fishing Hobby
What kind of oil do you use on a Baitcaster?
Ardent Reel Butter Bearing Lube. This stuff is 100% synthetic and made with high-quality ingredients. It can be used for both saltwater and freshwater baitcasting rods, as it prevents corrosion and rusting. It can also be used for spinning, surf, baitcasting, and all other kinds of reels.
Can Vaseline be used as bearing grease?
When I was a kid in the 1970s, Vaseline was part of the familiar mythology; it was lighter and less viscous than regular bearing grease, so it was supposed to make bearings turn faster. Like Bobatt, I used it on a BB and my wheel bearings with no discernible problems for years.
What is the best lubricant for fishing reels?
Rods and Reels Use INOX-MX8 EP grease for all bearings and gears on spinning and egg-beater-type reels, bushes, ratchet pawls, and gears on side-cast reels and fly fishing reels. INOX-MX6 synthetic EP grease can also be used for reel bearings and gears.
Can Vaseline be used as a substitute for grease?
Registered. But yes, you could, and it would probably be okay, but why 
don’t you go to your local auto supply or hardware store and get a small tube or aerosol of white lithium grease? If it doesn’t fit, force it. If it breaks, it needs to be replaced anyway.
Can you use WD-40 on a Baitcaster?
Because WD-40 is a degreaser, it breaks down grease and oil. Never use it to lubricate a reel. The basic rule of thumb is to sparingly grease gears and oil everything else. Too much grease and oil impede the spool and reduce casting distance.
Can I use Vaseline on my fishing reels?
If you don’t have any fishing reel oil on hand, you can undoubtedly use Vaseline. Vaseline mainly acts as a grease. So it won’t reach the smallest part of the reel. But you can keep the parts lubed that are reachable.
Is Vaseline a good lubricant for fishing reels?
“One big myth is that petroleum jelly makes a good reel lubricant,” Stallings said, having seen far too many reels that were stiff or even locked down because they were “cleaned” or “lubricated” with products that weren’t designed for use on fishing reels. Even dedicated reel-care products have specific functions.
How do you lubricate a Baitcaster?
This video has been included to clarify the topic. Credit goes to DEBO’S Fishing
Can you use Vaseline on fishing reels?
“One big myth is that petroleum jelly makes a good reel lubricant,” Stallings said, having seen far too many reels that were stiff or even locked down because they were “cleaned” or “lubricated” with products that weren’t designed for use on fishing reels. Even dedicated reel-care products have specific functions.
What can you use to lubricate bearings?
For 98% of skaters reading this, we recommend a thin-bearing grease, such as Sabre Bearing Lube, Bones Speed Cream, Tri-Flow, Sewing Machine Oil, or Dry Chain Lube (for bikes), or a similar product. Synthetic Engine Oil works quite well, too…!
Final Thoughts
Oiling your fishing reel, also known as lubricating fishing reels, is a rite of passage for any self-respecting angler. But what to use? The details for reel oiling can be as slippery as a fish.
These specially designed lubricants can keep your reel casting smoothly and prevent rust and grime build-up.
In conclusion, oiling your fishing reel is not rocket science. You only need a dash of patience, a dollop of care, and the proper lubricant.
While you might be tempted to reach for the WD-40 or some kitchen oil when lubricating fishing reels, resist the urge. These may seem convenient, but they are more likely to transform your fishing expedition into a frustrating episode of “man versus reel.”
Instead, go for oils designed explicitly for reel oiling. These are engineered to withstand saltwater, extreme temperatures, and the relentless wear and tear your reel endures. Yes, you may have to part ways with a few extra bucks, but on the bright side, your reel will glide smoother than a buttered penguin on an ice slide.
And remember, folks, the devil is in the details for reel oiling: less is more, so don’t drench your reel like it’s a pancake drowning in syrup. Just a few drops should do the trick. The secret sauce to a well-oiled fishing reel!
So, next time you’re about to embark on a fishing expedition, don’t forget to pack your reel oil. Your fishy friends will thank you!
