Maintaining Your Ross Reel: Essential Care Tips to Ensure Decades of Flawless Performance

When you invest in a premium Ross Reel, you're not just purchasing a piece of fishing equipment – you're acquiring a precision-engineered tool designed to deliver flawless performance for decades. These Colorado-crafted masterpieces represent the pinnacle of American manufacturing excellence, but even the finest reels require proper care to maintain their exceptional function and beauty.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about caring for your Ross Reel, from daily maintenance to seasonal deep cleaning and proper storage techniques.

Understanding Your Ross Reel: Built for Longevity

Ross Reels are engineered with an emphasis on durability and performance. Their "Made on the Water" philosophy isn't just a catchy slogan – it reflects their commitment to creating tools that withstand the rigors of serious fishing while remaining lightweight and responsive. Most Ross models feature:

• Fully machined frames from proprietary 6061-T6 aluminum alloy
• Sealed or semi-sealed drag systems (depending on the model)
• Anodized finishes for corrosion resistance
• Precision components manufactured to exacting tolerances

While Ross designs their reels to be as maintenance-free as possible, following the proper care routines will significantly extend the life of your investment and ensure optimal performance when you need it most. Let's dive into the essential maintenance practices every Ross Reel owner should know.

Daily Maintenance: The Small Habits That Make a Big Difference

The most effective maintenance routine begins the moment you finish fishing. These simple steps take just minutes but can prevent issues that might otherwise require professional service.

Post-Fishing Rinse: Your First Line of Defense

After every fishing session, especially in saltwater environments, a thorough freshwater rinse is crucial:

1. Leave the drag tightened during the initial rinse to prevent water from entering the drag system
2. Use low-pressure lukewarm water to gently rinse your reel
3. Avoid high-pressure sprays that might force water into the internal components
4. Pay special attention to the areas around the foot, drag knob, and line roller
5. For saltwater use, consider using a dedicated product like Salt-Away to neutralize salt residue

This simple rinse removes salt, sand, and other debris before they can cause corrosion or mechanical issues. For Evolution R Salt and other saltwater models, this step is absolutely critical due to the corrosive nature of salt.

Drying Technique: Equally Important

Proper drying is just as important as rinsing:

1. Use a clean, soft microfiber cloth to thoroughly dry all external surfaces
2. Back off the drag completely after drying to relieve pressure on the drag washers
3. Allow air circulation around the reel before storage

For the Colorado series with its click-pawl mechanism, ensure the clicker area is completely dry to prevent any corrosion of the pawl or gear.

Line and Backing Care

Don't forget that your line and backing also need attention:

1. Rinse your fly line with clean water and wipe it down with a cloth
2. Check backing for salt crystals, especially after saltwater fishing
3. Periodically strip line completely off the reel to inspect for damage or salt accumulation
4. Apply line dressing according to the line manufacturer's recommendations

Model-Specific Maintenance Considerations

Different Ross models have specific maintenance requirements based on their design and intended use.

Evolution Series (LTX, R, FS, R Salt)

The flagship Evolution series features sophisticated sealed or semi-sealed drag systems that require minimal maintenance:

• Evolution LTX: The drag system is based on the stacked-disc design with an oil-impregnated bronze bushing rotating on a stainless steel spindle. Avoid applying additional lubricants that could compromise the factory settings.
  
  
• Evolution R and R Salt: These models feature fully sealed carbon fiber drag systems with industry-leading power-to-weight ratios. The sealed design protects internal components, but external surfaces should still be thoroughly rinsed and dried after each use.
  
  
• Evolution FS: This hybrid model combines features from both the LTX and Animas reels and should be maintained with similar care to the LTX.
  
  

Colorado Series

The Colorado series features a classic click-pawl design with all-metal components:

• Focus on the clicker mechanism: Ensure the stainless steel pawl, gear, and spring are completely dry after rinsing
• Check the canvas phenolic handle: This material can absorb water, so proper drying is essential
• Inspect the marine-grade bronze bushing: This component should be kept clean and dry

Animas Series

The Animas series is designed for versatility and guide-level durability:

• Pay attention to the drag knob: Ensure it's clean and free of grit or debris
• Check the frame-to-spool interface: This area can collect debris that affects performance
• Verify smooth spool rotation: Any grinding or sticking should be addressed promptly

Seasonal Deep Cleaning: Beyond the Basics

While daily maintenance prevents most issues, a more thorough cleaning 1-2 times per season will keep your Ross Reel performing at its best.

When to Perform a Deep Clean

Consider a more thorough cleaning:

• At the beginning and end of your fishing season
• After fishing in particularly dirty or sandy conditions
• When you notice any change in the smoothness of operation
• Before and after saltwater trips (if you primarily fish freshwater)

Deep Cleaning Process

For this more thorough cleaning:

1. Remove the spool from the frame
2. Inspect both components for debris, sand, or salt buildup
3. Clean the spindle and any exposed bearings with a soft cloth
4. Check the drag knob operation for smoothness
5. Examine the handle for any play or looseness
6. Look for corrosion in any part of the reel

The key here is careful inspection rather than disassembly. Unlike some reels, Ross designs generally don't require or recommend frequent disassembly for maintenance.

What NOT to Do: Common Maintenance Mistakes

Avoiding these common mistakes will help preserve your Ross Reel's performance and value:

1. Avoid Using WD-40 or Similar Products

Despite popular belief, WD-40 is not an appropriate lubricant for fine fishing reels. Ross specifically recommends against using WD-40 on their reels as it can damage the factory lubrication and potentially void the warranty. Instead, if recommended by Ross, use only products specifically designed for fly reel maintenance.

2. Don't Disassemble Without Necessity

Ross Reels are precision instruments assembled with specific tolerances. Unnecessary disassembly can disrupt these settings and potentially damage components. If your reel requires internal service, it's best to send it to Ross or an authorized service center.

3. Avoid High-Pressure Water

Never use high-pressure water to clean your reel, as this can force water and contaminants into sealed areas. A gentle rinse with low-pressure water is sufficient for routine cleaning.

4. Don't Store With Tightened Drag

Storing your reel with the drag fully tightened can compress the drag washers and affect performance. Always back off the drag completely when not in use.

5. Avoid Exposure to Extreme Temperatures

Extreme heat can damage the composite and phenolic components in your reel, while freezing temperatures can affect lubrication. Store your reel in a climate-controlled environment when possible.

Special Considerations for Saltwater Use

If you fish primarily in saltwater with models like the Evolution R Salt, or occasionally take your freshwater Ross to the flats, these additional steps are essential:

1. More Frequent Rinsing

Saltwater is significantly more corrosive than freshwater, necessitating more thorough and frequent rinsing. After saltwater fishing:

• Rinse more thoroughly with fresh water
• Consider using a Salt-Away product to neutralize salt residue
• Pay extra attention to areas where salt crystals might form

2. Saltwater Soaking Technique

For reels that have seen heavy saltwater use, Ross Sales Manager Bart Larmouth recommends this technique:

1. Purchase a gallon of distilled water
2. After an initial freshwater rinse, soak the entire reel in the distilled water
3. This helps dissolve and remove salt deposits from hard-to-reach areas

3. More Vigilant Inspection

After saltwater use, inspect your reel more carefully for:

• Any signs of corrosion on metal surfaces
• Salt crystal formation in recessed areas
• Changes in drag smoothness or handle rotation

4. Specialized Care for Sealed Drags

While the sealed drag systems in the Evolution series provide excellent protection, they aren't completely impervious to saltwater intrusion. After extensive saltwater use, consider having your reel professionally serviced by Ross to ensure the drag system remains in optimal condition.

Proper Storage: Protecting Your Investment

How you store your Ross Reel when not in use significantly impacts its longevity and performance.

Short-Term Storage (During Season)

For storage between fishing trips during your active season:

1. Ensure the reel is completely clean and dry
2. Back off the drag completely
3. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
4. Consider a reel pouch or cover for added protection

Long-Term Storage (Off-Season)

For the off-season or extended periods without use:

1. Remove line and backing if storing for several months
2. Clean and thoroughly dry all components
3. Back off the drag completely
4. Store in a climate-controlled environment
5. Consider using silica gel packets to absorb moisture
6. Use a breathable reel pouch that prevents dust accumulation while allowing airflow

Reel Pouch Selection

When choosing a reel pouch:

• Select a breathable material that prevents moisture buildup
• Ensure the pouch is sized appropriately for your reel model
• Consider a pouch with padding for additional protection
• Avoid airtight plastic containers that can trap moisture

When to Seek Professional Service

While regular maintenance will address most issues, certain situations call for professional attention from Ross's service department:

Signs Your Reel Needs Professional Service

Consider sending your reel to Ross when:

• The drag system feels inconsistent or "sticky"
• You notice corrosion that cannot be removed with surface cleaning
• The reel has been submerged in saltwater
• There's unusual play in the spool or handle
• You hear grinding or clicking that wasn't present before
• The reel has been dropped or sustained impact damage

The Ross Warranty and Service Process

Ross Reels stands behind their products with a lifetime warranty for the original owner when purchased through an authorized dealer. To utilize this service:

1. Download and complete the Product Service Form from the Ross website
2. Package your reel securely with the completed form
3. Ship the reel freight paid to their Montrose, Colorado facility
4. Allow 2-3 weeks for service during peak season

Even for issues not covered under warranty, Ross's service rates are reasonable, and having your reel professionally maintained by the manufacturer ensures it receives exactly the right care.

Creating a Maintenance Schedule

To keep track of your reel maintenance, consider creating a simple schedule:

After Every Use

• Rinse thoroughly with fresh water
• Dry completely
• Back off drag
• Visual inspection

Monthly During Season

• More thorough cleaning
• Line and backing inspection
• Check all moving parts for smooth operation

Season Beginning and End

• Deep cleaning
• Thorough inspection of all components
• Assess whether professional service is needed

Every 2-3 Years

• Professional service by Ross (more frequently for heavy saltwater use)

Maintenance Tools and Supplies

Assembling a simple maintenance kit will make caring for your Ross Reel more convenient:

Basic Maintenance Kit

• Soft microfiber cloths
• Small soft-bristled brush (like a clean toothbrush)
• Distilled water (especially for saltwater fishing)
• Reel pouch
• Silica gel packets for storage
• Logbook for tracking maintenance and fishing conditions

Optional Accessories

• Salt neutralizer (for saltwater use)
• Compressed air (for drying hard-to-reach areas)
• Cotton swabs for detail cleaning
• Magnifying glass for inspection

Conclusion: An Investment Worth Protecting

Your Ross Reel represents the pinnacle of American-made fly fishing equipment – a precision tool crafted to deliver flawless performance in the most demanding conditions. With proper maintenance, these remarkable reels can provide decades of reliable service and countless memorable days on the water.

The care routines outlined in this guide may seem detailed, but they quickly become second nature. The few minutes spent maintaining your reel after each fishing session will reward you with consistent performance when it matters most – when that trophy fish makes its first powerful run.

For more information about Ross Reels, be sure to check out our other articles:

• Behind the Design: The Engineering Principles That Make Ross Reels Both Beautiful and Functional
• Choosing the Perfect Ross Reel: Matching Models to Different Fly Fishing Scenarios and Species

Ready to explore the complete Ross Reels lineup? Browse our extensive collection or view all our premium fly reels to find the perfect match for your fishing adventures