Can gear be used frequently in both fresh and salt water? I’ve heard from some people that if you use your freshwater gear in salt water, you might want to “purge” it before using it...

FS Digest

I’ve heard from some people that if you use your freshwater gear in salt water, you might want to “purge” it before using it in freshwater again. Where I’ve heard from some other folks who just plain don’t care. Does anyone know exactly how true that is? I know it’s a bit of a dumb question but I can’t find any info on Youtube. Just looking to save myself a couple bucks by using my swimbait rod rather than going out and buying a salt specific rod.

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by scabbedup

Fredfish Loc: Prospect CT.

FS Digest wrote:

I’ve heard from some people that if you use your freshwater gear in salt water, you might want to “purge” it before using it in freshwater again. Where I’ve heard from some other folks who just plain don’t care. Does anyone know exactly how true that is? I know it’s a bit of a dumb question but I can’t find any info on Youtube. Just looking to save myself a couple bucks by using my swimbait rod rather than going out and buying a salt specific rod.

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by scabbedup

If you want the rod, and especially the reel, to last, clean it after the saltwater use. If you don't care, then start saving money for the replacement.

seatrout Loc: Florida in winter PA in summer

I use them both I tense with fresh water and wipe reel with WD40

Don Fischer

Anything you expose to salt water you don't want to go away, rinse well in fresh water when your done!

Kurt Seidler Loc: San Clemente CA

A quick wash after saltwater use with a Dawn and hot water solution followed by a hot water rinse will keep your gear looking new.

Bud369 Loc: Cape Canaveral, FL

If saltwater touches any gear or tackle, it will cause the metal to corrode and rust. Rinsing with freshwater and lightly oiling the right parts will extend the life of your gear.