How to Change a Fishing Reel From Right to Left Handed?

Fishing reels are an essential piece of fishing equipment. Standard reels are generally operated with a single hand. Most of the reels in the market are typically targeted towards a right-hander. However, if you are left-handed and have a right-handed fishing reel, you don’t need to panic. You can easily change a basic right-handed fishing reel to a left-handed fishing reel.

You can do this in a couple of steps by changing the handle’s location. This process of changing the handle’s position does not damage the reel at all. It is ideal at any place and doesn’t require any fancy tools. Moreover, we won’t switch the reel itself but position the arm from one to the other.

Hence, you can set up your reel to your preference if you are left-handed. These short steps will help you go on a comfortable and productive fishing adventure. Read on to know more about how to change a fishing reel from right to left handed in detail.

How To Change A Reel From Right To Left Handed – Step By Step Guide

The process of switching fishing reel from right-handed to left handed is quite simple. The steps are easy to perform. Similarly, you can also make some changes if you want to change it from left to right-handed. Read to know more about these steps:

Step 1:

Locate the dust cap placed on the right side of the fishing reel. Then unscrew it until it comes out of the reel.

Step 2:

After taking out the dust cup, unscrew the reel handle placed on the left. Remember you should turn the handle in a clockwise direction to complete this step.

Step 3:

Insert your fishing reel’s arm on the right side where the dust cap was initially placed. Then, turn the reel clockwise and make sure it gets tightened well.

Step 4:

Place the dust cap that you removed, and then place it on the reel’s left-hand side. Finally, screw the dust cap tightly and make sure it fits into place.

You have done it! Your right-handed fishing reel is now turned into a left handed one. As a part of maintenance, you can add a few drops of lubricant inside the reel and dust cap. Then, reattach the handle. You can cast your lines farther with ease if you lubricate the reel’s interior workings frequently. The functionality of the reel gets smoother, and there is relatively less sticking in the equipment.

Parts of a Fishing Reel

A fishing reel has many essential components that you should know. The various parts of a fishing reel are as follows:

Handle

The handle is an essential component of any fishing reel. You should move the handle to transition from a right-handed reel to a left-handed reel. Moreover, it is removable from the internal socket by unscrewing and pulling it out.

Gearbox and spool

The gearbox of a fishing reel amplifies the internal spindle of the handle while it rotates. Similarly, the spool secures the fishing line of the reel. However, you do not need to manipulate the gearbox or the spool when changing from right to left.

Body

There are various gearbox housing, foot, and support arms within the body of the fishing reel. Some fishing reel designs require you to get these body parts adjusted when you change from right-handed to left handed. The central body also contains a dust cap.

Bail

The bail is a semi-circular wire. It remains forward while casting and flips back when done.

Drag Adjustment Knob

A drag system connects the spool of the fishing reel to the shaft. This series of washers maintain the required friction.

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Final Say

The process of changing the right-handed fishing reel to left handed is quite simple. After completing this process, you should place all of the fishing reel pieces back in their original place.

You should carefully unscrew the dust cap of the fishing reel and flip them. Essential maintenance through regular use of oil and other lubricants is necessary. Every angler can change the hand orientation of their fishing reel with ease and at any place.