Vintage Fishing Reels: Repair or Replace?

A discussion on the worth of repairing vintage fishing reels has anglers debating whether to restore or replace their old equipment.

Summary

  • Old fishing reels hold sentimental value and can still perform like new.
  • Restoring vintage reels can be a rewarding project for anglers.
  • Repairing old reels may not yield high resale value but offers personal satisfaction.
  • Anglers share stories of successful catches using refurbished vintage reels.
  • Are Vintage Reels Worth Repairing?

    The debate over whether to repair or replace vintage fishing reels continues as anglers weigh sentimentality against practicality. Some advocate for restoring these reels, citing their enduring quality and performance.

    Restoration Tales

    One user shared, “I have a picture of me sitting on dad’s lap in the fighting chair bringing in a fish on that Peerless as a toddler in the late ’70s.” He emphasized the sentimental value of maintaining and using these vintage reels.

    Practical Considerations

    Others caution about the potential challenges of repairing aged reels. One angler advised, “The material can get brittle with age, and some of the younger reels have nylon internal parts that may fail under stress.” This perspective highlights the importance of assessing the reels’ conditions before restoration.