Fixing Shakespeare Fishing Reels: A Step-by-Step Tutorial

Understanding the Parts of a Shakespeare Fishing Reel

As an angler, it’s essential to have the knowledge to fix your fishing gear. It would help if you had a basic understanding of the different parts of your fishing equipment for an easy and successful repair. The Shakespeare fishing reel is one of the popular fishing gear among anglers. The Shakespeare fishing reel is efficient, reliable, and user-friendly, but even the best fishing reels need maintenance.

The different parts of the Shakespeare fishing reel are essential to its functions, and if any of them are faulty, you may experience challenges while fishing. Therefore, it’s crucial to understand the various parts of the Shakespeare fishing reel before you embark on fixing them.

The main components of the Shakespeare fishing reel include the spool, handle, bail, rotor, drag knob, anti-reverse switch, and the body frame.

The Spool: This is the section of the reel that holds the fishing line. The spool can either be stationary or rotating according to the type of the Shakespeare fishing reel. The spool contains different lines capacities, which are marked at the sides. It’s essential to select the right line capacity for your fishing needs.

The Handle: As the name suggests, the handle is used to turn the spool. The Shakespeare fishing reel handle is located on the side of the body frame and is attached directly to the spool shaft. The handle of a Shakespeare fishing reel can be either left-handed or right-handed, depending on the angler’s preferences.

The Bail: The bail is the metallic wire that rotates around the spool, controlling the movement of the line to and from the spool. The bail is responsible for laying the fishing line evenly on the spool, which helps in smooth casting. A faulty bail can cause the line to tangle or spool out of control and should be checked regularly.

The Rotor: This is the component responsible for the rotation of the spool. The rotor is connected to the spool through the bail wire, and they work together to control the line’s movement. The rotor of a Shakespeare fishing reel should be routinely oiled for smooth rotation.

The Drag Knob: This component is used to adjust the tension of the fishing line. The drag system allows you to set the amount of pressure needed to pull the line off the spool smoothly. A faulty drag knob can cause the fishing line to break or make it difficult to reel in the fish.

The Anti-Reverse Switch: The anti-reverse switch is also known as the ‘back reel switch’. It helps to stop the reel’s backward motion and prevent any slack on the fishing line. By default, the anti-reverse switch is always on, but a faulty switch can make it difficult to reel in the fish or cause the fishing line to loosen unintentionally.

The Body Frame: The body frame is the foundational component of the Shakespeare fishing reel. It hosts all the other components of the reel, and its durability is crucial to the efficient performance of the fishing reel. The body frame of a Shakespeare fishing reel can be made of either graphite or aluminum and should be checked regularly for any cracks or damages.

A proper understanding of the different parts of the Shakespeare fishing reel is vital for the anglers to fix any problems that may arise. The Shakespeare fishing reel is a reliable fishing gear, but with adequate maintenance and repairs, it can last for many years of successful fishing trips.

Common Problems with Shakespeare Fishing Reels

Shakespeare reels are popular among anglers because of their high-quality build and reasonable price. Although they are reliable and durable, they are not immune to wear and tear. Hence, they are prone to several problems that anglers must take into account. Here are some of the most common problems with Shakespeare fishing reels:

1. Drag System Problems

One of the most frequent issues anglers encounter with their Shakespeare spinning reels is with the drag system. The drag system consists of several washers that are in direct contact with the spool to regulate how quickly the line comes off the spool. The drag system is crucial when fighting small or large fish alike. If anglers have problems with this, it can cause the spool to stick or loosen too fast, which can lead to lost fish and damage to the reel.

Correctly maintaining the drag system is essential to the overall performance of the fishing reel. Replacing old, worn-out washers and adding reel lubrication where required are some of the preventative measures that anglers can take to avoid this problem. Additionally, anglers can make sure they don’t over-tighten the drag system; this can cause undue friction and heat and damage the drag system.

When the drag system fails, cleaning and lubrication may be of no use. In this case, anglers need to replace the drag system components with new ones. Replacing the drag system components on a Shakespeare reel is relatively simple, and anglers can do this themselves or have it done by a reputable repair shop.

2. Line Management Issues

Another significant problem that anglers commonly experience with their Shakespeare fishing reels is line management issues. Line management relates to how quickly the line comes off the spool during a cast and how quickly it can get back on to the spool during retrieval. Issues with line management can result in a variety of challenges, such as backlash, tangles, and broken lines.

One significant reason for line management issues is a poorly loaded spool. The spool should have the right amount of tension when loading the line, not too tight or too loose. This will ensure that the line is evenly spaced and does not bunch or tangle. Another cause for line management problems can be due to line twist. With each cast, the line can twist and tangle.  It is wise to make use of an appropriate line rig that avoids the line from twisting.

To troubleshoot this problem, anglers should try using different lines and checking for tangles, twists, and uneven spooling. Additionally, adjusting the spool tension, thumb pressure on the spool, or switching to a different reel size can help manage line issues.

3. Corrosion

Corrosion is a widespread issue with fishing reels, and Shakespeare reels are not immune. Salt and humidity can corrode the metal parts of a Shakespeare reel, causing them to rust and ultimately fail. The best way to avoid corrosion is to rinse the reel with freshwater after each use and dry it immediately to prevent rusting.

An additional prevention measure involves making use of a reel cover that will help keep the reel safe when not in use. Furthermore, anglers can apply a waterproof barrier product after cleaning to protect the reel from the elements. In the case of corrosion damage, anglers need to have the reel fixed immediately to prevent further corrosion and to lengthen the reel’s lifespan.

Final Thoughts

Shakespeare fishing reels are all about reliable performance and durability. All these problems mentioned above can be avoided with proper maintenance and timely repairs. When encountering any issues with any of its components, it’s better to have it serviced by Shakespeare’s authorized service centers or a reputable repair shop. Proper maintenance, such as regular cleaning, is critical in ensuring your Shakespeare reel functions at peak performance condition for years to come.

Troubleshooting Tips for Shakespeare Fishing Reels

If you own a Shakespeare fishing reel, there might be times when it doesn’t perform as well as it should. It could be that the reel is not casting properly, the line is not winding smoothly, or there are other issues that are keeping you from catching fish. Whatever the problem might be, there are some troubleshooting tips that you can use to fix your Shakespeare fishing reel. In this article, we will discuss some common problems that you may encounter and how to fix them.

The Reel is Not Casting Properly

One of the most common problems anglers encounter when fishing with a Shakespeare reel is an issue concerning casting. There could be several reasons why the reel is not casting properly, such as the line is tangled, the spool is not adjusted properly, or there is debris on the spool that is affecting the casting distance. To remedy these issues, follow the steps below:

Steps for Fixing the Casting Issue

1. Untangle the line: This is the easiest place to start. If there is any practical knot or tangle in your fishing reel’s line, it might not come off the spool easily, causing trouble in casting. Re-spooling the line could be an alternative option, too.
2. Adjust the spool: First, adjust the spool tension knob to evade any backlash while casting. If the knob is too tight, you may experience backlash; if it’s too loose, you might not be able to cast far. While adjusting the control, you have to make sure the reel’s spool is snuggled with the fishing line before casting, so the spool can release adequately for the line to fly further.
3. Clean the spool: In some cases, debris or dirt could stick to your spool which can decrease the casting distance. Therefore, cleaning the spool could be a solution to this problem. Take some isopropyl alcohol and wet a rag, cleaning the debris on the spool thoroughly.
4. Checkpoint tangle: Finally, after addressing the above, it’s crucial to check for any knots or tangles in your fishing line.

After completing these steps, you should be able to cast smoothly with your fishing reel.

The Line is not Winding Properly

If your Shakespeare fishing reel is not winding the line as it should, your fishing experience could be challenging. The reel could start making noisy sounds, or the line could tangle or break easily. It can be difficult to detect why the line isn’t winding. Still, the typical reasons could be that the spool is not tightened appropriately, the fishing line is not appropriately spooled, or the spool is dirty.

Steps for Fixing Winding Issues

1. Check the spool: Open up the Shakespeare fishing reel and scrutinize the spool for any tangles or knots. If you detect any, unwind the line and re-spool it appropriately.
2. Check the line’s tension: You must ensure that the fishing line is appropriately spooled. This means that the line should have the same consistency all through the spool and that it should not overlap at all. Also, ensure that the line is not wrapped loosely around the spool.
3. Clear the spool: In some cases, dirt or debris could build up on the spool’s surface, which causes the line to be stuck, making it difficult to wind up. To solve these issues, take some isopropyl alcohol and a clean rag. Wet the rag with the alcohol and clean the spool thoroughly.
4. Check the drag system: If nothing seems to work, inspect the drag system of your Shakespeare reel. Ensure that you didn’t adjust the drag too tightly, so the fishing line doesn’t spin smoothly around the spool.
5. Buy a new line: Finally, if all other solutions fail, replacing your fishing line could be an alternative option. If your line is old or faulty and hasn’t been changed in a long time, it might just be due for an update.

After going through these steps, you’ll have the line winding as it should, and the reel should run more smoothly.

The Reel is Making Noisy Sounds

If you can hear strange noise or sound emanating from your Shakespeare fishing reel, it could be that the reel is damaged. The sound could be a grinding, clicking, or rubbing sound that doesn’t augur well for the reel’s performance. The problem might be that something broke in the reel or it was used too harshly.

Steps to Fix the Noisy Reel

1. Open the reel: First thing to do is to open up your Shakespeare reel and check to see if any parts are visibly damaged, such as broken gears or bearings. If any part is broken, you might need to replace it.
2. Oil the reel: The problem could just be that the reel needs more oil to run smoothly. Add oil to the gears, and that could correct the noise.
3. Clean the reel: Dirty and gritty saltwater can be damaging to any reel, and it could be the source of the noise. Disassemble the reel, clean with soap and water, and reassemble.
4. Contact Shakespeare customer support: If none of these solutions work, reach out to Shakespeare customer support for help.

Sometimes, it could be that the reel is just old and damaged beyond repair. In this case, it might be better to purchase a new reel rather than attempting to fix it.

By following these few helpful tips, you can keep your Shakespeare fishing reel working like new and enjoy a seamless fishing experience. Knowing how to fix problems that you may encounter with your Shakespeare fishing reel is essential to ensure it lasts longer and keeps you fishing longer.

How to Disassemble a Shakespeare Fishing Reel

Disassembling your Shakespeare fishing reel is an important step if you plan to replace or repair any of its parts. The process may seem intimidating at first, but it is actually easy to do if you have the right tools and follow the necessary steps carefully. Here are the steps to disassemble your Shakespeare fishing reel:

Step 1: Gather the Necessary Tools

Before disassembling your Shakespeare fishing reel, make sure that you have the necessary tools to do so. These tools include screwdrivers, pliers, adjustable wrenches, and a cleaning cloth. You may also need a reel oil and grease to re-lubricate your reel once you are done with the repair or replacement process.

Step 2: Remove the Spool

To disassemble your Shakespeare fishing reel, the first thing you need to do is to remove the spool. Hold the spool firmly with one hand, and turn the drag knob counterclockwise with your other hand to loosen it. Once the drag knob is loose, pull up the spool off the reel. Put the spool aside in a safe and clean place, where it will not be damaged or misplaced.

Step 3: Remove the Handle Nut

After removing the spool, the handle nut is the next part to remove. Use the pliers to hold the spool shaft firmly, while you use a screwdriver to unscrew the handle nut counterclockwise. Once the nut is loose enough, remove it and the handle grip by pulling it up from the shaft. Put the handle grip and nut aside in a safe place.

Step 4: Remove the Sideplates

After removing the handle nut, you can then remove the sideplates of your Shakespeare fishing reel. To do this, flip the reel over so that the underside is facing upward. Using a screwdriver, remove the three or four screws that hold the sideplate onto the frame of the reel. Once the screws are removed, gently pull up the sideplate away from the frame to reveal the inner workings of the reel.

Step 5: Remove the Rotor and Bail Arm Assembly

After removing the sideplates, you can now proceed to remove the rotor and the bail arm assembly. Gently lift the rotor and bail arm assembly up and out of the reel frame, being careful not to damage or misplace any of the small components. Use a cleaning cloth to wipe the rotor and bail arm assembly before putting them aside below a safe and clean place.

Step 6: Disassemble the Drag System

To complete the disassembly process, you should now disassemble the drag system of your Shakespeare fishing reel. This will give you access to the spool bearings, gear system, and other internal parts of the reel. To disassemble the drag system, locate the drag knob on the top of the reel frame and turn it counterclockwise to loosen the drag. Once the drag is loose, remove the drag knob and the drag washer. You can then remove the main gear and the spool bearings from the frame.

With these steps, you should now have successfully disassembled your Shakespeare fishing reel. To proceed with repairs or cleaning, you can now inspect the parts you removed and proceed to clean, replace, or fix any damaged parts. Once you are done with the repairs, you can now start putting the reel back together by following the steps in reverse order.

Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing a Shakespeare Fishing Reel

In this article, we will guide you on how to fix your Shakespeare fishing reel step by step. Knowing how to repair a fishing reel can save you money on replacement and keep your reels in excellent working condition. Prior to fixing a Shakespeare fishing reel, make a thorough observation of the reel. Before commencing the operation, know which parts would require repair and cleaning. In the previous sections, we have discussed the disassembly, cleaning, maintenance, and reassembly of the Shakespeare fishing reel. Now, we will talk about the last two stages in repairing your Shakespeare fishing reel: lubrication and testing.

Lubrication

After you have reassembled the Shakespeare fishing reel, it is now time to lubricate it. Use only high-quality fishing reel lubricants as this would help extend the lifespan of your reel. As you lubricate the reel, be careful not to apply too much oil or grease. Over-oiling your fishing reel would cause the parts to slide, resulting in blockage of the reel movement. Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe off excess oil or grease. Lubrication should be done to all movable parts, including gears, spools, and bearings. A few drops of lubricant on moving parts should be enough.

Lubricating the Bail Spring: A common problem with Shakespeare fishing reels is the uncontrolled bail spring. Here is how to lubricate it. Remove the handle of the fishing reel to have access to the bail spring. Clean the part with a Q-tip or soft-bristled brush. Apply a small amount of lubricant to the bail spring while changing the gearbox. The lubricant should be inserted between the gearbox and the bail spring. Ensure not to push the lubricant or the spring out of place.

Wipe the entire fishing reel with a clean cloth to remove contaminants before putting it back together. Clean the grip knobs on the handle with a damp cloth and dry them properly before placing them back.

Testing

After disassembling, cleaning, lubricating, and reassembling the Shakespeare fishing reel, test it before going out for your next fishing trip. Testing your fishing reel can save you from disappointment during fishing trips. A poorly repaired or unmaintained fishing reel can ruin your trip. So always check your repaired fishing reel before hitting the water.

Hold the fishing rod at about a 45-degree angle with the ground. Test the drag knob to ensure its smoothness and resistance. Check if the drag knob is working correctly; loosen and tighten it to get a feel of the new refurbished reel.

Next, check the line roller for proper operation and free rotation. Test the bail arm – open and close it to verify its proper functioning. Always check if the bail arm clicks consistently at the correct intervals.

Lastly, test the cast using a practice plug. Ensure that the cast is efficient without any jerks or unwanted wobbling. If the test is satisfactory, disassemble and lubricate the reel regularly to maintain it in excellent working condition.

Now that you have successfully repaired your Shakespeare fishing reel, it’s time to go fishing again! Enjoy the new lease of life your refurbished fishing reel provides and impress your friends with your newly acquired skills in repairing your Shakespeare fishing reel.