When to Service Your Van Staal Reel: VR, VS, and VSX2 Maintenance Guide

Proper maintenance is the key to keeping your Van Staal spinning reel performing season after season. Whether you fish the surf, wade light structure, swim out to rocks, or use your reel exclusively on the boat, knowing when to service your reel will prevent corrosion, preserve seals, and avoid costly repairs. Tyler and Coby from The Saltwater Edge share their best tips based on real-world service work. 

How Often Should You Service a Van Staal Reel?

The correct service interval depends entirely on how you fish:

• Heavy Surfcasters / Swimmers — Service every year. If the reel feels smooth a month after your last trip, you may stretch it to two seasons, but only if you’re certain water didn’t infiltrate the body.
• Light Surf Use — Occasional splashes or 1-2 accidental dunks. Expect a service every 2–3 seasons.
• Boat-Only Anglers — Service when it feels rough, noisy, or tight. This may be 3–10 years depending on use.

In-Season DIY Reel Care

You don’t need to fully disassemble your reel to keep it healthy. A few simple steps go a long way:

• Remove the spool and add a light layer of grease to the shaft to prevent binding.
• Place a drop of oil on the top of the main shaft while the shaft is fully up.
• Rinse your Van Staal after dunkings or heavy spray. A quick wash under a hose (spool and handle removed) dramatically reduces salt buildup.

Preventing Winter Lock-Ups

Many reels arrive in spring completely seized even though they “felt great” in the fall. This happens when trapped moisture sits inside the reel for months. Always:

• Take the spool and handle off for storage.
• Let the reel fully dry before storing in a garage or basement.
• Check it again a month after your last trip—if it feels gritty or tight, send it in.

Common Issues and How to Handle Them

Accidental Reel Lock-Ups

If your rotor won’t spin, the issue may be:

• A misaligned main gear (common when reassembling VR models)
• Fishing line wrapped under the spool and around the shaft
• Internal corrosion or water intrusion

If you’re unsure, stop immediately and send it in. Forcing the reel can break expensive parts.

Drag Clicker Not Working

Most clicker failures come from the metal L-shaped tab bending outward. In many cases you can bend it back gently. If the metal breaks or is heavily corroded, replacements are inexpensive.

Why Send Your Reel In Early?

The earlier you send your reel to our service team, the faster the turnaround. We also offer seasonal gift card incentives—$15 for November, $10 for December, and $5 for January. Just complete your paperwork clearly and we’ll handle the rest.

Final Thoughts

A well-maintained Van Staal reel will last for decades, but regular care is essential. If something feels off, don’t force it. Send it in early, stay ahead of corrosion, and your reel will be ready for whatever the season throws at you.

Have questions? Call the shop or leave a comment—our team is here to help.