Rinse it
After every trip, rinse the rod and reel with fresh water, using a gentle spray. Do not submerge the reel and do not use high pressure, which pushes salt into the bearings.
Dry and lubricate
Wipe down the rod and reel with a soft cloth, then put a drop of reel oil on the handle knob and the line roller. Back the drag off before you store the reel so the washers do not get stuck.
Check your line
Run the first few metres of line through your fingers and trim off any rough or damaged section. Replace mono once a season. Braid lasts longer but check it for fuzzy patches.
General guidance only. Conditions, rules and species differ along the coast, so check with local anglers and the current regulations.