Shop by Category

Islander Repairs

Premier Service and Performance Tuning for Islander Precision Reels

Islander reels are celebrated for their impeccable craftsmanship, flawless performance, and enduring durability. As a discerning angler, you understand that such a high-precision instrument deserves an equivalent level of expert care to maintain its integrity for a lifetime of use. At Mike’s Reel Repair, we are the leading specialists dedicated to the service, repair, and performance optimization of your cherished Islander reels.

Our trained technicians possess an intimate understanding of every component and intricacy of the Islander design, from the legendary MR series mooching reels to the precision fly reels. We treat every reel entrusted to us not merely as a piece of equipment, but as the vital tool it is to your angling success.


Our Comprehensive Service Offerings

We provide a complete suite of services designed to restore and enhance your Islander reel, ensuring it operates at or beyond original factory specifications.

1. Full Diagnostic, Cleaning, and Overhaul Service This is our most thorough service, constituting a complete restoration of your reel's internal mechanics.

  • Complete Disassembly: Every reel is meticulously disassembled, piece by piece, in a clean, organized environment.
  • Cleaning: All internal components, including bearings, gears, shafts, and drag components, undergo a deep cleaning in a commercial water-based parts washer to remove all salt, old lubricant, and microscopic debris.
  • Component Inspection: Each part is then individually inspected to diagnose wear, fatigue, or corrosion. We pay special attention to critical tolerance points on gears, pawls, and bearing surfaces.
  • Precision Reassembly & Lubrication: Your reel is expertly reassembled using high-performance, marine-grade lubricants and corrosion inhibitors specifically chosen for their stability and protective qualities.

2. Repair and Genuine Parts Replacement Following diagnosis, we address any issues using only the highest quality components.

  • Genuine Islander Parts: We maintain an inventory of genuine factory-spec Islander parts to ensure perfect fitment and function as well as upgraded parts.
  • Drag System Calibration: We replace and calibrate your drag system to ensure smooth, consistent pressure with zero hesitation, which is critical for protecting leaders and controlling powerful fish.
  • Bearing Replacement: Worn or corroded bearings are replaced to restore the reel's signature smoothness.

3. Performance Upgrades and Customization For the angler looking to elevate their reel's performance, we offer a selection of professional-grade upgrades.

  • Bearing Upgrades: Enhance rotational smoothness and efficiency with professional-grade ceramic bearing options.
  • Drag Enhancements: We use advanced drag grease for increased stopping power and an even wider range of smooth, reliable drag pressure.
  • Handle and Component Customization: Inquire about available options for custom handles or other components to personalize your reel.

4. Professional Line Spooling and Management

  • Precision Winding: Using professional-grade line winders, we ensure your backing and main line are spooled with the correct tension to prevent line digging and ensure flawless performance on the water.
  • Line Removal and Recycling: We can professionally strip old line and backing from your spool upon request.

The Service and Submission Process

To ensure the safety of your reel and a seamless service experience, please follow these steps:

  1. Complete the Service Request Form: Before sending your reel, please fill out our detailed online Repair Form. This provides us with your contact information and allows you to clearly describe the issues you are experiencing or the specific services you require.

  2. Prepare Your Reel for Transit: Securely package your reel(s) in a sturdy box with ample protective material, such as bubble wrap, to prevent any damage during shipping. We recommend insuring your package for its replacement value.

  3. Regarding Your Fishing Line: You are not required to remove your line or backing. However, please indicate on your service form whether you wish for us to save your current line, or if you would prefer us to remove and dispose of it before service.

  4. Ship to Our Facility: Ship your securely packaged reel(s) via a trackable courier to our service center.

Upon receipt, your reel will be logged, and you will be contacted with a detailed diagnostic report and a comprehensive estimate before any work beyond the initial inspection is performed. Our commitment is to transparent communication throughout the entire process.

Trust Mike’s Reel Repair to provide the meticulous care and expert service your Islander reel deserves. We are dedicated to a timely turnaround because we know your next trophy fish awaits.