My fresh water reels get cleaned and lubed twice a year and my salt reels get cleaned and lubed 3 times a year. I clean the outside of my rods and reels every time I get back from fishing in the fresh or salt. Very important to do when fishing in the salt especially. It may be overkill but I try to give myself no excuse for loosing a fish other than my own skill or lack thereof. The night before a fishing trip I check my rods, reels, leaders and hooks. If I find something wrong, rusty hook etc... I fix it. I am a true believer that preparation will catch you more fish.