I don't think there is such a thing as a reel that requires absolutely no maintenance...If you do no maintenance at all, it will only last you a few years, then you have to replace it...We oil and lube ours at least once a year(sometimes more if someone decides to go swimming

) to ensure maximum performance and a long life on the reel...Some people don't like to mess with their reels; good for them...we just prefer to take extra care to ensure the best fishing we can...