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David;
It's rumored the best solvent at the end of each trip is a single malt; do NOT use the cheap stuff as it lacks the required capability of removing the bad stuff accumulated during the trip (Broken boo tip, losing a client overboard, etc.). Sufficient quantities will help you forget all about the dirty reels. IF you would use reels which have spools which snap off instantly, you can remove the spool from the cage and rinse both frame and spool in the (hopefully) clear river water you were fishing and then assemble and let drip dry. Once each winter I disassemble any reel with a lot of hours on it and use a mineral spirit ($12/gal@ WMart) bath to remove grease, grit, etc.. A few hour's soak and then lay out on a towel to dry. Then lube and reassemble and wait for the weather to break. Mineral spirits are an excellent solvent for getting rid of grease, thereby releasing the accumulated grit and don't harm the finish. All can then be flushed off by swishing around and tooth brushing and then lay on a towel or paper to dry Don't lube until all traces of mineral spirits are dried from the reel. Use a coffee can as a solvent tank and your wife's colander to hold the parts. Did I mention I no longer HAVE a wife? Either of them! They had no sense of humor nor appreciation for the finer things in life. :)