Hi Aussie Blue, have you considered powder coating? It is a great finish and stands up to wear and tear well, especially on your reel, where it is gathering crud and moisture all over it during the cut....It cleans up well with a wash.
Please do not PM me asking for support. Please post your questions in the appropriate forums, as the replies it may receive may help all members, not just the individual member. Kindest Regards, Darryl