With the increasing cost of today's hi-tech fishing reels, using a reel cover is a great way to protect your investment.  You can buy a cloth or ne0prene style cover for under $10 from your favorite tackle reseller.  Shimano makes a nice neoprene cover that typically sells for about $5.  Utilizing a cover while having your rods and reels in your rod locker prevent scratches and marks.  A common problem with leaving your rods on the deck of your bass boat is "deck rash".  The reels are touching the carpet and other reels laying on your deck.  While you are screaming across the lake at 70 mph your reels are consistently vibrating against other reels, rods, and the boat gunnel.  The reel cover protects the reels from scratches and helps keep your investment clean.

Having a scratch free reel really helps you when it's time to sell that reel when you want to upgrade or freshen up your collection.  Reel covers come in all shapes and sizes depending on your reel style.