A spinning reel used for fishing comprises: a fishing reel main body; a handle connector that is rotatably supported within the reel main body and exhibits a connection opening on a first side of the reel main body and on a second side of the reel main body, each opening being dimensioned to receive a handle assembly; a shaped seal disposed around the handle connector at each of the first side and the second side, the seals engaging and sealing the handle connector against contaminant intrusion; a handle assembly dimensioned to fit within the first connection opening on the first side of the handle connection shaft; and a closure cap dimensioned to cover the second connection opening and engage the shaped seal at the second side and urge the seal out of contact with the handle connector.
