i am able to fit 6 rod and reel combos in this case. i fold up the reels myself but that’s because i feel more comfortable with them that way. i know my buddy has this case and he doesn’t fold up his reels. mine seals better than his does though, go figure
I use to fold mine when I first got it. Don’t anymore I have some reels with rather large handles and can still get the case closed without folding the handles
I fold my reel handles while in the Otter box. I think most would not require this but I also feel this does not add any extra pressure or stress on the reels.
As most have said, It will be putting less stress on your rods if you don’t but it also depends on the size of your reels. I have 2 pflueger trion size 20’s that fit easily then i have one of my older reels i dont even remember what it is called that is larger that i bend down but if u put it in the right direction should fit.