Abstract: A protective cover for cable reels comprising a plurality of battens that are linked together in a parallel array by two spaced apart flexible straps that may be secured by either to the outside or underside of the battens. The straps may be tensioned to hold the cover over the periphery of the cable reel. Alternatively, separate steel bands are used on the exterior of the array to hold the array in tension on the reel. In one embodiment, the flexible straps are in the form of ropes positioned on the underside of the array to centrally locate the array on the reel.