Reels
- Multiplier or Fixed Spool |
|
Choices |
There
are two types of reel on offer - multipliers and
fixed spool reel and each type has its devotees.
If you are just starting to fish the best advice
is to stick to the fixed spool type as it is easier
to learn. |
|
Which
ever you chose it should be capable of holding
around 200 yards of line from 15-20lb test. That
means it has to be of a decent size. Correction
- it needs to be BIG. |
|
|
|
Fixed
Spool Reels |
|
Multiplier
Reels |
This
type has an axle or post which points in the same
direction as the rod around which the spool rotates.
Line is gathered by a bail arm which moves in
an out laying the line in nice clean loops. To
make a cast you open the bail arm and hold the
line with your finger tip and let go at the right
moment. Line simply strips off the spool as the
bait flies out.
They are very easy to use and
inexpensive.
The key disadvantage of a fixed
spool is that they are less strong than the multiplier
variety. The post is unsupported at one end -
often where most pressure is applied. Another
other weak spot is the bail arm itself, especially
the roller over which the line runs. Most breakages
occur when the angler gets stuck on the bottom
and gives a good heave to recover the lure. Its
much better to lay the rod down and pull the line
itself or use an otter board to release the snag.
Anther nice thing about fixed
spool reels is that you can easily change spools.
This makes it possible to carry spares and different
line strengths. Spools need to be deep to carry
the amount of line you will need. |
|
Here
the post lies perpendicular to the direction of
the rod. Thus it is supported at both ends. If
you look at a deep sea fishing boat all the rods
will use multipliers - some of them huge. This
is because of the added strength the design gives.
Some multipliers have a guide to lay the line
neatly other you have to rely on guiding the line
back onto the spool when retrieving. There is
no bail arm either. To make a cast you press the
spool with your thumb and let go at the right
moment.
Multipliers are about twice the
cost of fixed spool reels and for the inexperienced
they can be a nightmare.
The key disadvantage of the multiplier
is that it can be difficult to use for the novice.
When casting the spool rotates at very high speed.
It actually throws the line off the reel.
This can cause a problem at the end of the cast.
You have to remember to stop the spool with your
thumb. If you forget the spool keeps going and
a huge tangle of line known as a "crows nest"
results.
However once you have mastered
the trick of stopping the spool just as or before
the bait hits the water this disadvantage turns
into an advantage. Because the spool is actively
throwing off line you can cast a little further
with a multiplier.
Not all multipliers are designed
for casting - so be careful. |
|
|
Clutches |
Clutches |
|
|
Fixed
spool reels use disk clutches either mounted on
the face of the reel or at the rear. Both work
well, but you must remember to set the clutch
before you start fishing. |
|
Multipliers
usually come with a star drag. These are more
effective than other types, particularly at higher
breaking strains. You must remember to set the
clutch before you start fishing |
|
|
|
Left
or right hand |
|
Left
or right hand |
Most
can be switched easily |
|
Chose
before you buy, but remember that when casting
and retrieving the reel is held on top of the
rod - not underneath as with fixed spool. |
|
|
|
Gear
Speed |
|
Gear
Speed |
Nice
to have but not essential. The higher the ration
the faster the line comes back. |
|
Nice
to have but not essential. The higher the ration
the faster the line comes back. |
|
|
|
Paul's
Personal Choice |
|
Paul's
Personal Choice |
I
have tried the lot. They all work. Basically you
pay for what you get. |
|
The
Abu Ambassasadeur 7000c. Have had this reel for
many years and its a real diamond. A little more
expensive than some, but well worth it for the
extra strength and durability. I use it for all
sorts of fishing salmon spinning, trolling and
harling and its even been used on an uptide rod!
|
