What Is This Reel For?

[Guest]

Found this reel in my tackle box recently, don't know how it got there and what it's for. Is it just a normal reel but with a weird handle, or does it have a specific purpose?

[Drop Bear]

Hey Georgios,

That is a bait caster. They are great for throwing lures at snags for preditor fish like Bream, Bass, Mangrove Jack, cod, barra etc. You can also use them for trolling lures.

The reel sit on the top of your rod instead of hanging under your rod like spinning and alvey reels. 

They are quite tricky to learn at first as you need to stop the line coming off the spool when you cast. The trick is to stop it just as or just before it hits the water. If you don't do this you will get backlash which is a big tangle on the reels spool. 

A great way to have a go is to put a bucket in the back yard and take the hooks off a lure and practice casting into the bucket. 

Good luck.

[Guest]

you are full of wisdom Drop Bear

[aussie123]

Maybe someone would like their reel back.

[rickmarlin62]

get someone that can cast one to show you how first or you may get frustrated and throw it...rick

[natang]

As the guys have said if your not careful with these reels you get massive birds nests in the line and get frustrated quickly.... BUt once used to them they are awesome reels. Most of my reels tend to be these now....