Reel Parts

Setting the Drag

The drag system allows the line to be pulled from the reel under tension without breaking when a fish strikes or makes a quick run, and helps prevent the fish from getting unhooked. Turn the top of the drag adjustment wheel to the right to increase the drag tension on the line. Turn to the left to loosen the drag tension. The drag should be set so that there is resistance when you try to pull line from the reel, but it should not be set so high that you can't pull line out. You should always loosen the drag for storage purposes, but don't loosen it too much before transporting rigs.

Keeping Tension on the Line During Retrieval

Always maintain tension on the line. Raise the rod to remove slack from the line. Let the line flow between the thumb and index finger of the left hand as it enters the reel  (if you do not have a fish on the line). This minimizes problems winding the line and cleans the line for the next cast. Line wound evenly on the spool and under tension also casts better than loosely wound line.

Minimizing Line Twist

This is usually caused by improperly installed line, or reeling against a slipping drag. To correct the problem, you must pull line from the reel until the twisted line is removed and then rewind the line onto the reel spool under tension. Line hardens with age, so replace it each year.

Installing Line on the Reel

Remove the front cover and old line. Thread the new line through the line guides beginning at the tip of the rod and take it through the front cover line guide. Tie the line onto the spool, securing it with a knot. Turn the crank handle to determine which direction the spool is turning during line retrieval and then lay the spool of line on its side so that line comes off in the same direction the spool is turning. Replace the front cover and turn the crank handle to wind line on the spool. Make sure that line is under tension.  Continue filling the spool until the line is within one-eigth inch of the top of the reel spool lip.

You may also purchase spools prewound with line. In order to change the spool, you should loosen the drag completely by turning the drag adjustment downward until it stops. Then turn the front cover counterclockwise approximately one-half inch and lift it off. Hold the handle and body of the reel as you turn the spinnerhead (see diagram) counterclockwise to remove. Insert a screwdriver in the center slot of the spool retainer clip and snap it from the center post. Remove the top washers and spool. When reinstalling the spool, place the serrated edges down and make sure the washers and spool lip are in the proper position (see diagram). Thread the line through the front cover and reassemble the reel.

Recommended Maintenance

Reels used infrequently should be cleaned and lubricated at least annually and reels used several times a week should be serviced at least monthly. The more frequent or severe the use, the more often maintenance should be performed. If the reel is dropped in sand or dirt, clean it thoroughly before using.

After a day’s fishing: Rinse the reel inside and out with fresh water. Allow it to dry and lube it. Lightly oil and grease accessible parts.

For a more thorough servicing: Remove the reel covers, spinnerhead, spool and washers, clutch ring, center shaft assembly, crank handle, bearing retainer clip, crank bearing, and crank shaft assembly. Using a small paint or toothbrush, scrub and rinse all visible “gunk” from the reel body and parts. Allow it to air dry or dry it with a soft cloth (see parts diagram). Grease the crank gear and shaft, pinion gear and center shaft, pick-up arm roller wheel, anti-reverse pawl and spool washers. Apply oil or grease to the handle knob and shaft, pick-up arm and spring (under spinnerhead).

The more you fish, the more often you need to replace your line. Replace it at least once each year.