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CHAPTER 2 EQUIPMENT REELS The fi shing reel was developed when early anglers looked for ways to fi sh deeper and farther than they could with a simple string tied to the end of a pole. The reel was initially designed as a place to store extra fi shing line, but as technology developed in the 1800s, reels became casting and retrieving devices, as well. During a cast, line unwinds from a spool and is then rewound onto the spool with the turning of the reel handle. Many reels are also equipped with a drag mechanism that applies variable pressure to the line, which allows you to adjust the resistance the fi sh feels when it pulls against the line. The ability to adjust the resistance on the line can help an angler to land a fi sh without the line breaking as the fi sh tries to swim away. There are four major reel types: fl y, bait- casting,spinning and spin-casting. THE REEL, THE ROD AND THE LINE At the sporting goods store, you will be presented with many options for fi shing equipment. There are basic components to each rig that work together to create effi cient casting — the rod, reel and line. These can be purchased separately or as pre-assembled combos. Line Guide Front Cover Thumb Button Back Cover Rod Mount Anti-reverse Lever Drag Adjustment Crank Handle FLY REELS Fly reels function primarily as storage for unused line and do not aid casting. These reels are used with long, slender rods designed to cast lightweight, delicate fl ies using the weight of special fi shing line to propel the cast. Fly reels are positioned on the underside of the rod. BAIT-CASTING REELS The fi rst casting reels were developed by jewelers and watchmakers, craftsmen trained to make delicate gears with precision tools. Because of their accurate and precise casting ability, bait-casting reels remain popular, even though they require more skill than spinning and spin- casting reels. The line on a bait-caster comes straight off a spool that spins freely as the line is cast. With a classic bait-caster, the angler must use a thumb to control the speed of the spool; if it turns at a faster speed than the line as it comes off, the line backlashes and tangles. Bait- casters are positioned on the topside of the rod. Bait- casting reels are not a good choice for beginners. OKLAHOMA DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE CONSERVATION 5 CHAPTER 2 ● EQUIPMENT