CHAPTER X 



REELS 



THE last few years have seen the fishing reel revolu- 

 tionised in fact the latest design is on principles quite 

 opposite to those of our grandfathers. The great 

 width between the front and back plates has been 

 changed for the narrow, contracted reels of to-day, 

 and this is of considerable advantage in winding in, 

 though the line-holding capacity is rather limited. The 

 thin axle is now enlarged into a wide drum, so that a 

 multiplying action is deemed unnecessary. The sim- 

 plicity, of the earlier reels was a striking feature, 

 whereas in the new patterns levers and " gadgets " of 

 every description are to be found. Brass reels, too, 

 are somewhat out of favour; aluminium and alloyed 

 metal ones, on account of their extreme lightness, 

 being more popular. 



For the trout fly fisher a good aluminium reel with 

 wide drum and contracted frame, easily accessible for 

 oiling and cleaning, will meet all needs, such as the 

 ' Take Apart " reel shown on p. 58. An addition of 

 an optional check may be required if occasional 

 worming and spinning be practised. Ball bearings 

 are not only quite unnecessary but add undesirable 

 weight. For sea fishing aluminium is barred as the 

 action of sea water sets up corrosion. A reel of 

 walnut, brass-lined to prevent swelling or warping, is 

 usually employed, with an optional check. A lever 

 brake may also be found useful for long distance 



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