REELS 61 



adjustable tensioning device, a free-running- action 

 and a variable check. A ratchet check is not essential. 

 Many reels simply have a slight brake or drag when 

 the reel movements are in the natural position, and 

 only when a free-running action is required is the 

 lever moved. Light bait casting adds greatly to the 

 scope and experience of a day's sport. The Illing- 

 worth model of casting reels enables the daintiest of 

 minnows on practically invisible tackle to be pre- 

 sented to fish within a wide range. Once hooked, 

 there is nothing so thrilling as fighting a sporting 

 battle with a big fish on light tackle. Even a grilse 

 or salmon is often successfully landed. 



The check of the ratchet plays an important part, 

 and one of the latest improvements is to have the 

 reel fitted with an adjustable check that can be regu- 

 lated to the desired tension. The check is light and 

 easy running for rapidity in winding in, but is stiff er 

 in its reverse action to prevent overrunning when* 

 paying out the line. By altering the little nut provided 

 for the purpose, the tension can be adjusted at will, 

 so that by using the regulating check all striking may 

 be done from the reel. An optional check is fitted to 

 many patterns of reels, particularly those used for 

 spinning and sea fishing, so that the check can be 

 dispensed with altogether by switching off the check 

 movement at the back of the reel. 



A reel of the Illingworth type will only hold the 

 finest unproofed plaited silk line, which runs freely 

 off the drum as the bait is cast for between 30 and 

 50 yards, if with a favourable wind. There is no 

 check on the reel, but the line is coiled in with the left 

 hand after each cast, and the reel picks up the line 

 automatically. The reel is usually employed in con- 



