Multiplier reels for spinning and trolling

Multiplier reels appeared on the domestic fishing market relatively recently, but have already managed to raise a whole bunch of questions and problems among fishermen. Unprepared fishermen buy a multicast and after arriving at a pond they cannot cast it or set it up correctly.

To prevent this from happening to you, we recommend that you study all the nuances of selecting and setting up a coil, but before that you should understand its true purpose and understand whether you really need this type of coil.

How to set up a baitcasting reel?

For comfortable fishing, you will have to tinker a little with the correct reel settings. Despite the complexity of the mechanism, it is quite simple to set up. But for proper preparation, you will need to know the basics and allocate some time for this process.

It is most convenient to set up a mechanical brake system on a pond

First you need to hook the bait you are using to the leader or fishing line.
After this, place the spinning rod at an angle of 90 degrees to the shore.
Release the bait and watch the spool as the bait hits the ground.
If the bait fell to the ground and the reel then made one or half a revolution, then the brake is set as it should.
If this is not the case, then tighten or loosen the mechanism to achieve this result.

Setting up a centrifugal or magnetic brake is more difficult

than mechanical. This is where everyone’s unloved trial and error method comes into force, which is called empirical.

If you notice obstacles to the flight of the bait, then you need to loosen the brake.
If you notice dashing, tighten the brakes.

Experienced fishermen can use baitcasting reels without using a brake. This is done to increase the casting distance of the bait. Fishermen remove both drag mechanisms from the reel, and some even remove the line guide. Such tackle can only be controlled in one way - with the help of your fingers.

By dismantling the line layer, the casting range actually increases. But it is very difficult to control such gear, so beginners should not experiment.

What you need to know before casting a baitcasting reel

As we already wrote in the article “How casting rod tests affect equipment,” each spinning rod has its own calculated weight of baits, which are most effective to work with. If you deviate from these rules, the range will decrease significantly. In principle, the best bait is considered to be from the middle of the weight range.

So, if the test form is stated to be 10-30 g, then a 20-gram bait will be the most optimal. If you work with baits on the verge of a foul, the consequences can be unpleasant - from torn fishing line to a broken fishing rod. Lower weight ranges will also not bring anything good; the bait will simply flop under your feet.

The multiplier has resistance at the moment the tackle begins to be cast. The weight at the end of the line begins to spin the spool, overcoming the frictional force of various mechanisms. Having reached maximum speed, the drum begins to rotate by inertia. Don’t forget about the working timber distributor, which negatively affects casting.

This problem arises with the classic of multipliers - the wide bobbin drum. In a soap dish, casting is affected by the position of the line distributor relative to the spool, the most optimal being in the middle. Perhaps the range would increase if you used a blank for inertia-free action, but several factors interfere:

scaffolding sagged;
inappropriate system;
uncharacteristic distribution of force on the form.

For meat grinders, similar characteristics are necessary, while the inertial force is compensated by the throwing power. In cartoons, the human factor plays a certain role. Thus, it is practically impossible to fine-tune both types of brakes; unnecessary braking will still be present.

To these two types of brakes, it is also necessary to add finger braking; as a result, a significant amount of much-needed energy is extinguished. There is an auto-tuning reel available for sale, but anglers are not very fond of it.

If you use a small-section line and a massive bait, a break can happen at any minute, so the tackle always needs to be properly adjusted. The weight of the bait should be in the middle of the test range. And there is no need to be afraid to use thick line; this will not affect the casting distance.

How to cast a cartoon?

If you do not know how to properly cast a spinning rod with a multiplier, then even the most advanced braking system will not save you from the formation of a beard from the fishing line. There are many ways to learn casting techniques; the most effective are watching videos and observing more experienced fishermen; an alternative is studying text information.

You need to remember one very important nuance - such tackle is never thrown from behind the head

. First, novice fishermen are advised to carefully study the side casting technique. Switch the reel to casting mode, hold your finger on the multiplier spool and try to cast. The finger must be removed at the moment the line begins to come off the reel.

The first casts usually don’t have a particularly long range, but you shouldn’t even count on that. It is much more important to ensure that the hook does not catch on clothing or create a beard. Pay special attention to the placement of your finger on the spool and control the line coming off. The line should come off easily, but not spontaneously, control this.

Try to train in complete absence of wind. You must cast the tackle so that the spinning rod is positioned along the flight path of the bait, and the fishing line lies in as straight a line as possible.

Some fishermen who relatively recently switched from a spinning reel to a multiplier reel try to be guided by previously accumulated experience and adapt it to casting new gear. Here it’s the other way around - sudden jerks can lead to big problems, all movements should be carried out as smoothly as possible

And a little about sticks

There are plenty of good casting sticks. By the way, it is on a stick that you can save a little in favor of a reel if necessary.

It is better to build poles for a beginner slowly. But there are pitfalls here. For purely fishing, especially in difficult places, “fast” sticks are better suited. However, it should be borne in mind that throwing them is somewhat more difficult and, therefore, more difficult to learn. For initial training, slower sticks are better. I personally started with Moderate. It’s easier to start with them and, it seems to me, you’ll learn faster, but you shouldn’t expect “special success” from them somewhere other than open water.

Test. If you intend to buy a reel with a lower limit, for example, 7-10 grams, keep in mind that you will soon be able to cast 10 grams easily, but 7 grams only with experience and then with some difficulty. Therefore, it is also better to take a stick for this reel with dough from 10 grams, and not from 7 or less.

My test recommendations for the first stick are from 10 g to 35...42 g. For twitch “large-bobs” up to 130 mm - just what the doctor ordered! There are no special wishes regarding the length.

On the issue of sensitivity. The handle of the cartoon stick is made so that the fingers touch the blank without any “gaskets” made of cork, EVA, etc. etc. This is what makes the casting stick more sensitive. I agree, however, that this is very subjective.

Casting stick handle

Features of such coils

The inertia of the reels is greatly reduced due to the use of a small diameter axis and replaceable weights. Magnetic braking system

provide complete control over the braking process while the bait falls into the water. But the mechanisms are still not perfect, and to avoid the formation of a beard, fishermen still must control the rotation of the reel with their finger. Experienced fishermen exercise this control on a subconscious level.

Gear transmission

, used in coils of a similar design, is installed on them for a reason. This technical feature allows for a very high speed of winding the line onto the spool. Comparing multiplier reels with spinning reels, with the same spool diameters, one revolution of the multiplier is equal to 3 or 4 revolutions of conventional reels.

But over the many years of operation of these mechanisms, fishermen have managed to note not only the positive aspects of such reels. These mechanisms also have some disadvantages

Fishing using light weight lures is not very comfortable

. Experienced fishermen claim that a multiplier reel for a spinning rod intended for fishing with baits weighing up to 9 grams is simply unacceptable. Most often, such reels are used for catching very large fish with bulky and heavy gear.

The presence of a braking system requires constant adjustment

. The multiplier brake is adjusted individually each time for certain fishing conditions and different baits. Regardless of the type of brake system, it will still have to be adjusted; we described the correct setting above.

Is it possible to install a baitcasting reel on a regular spinning rod?

Many fishermen ask this question. When purchasing a multiplier, they do not think about the compatibility of such mechanisms with conventional models of fishing rods. This is the most common mistake many beginners make.

to install a baitcasting reel on a regular spinning rod , but it is not recommended

. On classic spinning rods a small number of rings are installed, but for proper functioning there must be more of them.

You will need to buy a special casting spinning rod

. You can try to remake the classic blank and try to adapt it to install such a reel, but as practice shows, this will lead to a significant reduction in casting range.

Types of coils

The popularization of multipliers has led to the spread of a huge number of improvements and modifications for such designs. Fishermen usually use the generally accepted classification into 2 types of reels:

Barrels;
Soap dishes.

Barrels

Our anglers prefer these types of reels, and they are the most popular. They have become popular among domestic fishermen because they are easy to use and relatively reliable. The power of such reels is relatively large, as are their dimensions, which allows the use of large baits and thick fishing line for fishing for large fish.

This type of reel got its name for a reason. The shape of such reels is very similar to barrels. This design makes it easy to carry large baits and troll for large fish without harming the rotation mechanism itself.

Often, such models are used for fishing with large jig baits (weighing about 70 grams), or when using large wobblers.

Classic spinning reels are not suitable for fishing with such gear - they will simply fail prematurely. If you need a stable, reliable and traction reel, then choosing this type would be the best option.

Soap dishes

These reel models are designed for medium loads. Their feature is the small bend angle of the fishing line. This design feature allows you to significantly simplify the process of casting and releasing line from the spool.

With such a reel you can cast your usual baits over a long distance. As a rule, lightweight alloys of various metals are used for the manufacture of mechanisms, ensuring low weight and ease of casting.

But the use of such reels does not mean that you are prohibited from fishing using large and heavy baits. Regardless of the type, all baitcasting reels are very durable and reliable. In isolated cases, the use of such reels for fishing with bait weighing about 50 grams is permitted.

Multiplier reels for spinning rods

Gone are the days when baitcasting reels were a novelty. Today, the shelves are overflowing with an assortment of multipliers, and this contributes to their distribution among fishermen. Now you can freely fish with both regular and casting tackle.

Many fishermen are deeply mistaken when they think that using so-called “cartoons” is, to put it mildly, problematic. This is an erroneous statement that generates a lot of prejudices around it. And in combination with the higher price of multiples, we will see a common reason for unfounded fears - throwing away money in vain.

The operating principle of a multiplier reel is similar to the operation of an inertial reel. It is made using a gear ratio. This makes it easier and faster to catch fish. The reel is also equipped with a braking system that prevents tangling of the fishing line (cord) and the formation of beards (although they are possible).

Before you make your choice of a baitcasting reel, you need to understand what “+” and “-” it has and what type of fishing you need it for.

What are the advantages of multiplier reels:

When using the “mult”, the cord does not spin, unlike the inertialess one.
Simplicity of the mechanism equals ease of use.
Allows you to use more serious cords and baits, while serving faithfully for a long time.
More reliable and durable than inertialess.
The sensitivity when wiring with a multiplier reel is an order of magnitude higher than when using conventional gear. Because the cord directly transmits all events to the reel, as opposed to inertialess (absorption in the roller that lays the cord).
They are lighter and more compact.

Cons of baitcasting reels

Inconvenient when using light baits. It is believed that when using bait up to 6 grams, it is not advisable to use “multi”.
Every time you go fishing, you need to adjust the braking system to suit the fishing conditions and bait.
For beginners, it is common for beards to form when casting; with experience, there will be no beards at all. This is the feeling when we used the Neva coils.

Types of coils

There are quite a few types of baitcasting reels, but they can be conditionally divided into 2 types that are suitable for local fishing: “Barrels” and “Soap dishes”.

Multiplier reels "Barrels"

This is one of the most popular species among our fishermen. Ease of use and reliability are integral characteristics of this type. They are more powerful and larger, allowing the use of thick cords and large baits for catching trophy specimens.

As you should understand from the name itself, this type of reel resembles a barrel in shape. It easily handles large baits without harming the mechanism.

They are often used when jig fishing with large heads (50-70 g), when large jerks and wobblers are used.

If, for example, you take an ordinary spinning reel for this task, then you will most likely go buy a new one for the next season, and maybe earlier.

Soapbox animators

These reels are designed for medium-duty fishing. They are made in such a way that the angle of bend of the fishing line (cord) is very small and makes it easy to release the fishing line from the reel during casting.

This type is designed for long-distance casting of baits from the light series. The mechanism is made of light metal alloys, which makes them even easier to use.

If you use a reel from the “Soap Dish” series, this does not mean that you are prohibited from using large baits. Multiplier reels initially have a large margin of strength and wear resistance. You can use the “Soap Dish” even when fishing with weights of 40-50 grams, if this is not an everyday practice.

Setting up the baitcasting reel

The vast majority of baitcasting reels are equipped with 2 brakes: axial (mechanical) and magnetic (central).

The axial one is used when changing bait if they differ significantly in weight and dimensions.

In order to adjust this brake, you need to place the rod in a horizontal position and release the reel. If, after the bait falls to the ground, the reel continues to rotate, then the brake needs to be tightened, and if the line does not release, then it needs to be released.

As for the second brake (magnetic), it needs to be adjusted much less frequently. It is designed to slow down the line during the final stage of casting. In order to adjust this brake, you will have to remove the cover from the reel. Therefore, it is worth displaying it upon purchase, and then not touching it for a long time.

How to stop making “Beards” when casting

In order to cast correctly with a multiplier reel and reduce the presence of beards to a minimum, I advise you to watch the following video:

Very often, baitcasting reels are used for trolling. When practicing this type of fishing, reels are sometimes equipped with a cord unwinding sensor, which will allow you to adjust the distance the spinner is released from the boat and show how far your bait is swimming.

Which reel to choose

The price for this type of reel starts from $28 and above. Among the manufacturers, the top three leaders are:

Daiwa;
Abu Garcia;
Shimano.

To say “the best baitcasting reel” is an understatement. Because it all comes down to your wallet. If you are planning to buy a budget option, then in this case AbuGarciaOrraSX casting Reel or Abu Garcia Ambassadeur BCX have proven themselves well. Although they cost around $100.

PS

Dear readers, colleagues, experts - if you use baitcasting reels - write its name, approximate price in $ and your personal impression of its use. Comment form at the bottom of the page.

This way, people will be able to understand what is worth taking and what is better to avoid.

Rating of popular manufacturers

This type of reel is not very popular, but many world leaders in the fishing market are engaged in their production. The choice of multiplier type reels is very large - you can find high-quality budget models, or you can choose an expensive and elite reel. Fishermen have tried many reels and note the following manufacturers:

Abu Garcia;
Daiwa;
Banax;
Shimano;
Penninternational.

Abu Garcia

Abu Garcia is considered one of the leading companies in this segment. The company produces reels for casting fishing and sea fishing. The company's products are particularly reliable, powerful and low priced.

The company was founded in 1921 and is still operating today. The Swedish company accounts for about half of all fishing products produced. The Ambassador model turned out to be the best reel produced by the company. Over the years, many different modifications of this model have appeared.

Daiwa

The well-known company Daiwa, located in Japan, is in great demand in the fishing goods market. It is officially believed that the company was founded in 1945. Daiwa produces a whole series of popular reels.

Multiplier reels Millionaire and TD-Luna are extremely popular among domestic fishermen. And the Bayard, Steez and Smak models are noted by many experienced fishermen in other countries. These reels belong to the middle price class.

Banax

In 1973, a company was founded in Korea that competes with world leaders in the production of fishing equipment. It was Banax. At first it did not exist separately, but was a branch of Daiwa, but in 1996 it separated.

High quality, low price, large selection and reliability - these are the main qualities that fishermen note in the products of this company. Reels are no exception to the rule and they are very popular among fishermen.

Shimano

Shimano is a legendary company. The Japanese company is considered the most technologically advanced and always remains one step ahead of its competitors. At the first stages of the company’s operation, it focused on bicycle parts, but then directed its vector to the fishing market.

We can talk about this company endlessly. A legendary fact for the company was the record for bait casting distance achieved using the Aero model from the Japanese. The price of coils from this company is relatively high.

Penn international

Penn international is an American company that also occupies a leading position in the fishing goods market. The main aspect of the company is set on baitcasting reels and fishing rods.

A special feature of reels from Penn international is the ability to choose among expensive and budget models, and not all companies can afford this. All reels are durable and reliable when used and cared for properly.

How to choose MK?

The size of the spool and the power capabilities of the reel are far from the main parameters that you should pay attention to when choosing a reel. The choice of a particular model is influenced by many factors and all of them must be taken into account.

Housing material

Modern technologies have made it possible to achieve the integration of metal alloys and plastics. The reel body can be completely metal or combined with plastic. Plastic

allows you to make the reel lighter, but has a negative impact on its durability.
Metal reels
are very reliable and have a long service life, but they are afraid of physical impact - shocks.

Brake design

The braking design of multipliers is very complex and it is fundamentally different from other types of reels. As a rule, it is precisely because of the braking system that novice fishermen cannot use such reels normally. To set it up correctly, you must understand how the brake mechanism works.

Left and right rotation

Unlike conventional spinning reels, it is not possible to move the handle to the other side in a multiplier reel. Therefore, you should immediately pay attention to this nuance and give preference to a model tailored to your hand.

fishing line

For any reel model, the recommended diameter of the fishing line used is indicated, so you should pay special attention to this parameter. If you install a cord of a larger diameter on the reel, there is a high risk of breaking the braking system. And by installing a fishing line of a smaller diameter, you run the risk of breaking during casting, as it can slip into the gap between the body and the spool.

Availability of a line laying machine

The advantages of a line layer are known to all fishermen - it allows you to evenly lay the line on the spool. Its presence completely eliminates the presence of humps and holes on the spool. But multipliers are designed in such a way that the line rubs against it during casting, which significantly reduces the flight range of the bait. It is best to pay attention to the presence of a function to turn off the line guide before casting.

Sensitivity to bobbin lock

A spool locking mechanism is present on any reel and it prevents the reel from spinning spontaneously. This blocking should be installed when landing fish and removed while casting the bait. The reels are equipped with a special switch that is designed to protect against line breakage when the lock is on.

How to use a baitcasting reel

When using a modern reel by a beginner or an experienced angler who is used to a spinning reel, it often happens that the cast is too weak or the line flies off the reel more than necessary, forming beards. As a rule, this is due to three reasons:

Lack of experience in casting a spinner or extensive experience in working with a spinning rod with a different type of reel.
Unadjusted main and center reel brakes.
Incorrectly selected tackle, for example, the line does not match the markings indicated on the reel.

The main braking unit is responsible for reducing the speed of rotation of the accelerated spool at the moment of casting, so as not to overshoot and prevent the line from coming out faster than the bait flies. The center brake is responsible for stopping the spool at the moment the spinner splashes down, since the spinner has already stopped its flight, and the fishing line continues to unwind from the spool. It is enough to experimentally adjust the braking system once (the best option is to take the advice of an experienced fisherman or get advice from a salesperson in a store). For initial adjustment of the brake units:

Set the main brake to the range of 1/2 - 2/3 of the braking force and weaken - strengthen when casting, paying attention to the behavior of the reel.
Adjust the inter-axial brake so that at the moment the wobbler touches the surface (performed without swinging or casting, with the spool freely rotating), the released spool makes a turn - one and a half turns and stops.

Tips for fishermen mastering fishing with a multiplier:

When casting a spinner, you should take into account the weight of the spinner and the required swing force. It’s difficult to give universal advice; casting technique depends quite a lot on who is doing the casting. Experienced fishermen recommend starting with a side cast. It begins to be performed correctly faster, allowing you to move on to the technique of casting from behind your back. You need to pay attention to the following points:

Smooth execution - the swing and cast must be performed quickly, but not sharply, without whiplash.
The optimal weight of the spinner is no more than 70% of the maximum test of the rod (indicated on the spinning rod itself).
While casting, it is necessary to gradually reduce the swing speed.
A line run-out counter or a marked braided cord will be very helpful; with the counter it is easy to determine the exact casting distance.

Video demonstrating in practice the use of a baitcasting reel when fishing with a spinning rod: