Baitcaster Won't Engage. Help!

[nolantitleist]

Hey guys I have a Bass Pro Shops Pro Qualifier baitcasting reel and I am having some issues with it. I have had it about a year and I have never had a problem with it until now. All of a sudden it will not engage and reel in my line. I click the button throw it out and let the bait hit then water but when I go to reel it back in won't engage to reel in my line. I am turning the reel and the line threader thing is moving but the spool is not turning. If I hit it hard on the side a few times it will click and engage and I can reel it back in. Any advice on how to fix this problem would be a great help! Also what do you guys think of the Pro Qualifier. It is the first and only baitcaster I have ever owned and until now I have loved it. Thanks!

[F14A-B]

Paging DVT...

[BrianinMD]

Probably just needs a good cleaning, Mike at DVT can take care of that extremely well.

[Delaware Valley Tackle]

The clutch is likely just a little gummed up and will be rectified by a good cleaning. If inspection shows wear to the kick lever it's an easy and inexpensive fix. After a year of use is a good time to have cleaned. If you decide to send it in include your screen name to receive a 10% discount on labor.

[nolantitleist]

Ok great. I took it out today and did not have any problems. If the problems come up again I will send it in for sure. Just curious what is the turn around on a cleaning?

[JamesM]

I’m having the same issue, but my reel is brand new. Never used.

[Delaware Valley Tackle]

If brand new reels have any symptoms at all return for exchange. 

[Deleted account]

Turn it upside down and try it. If it works when it's flipped (or is it pitched) over, it's the spring that tensions the clutch. If not, and the problem is intermittent, then it's probably dirty or gummed. The yoke thing can crack too, but that is not as common.