Using the Spool Tension Knob on Your Baitcaster

[papajoe222]

Most anglers will back off the drag on their reels at the end of the day, but forget about the spool tension. If you want consistent performance from your reels, do both. At the very least, don't leave tension on it over extended periods. Case in point;

I just got a screaming deal on an older Fuego that I just couldn't pass up. The previous owner was frustrated with backlash issues that it developed early last season that he couldn't solve. He asked me to check it out for him.  I took the reel apart to give it a good cleaning. It was clean and well lubed, but during my inspection I discovered the cause of his problem. He had left tension on the spool over the off season and possibly longer.The plastic spacer the spool shaft pushes against had dimpled excessively and consistent tension couldn't be achieved by adjusting the knob.  I flipped the spacer over, reassembled the reel and gave it a test run.  He had purchased another reel and when I went to return this one, said I could have it for much less than the reel is worth. I jumped all over it and now I have three of these fine reels.

 

 

[The Bassman]

Point well made.  Every used reel I've ever bought has been tightened to death. I barely use the tension knob, maybe just a touch in wind.

[new2BC4bass]

Thanks.  I always loosen drag, but don't touch spool tension.  Like the above poster, I run it very low and I've been lucky so far.  However, I will take your advice and back spool tension completely off.

[NHBull]

Thanks, I have heard this but was told that with today's reels it wasn't as nessessary as it was in the past........and are we talking non usage for weeks or the Winter? 

Thanks 

[Mike L]

1 hour ago, new2BC4bass said:

Thanks.  I always loosen drag, but don't touch spool tension.  Like the above poster, I run it very low and I've been lucky so far.  However, I will take your advice and back spool tension completely off.

 

Ditto

 

Thanks

 

 

 

 

Mike

[TOXIC]

Remember, most baitcasters have 3 "adjustment" areas.  Magnetic brakes either by an indicator on the side plate or under the side plate, spool tension knob (anti-backlash) and drag.  Spool tension and drag usually on the same side and both are friction brakes. I never back them off since I fish year round but do change the settings on all of them just to make sure all moving parts get moved or I'm throwing different weights or baits in differing wind conditions.   

[Maico1]

And then they release reels with no spool tension knobs......d**n technology.

[Jeff H]

I don't do this but I seldom have any pressure on mine to begin with.

More importantly, congratulations on the Fuego!! 

[papajoe222]

It's the older, red version and the owner was the type to leave a rod rigged over the off season. 

Thanks Jeff,  I got another earlier this season, new in the box. When it rains Daiwas, I turn my umbrella upside down. 

[bigturtle]

the spool on all my baitcasters wobble from side to side about 1mm. Once its that way, i never touch the spool tension again, i just adjust my brakes.

[Josh254]

On 6/30/2017 at 8:23 AM, Maico1 said:

And then they release reels with no spool tension knobs......d**n technology.

I have yet to see those, very interesting. Does anyone think manufacturers will eventually remove the spool tension completely in the future on all casting reels?

[BrianMDTX]

23 minutes ago, BaitFinesse said:

You really don't need any spool tension on those old TD Fuegos anyways.  Set to eliminate side ro side play then set the mag dial accordingly and enjoy the magnesium TD Zillion.

I bought my first Fuego recently. Before I made my first cast I took a few minutes to adjust the spool tension to where it just stopped making noise when I moved the spool side-to-side. My first lure was a 2 oz. swimbait. It casted perfectly with zero issues. The next was a 3/8 oz. TR. It also casted perfect. They are easy to dial in. 

[MN Fisher]

29 minutes ago, BrianMDTX said:

I bought my first Fuego recently. Before I made my first cast I took a few minutes to adjust the spool tension to where it just stopped making noise when I moved the spool side-to-side. My first lure was a 2 oz. swimbait. It casted perfectly with zero issues. The next was a 3/8 oz. TR. It also casted perfect. They are easy to dial in. 

I think you got the Fuego CT instead of the TD - but ya, I haven't had to adjust the spool tension on either of my CTs since I first set them.

[BrianMDTX]

2 hours ago, MN Fisher said:

I think you got the Fuego CT instead of the TD - but ya, I haven't had to adjust the spool tension on either of my CTs since I first set them.

Yes, it’s a CT. When I casted the swimbait I thought the spool was going to empty lol. Very easy to adjust. 

[NOC 1]

On 6/30/2017 at 3:59 PM, papajoe222 said:

It's the older, red version and the owner was the type to leave a rod rigged over the off season.

I didn't know that it took a certain type of person to keep their gear rigged over the off season...Just exactly what type of person is this? I really want to know since I apparently am one of those "types".

[papajoe222]

The type that keeps their gear ready to go on a moment’s notice even though that notice won’t be received for months.