question from a total noob regarding an old baitcasting (?) reel.

[james12345]

Hey everyone, I found an old Shakespeare Criterion reel in my basement today that belonged to my grandfather. According to the manufacturer, it was made in 1937. I have done a bit of research on baitcasting, and how the reels operate and such, but my reel seems to be quite a bit different than those that people are instructing with on youtube and such. here is a picture for reference: ( I attached it)

So anyways, my question is this: How do I release the spool right when I am about to cast? all the videos I have watched show the instructor actually pushing a button to release the spool, and there is no such evidence that there is a button at all on my reel. Also, I have read that there are adjustments to be made with the brakes, and I can't find how to adjust them on this model. Thanks for any information!

James

BTW, it is a Shakespeare Criterion model# 1960.

[burleytog]

I know absolutely nothing about the reel and am probably talking out of my arse, but I would say that the reel has no clutch release.  Constant free spool.

[kikstand454]

dayum.

thats a nice reel.

probably doesnt have brakes though... just a spool tensioner.

wait till tmrw and im  sure reelmechanic will tell you all about it.

[.RM.]

If you want info on this reel, then contact the people that service them...

Get all the info you need from the guys on this page...

http://www.shakespeare-fishing.com/antiques/info.shtml

[james12345]

thanks for the replies guys

[Joe Boss]

Thats a nice looking reel! My dad has a similar looking old baitacsting reel made by Pflueger.

[MALTESE FALCON]

That reel is controled by your thumb.....no release button. I learned on reels just like that one, about fifty years ago.

Falcon