First Closed Face Reel Experiences
River Lambourn, Newbury, Saturday 16th January 2010
A short morning session planned with Steve (JV44), we weren’t going to be there for too long so the weather forecast wasn’t important, had we actually looked we may not have gone. I wonder how Mike (Arbocop) did on the Kennet.
I’ve never seen the Lambourn looking like this before, about four inches up and a colour which would be just short of perfect for other rivers. It was cold and windy so we only lasted a couple of hours but didn’t blank, Steve caught Grayling and several bushes, I caught two Minnows.
I tried trotting with my Abu 706 for the first time. I struggled at first becasue I was holding the reel handle upwards, only when my wrist started to hurt did I realise that I didn't have to, I felt so stupid. I can see the advantages of easier casting and windproofness(?) but whichever way I look at it I find line control is better and easier with a centrepin. I was using very light end tackle (another advantage of trotting with a CF reel) so maybe it’ll be better with more weight taking line off the reel but I found it difficult to stay in contact with the float.
On two occasions the line got caught up behind the drum which was a right pain to sort out and disappointing that it happened twice in such a short session. Despite the initial problems the reel will be invaluable for trotting on windy days and is a welcome addition to my collection, I love the instant line pick up. Perhaps a bit more practice will improve my technique and reduce tangles.
Weather forecast is better for tomorrow and I still have some maggots…….hmmmm.
0 Comments
Recommended Comments
There are no comments to display.