How to Set the Drag on a Mitchell 300 Spinning Reel

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Since the late 1940s, the Mitchell 300 spinning reel has carved a niche and created a loyal following among many freshwater and saltwater anglers. The ease of use and simplicity of adjustment are among the main reasons people love their Mitchell 300s. Adjusting the drag can be done quickly and easily thanks to the reel's straightforward design.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Mitchell 300 spinning reel
Monofilament fishing line

Step 1

Spool 8 to 12 inches of line from the Mitchell reel. Make sure the bail wire is closed and the line is feeding across the line roller.

Step 2

Grasp the fishing line and pull on the line to test the resistance or drag. If the line pulls, but not too easily, the drag is most likely set at a good starting point. If the line pulls too easily or will not pull out at all, the drag should be adjusted.

Step 3

Locate the drag adjustment knob on the front of the spool. The knob is black and features an indentation on both sides to allow for a good grip when turning.

Step 4

Tighten the drag, or reduce the ease with which the line is pulled from the spool, by turning the knob clockwise. Loosen the drag, or increase the ease with which the line is pulled from the spool, by turning the knob counterclockwise.

Step 5

Pull on the line once again to determine if further adjustments need to be made.

Tips & Warnings

The drag is designed to apply braking pressure to the line. Setting the drag is necessary to prevent the line from spooling from the reel too easily or from breaking by not providing enough give when a fish is hooked.

Article Written By Keith Dooley

Keith Dooley has a degree in outdoor education and sports management. He has worked as an assistant athletic director, head coach and assistant coach in various sports including football, softball and golf. Dooley has worked for various websites in the past, contributing instructional articles on a wide variety of topics.

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