Troubleshooting Garcia Baitcasting Fishing Reels

Abu Garcia is a name know to many anglers and is commonly associated with durable fishing equipment. Round baitcasting reels are a traditional product for the company and countless fish have no doubt been caught with these reels. As with any reel, Abu Garcia baitcast reels can periodically require troubleshooting to determine the cause of problems due to normal use. Many minor reel problems can often be resolved at home, saving money and lost fishing time.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Reel oil
Monofilament fishing line
Soft bristle brush
Compressed air can
Damp cloth

Step 1

Adjust the star drag located at the base of the handle. Tighten the star drag so that the spool will engage when the handle is turned. If the drag is too loose, the spool will not pick up the fishing line and the line will not spool onto the reel.

Step 2

Attach and spool a backing of monofilament line onto the spool of the Abu Garcia baitcast reel when using braided line. Braid lines are typically small in diameter, round and slick. These qualities are desirable for many fishing situations but can cause spooling problems and backlashes especially if the line digs into the spool. Spool 20 to 30 yards of monofilament to the spool and then attach the braid line to the monofilament. Spool the braid as normal.

Step 3

Clean the thumb release, or thumb bar, to remove any debris or dirt if the release is difficult to push down or is not releasing the spool. Use a soft bristle brush or can of compressed air to remove any debris from around or under the thumb bar. Apply a few drops of reel oil around the bar for lubrication.

Step 4

Disassemble the reel and remove the spool from the reel body. Clean the spool to remove any pond scum or other accumulated debris that could be affecting the line as it spools from the reel. Use a soft bristle brush and damp cloth to remove loosened debris. Apply reel oil to the points where the spool contacts the reel body and assemble the reel.

Step 5

Properly adjust the cast control and brakes on the Abu Garcia baitcast reel if you are still experiencing problems with backlashes. Locate the cast control knob by the reel handle and turn it until a lure falls slowly to the ground when the spool is released. Locate the brake control opposite the handle and set the brakes in the middle or between five and seven. This will allow most lures to be cast for some distance and also help reduce backlashes.

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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