A centrepin reel may seem complicated to use if you are used to using a fixed spool reel for your angling, but that couldn't be further from the truth. With a bit of practice, a centrepin makes trotting a float far easier than any other type of reel can and they are simply a joy to use when used correctly.
If you follow the tips and techniques in this article, you too can enjoy using a centrepin to its full potential.
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To attach the line to the spool, use a knot you are confident in before trimming the tag end as close to the knot as possible afterward. Most centrepins feature a purpose-machined pinhole or slot designed to accommodate the knot, ensuring it sits flush. This prevents the knot from creating a bump when loading the line onto the spool which can affect line lay. Adding a small piece of electrical tape can help secure the knot and keep it pinned down neatly.
You can load the line so that it exits either from the bottom or the top of the reel. However, for beginners and most anglers in general, having the line exit from the bottom of the reel is preferable. This setup helps reduce tangles and allows you to wind forward, similar to using a fixed spool reel, when retrieving the line. You don't need to load the reel to the spool lip, instead generally 100m of line will suffice.
Some reels have line guards to stop the line coming off unexpectedly or being trapped behind the spool, but this varies dependent on manufacturer and preferences.
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Features
Most centrepins also come equipped with an adjustable drag. On a fixed spool reel, the drag is used to help play the fish, but with a centrepin, its purpose is different. The drag is designed to control how freely the spool spins during use. Adjustments depend on the strength of the flow and the weight of the float. You can also leave the reel in freespool and use your thumb as a brake, the more pressure you apply the slower the reel turns allowing you to fine-tune your presentation with precision.
Another feature commonly found on these reels is the ratchet mechanism. While you can use the ratchet when playing a fish, it is much easier to press down on the spool with your thumb as it is far less annoying than a clicking ratchet. The ratchet is useful when moving swims as it locks the reel when in transit or when legering.
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Casting
The loop cast is the most effective and easiest method for casting when using a centrepin reel. This technique involves pulling the line from between the reel and the first guide, then swinging the rod in a sideways motion while releasing the line.
The more line you pull off, the farther the rig will travel. For extra distance, you can perform a double loop cast, which involves pulling line from the first and second guides of the rod. Hold this line behind your index finger while simultaneously pulling line from the reel and the first guide, trapping it behind your middle finger.
This technique provides two lengths of line to cast with, effectively doubling the distance achieved by a single loop cast.
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Striking and reeling
Centrepin reels do vary slightly from fixed-spool reels when it comes to striking and reeling in a fish or your rig. There are knobs on the reel to grip and hold, and while some anglers use these, others prefer to 'bat' the reel. Batting involves running the palm of your hand towards you along the underside of the reel, which causes it to spin, winding the line in much quicker. This doesn’t work with a fish on the end, but for getting your rig back quickly, it is very efficient. The knobs are there to grip when you are playing a hooked fish.
When striking, remember to thumb the spool to trap the line. If you don’t do this, the spool can spin uncontrollably, causing all sorts of unimaginable tangles. It will also generally result in you missing the bite, as there is no resistance to set the hook.
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Maintenance
Many modern centrepin reels have sealed bearings which require very little maintenance to keep them performing to their peak. Just make sure the reel is kept clean and if the reel starts to stick or slow down, a couple of drops of sewing machine or reel oil will generally have the reel spinning perfectly again. Be aware you don't over-lubricate them as this can clog the reel having the opposite effect.
