Hello there, fellow anglers! If you’re like me, you’re always on the lookout for ways to enhance your fishing experience. Today, I want to introduce you to a game-changing feature that you might not be familiar with: the bait feeder feature in fishing reels. This feature has revolutionized my fishing trips, and I’m confident it will do the same for you. So, let’s dive in and explore everything there is to know about this fantastic feature.
What is a Bait Feeder Feature?
The bait feeder feature, also known as a live liner or a free spool, is a two-drag system in a fishing reel. This system allows the line to run freely when the reel is engaged in bait feeder mode. When a fish bites and starts to run, the system enables the line to be pulled out without resistance, giving the angler enough time to grab the rod, flip the switch, and set the hook.
How Does a Bait Feeder Work?
When the bait feeder system is engaged, it allows the line to be pulled out under a lighter, secondary drag setting. This gives the fish the freedom to take the bait and run with it, without feeling the resistance of the main drag. Once the fish is hooked and starts to run, you can turn off the bait feeder system, which engages the main drag and allows you to fight the fish.
Benefits of Using a Bait Feeder Feature:
1. Less Missed Strikes
With the bait feeder feature, you’re less likely to miss a strike. The fish can take the bait and run without feeling any resistance, which reduces the chances of it dropping the bait.
2. Better Hook Sets
Since the fish can run with the bait, it’s more likely to swallow it deeply, which leads to better hook sets.
3. Less Line Breakage
The bait feeder feature reduces the chances of line breakage as it allows the fish to run with the bait without putting too much pressure on the line.
4. Versatility
Bait feeder reels are incredibly versatile. They can be used in a variety of fishing situations, from freshwater fishing for species like carp and catfish, to saltwater fishing for species like snapper and shark.
When to Use the Bait Feeder Feature:
The bait feeder feature in a fishing reel is particularly useful in certain fishing scenarios. Here are some situations where you might want to engage this feature:
- Fishing for Line-Shy Species: Some fish are known to be line-shy, meaning they can feel the tension in the line when they bite the bait. In such cases, the bait feeder feature is beneficial as it allows the line to run freely, giving the fish the impression that it’s just found a free meal. This can lead to more successful catches.
- When Fish Run with the Bait: Certain species of fish tend to take the bait and run before they fully swallow it. The bait feeder feature allows the fish to run with the bait, increasing the chances of a solid hook set.
- Bottom Fishing: When you’re bottom fishing, especially for species like carp or catfish, the bait feeder feature can be a game-changer. It allows the fish to pick up the bait and move off without feeling any immediate resistance.
- Live Bait Fishing: If you’re using live bait, the bait feeder feature can give your bait the freedom to move naturally, making it more attractive to predatory fish.
- Perfect for Light Bait: The bait feeder feature is perfect for light bait fishing. It allows the fish to pick up the bait and run with it without feeling the resistance of the line, increasing the chances of a successful catch.
FAQs on Bait Feeder Reels:
What is the purpose of a bait feeder reel?
A bait feeder reel, also known as a bait runner reel, is a type of fishing reel that allows the line to run freely when a fish bites. This feature is particularly useful when fishing for species that are known to be line-shy or those that tend to run with the bait before swallowing it. The bait feeder feature incorporates a secondary drag system, allowing the fish to run with less resistance, which can lead to more successful catches.
Are bait feeder and bait runner the same?
Yes, the terms “bait feeder” and “bait runner” are often used interchangeably in the world of fishing. Both refer to the same feature in a fishing reel that allows the line to run freely when a fish bites, without opening the bail or adjusting the main drag.
Are bait feeder and bait clicker the same?
While the terms “bait feeder” and “bait clicker” are often used interchangeably, they can also refer to slightly different features depending on the context and the type of reel. A “bait feeder” typically refers to a feature in a fishing reel that allows the line to run freely when a fish bites. On the other hand, a “bait clicker” is a feature found on some baitcasting reels that produces a clicking sound when line is being pulled off the reel, serving as an audible alert to the angler.
Does a bait feeder reel make a sound during line out like a bait clicker reel?
Yes, a bait feeder reel does make a sound when the line is being pulled out, similar to a bait clicker. This sound serves as an audible alert to the angler that a fish has taken the bait and is running with it. However, the volume and quality of the sound can vary depending on the specific model of the reel.
In Conclusion
The bait feeder feature in fishing reels is a game-changer for any serious angler. It offers numerous benefits, including preventing line breaks, being perfect for light bait, and offering versatility for various fishing styles. When choosing a bait feeder reel, consider factors such as material, drag system, line capacity, and price.
In my opinion, investing in a bait feeder reel is worth every penny. It has significantly improved my fishing experience, and I’m confident it will do the same for you. So, why wait? Give it a try on your next fishing trip, and you’ll wonder how you ever fished without it!
Happy fishing, my friends!
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