Inline Ice Reel

[Giants05win]

Any able to helpe out with some feedback on inline ice reels? Thinking they might be pretty effective from what I can see. I would think you would have more line control when lowering the bait, etc...

Any feedback appreciated...drag performance, brands, etc?

Thanks!
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[stan55]

The main reason to use them is no line twist like you get with a spinning reel. Very important when fishing light jigs as the twist will make your jig spin in circles and you will not get bit. I started using fly fishing reels over 5 years ago for that reason. All my ice rods have inline reels. The newer versions available today have higher retrieve ratios than a fly reels 1:1 which is a plus. And by palming you can control your line release. Not overwhelmed by the drag systems but that isn't usually an issue for panfish and small trout. The better reels can get pricey and you can't use them for casting like you can spinning reels. But you can use them fly fishing if you wish.
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[stan55]

as for reels I like the Wright McGill (Eagle Claw) Tony Roach costs about $40 bucks. There are more expensive reels out there but this reel is a nice combo of decent drag, retrieve ratio and price point. It's magenta in color and you'll likely have to go online to get one.

Black Betty 2015 Fish 13 is also an option at that price point. Clam makes a Dave Genz inline reel that should also work.

One last point make sure you get a reel with a long post so you fit you hands between the reel and the rod. All the above reels have that feature.
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[cbassonafly]

[quote stan55] One last point make sure you get a reel with a long post so you fit you hands between the reel and the rod. All the above reels have that feature.[/quote]

I couldnt agree more. I converted two old fly reels for ice fishing. Love not having the line twist but the short post on the reel can be annoying.
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[RockyRaab]

I bought one of the basic Eagle Claw inlines this year, just to see. I love it. There's a freespool adjustment like that on casting reels that you can adjust for lure weight, so the spool doesn't spin too fast or too slow as the line pays out. There's a clicker you can set so you can hear if there's a bite when using it as a deadstick rod while you jig with another. And you can feather the spool with a fingertip to add drag when you need to.

But the big thing is the complete lack of line twist. I spooled mine with Trilene Micro Ice, and it comes off the spool dead straight, not a kink. That line also doesn't gather ice clumps like regular mono does, which is magic.
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[JayWeymouth]

For what it is worth. I bought a Dave Genze model and a cheaper model and I had the same problem with both. If you use small dia. line, the line will get caught between the spool and the frame. Still trying to figure a solution. Less line on the spool or ??. The no line twist(no spinning jigs) is definitely a plus.
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[Giants05win]

Thanks to all of you for the information, very helpful. In spite of potential drag issues I see the benefits (no line coiling and better control on dropping light lures to the bottom) as being worth the switch. Scheels has a number of models in stock...I'll head down there and get one!

Thanks again!

PS- Rocky Raab, long time no see! We worked together many years ago (for Vanleeuwen). Hope all is well.

Zach Thon
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[stan55]

less line will mostly solve that problem. don't go above the inside edge of the spool. I use a finger to guide line back on the reel when reeling fish in which is when the problem usually occurs. Takes a bit of practice but worth it.
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[RockyRaab]

Zach! My good friend, I have often wondered what became of you. Knowing you, I can safely assume you've been successful, and I fervently hope you've also been happy.

Added: I'll PM you later. Headed out the door this minute for a couple of days.
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[SBennett]

Jay,

I only run 50-60' line on my inline (3 lb. test) and have not had any problems.
Of course, I only fish for pannies in the winter so a dedicated trout guy may need more.

See ya, Shane
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[ifishutah]

I've been using one this year and comparing it directly with my spinning outfits. It's really a lot easier to fish because of the lack of twist in the line.

My only suggestion is to make sure you have the spool control set high before you start fishing. You can always back it off, but if you let too much line out too fast, backlashes will happen. That's when I got my line stuck in the casing.
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[kniephof]

I appreciate the question and all the answers. Good information. I need to look into getting one of these setups to see how I like it. Thanks!
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[MightyMOE]

Check out the No 8 CGI.

[JayWeymouth]

Thanks Shane. I also use 3# test and use the reels for just panfish. I met a friend of yours, Mike (polish last name) at Mantua Weds.
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[SBennett]

Yes, he told me he had a great time fishing with you.
I understand it was quite a successful day for the both of you!
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[JustJim]

I got one of the Eagle Claw reels for Christmas and have used it a couple times. For the most part, I like it. I did notice that first thing in the morning when it was cold, the drag was a bit inconsistent. I use 4 lb line and have the drag set quite light. It seemed to smooth out when the morning warmed up.
I like the gear ratio as opposed to the 1:1 reels. I have not fished it deeper yet (like for splake at Fish Lake) but I would imagine the 1:1s would be a real pain at 40-45'.
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[Giants05win]

Wow, quite the response to my question! Thanks to all for the feedback and advice...this place is better than consumer reports!!
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[kniephof]

Do the reels you suggest have decent enough drag for the cuts at Strawberry for example? I see a lot of people saying they use the inline reels for pan fish...how about feistier bigger fish? =)
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[stan55]

Plenty of drag for cutts, bows and splake. Used them on Fish Lake with no problems. Nice feature is the higher end versions have a star drag so much easier to adjust drag while fighting fish.
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[kniephof]

Excellent. That's what I wanted to know. Thanks! I've been watching some youtube vids and checking them out. Excited to purchase one and see what I think.
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