06-26-2001, 09:04 PM
RSS<br><br>I congratulate you on buying an Australian reel that has been manufactured here for as long as I can remember. They hold legendary status in the "Land Down Under". Probably something like the Penn equivalent in US terms (as far as a well known leading brand name). <br><br>Alvey's are steeped in tradition, known for their lasting ability, "ease" of use and tough grunt when handling big fish.<br><br>Also real easy to maintain with few moving parts. <br><br>Just tie off your line end and spool that baby up to within 1/4" of the top of the reel edge. Thumb the line on left and right as your loading up the spool and that's it. Your set!<br><br>One thing to look out for with all round faced reels is line twist. Alvey's are no different. Make sure you have a swivel on the top of your rigs ok. <br><br>One final point. If you want to get the best out of these reels then tie on 20 feet of shock leader (in front of your rig and have it go back onto to your reel face a couple fo turns) so that you can cast into the next post code with them if you plan to surf or rock fish. <br><br>This shock leader means you can fish light line if wanted, but not hamper your casting ability/distance given that the leader takes the strain when you load up your rod prior to casting. <br><br>When fully rigged, turn the reel sideways, place your finger tip over the line and back near the reel seat to hold the tension. Place the rod and reel over your shoulder, take two steps forward, cast with style -synergy - and aim in the direction you want to go. Then watch the poetry in motion as it sails outward.<br><br>One note of warning. Always set the drag and make sure to keep your thumbs clear of the the reel handle knobs if you lock onto a big fish. These reels behave like a fly reel in that regard, meaning if those knobs came flying back in reverse and hit your fingers, then stars will appear before your eyes. <br><br>That's about it. Let us know how you get on. <br><br>Burnin Thumbs!<br><br>Steve - The MJB<br>BFT Lures/Baits<br><A HREF="http://www.demonjigs.com" target="_new">http://www.demonjigs.com</A>