Method to untangle backlash
gets a big "Thumbs Up!"
PictureSam Coco Jr
Today most fisherman are using either a spinning reel or a bait casting reel.
However a lot of fisherman I speak to prefer a spinning reel. The reason they give is that it is very difficult to cast the bait caster. They also have a fear of the dreaded “backlash” monster. A backlash can happen even to the most experienced fisherman. When the backlash occurs  and the line is tied in a knot the method used is to try to pull the line out or cut the line. You end up ruining several yards of line. There  is  a method I use that is about 90% effective.
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The Dreaded Backlash
When a backlash occurs the first thing you want to do is tighten your drag all the way. The next step is to put your thumb on the line spool. Keep pressure on the spool and at the same time turn the reel handle.  Then press the spool release tab and try to pull out the line.  If the knot releases you are done. If the knot does not release repeat the process  again.
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With you drag tightened as much as possible press your thumb on the spool
 Keep repeating the process until the knot releases. When you have the line free reel it back onto spool. REMEMBER TO RESET YOUR DRAG WHEN FINISHED.  Set the spool tension and the magnetic brake again to reduce the possibility of another backlash. Anyone can do this. You don't have to be “all thumbs”.
 PictureKeith Lusher
I created NFR.com in the spring of 2012. Since then it has helped link Northshore fishermen to valuable information  and has filled the void of absent information on the web about fishing on the North Shore of Lake Pontchartrain. Northshore Fishing Report has morphed into a brand name and can be found not only on the web, but on radio and newspaper. As NFR grows I will continue to work hard at keeping NFR local focusing on local anglers, reports, seminars, and fishing tournaments in St. Tammany and Tangipahoa Parish.  I hope you enjoy the website and If you have any questions please email me at: Keith@NorthshoreFishingReport.com
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Look for the Northshore Fishing Report publication every Thursday in The Slidell Independent Weekly Newspaper!
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