Thumb Pressure Clears Most Backlashes: How to Cast Baitcast Reels
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An underused trick for getting backlashes out
Next time you get a backlash, try this!
1) Pull the line back out (toward tip of rod) until the tangle stops your progress.
2) Hold down on the tangled line with the thumb of the hand not used for reeling.
3) Start reeling, maintaining thumb pressure on the backlash. It will be a bumpy ride, but keep reeling until the backlash clears itself or it prevents you from reeling anymore.
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If your first attempt does not clear the backlash, repeat the process. Start by again pulling the line toward the rod tip until it stops, then hold down on the tangle with your “free” thumb again, and resume reeling.
It might seem counterintuitive, but this technique clears most backlashes, keeping you from having to sit there and pick at the mess.
In some instances, you have to pick a stubborn tangle out by pulling tightly-snarled line out “backwards,” thereby freeing it. That’s why the backlash-clearing “pic” tool is included on the useful accessory list. MWO
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Mark Strand
MidWest Outdoors editorial director Mark Strand is a graduate of University of Minnesota School of Journalism with a minor in Fisheries & Wildlife Science. He has written for nearly every outdoor magazine over the past 41 years, and has written or co-written 14 books. In addition to writing and photography, Strand produces the MidWest Outdoors Podcast, and contributes to MWO digital properties. He is an outdoor generalist who loves hunting and fishing of all types. In 2018 Strand was elected to the Minnesota Fishing Hall of Fame.