Now the Disc Drag Reel. Obviously these reels are newer then the Click and Pawl and meant for bigger game fish. Here is how this system is
designed. The discs are washers
made of different materials and
used to add friction to the reel
spool. Seems simple enough
right. When the fish makes a run
or you pull line out for your cast,
friction is added to the disc’s
creating the drag needed. But as
we talk about the Disc Drag
Systems it is also important to
know that there are 2 different systems here: the Sealed Drum Disc Drag System and the Draw Dar Disc Drag System. The long and short of it is that the Sealed Drum Disc Drag is just that. Bearing sealed for protection from the
elements. The Draw Bar and Disc Drive
Systems work very much the same
compressing the washers and creating
friction. The biggest difference is the sealed
drag vs. the non-sealed drag in the Draw Bar
Disc Drag System. So it stands to reason if
you are putting a lot of pressure and work
in on your reels the Disc Drag Sealed System
is the better choice for you. Another interesting thing to understand about these reels is the use of Cork as the washer for the friction system. Cork is much more malleable than some of the plastics used to create these discs. As you make your adjustments on the reel for tension the cord will compress and create very good stopping power at a good gradual pace of course. Other materials will not adjust to the pressure like cork will.
There is a lot to learn when it comes to fly fishing. Whether you are a novice or season vet we should always strive to learn something new often. If we take it in small chunks like the different types of fly fishing reels that are available for us to use, we can learn a lot and improve as well as enjoy our time on the water. Never stop learning and never stop fishing.