Advertisement

Tom wants to know about setting reel drag for redfish:

I am a beginner and would like to know what standard you use to initially set the drag on your reel when fishing for redfish.

Q I am a beginner and would like to know what standard you use to initially set the drag on your reel when fishing for redfish.

For redfish, bonefish and similar fightingspecies, I set my drag by clenching the fly line in front of thereel with my dry lips. Adjust the drag until you can no longer pullit off between your lips. This is about 12 ounces of straight pull.For powerful fish, such as tarpon and offshore species, I recommendabout 2 pounds of straight pull. If more drag is needed, you canapply it with your hand to the reel spool or by trapping the lineagainst the rod. I recommend that you use a good cotton glove onthe line hand for this.

Advertisement
Advertisement