Levelwind question

[Esoxonthefly]

I understand the theory behind a levelwind but what is its advantage(if any) over a non-levelwind reel? Why do freshwater reels have them and saltwater reels don't?

[edalz]

I understand the theory behind a levelwind but what is its advantage(if any) over a non-levelwind reel? Why do freshwater reels have them and saltwater reels don't?

Check out the 4th post down and it makes sense and I grew up saltwater fishing and all the reels did not have levelwinds and keep in mind they are targeting huge fish with these reels.

http://fishwrecked.com/node/4924

[Esoxonthefly]

Okay so I get what they're saying so do you just guide the line with your finger in the same way a levelwind does?

[edalz]

Okay so I get what they're saying so do you just guide the line with your finger in the same way a levelwind does?

Yes, as the line comes in you use your thumb to keep it even. If you have ever seen the videos where a guy gets pulled overboard most of the time that's not the drag set wrong its a loop in the line(because the line gets stacked up in one spot) or the line wrapping around the rod tip.

[Will Schultz]

Okay so I get what they're saying so do you just guide the line with your finger in the same way a levelwind does?

If you keep the rod pointed directly at the lure the line will basically stack itself. If the rod is at an angle, even slightly, you will have to guide the line.