Pictures from a closet reel collector friend in Canada:
Got this from my wife's uncle who said it was used for lake trout on the many lakes north of Lakefield, [Ontario, Canada]. He said these were very common in their day. Homemade, 32 inches long, 8 inches wide, came from 80+ year old. Was his grandfather's. I am surprised that any of them survived... , just an interesting look back.
Looks to me like a "Paddle Reel" or maybe an "Oar Winch"
Paul...Not sure how it was mounted back in the day, but my guess is, it's a home-made downrigger.
It's likely seen bigger fish, than you or I ever will. Nice piece!!
Rick Heitman
- Bad Casts, backlash, no bites? Check the Nut holding the rod !! -
I have found quite a few reels up here in the Great White North that use wire for line. It eliminates the need for a downrigger, so I think this was used as a fishing reel with wire line.