New Reel from the convention

[Robin Sayler]

I may be an avid pflueger collector but my mechanical engineer self couldn't pass up this gem that Bill Burke put up for auction today. It's a Mitchell 408 that has been converted to a 16:1 retrieve ratio.

[Tightlines666]

Love it

[Midway Tommy D]

Those Tournament Casters get quite creative, especially Bill!

[john elder]

It was really interesting to hear Bill discuss all the rules and regulations and '"tricks" involved in tournament casting...what a great session! Robin stepped up and paid well for this one. It will certainly make a nice centerpiece for his new spinning reel collection!

For those of you that are wondering why in the world anyone would do this to a reel for casting contests, Bill explained that in case of ties, the one that went through the targets fastest was declared the winner. So, they went to great lengths to ensure minimal dead air during their attempts!

[Wayne B.]

That drum must be a blur when he's really crankin'!

[bettybarr]

Because the American casters cast with the lure against the tip, Bill said the retrieve is tricky with the 16:1 ratio. If the lure hits the tip, you will need a new tip!! Also the line is so thin that you must walk to the target to wind it back because it will break on a blade of grass.
Bill has been tournament casting 56 years nationally and internationally. He is a machinist and makes very inventive reels and parts for casters. He is a member of the ACA Hall of Fame and an ACA Lifetime Member. He was our Banquet speaker on Friday night at Buckberry.
The ACA meet is being held in Lexington KY on July 25-29. Join Don, Matt Wickham and myself to watch the competition. The distant event is being held at the Horse Park, site of the World Equestrian Events a few years ago. This promises to be a fun week.