Shakespeare Wondereel #1922 AB system

[Paul Roberts]

I picked up a pretty #1922 Wondereel Deluxe (plastic ring), but it turned out to have been poorly maintained. It was loaded with leadcore line! It came from the west coast so probably was used as a Kokanee trolling reel. I tore it down and it's much better but doesn't spin as freely as all the other old reels I have.

It doesn't have spool tension knobs on both sides, only on the face side. There is always a bit of play in the spool, as if it's under some spring-like tension, I assume this is the AB system. But, it impedes the spin rate. Loosen the single tension knob all the way and the spool just flops and rattles. Waiting for line to arrive so I'm curious if it'll be a good caster. My question is: Is this a reel with an AB system that can't be turned off? Are the Wondereels known to be good casters?

[Bill Sonnett]

The AB system is always on as it is simply a fixed wheel that spims in the hub on the palm plate. Shakespeare's solution for those with an uneducated thumb. Shakespeare reels with plastic inserts are often poor casters as their plastic (like so many of the time period) warped, shrank etc ----all of which throws the working parts slightly out of alignment.

[Paul Roberts]

Thanks, Bill. I'm trying out a number of old reels, out of curiosity but, in the end, to fish with (bass). I've been reading what I can find that you've written and very much appreciate that you've shared your passion for others to follow. I cannot wait for the ice to break to start seeing how these rigs operate, beyond my back yard. I'm an experienced caster, with modern gear, (and a spinning back-reeler, so I expect the spinning handles won't phase me much). I expect I'll be able to find my way into some fish, although I suspect that the retrieve speeds are going to be the biggest limitation.

I run a YT channel (The Nature of Fishing) and viewers often comment on my "retro" gear (1980's -essentially modern). I am hoping to incorporate some true antique gear as well, for applications where it fits. Should be fun to hear those comments.

[Bill Sonnett]

Try a green Shakespeare Marhoff (model GE) or Pflueger Nobby and you will ahead of the game