In-line ice reels

[Eyesniper]

Hey guys gotta toss out the bat signal here. Received an in-line reel for Christmas, more specifically a clam straight drop, and well I’m just getting it set up on the rod I just picked up for it. The issue I’m having with the reel is rather dumbfounding but for the life of me I cannot figure out how to let the line out . Shouldn’t there be a button or something? I’m only finding the drag and that doesn’t appear to have a spool release built in to it. I would greatly appreciate any info anyone has on this reel guys, thanks!

[rumeye]

Is there a button on the side center of crank handle ?

[Eyesniper]

The only thing on the side of the handle is a small silver screw-in plug 180 degrees of the handle. I’m guessing it would be a space to add a second knob. The plug doesn’t appear to have any other function.

[slipperybob]

It's like a fly reel.  Just pull out line.

[Rick G]

The straight drop series is a repackaged original " ice spooler" by Clam.  This was my first experience with an inline reel as well. They do not have a button or release, it is a strip the line off by hand style reel.  They are ok for water less than 10 ft deep...1/1 ratio means they only retrieve line as fast as you can spin the handle.   

[Eyesniper]

Hey thanks for the info guys! Looking like it’s a “use when the wifey comes out” rod haha. I’ll give it a try anyway and see if I want to buy myself a better in-line reel

[Wanderer]

16 hours ago, Eyesniper said:

Hey thanks for the info guys! Looking like it’s a “use when the wifey comes out” rod haha. I’ll give it a try anyway and see if I want to buy myself a better in-line reel

Don’t judge all in lines by that one.  I have one and parked it.  1:1 is the worst part.  I’ve been happy with 13 Descent if you want to try another without breaking the piggy bank.

Edited February 3, 2022 by Wanderer
Get the right model named

[Eyesniper]

Out in the shanty at this moment with the new inland and iced a few smaller crappies with it. So far I can say other than having to peel the line out by hand I’m a fan of the in-line club. I can see a purchase or two in the near future. Pulling line out by hand isn’t all that terrible at 13 FOW  but don’t think I’d want to go much deeper than say 15. This rod might end up joining me for spearing however. Thanks again for the input fellas!