I decided to restore some old fishing poles and use one in the BWCA. I have a pflueger Trump, a sears, and a herters. Two have metal rods and one fiberglass. Do you actually cast these things? The direct drive thing seems to hinder that? Use your thumb and sling (This word is unacceptable on Trapperman) out of it?

I think I’ll blue and turn a cedar handle and cedar reels handles on a metal one, and new cork on the others. All the guides are on and look good, just clean them up. I assume they were designed to use that big braided line? I’m gonna try to find some or use something else.....maybe tip up line? I’m open to any and all advice. I remember them as a kid but they were in the barn and already replaced by 202’s, 404’s, and finally a 33. Lol. Thanks....shane

yes, you can cast them, but not a long distance using braided line. thumb the spool to keep from back lashing. itll take practice. I enjoy taking an old rod and reel out occasionally. usually troll for northern pike, using an old plug, and the heavy braided lines. your reels probably have a "spool brake" to slow the spool from spinning too fast. have fun with them.

Bird nest specials is what I remember on them. Took a heavy weight to cast one 15 foot.

Lots of bruised knuckles when I was a kid.

I grew up using that style of bait casters. They don't work well with mono line, better with braided nylon 10-12 lb. size. Back in the day most lures were 5/8 or 3/4oz. sized 1/2oz. is about the lightest that ever worked for me. takes some practice to educate your thumb which is used both for a drag and to prevent spool over run on the cast. Dad always had the phluger acron;s. I still like them for river fishing use the click for a strike indicator with a slip sinker Enjoy the old girles, many tons of fish have been caught with them over the years
Dennis