Collecting Reels — What it Really Means, To Me…

[foakes]

When I was younger, I tried to collect every reel I could afford.

And I still respect those who enjoy "collecting" tackle —-

Every type of reel —- and there were so many.

However, over the last 15 years, or so —- I have transitioned into just specializing in 5 brands of spinning reels.  Not high dollar reels —- just reels that I consider top quality for the average angler to actually use, and not make into shelf queens, or plinth princesses.

I service these reels for folks, repair them, build new ones from hundreds of thousands of new old stock parts that I have amassed over the years, sell parts, sell reels, give away parts, give away reels, trade reels —-

Nothing gives me more pleasure than introducing someone to a reel that they can both appreciate, will perform very well, and last past their lifetime.

While it is also true that a large majority of the anglers in the world —- will never appreciate what some of us do to provide reels, parts, organization, and perhaps some knowledge —- there are a few, that still do.

And that, to me, makes the difference.

This little placard has been in front of me, on my main bench, for over 10 years, and it reminds me every day why some of us do this.

Some may think I am crazy (and they are probably close to right!) —- but each of us has to find our little niche that makes us happy and provides some purpose.

Most other things in life are so much more important than fishing reels —- and I realize that.  But a small segment of my life is dedicated to this basically lost craft that I enjoy sharing with others so much.

Best, Fred

[MACflyer]

Appreciate you Fred and what you share and provide.  My guess is the majority of the fishing and tackle lovers in this Ohana are some degree of crazy. I know I am. 

[oc1]

You you have an exit strategy yet Fred?  Maybe you're not old enough yet.  We sincerely appreciate you.

[foakes]

You you have an exit strategy yet Fred?  Maybe you're not old enough yet.  We sincerely appreciate you.

Yeah, all of my tools and parts and tackle stuff goes to the members.

However, some folks are old at 40, and others young at 90.

Each day is another gift —- only if we understand and appreciate it.

Not up to me.

Best, Fred

[rcmsangab]

Totally get the connection between what you are doing and William Morris. Living in one of the centers of the Arts and Crafts Movement in America here in the San Gabriel Valley I feel the through line between the Gamble House, a Stickley chair and beautifully made and functional spinning reel made and maintained by craftsmen. 

"Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful."
― William Morris

[jgp12000]

Collecting Vintage reels is kinda like cars but cheaper & take up less room.

Fishing with them is a plus,nostalgia of days gone by when things were made to last.

I am thankful that you still are doing it Fred,I never heard of Dam Quick reels until I found Alan's site.I was looking for Mitchell 300 info that was
75 vintage reels ago...

Yes I must be crazy too!

[Gfish]

Whenever I donate a reel, it has to be as good as I can get it to be. If there's line on it still, it shouldn't be old and stiff. Good line should be labeled for breaking strength plus length if possible, same with the lower layer(if there).
I sometimes forget to check for the extra parts stored away though, such as specific sized spool shims for spinners.

 Wish the eBay sellers would do the same. With most of them it's an in-out business withno knowledge of reels.