Working on the backlog of reels sent in from anglers around the world today.
I keep a table behind the bench where I stack up reels that I service and/or build, in between the time reel parts are being cleaned in the US cleaner, or when I need a pleasant break —- most of which are available for sale. A few are for my personal enjoyment.
Recent builds and services include Penns, DAM Quicks, Mitchell's, Daiwas. All are as new.
A few brand new DQ 220's, new DQ 265 Microlites, DQ 110 Microlites, a DQ 5001, a DQ 2000, a DQ 550N, a high speed Mitchell 406, some Penn Greenies, some Penn Z ultralights, a Penn 714, 716, a couple of 710's, a 750SS, Daiwa gold Mini-Mite, Daiwa silver tiny 500C, plus a few others.
Also decided to build out some custom Penns such as the 20/0, 4 Jigmasters, a Squidder Jr. —- these are from Tom & Randy, with help on parts from Daron. These are personal reels to build and enjoy.
Backlog is down to about 20 reels, plus parts orders. So it is becoming a smoother assembly line and bench operation.
Chipper is a great help. She keeps an eye on any parts I might drop.
Best, Fred
I desperately need to set up a bench with LOTS of light so I can see what the heck I'm doing with these reels. As it stands now I just use my desk and the light's not great...and there's a carpet on the floor so missing pieces tend to stay missing.
Wow, I never imagined.....
My main bench in the little upstairs shop where most of the reel work is done is a little over 8'X 3'.
I installed lights above the bench so that there is plenty of light with no shading. LED'S, variable intensity dimmer switch.
Makes work pleasant as well as quicker.
Best, Fred
Like the way you hang the reel up ,I putting reel on narrow shelf and have reel fell out while taking other reel out
I think I see my Daiwa Micro in there.
Yep, Daron —-
Your Daiwa 500C and your green Cardinal 3.
Just need to install a bunch of new parts on the Cardinal 3.
Best, Fred
Can we see some more of the little one in the red chair?
I'd drive down there just to hang out with that guy. That's a quality friend right there. Tell him I said hi.
Those peg-boards ain't fancy, but they are reel handy.
Quote from: Joel.B on October 15, 2025, 04:18:55 PMCan we see some more of the little one in the red chair?
I'd drive down there just to hang out with that guy. That's a quality friend right there. Tell him I said hi.
That is Chipper. After Spud passed on about 3 years ago, Chipper adopted us. She is very smart. We were also very fortunate.
She was 3 years old then, and belonged to a couple that were divorcing. And it was the husband's dog, the wife had another dog, and did not want two dogs. The husband was moving to a place in the Midwest, and was not sure he could take care of a dog properly, I guess. He placed her with a re-homing service. We found her online —- and she travels with us in the vehicles & travel trailer. She is very smart & obedient. Knows commands, heels well, loves to play ball, gets along great with our 3 cats, and asks to go out to do her business.
She loves our home and family.
Best, Fred
Well I just love Chipper.
Thanks for sharing her with me Fred.
Fred I have looked at Chippers pics here about a dozen times now. Just cheers me up. I am not sure why. I have two halfway-decent dogs of my own. Something very comforting about the whole situation down there.
I have surgery later today. No meds or food since last night and I dont feel great. I had to check in here to see Chipper again.
Everything should go well, Joel —-
Chipper is pulling for you!
Best, Fred
I think I see my quick super in there.
You have all the best reels coming across your bench.
That is one impressive workspace you have!
--
Don
I don't know how you keep up Fred.