ABU Fishers : Spinning
The most popular fishing outfits in Europe in the sixties for
sports-fishing became so due to their simplicity of use as well as their
relatively low cost. The reels that became the most popular choices were the
ABU 444 and the new ABU 505. (half haspenel)
Overhead casting and side casting are the primary techniques used but when
casting in confined space between bushes and under trees, other methods such
as the underarm or catapult casting is used.
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Precision and casting distance is excellent with the overhead casting
technique. When a strong wind is present or float fishing, side casting is
often employed. Obviously the latter casting techniques of underarm and
catapult will be limited in distance but they will permit a cast that would
be otherwise be impossible and of course maybe a missed fish!
Variation in casting techniques is more reel dependent than rods, though
both have both do have an effect on distance and accuracy of casts.
Fixed spool reels make for easy casting. Examples of these are the early A.B.Urfabriken out-sourced spinning reels (sometimes branded Sportex, or
Record 400, 450, 500, 600, 700) , Cardinal or Suveran if you appreciate
quality and cost is no concern.
Other fixed spool reels from ABU are the 500 series, which are highly rated by English Match fishermen who appreciate their only requiring a single finger light touch of the button in front of the reel to release the line ready for the cast. There is nothing to get in the way and cause tangling even when casting into the wind. The spool cover prevents coils of line from loosening and blowing around the back of the reel, which can happen with the conventional fixed spool reels.