Jim Kay Loc: Franklin, Virginia

Most spinning reels have a selective anti-reverse. I only use it rarely. There are also live lining reels which allow the spool to feed without any drag. This allows the line to feed out when a fish picks it up.

TexasBassMan Loc: Spring, TX (Houston)

Have read that a free spool fishing rod (mostly Shimano spinning reels) is designed to allow you to “back reel” when you hook a big one. Instead of relying solely on the drag, you let out a little line by winding backward.

Recently (Feb ‘22) purchased a Shimano Stradic FJ C3000XG. It has no antireverse. It is the best reel I own in every respect - including ones that cost twice as much and I have a locker full of those.

I do not miss the antireverse switch - at all!

Do not be afraid of that Shimano Sienna. Just go at it. Would not be surprised if it turns out to be your fav.

Graywulff Loc: Cortez,Co.

Thanks Tex, I appreciate your input.

Kerry Hansen Loc: Bremerton, WA

Well if you are drift fishing, you can let out line on the end of the drift without lifting the bail. But on reels I have, there is a small lever to switch into and out of free spool so you can bring the drag into play without having to hold onto the reel handle when you have a fish on