I was given a spool of Varivas PE in 6.5 weight. Not wanting to undo one of my existing reels and maybe lose the line on it, I bought the XT spoken of in the heading. Before I got the line spooled on, I added a set of carbon fiber drag washers to it, my first set. I’ve always been happy with the other Presidents I already have but have read some about the improvement given by the upgraded washers. For the eight bucks they cost I think it’s a good addition and having caught a 4# mudfish on that reel today I think I’ve given them a proper test. I’ve just ordered four more sets for some of my other reels and the proper grease to install them. Hope this helps someone that hadn’t heard of them. I’ve met several folks over the years that have stored their drag fully tight and when they tried to use it the total adjustment was about 1/4 turn from dead loose to dead tight. This would put that reel back in service for cheap, maybe better than it was new.
Thanks for the tip, skeet. Like you said, a always loosen up the drag when not fishing a reel.
Bob
Saturday I put the line and reel to a real test. A mudfish that had to be at least 4 pounds decided my jig looked good and took a bite. After he stripped more line than I was comfortable giving up, I tightened the drag and put a little heat on him. The line held up perfectly and the drag washers were smoother than any other I own. A few good shell crackers ga e me a hard time too. I knew what they were before I saw them, such a different fight. Very pleased with the line, maybe lighter next time cuz I’ll surely buy more. The drag washers were offered or made by a company called carbontex.
