[Flyfishin Magician]

Hey there. I hope everyone had an enjoyable Christmas! I got a lovely new Shimano Calcutta CT 200B for Christmas. What a beautiful little reel. I do have a question for those who are familiar with Calcuttas...

I noticed that the levelwind does not move when the cast bar is pressed down and the reel free spools (e.g. during a cast). The levelwind does re-engage when I start to reel line in. This is much different from my Abu's in which the level wind does move in sync with the outgoing line during the cast. Is this how the Calcutta is supposed to work - or do I have a problem with my new reel? I would appreciate any advice. Thanks!

 

[progolf]

That seems odd. I have used Shimano calcutta 400 reels for as long as I can remember, idestructable, and the level wind moves back and forth during a cast. You might want to make sure of it and get it checked out, no one wants a birds' nest on their first cast with new iron.

 

[Fish Finder]

Nice FFM! As far as level winds go, they are the cream of the crop. (personal opinion ;D) Both my 250 and 400 have performed well over the years. Even though they rarely move from my shelf any more. The 200 is a great little Coho and Steelhead reel. The level should move back and forth on out going casts, so I'd take it in for a second look.

Finder

 

[Flyfishin Magician]

Thanks guys. I posted the same question on the Fishing with Rod site. A few guys stated that on Calcutta reels with narrower spools, the levelwind is not designed to move in sync with the outgoing line. Apparently, this results in smoother casts as there is no friction from the movement of the level wind. Makes some sense, although I'm no expert here. It may be worth just calling the shop and asking.

Hey FF - I hope you had a great Christmas and all the best in the new year. I think we should think about hooking up for some steelies! I intend on tying up a bunch of stinger patterns!

 

[Fish Finder]

Awesome glad everything's ok with it! Yeh lets hookup...

Finder

 

[curmudgeon]

Hey magician merry Xmas

I have 2 calcuttas that have seen a lot of abuse over the last 4 years. My 400 has a levelwind that moves back and forth when you cast. I use it for fishing Springs and real big water.

My 200 is used for steelies and coho mainly. It has a narrow spool and the levelwind is stationary while casting. I actually like casting the 200 better. It seems to be a smoother action.

 

[Flyfishin Magician]

Thanks curmudgeon - Merry X-mas to you as well. I can't wait to use the Calcutta on my GLoomis rod for steelies. Hey FF - let's go out soon! I wish I could go this week, but we're heading to Whistler for new year's...