Front or Rear drag on spinning reel?

[DLH]

Use only rear drag models but am hearing they may not be as good as front drag models. Is this true or simply a matter of preference??

[shadowman]

i think its more a matter of the quialty of the reel, i used to use only rear drag reels but for the past 15 years i have been using the front drag models, myself i like the front drag models better, but this is another one of those to each their own things.

[vetspet(ind)]

front is generally considered better because they can use larger shims for the drag system....rear drags are not nearly as good...i'm pretty sure of this but maybe somebody will say different....

[REW]

Yes, Yes, and mayby.

I used to use rear drag reels and really never had any problem with any of them.

However, I now use front drag reels for a couple of reasons.
1. They are more compact than rear drag reels, and
2. The front drags really are smoother. The principle reason being, that the drag washers and system for a front drag system is much larger (like double ) the size of the system for rear drag reels.
The larger size of the washers, mean that the overall pressure on the washhers for a front drag system, is likely to be about 1/2 the pressure on the washers of a rear drag system. This means, that for the long term use of the reel, the drag washers, and overall system is likely to remain more uniform for a much longer period of time.

As I said at the beginning of the post - I really never had any problem with rear drag reels, but I do like the front drag reels better.

Take care
REW

[Netminder]

I think the front drag reels are easier to do basic maintenance on.

Netminder

"Learn from the mistakes of others, because you won't live long enough to make them all yourself"

[Chad]

A frint may also be lighter

[SD Boy]

I think you should go with what you're comfortable with. It's true that front-drag reels use larger washhers and so in theory should be smoother and dissipate heat better, but walleyes aren't exactly drag-smokers, so does it really matter? I don't think so. As long as the drag works when you need it, that's all that matters. If you're going to use a reel for stripers or salmon, in addition to walleyes, I'd recommend you go with front drag. Otherwise, a good rear-drag reel will be every bit as servicable as a good front drag model.

[Neal/CO]

I've had alot of both without any problems! I would probably go with a front drag if fishing for Salmon or big trout. One nice thing about rear drag reels is you can change spools alot easier!

[WAeyes]

If you are a drag dependant fisherman as I am, get yourself a good quality reel with a front drag. I like the Shimano Stradic alot but I am sure there are others with good drags.

[Homer]

Here's my two cents, based on a lot of years with the old rear drag Cardinals and front drag Daiwa SS reels. Front reel drags are generally smoother, while rear drags are easier to adjust while fighting a fish. The ease of adjustment is more important when fishing for steelheads than it is for walleyes.

[ROCKY]

I like the rear drag more just because its easier to adjust while your fighting a big fish. I have tightened the front drag system while I thought I was loosening it. But I have never turned a rear drag the wrong way while fighting a fish. But I dont use spinning rods as much as I troll.

[Mike Michalak]

All my spinning reels feature front drag for one reason...if you're in a fight it's easier to use.

I've talked to a lot of pros about it and most prefer the front drags because of where their hand ends up. It's quicker to the rod and/or handle if you need it.