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Fishing Term: Teaser Reel

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Definition

A teaser reel is a specialized fishing reel designed to deploy and retrieve teaser lines or spreader bars in offshore trolling setups. Teaser lines are additional lines rigged with attractive lures or baits that are used to entice fish and create a visual spectacle in the water. The teaser reel allows for controlled deployment and retrieval of these additional lines behind a boat.

Key features of teaser reels include:

  • Design: Teaser reels are designed to be mounted on a boat's outriggers or other specialized mounts. They are typically compact and lightweight.
  • Smooth Operation: These reels are engineered to provide smooth and controlled deployment and retrieval of teaser lines. This is important for maintaining the proper spread and preventing tangles.
  • Adjustable Drag: Teaser reels often have an adjustable drag system, allowing anglers to control the tension on the teaser lines during deployment and retrieval.
  • High Capacity: Since teaser reels are used to handle multiple lines, they usually have a high line capacity to accommodate the length of teaser lines used in offshore trolling.
  • Versatility: Teaser reels are versatile and can be used with a variety of teaser setups, including dredges, spreader bars, or chains with multiple lures.
  • Durability: Teaser reels are built to withstand the harsh offshore environment, including exposure to saltwater and challenging weather conditions.

Teaser reels are commonly used in big-game fishing scenarios, where attracting and enticing fish from a distance is crucial. The visual stimulation created by teaser lines can attract predatory fish to the vicinity of the boat, increasing the chances of a successful catch.

Anglers often use teaser reels in combination with other trolling techniques, deploying teaser lines to create a "teaser spread" behind the boat while trolling with additional lines rigged with bait or lures for hooking the fish. This strategy is particularly popular in offshore trolling for species like marlin, sailfish, and other pelagic fish.

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