How to properly set your drag

Are you one of those that sets the drag by pulling on it and setting the drag where it feels good? Try that on a rod and reel and then check it on an accurate scale and see what poundage you set the drag at.

To properly set the drag on your rod and reel, you want to get an accurate scale. Then you want to adjust the scale to where it starts slipping at 30% to 50% of the lines breaking strength. So, if you are using 20 pound test line, you want to set it at 6 pounds to 10 pounds. It is recommended that inexperienced anglers set their drag at 30%. Setting your drag at more than 50% is just inviting trouble.

It is also advised to back the drag off on the reel when you are not going to go fishing for a little while. This way the drag doesn't have unnecessary tension on it for a long period. Thus, your drag will not be erratic when the line is pulled out against the drag. You want your drag to pull out smoothly.