Anti-Reverse Switch – How This Can Keep You From Losing A Fish

Hello Tony. I wanted to share another use for the anti-reverse switch that many anglers might not know, unless they’re old-timers from the hills. We use this switch to allow the line to backpedal when fishing in rivers or streams with current.
The switch lets us cast upstream and retrieve while keeping tension on the bait. Then, when the bait drifts past parallel to us, we backpedal to let it move naturally downstream while still maintaining contact with the lure to detect strikes. This creates a more natural presentation and makes each cast last longer before resetting.
When a fish strikes, you simply flip the switch to prevent the reel from reversing and to maintain tension. The drag then manages that tension so thin-lipped fish like trout don’t tear away, allowing the angler to skillfully work the fish to shore.
Many anglers no longer use this method because it adds a bit of complexity to the process, and most have learned instead to simply open the bail and let the line drift out past parallel. Still, it’s a skilled technique, one that, when done right, can lead to more strikes and ultimately more fish.
My grandfather taught me this method during the shad runs, and we were often the only ones to reach our limit while others looked on in wonder. I share it now because it truly is an art, and I know he would be proud to pass it along to the community of fishermen who can appreciate the art of the cast. I still use this technique today when fishing around bridges and in fast-moving water. It definitely has its place and is well worth learning.