An old fishing reel in good condition will always have a better use on the lake rather than in a box. An old fishing reel will often work well with modern rods, but if it has any sentimental or monetary value than think twice before you use it.

Nothing can dampen a fishing trip like wet waders from the previous outing. Take a look at The Field’s advice on how to dry your waders. And if you’ve had a particuarly fruitful trip, fish for supper is a must. Read how to scale a fish to get it hooked, caught and eaten all in the same day.

QUERY: I was looking through a box of my great-grandfather’s fishing reels and came across one in good condition. It weighs 10oz and has Seajecta written on the back. Any information would be helpful. Would it be possible to use an old fishing reel with a modern fly rod? If so, which type?
RJM, Herts

HOW TO USE AN OLD FISHING REEL

Sportfish suggests that this reel was made by Grice and Young in Hampshire, which mostly made budget reels but also some nice ones, mostly for coarse-fishing. If the reel is a salmon reel and functioning correctly there is no reason why it cannot be used with any 14ft to 15ft double-handled rod. If the reel has sentimental or monetary value Sportfish would be reluctant to encourage use of it. Victor Bonutto of Antique Fishing Tackle explained that Grice and Young was an engineering company in Hampshire but had a factory in Luton. It was known for its centrepin and sea-fishing reels, made of stainless steel and brass to a basic pattern. Yours would probably suit with most rods.

For further information, send a photograph with diameter and width of your reel, to Antique Fishing Tackle, 35 South Road, Sully, Penarth, South Glamorgan CF64 5SJ or email it to.