DereKL

Thanks guys. To clarify, I am familiar with how baitcasters work because I have done a lot of research on them before buying one. I am an engineer, so you know all of the stereotypes that go along with that. So... The drag is not the issue, the tensions are all set correctly, and the line is not spinning on the spool because I used backing and spooled the line personally using a professional line spooler. To me, it doesn't seem like it's an issue with the reel as much as maybe it's my technique or something, since it works flawlessly until I hook a fish. Does anyone have experience with a longer handles? Could it need some lube?

Hi all, I have used a spinner reel my entire life. I recently decided to try a baitcaster because most of the higher end frogging rods only come in a baitcasting model. I bought a middle of the road reel ($150, Pflueger Supreme XT, 7.1:1). I LOVE the reel. I can cast a mile and it retrieves fast. However, I took it out for the first time tonight, and the first fish I hooked (5.5 lb largemouth), I couldn't reel it in. I'm not sure if it's my reeling technique (since I've used spinning reel my whole life, larger spinning diameter since the handle is longer) or the reel, but as soon as I have a fish on the other end, I cant seem to get the handle around. I flail as I try to spin the handle, and it feels like it's somewhat binding as the handle jarringly spins. Has this happened to other people? And how do I fix this? Do I need to buy a reel or aftermarket handle that is longer? Also, I'm using 40 braid, which the reel can easily hold. Any help would be much appreciated since if have a $350 setup and I can't seem to reel a fish in with it!