So uh, how does one set drag to certain percentage? Like if I want to set it to 5 lbs, how do I know that it’s at 5 lbs?

Put a 5# weight in a plastic grocery bag. Tie it on your line and GENTLY lift it off the

floor with your rod.  If the drag releases, tighten it up a bit and repeat the lift. I think

you will find that 3# is all you want before stressing the rod.

2 hours ago, zpelletier said:

So uh, how does one set drag to certain percentage? Like if I want to set it to 5 lbs, how do I know that it’s at 5 lbs?

I have fished for 50 years and I couldn’t tell you how many pounds of drag I have ever set.  I just set it based on feel by hand pulling drag depending on the line I’m using.  I’m sure I never get close to a reels maximum drag and am likely lighter than most.  IMO, heavy drag settings are unnecessary and often harmful outside of heavy cover.  There is no telling how many fish are lost at the boat with <10 feet of line out and a fish sees the boat and makes a run.  I take several kayak trips every year to fish for reds and I use light rods with braid to 10 lb fluoro.  It’s great practice and tons of fun.

On 6/30/2022 at 6:33 AM, MN Fisher said:

Nope - doesn't take doing something stupid. Too much bending force on a rod will break it...which is why I cringe every time I see someone flip a big fish

 

This is the exact reason I have my wife using an Ugly-stick GX-2. I too cringe when she lands her fish as the tip looks like a candy cane.