Anyone  know the method for measuring the drag on a reel by using a scale? I've heard of this but don't have a clue how to do it. Thanks.  

You can measure drag direct by tying your line to the scale,

but that's really a two man job. The easiest way to do it

yourself is by putting free weights in a plastic grocery bad

and tying the bag to your line.

With the tip of your rod GENTLY lift the bag. The weight

should be 25% - 30% of the stated strength of the line as long

as that is within the stated parameters of the rod. So, for 12 lb

test line, 3  to 4 lbs. I think you will find that 3 lbs is about the

most you will want based on the stress this will put on your rod.

Once you have your drag measured, pull some line to get a "feel"

for the setting. It is not necessary to repeat this often, although I

think it's fun! From a practical standpoint, you only need to do this

once with a new rig.

8-)

Thanks Roadwarrior, I think I'll try the weight method first.

You can measure drag direct by tying your line to the scale,

but that's really a two man job. The easiest way to do it

yourself is by putting free weights in a plastic grocery bad

and tying the bag to your line.

With the tip of your rod GENTLY lift the bag. The weight

should be 25% - 30% of the stated strength of the line as long

as that is within the stated parameters of the rod. So, for 12 lb

test line, 3 to 4 lbs. I think you will find that 3 lbs is about the

most you will want based on the stress this will put on your rod.

Once you have your drag measured, pull some line to get a "feel"

for the setting. It is not necessary to repeat this often, although I

think it's fun! From a practical standpoint, you only need to do this

once with a new rig.

8-)

Do you mean use a 3lb. weight if I 12lb. test? BTW, I have 10lb. test (Braid).

The weight

should be 25% - 30% of the stated strength of the line as long

as that is within the stated parameters of the rod. So, for 12 lb

test line, 3  to 4 lbs. I think you will find that 3 lbs is about the

most you will want based on the stress this will put on your rod.

Do you mean use a 3lb. weight if I 12lb. test? BTW, I have 10lb. test (Braid).

Yes.

2.5lbs is 25% of 10.  You might want to go a little lighter though.

Braid has so little stretch that the shock load of a hookset could easily pop the 10 lb test if the drag is too tight.