While shopping for a new baitcaster, I noticed that several reels publish how much "drag" the reel has. Why would this be important and what does it mean? All the reels I've owned have an ajustable drag, so why would I pay more for a reel with a higher rated drag?

Old Golf, may I suggest reposting this query in the Fishing Rods and Reels section?

It is not a topic for Southeast Bass Fishing and you will receive more replies.

While shopping for a new baitcaster, I noticed that several reels publish how much "drag" the reel has. Why would this be important and what does it mean? All the reels I've owned have an ajustable drag, so why would I pay more for a reel with a higher rated drag?

The drag is still adjustable, but you just have more drag power when tightened down all the way. A 10 lb drag system will theoretically take 10 lbs of force before it starts stripping line, whereas a 24 lb system would take 24 lbs of force before it starts stripping line. Of course this is only with the drag tightened down as tight as it will go, otherwise you can set either system to 8lbs or 5lbs or whatever you like. The advantages of having a stronger drag is so that you can tighten it down to haul fish out of heavy cover with big line without slipping. Also, it is good for frogs in thick grass to keep their heads turned your way and coming to the boat.

10-12 lbs of drag is sufficient for bass fishing. Too tight of a drag can result in undue stress on the rod,reel,line and knots etc.

The drag on a reel helps protect your line. When you set a drag to 8 lbs, it takes about 8 lbs of force to pull line off the spool. Before the the line reaches its breaking point, the drag lets line out. This helps keep your line from breaking under pressure. With a higher drag pressure, you can fish high strength braided lines and really "winch" the fish out of heavy cover, something which is more difficult with lighter drag settings.