Do I need a multiplier?

[Sheepy]

I'm planning on doing some beach fishing and currently I only have a fixed spool reel. Is it recommended that I invest in a multiplier for longer casting? I have only ever used a fixed spool reel. Also should I get a tripod?

[5150]

You'll get further with a multiplier, but it takes practice to get the most out of one. I used a fixed spool until I was in my mid teens, having started fishing as a nipper with my dad. I still use a fixed spool on my second rod - not all fish are miles out to sea, its more important to know the area you are fishing and find the holes the fish will be in. Even if I take only one rod I still have a FS as a backup reel in case I get a bad birds nest on the multiplier. So in other words, no you don't need a multiplier for the beach - my brother is in his 50's and has never ever used a multiplier.

Tripod - personal choice, if you don't use one then you need to hold the rod, no big deal if you're moving around a lot but if the fishing is slow then it's a chore. 3x 6' lengths of timber about 3/4 - 1" square and a couple of bolts w/nuts and washers will make you a cheap tripod in about 5 minutes. Failing that even cheaper is 3 lengths of 6' bamboo cane and some string to bind them.

[Kentish Bassman]

A fixed spool reel matched with a suitably balanced rod in the hands of even a relatively novice angler can still achieve distances that will put you in with a good chance of catching. It is not always necessary to hit the horizon to get fish.
If you look in the angling press they publish details of casting tournaments and although most people use multipliers, several people are casting some stunning distances with a fixed spool. It`s all about practice, so don`t give up on your FS just yet. Get some time on the beach and give it a go, you might be pleasantly surprised. One last thing, a multiplier is also quite a bit more expensive than most decent fixed spools, so if the budget is a bit tight, like mine, I would stick with what you`ve got for now.
As for a tripod, I always use one, but they`re not a must have item, it depends a lot on where and when you are fishing.

[PaulGH]

I've recently made the step from Fixed Spool to Multiplier and I wouldn't go back for most shore fishing personally.

Many shore anglers are guilty of assuming a fixed spool reel can't cast anywhere near as far as a multiplier, this assumption comes from seeing anglers using fixed spool reels not being able to cast as far as anglers using multipliers. This missing the point that many of these fixed spool anglers are novices who regardless of reel wouldn't be able to cast very far.

The difference in fixed spool and multiplier records is only marginal, though the multiplier has the edge.
Really the answer is no you don't 'need' a multiplier, it's a person preference thing to be honest.

If you really want to be able to throw a bait with a fixed spool, take a look at some of the trigger gadgets or finger protectors).

[fishfinder]

NWSA - North Western Surfcasting Association
If your just fishing beaches mate save your pennies and practice casting with what you have!
You cant put a price on good technique where casting is concerned and no multiplier will give you extra distance if your castings not up to much in the first place!!!
As for a tripod I would invest in one or as 5150 says make one

[fishfinder]

The distances are in yards btw I know these are top casters and 260 yards with a 5oz weight is for most unrealistic but with a bit practice 200yards is achievable ..

[Jimbob]

Its like going from an automatic to manual car - you would not go back and once you get the hang of it you will notice performance increases.

I would start off with an easy multiplier e.g. the new 7ht mag or abu 6500 mag. They are quite forgiving.

[phill_itofish]

Its like going from an automatic to manual car - you would not go back and once you get the hang of it you will notice performance increases.

I would start off with an easy multiplier e.g. the new 7ht mag or abu 6500 mag. They are quite forgiving.

I'd go with a okuma mag mate, very nicley priced and if you put the breaks on full you should manage not to nest it.

[mick dunn]

Some people and i mean adults struggle to use multiplyers. Personally i much prefer them.
I did have a FS as a spare for a while but sold it on e-bay for a fiver.

Mick.

[whitey123]

hey mate
ive been using a multiplyer since i was 12 and now im 17, they are harder to use but if you know someone who can show you how to go on with it then you should be ok,
its just practise realy
good luk mate

[jimmy]

as whitey says mate,if you want to get a multiplier,get someone to show you how to go on with it as it is totally different to a F/S,casting wise,braking,setting up etc

[Lowrider]

Trouble is,and i have said this before,i think we often get hung up on the idea that a multi is a must.
I don't agree,for light beach fishing i think a decent F/S is ample.

[jimmy]

Trouble is,and i have said this before,i think we often get hung up on the idea that a multi is a must.
I don't agree,for light beach fishing i think a decent F/S is ample.

i would definately agree with you there Paul mate.at the end of the day its what you feel comfortable fishing with

[Lowrider]

Yep and i always feel that a F/S in the early days allows you to focus on your casting without being overly concerned with the reel.
Getting the cast right will also mean that if you do switch to a multi then you should have less problems.