Ive always used an 808 for fishing. Ive considered a retriever but have a question. Does the line, ever get knotted up in the bottle? If I get one, should I be concerned with posible line tangle? I assume its not an issue, because so many people are using them. I know when line sets in a pile, it always finds a way to tangle up, so it leads me to being a little leary.

Ever? Yes, sometimes. Wet the line before you shoot it. (just toss the arrow out and reel it back in) Silcone spray (reel magic) will help too.

I have less line problems with my retriever than the guys using spincasts.

Guys who are used to using spincasts often have trouble switching over to the retriever. It's a different animal. Takes some getting used to.

Would it be similar to a drum? I started with the old bear drum back in the early 80s.

It's 433x better than a drum. Almost 434x.

The biggest difference I see people having with the retriever is that it's much more difficult to 'reel' fish in with it. I have a line guide on mine so I can do it with fish up to 15lbs. Without the line guide, you almost have to pull the line/fish in by hand and then reel up the slack. Sounds more difficult than it is... but it does annoy the guys used to using a spincast.

On the other hand, a retriever should last for ten years. I know guys that bust a spincast in one outing.

I have one and every once in a while tyou will get a knot up. But as said just toss your arrow in the water before starting and I rarely have a problem with a retriever. But if you go with a spinner make sure you buy several...lol

Don't do it Burnie.....................don't give up on the 808[8D]


I tried the bottle............once

I have to say I can't stand it. I had used an 808 for a while and maybe thats why it was so difficult for me. Just my two cents

It will take a bit to get used to. But I still have my retriever from 10 years ago and still works great, I only replaced the rubber wheel and line, that is about it.. You will never find a spinner that has been used that long and still being used now. Try the retriever and save yourself money also.

Ive used the 808 since 1986 and never had a problem. ive just seen lots of retrievers and thought, "what the heck, i should try one". I guess i dont need to switch from what has always worked for me.

Still have me retriever as well, I had the opposite problems couldn't stand a spincast but love the retriever