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The wire arm that guides the line onto the spool during casting and retrieval.
A cap covering the screw that secures the handle knob.
The part of the handle that the user grips to reel in line.
The crank arm used to rotate the spool and retrieve fishing line.
The shaft connecting the reel body to the handle.
The cylindrical part that holds the fishing line.
The adjustable knob controlling the drag system's tension.
A small clip on the reel body to secure the fishing line.
The rotating assembly that controls the bail wire and line pickup.
An additional spool, typically with a shallower line capacity.
Instructions for properly loading monofilament, fluorocarbon, or braided fishing line onto the reel spool.
Guidance on configuring the reel handle for right or left-handed operation.
Steps for setting the correct drag tension for optimal fishing performance.
Explanation of the fundamental method for casting with the spinning reel.
Recommendations for cleaning, lubricating, and servicing the reel to ensure peak efficiency.
The Abu Garcia Zenon spinning reel is an advanced fishing reel designed for serious anglers, offering a combination of A-SYM (asymmetric) body design, ultra-lightweight materials, and precision engineering. It is a preferred choice for professionals on the tournament circuit, fishing guides, record-seeking experts, and anglers who demand high performance and reliability from their equipment. The Zenon spinning reel is available in two sizes, 20 and 30, making it suitable for light line finesse applications.
The primary function of the Abu Garcia Zenon spinning reel is to facilitate casting and retrieving fishing lines, allowing anglers to present lures or bait effectively and reel in fish. The reel's design focuses on smooth operation, durability, and ease of use, ensuring a reliable fishing experience.
Handle Assembly: The Zenon spinning reel is designed for ambidextrous use, allowing for both right and left-handed operation. To convert the handle, unscrew it by rotating it counter-clockwise. A copper coin can be used to unscrew and remove the handle knob cover on the opposite side of the reel. Once the cover is removed, the handle can be inserted into the desired side of the reel and rotated clockwise until it is firmly seated. The handle knob cover is then reinstalled on the opposite side. This flexibility ensures comfort and adaptability for all anglers.
Drag Adjustment: The drag system is crucial for controlling the tension on the fishing line when a fish is hooked, preventing line breakage. The amount of drag is adjusted by turning the dial located on the top of the spool. Rotating the dial clockwise increases the drag, while turning it counter-clockwise decreases it. For optimal performance, the drag should be set to approximately one-third of the breaking test of the line being used, with the exception of braided lines which may require different settings. To achieve precise adjustment, it is recommended to attach the reel to a rod, pass the line through the rod guides, and then tie the line to a spring scale. While maintaining tension, wind the reel handle and observe the scale reading. The drag should always release before the line reaches its breaking point. If a spring scale is unavailable, the line can be tied to a secure point, and with the rod tip held at a 45-degree vertical angle, pressure can be applied by turning the handle. The drag adjusting knob should be gradually tightened until the line approaches its breaking point, then loosened by a quarter turn. Factors such as line type, fishing technique, and environmental conditions may necessitate different drag settings. Any drag setting exceeding half of the line strength risks line breakage.
Filling the Spool with Line: The Zenon spinning reels are compatible with monofilament, braided, and fluorocarbon lines, allowing anglers to choose based on personal preference and fishing conditions.
Mono and Fluorocarbon Lines: To fill the spool, first attach the reel to a rod and thread the line through the rod guides. Lift the bail wire to open the bail. Secure the line to the reel using a spool axle knot. Pull the line tight around the reel spool. To control the filler spool, insert a pencil into the spool hub. While maintaining tension on the line, wind the reel handle until the spool is filled to approximately 1/16" (1.5 mm) inside the upper lip of the reel spool. It is important not to overfill the spool.
Braided Line: Zenon spinning reels feature a unique reverse corkscrew spool design that allows braided line to be tied directly to the spool without the need for a monofilament backing. The spool axle knot is used to attach the line. Before tightening the loop, twist and pass it over the spool two additional times, then pull the loop tight. Fill the spool with line to approximately 1/16” (1.5 mm) inside the upper lip of the reel spool, similar to mono and fluorocarbon lines, ensuring not to overfill.
Basic Casting Technique: To cast, capture the line between your forefinger and the rod. Open the bail arm on the reel. Bring the rod backward so that the tip reaches a point above and behind your shoulder. Without pausing, bring the rod back in front of your body in a single motion. Release the line as the rod is brought forward, allowing the lure to launch slightly upward and outward toward your target.
Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the longevity and peak performance of your Zenon spinning reel.
Cleaning and Lubrication: After each use, gently rinse the reel with fresh water and wipe it dry. Lubricate the reel according to the accompanying diagram, which indicates the specific oil and grease points. This routine cleaning and lubrication will help prevent corrosion and maintain smooth operation.
Seasonal Maintenance: At least once per season, the reel should be disassembled for a thorough cleaning and re-lubrication. An exploded parts view, typically supplied with the reel, can guide this process. Reel maintenance kits, which include all necessary items for servicing your reel, can be purchased at local tackle stores. If you prefer not to perform this work yourself, an authorized Abu Garcia Service Center is fully qualified to handle the maintenance.
Warranty Information: The Abu Garcia Zenon spinning reel comes with a one-year limited warranty for USA and Canada, effective for goods manufactured on or after December 31, 1976. This warranty covers defects in material or workmanship, with Abu Garcia® offering repair or replacement at its option, free of charge except for shipping costs. The warranty does not cover damage resulting from additions or alterations to the product, accidental damage, loss, abuse, failure to provide reasonable and necessary maintenance, or normal wear and tear. Damage determined to be of this nature will be repaired at the consumer's expense. The warranty does not extend to products used for commercial or rental purposes and is valid only for the original purchaser of the reel. It is important to note that Abu Garcia® rods or reels requiring warranty repair should not be returned to the store of purchase. For service information, customers are directed to a specific link.
General| Category | Baitcasting Reel |
|---|---|
| Model | ZENON |
| Bearing Count | 10+1 |
| Spool Material | Aluminum |
| Handle Side | Right |
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