Multiple issues can create a loss in casting distance.
Bearings, line lay, spool capacity, and cleanliness are the most common factors that can contribute to this.
The three bearings used for casting need to be properly lubricated during routine maintenance to provide a smooth cast as well as reducing bearing noise. One drop of reel oil at a time needs to be applied to the palm side cover bearing (107), the spool shaft bearing (89), and the tension bearing (55). Over lubrication of these bearings causes hydraulic pressure within the bearing and will slow the reel down. The proper technique is to apply one drop of oil to the bearings then test cast the reel. If the bearing has to be oiled more than two times and problems still persist, it is recommended the reel needs to be sent to a repair technician.
On occasion, backlashes that are not properly cleaned out could cause a dramatic loss in distance. After a backlash is cleaned out, cast the reel. Before retrieving look at the line on the spool and see if the line is underneath itself. If so, continue to strip line off the spool until it is cleared out.
Spool capacity plays an even bigger role. Line should be spooled to about 1/16 to 1/8 of the beveled edge on the sides of the spool. Over time through changing baits, normal use, and cleaning out backlashes, the line will decrease in capacity over time. A full spool has more line circumference and therefore more line is casted out. If a spool is halfway filled, there will be a loss of half the casting distance if not more.
Cleanliness is the last culprit. When the spool is removed from the reel, pay close attention to the areas where the sides of the spool rests in the frame of the reel. These are called the raceways. A normal household cleanser can be used along with a tooth brush to clean these areas. Dry completely, and apply a miniscule amount of reel oil to a cotton swab. Wipe the cotton swab around the raceway areas just to lubricate them very minimally. The tension washers in the reel will attract normal fishing buildup over time. There is one located under the palm side cover bearing, and also in the tension cap itself (57). Simply remove any buildup with a cotton swab.
Improper centrifugal brake settings on Lew’s reels will also cause a loss of distance. Dual braking systems consist of a four pin centrifugal system, while the BB1 series uses a six pin setup. When the pins are clicked in toward the center of the spool, the brakes are off. When clicked out, they are on. The brakes that are on rest about halfway in their channel until the reel is casted. Factory settings on the four pin system are 2 pins on and 2 pins off. The BB1 series settings are: 3/16 to ½ ounce baits – 4 white pins on. 5/8 to 1 ounce baits – 2 pins on and 2 pins off. If the blue brakes are turned on, they will remain on throughout the entirety of the cast. Make sure to inspect the braking pins during routine maintenance for any sign of debris or obstruction. Lastly, the brass raceway in the palm side cover should be cleaned with an evaporative solvent, then lubricated with one drop of oil on a cotton swab. If any of these troubleshoots do not remedy the problems, please call 417-522-1093 for service inquiries.
Lures
-For most people, any lure less than 3/8 oz is going to be hard to throw
-Lures with high air resistance (spinnerbaits, buzzbaits, etc.) won't throw as well as small compact baits ( lipless crankbaits, jigs, etc.)
Rods
-Every rod has a suggested lure weight on it. Trying to use baits that are heavier or lighter than the rod is rated for won't load the rod effectively during the cast. This will negatively affect casting distance.
Line level
-The spool should be filled to just below the bevel at the rim of the spool. If the line level is too low, casting distance will be reduced. This is because less line will be pulled off per spool revolution.
Cast control cap adjustment AKA drop test
-Tighten the cast control cap (#57) until tight.
-Tie bait to line
-Hold rod parallel to ground and disengage as if to cast
-Slowly loosen cast control cap until bait slowly pulls line from spool
Brake adjustment