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I also have been a backreeler for close to 30 years,probably from going through a bunch of Mitchell 301 reels. This has saved me quite a few fish which I might have lost to a tight drag from a hit in close to shore/boat,including a 30lb musky on 10lb mono.Alot of times I will cast with the reverse off,it's just something that takes getting used to.
I believe I remember even seeing Bob Izumi using this technique on one of his fishing shows a few years ago.
I will usually just palm the handle if I have a big fish take off to ensure the spool doesn't overrun itself and create a ball of mono-garbage.
Thanks, John

Well after losing a nice pike at the boat yesterday due to a poor drag setting I see now that I should start utilizing the backreeling technique. A new technique to learn.. looks like another good reason to get out fishing!