Centerpin (also: center-pin)
A reel design that spins freely on a single central shaft, used with long rods (12-15 ft) to deliver a drag-free drift down a river current. The dominant Great Lakes steelhead technique for float fishing.
Centerpin reels have no drag mechanism — line pays out under the weight of the float and current alone. The angler controls speed by lightly fingering the reel rim ("trotting"). Setup pairs a 13 ft centerpin rod with a fixed float, split-shot, and a single hook (or jig) baited with eggs, beads, or flies. Centerpin's advantage over spinning gear is the long, drag-free presentation; its disadvantage is the learning curve. Most popular on Pennsylvania and Ohio Alley tribs where consistent float-fishing pressure has made trout educated to drag.
