There is nothing quite like the feeling of unboxing a high-performance piece of machinery, and the Trika Ti100 Casting Reel is exactly that. It’s an exciting addition to any angler’s arsenal, but to truly unlock its "fantastic" potential, you need to understand its unique, streamlined braking system.
Unlike many reels on the market that require you to pop off the side plate and fiddle with internal pins, the Ti100 keeps everything right at your fingertips. Here is a step-by-step guide to getting yours dialed in for a professional, backlash-free experience.
Step 1: Start from Zero
When you first get the Ti100 out of the box, the external braking dial will likely be set all the way to zero. This is your baseline. Before you make your first cast, you want to ensure your foundational settings—your drag and tension—are exactly where they need to be.
Step 2: Set Your Drag and Tension
Before touching the brakes, follow this sequence:
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Engage the Drag: Tighten your star drag to your preferred resistance. You’ll hear that crisp, satisfying click—that’s the sound of quality.
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Adjust the Tension Knob: Locate the small knob on the side of the reel. On the Ti100, a little goes a long way. Give it a slight adjustment to put just enough tension on the spool to stabilize your lure’s fall.
Step 3: Master the Two-Point Braking System
The beauty of the Ti100 is its simplicity. There are only two external adjustments to manage: the tension knob and the braking dial. There is absolutely nothing inside the reel you need to worry about.
To find your "sweet spot," consider these three variables:
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The Wind: Are you casting into a gust or having it at your back?
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Lure Weight: Are you throwing a heavy jig or a light finesse bait?
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Thumb Control: Do you prefer a "free spool" feel where your thumb does the work, or do you want the reel’s technology to handle the braking for you?
Pro Tip: Start by moving the braking dial up until the spool rotation feels controlled. If you're looking for a "thumb-free" experience, tighten it just enough so the spool stops spinning the moment your lure hits the water.
Performance You Can See
Once the Ti100 is dialed in, the performance is staggering. In our testing, with the braking set just right, we were able to fire a cast out and let it sail, without ever putting a thumb on the spool. No birds-nest, no overrun, just incredible distance.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro who likes a fast spool or a beginner looking for a reel that won't backlash, the Ti100 offers the intricacy and ease of use to make every cast count.
