You put it on your thumb when surf casting with a conventional reel and a
heavy weight or lure. It lets you hold the spool until you want to release
it during the cast and also lets you feather the line without burning your
thumb.
"Fred L Adams" wrote in message
...
The nthumb protectors on antique reels are because they have no "drags",
Why
would anybody want one on a modern reel?
Fred

"Ray" wrote in message
...
I know most of the tackle shops on the Outer Banks (NC) sell them.. both
thumb as well as index ones.. they usually are very cheap .. about a
buck..
the last time I bought a few earlier this summer they were .99 cents
each..

try these places on the lower Outer Banks .. they definitely have
them...

Frank & Frans Tackle, Avon, NC .. http://www.hatteras-island.com/
Red Drum Tackle Buxton, NC... http://www.reddrumtackle.com
Frisco Rod and Gun Frisco, NC... http://www.friscorodgun.com/



LD wrote:
I've seen a leather flap that protects your thumb on several old
conventional reels and would like to get one but can't seem to locate.
I
have a few small Penns and a 540 Newell. Any suggestions on where to
find?
LD