Named after the state where it was first manufactured and popularized, the Indiana reel was conceived with a dual purpose. It would function as both a line dryer (for the silk and linen lines used at the time) and as a casting reel. It served both functions well, and was also employed as a trolling reel. The first Indiana reel patent was granted to C.D. Rider on December 1st, 1908 - the most recent to A.L. Thomson on April 4th, 1967. The Indiana reel has been found in many shapes and sizes, but the basic design is that of a large diameter, single action reel with radial arms, which is sidemounted on a rod. It has been affectionately known as a line dryer reel, a Star reel, a Ferris reel and a true "Knucklebuster". Having origins that date back to the 12th century, the Indiana style reel was perhaps the easiest to produce "at home", spawning unique designs and construction from fishermen looking to build a better and cheaper mousetrap. As a result, some of the most interesting Indiana style reels are "one of a kind" or "folk art" reels, and are some of my favorites. I have had lots of help putting this collection together, and would like to thank folks like John Mack, Tom Harwood, Randy Nelson, Larry "Young'n" Moellman and a host of others for allowing me to add reels like the ones you see below.
Click on any photo for a larger view
S. L. Kuntz & Rare Box
D & T Spider & Rare Box
National Specialties Adjustable Reel & Rare Box(s)
O.K. Machine Works Reel & Boxes
Peters Line-Drying Reel & Rare Box
Marc Reel & Box
Shakespeare Hoosier & Box
Benson Reel & Rare Box
Kelly Patent (early) With Fitted Case
Boyer Winona & Box
Rider Reels
Benson Reel
Master Casting Reel - The Bicycle Sales Co., Canada
Blee Design Patent Reel
Boyer DeLuxe Winona & Box
Dietzel Reel (Reelfoot Lake Area, TN)
Hardworth Reel (early)
Kelly Patent (early)
The "Easy Reel Co." Reel
Frank Adams Electric Reel
N. Fries & Alumag Reels & Boxes
Giant Unknown Reel (Musky Size)
Goite Fly Reels - Very Scarce
Goite Fly Reels - back view
Various Goite Reels & Boxes
Various Heddon Winona Reels & Boxes
Jefferies Patent Reel
Wawasee - Creek Chub Reel
Kelly Patent - 6 Spoke w/ wire guides
Kelly Patent - 6 Spoke
Kelly Patent - Nickel Plated 6 Spoke
Easy Cast Reel
Kenward Reel
Kiest Reel & Box
S.L. Kuntz Patent Model
Marc Reel Variations
Southworth Reel
Miller Magnetic Reels & Boxes
Micro-Motor Reel
N.S. Adjustable Reels
O.K. Machine Works Reel
Pekin Reel
Peters Line-Drying Reel
Peters Line-Drying Reel - Variation
Rinebolt Reels
S. L. Kuntz Reel
Shakespeare Hoosier
Snyder Reel
"Thumb" Reel
Tiny Unknown & Musky Reel
Tiny Unmarked Reel
Unknown Maker #1
Unknown Maker #2
Unknown Maker #3
Unknown Maker #4
Unknown Maker #5
Unknown Maker #6
Unknown Maker #7
Unknown Maker #7 - Side View
Unknown Maker #8
Unknown Maker #9
Unknown Maker #10
Unknown Maker #11
Unknown Maker #12
Unknown Maker #13
Unknown Maker #14
Unknown Maker #15
Unknown Maker #16
Unknown Maker #17
Unknown Maker #18
Unknown Maker #19
Unknown Maker #20
Unknown Maker #21 (very small reel)
Unknown Maker #22
Unknown Maker #23
Unknown Maker #24 (small reel)
Unknown Maker #25
Unknown Maker #26
Unknown Maker #27
Unknown Maker #28
Unknown Maker #29
Unknown Maker #30
Unknown Maker #31
Unknown Maker #32 & #33
Unmarked Micro-Motor Reel
Unusual Hardworth Marked Reel With Benson Arms
Unusual Virginia Reel
Keen Kaster - Ravena Metal Works
Willoughby Reel (Plastic)
I'm always interested in adding reels to my collection. If you have a reel you'd like to discuss, trade or sell please feel free to e-mail me at Jim@sidemountreels.com
