free-spoolv.
/ˌfriːˈspuːl/, U.S. /ˌfriˈspul/ Angling.
transitive. To put (a fishing reel) on a setting that allows the spool to spin freely; to use or cast (bait) on a line with the reel on this setting. Also intransitive. Cf. free spool n.
ΚΠ
1955 Charleroi (Pa.) Mail 14 Sept. 10/8 Pat suggested that Lou give the fish some line. In fact he free-spooled the reel.
1974 Times-Bull. (Van Wert, Ohio) 15 Oct. 12/3 Using ¾-ounce spoons, the fisherman may jig the trees and brush by free-spooling the spoon to the bottom of the lake.
1989 Sport Fishing Dec.–Jan. 45/3 Weightlifting gloves..offer hand protection when leadering and fingertip sensitivity when tying knots or freespooling.
1990 Salt Water Sportsman Dec. 36/1 One of the baits I was free-spooling was eaten.
2002 Sport Fishing Sept.–Oct. 91/2 Avet reels employ six stainless-steel ball bearings..allowing anglers to free-spool the reel at a full-drag setting.
This is a new entry (OED Third Edition, June 2008; most recently modified version published online March 2022).
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v.1955