Garcia Mitchell 300 Question

I don't know if age is much of an issue. From the 300's I've seen, not much changed over the years until recently. There are both old Mitchell 300's and Garcia Mitchell 300's. The Garcia Mitchells are older but don't seem to be worth much more. I've bought both over the years and paid about $25.00 - $30.00. Not bad for a reel that will outlive both you and I put together.

I also have a Mitchell C.A.P 304, but know nothing about it. Does anybody know what C.A.P. stands for and old it is?

Matthew Carter 'Fishing with Matt'

I have a CAP (304) from 1962, a 301 from 1965, and a 309 from late 60's, all bought new.

Years ago, I envested in bail return springs for each of them.

They are in constant use and have seen many fresh and saltwater fish on four continents.

Too bad they are not available today.

cheers

I was in error on my first post. The Mitchells are older than the Garcia Mitchells.

I still like the 300 for extreme backwoods fishing. While I normally use a Quantum Energy E-5 nowadays, for fishing where the nearest spare reel is a 5 mile hike away, I use the 300. It is outstanding trustworthy and built like

stand up to.

On the downside, the 300 doesn't come close to the ease of use that the Quantum E-5 has to offer. Just for old times sake, I still take my Mitchell CAP out trout fishing a few times every year.

Matthew Carter 'Fishing with Matt'

I recently acquired a 300 and an extra spool from my dad. I'd like to use a lighter line on the second spool. How do I change the spool? I didn't want to risk breaking anything by prying the current spool off the reel.

Thanks Jeff

Jeff, it's been many years since I had a 300, but on top of the spool there should be a 'knob' that adjusts the tension of the drag. If you loosen it all the way, the top should eventually screw off and then you can pull the spool off. If it doesn't have a 'screw knob', look for a push button instead that when pushed will allow the spool to be removed.