Reel Crankie: Under new ownership at Black Hook Tackle
New and Improved Lightweight Reel Crankies Are Here!
Black Hook proudly announces the acquisition of the original Reel Crankie! With its innovative lightweight version, from one of the original owners, Rick Herrick. With their unparalleled quality and functionality, the Crankies are now better than ever!
The Evolution of the Design
The Reel Crankie has been a game-changer in the world of fishing tackle. They're making it easier for anglers to re-spool their lines with ease and efficiency. The new lightweight version enhances the fishing experience, offering superior durability and portability. It's great for deep-dropping for swordfish, snapper, grouper, or other deep-sea fish. The Reel Crankie is the perfect tool to re-spool your reel either at home or on your boat.
The History Behind the Invention
Ever since childhood, Tom Greene and Rick Herrick had been fishing in deep water. Greene remembers, "Growing up we always had to wind spool by hand. My right arm was always bigger than my left."
While fishing in 560 feet of water off the Hillsboro inlet, the idea for an automatic reel spooler was born. Rick Herrick invented the first Reel Crankie in the late 90's. There were other products like it, but the options didn't offer a way to reel in low or high gear.
Greene's experience in fishing was not only local. He recalled, "People would call from around the world asking for advice." With years of knowledge behind him, Greene didn't miss the opportunity when the Ft. Lauderdale inventor Rick Herrick brought him the initial designs. Rick asked, "What do you think about this apparatus?"
"The first prototype showed that it would work on an international drag reel. " Greene said. With his expertise, he instantly saw the potential. Using a drill attached to a reel would make reeling in a line with a 10 lb lead weight a lot easier.
They worked together over two years to match as many drag reels as possible. After initial success, they continued to improve with new rods and reels. Constantly optimizing for ease of use and versatility of the product over many years.
The original website created by Tom Greene and Rick Herrick was innovativefishingtackle.com. Going into the future, you can look no further than here on https://lmrtackle.com/collections/reel-crankie
Into the Future
In mid-2024, Rick Herrick passed the torch to LMR Tackle. The product will continue its legacy of great performance and improvement here. We've already begun research and development to improve the existing models. Notably, the Talica has been re-tooled and internally improved with better raw materials. The Tiagra is also undergoing design and manufacturing improvements.
What Makes Them Different
You don't need another whole fishing rod or stronger arms to reel line in faster and easier.
The Reel Crankie attaches directly to the existing reel handle mechanism. With its quick on-and-off feature, you simply slide it on and rotate the ridged ring to lock it onto the reel. The 15-degree flexible shaft, with a universal-type joint, extends from the drill adapter and attaches to a standard 3/8-inch handheld battery-powered drill. It works like an electric reel spooler but at a lower price and broader versatility.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Reel Crankie
What are they used for?
Re-spooling: It adapts ability to the existing reel handle mechanism. Fishermen will use it for retrieving the line from great depths when fishing for snapper, swordfish, and grouper. They are particularly useful on a boat and in remote destinations away from a local shop. They are great for spooling many reels quickly without hand-cranking.
Can I reel in a fish using the Reel Crankie?
Yes*: You can reel in a fish, but they are made specifically for re-spooling.
Who can benefit from them?
Any Fisherman: The Reel Crankie can be used by any fisherman at any skill level. They are exceptionally helpful for tournaments when a reel needs to be re-spooled after a heavy fish day
and the reel needs to be re-spooled that night
What are they made of?
Aluminum: The tool body is crafted from aircraft-quality 6061 billet aluminum, ensuring lightweight strength.
Are they durable even with salt water?
High Durability: Yes, the Internal hardware is made from corrosion-resistant 303 stainless steel, perfect for both saltwater and freshwater use.
What other names does the Reel Crankie have?
They're also known by, Real Crankie, Reel Canky, or simply Crankies.
What fishing rods do they work with?
Compatibility: Fits Talica 20II, 25II, 50/Speed Master 20 & 25, Tiagra 50 & 80, ensuring one size fits multiple similar model reels from the same maker.
Where can I buy them?
You'll be able to order both online through LMRtackle.com & http://blackhookbiggametacklewholesale.com/ exclusively going forward.
