Hi guys I have been reading the thread with great interest, Ive been using a pin now for over 30 years, and as many has said you buy the pin to suit yourself, I still use my old Rapidex & Trudex on occassions. As john has said they are becoming a fashion item now, but half dont even know how to use them, at times Ive spent over an hour trying to show an angler on the bank how to use them properly. As its been already said the line comes off the reel whichever way suits you, personally I prefer the top of the reel. I have a leeds reel and used it with effect for over 2 years but was then able to afford a descent aerial, you get what you pay for. At the moment Im using an old 4 1/2 allcocks aerial reel which I picked up at leyburn auction for £90, I payed £20 for a service and it works perfectly well for what I want it for which is trotting on rivers. If a leeds is all you can afford to start then use it but take away all the tips from above, you will love trotting with a pin
