Previous Model FAQs

ARE GEN 2 SPOOLS INTERCHANGEABLE WITH GEN 1 FINATIC FRAMES?

Yes, all Gen 2 spools have the same dimensions as Gen 1 spools and are interchangeable in all sizes.

HOW DO I TAKE APART MY FINATIC REEL?

Locate the spool nut on the reel (cap at the center of the spool with the reel size engraved in bold text). Turn counter clockwise to back out the spool nut. The nut is press fit with a retainer clip to keep it from falling off the spool even when backed out completely. Pull the spool off the frame to take apart your Hatch reel.

HOW DO I SWITCH FROM LEFT TO RIGHT HAND RETRIEVE?

Please refer to our online video tutorial for step by step instructions.

HOW CAN I TELL WHICH WAY IT IS SET TO, LHR VS RHR?

Turn the drag knob clockwise to engage the drag system. Grip the spool handle and turn the spool against the drag. If in LHR, the drag will be engaged when the spool is turned in clockwise rotation. If in RHR, the drag will be engaged when the spool is turned in counter-clockwise rotation.

I RECEIVED AN ALLEN KEY IN THE BOX. WHAT DO I USE IT FOR?

Hatch uses a standard sized allen key to remove the set screw on the frame and release the drag canister. Remove the drag canister to switch the retrieve or perform deep cleaning (see instructions below).

HOW CAN I CLEAN MY REEL? (BEST PRACTICES FOR KEEPING IT IN GOOD CONDITION)

Hatch recommends removing the spool from the frame and rinsing your reel with freshwater after each use in saltwater. To thoroughly remove salt residue from the line and backing, we recommend moving tap water only. Do not soak your Hatch reel or let it sit in still water.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD I SEND IN MY REEL FOR MAINTENANCE?

Maintenance is minimal for Hatch reels, most procedures can be accomplished by the angler following the instructions above. Should the reel become dysfunctional in any way, please send it in with our Repair Form included and we will fix up your reel within 6-8 weeks of receiving it.

DO I NEED TO REMOVE MY DRAG?

You should never need to remove your drag from your reel. If you experience any issues, please send your reel in with our Repair Form included and we will fix up your reel within 6-8 weeks of receiving it.

MY REEL DOESN’T SEEM TO BE WORKING PROPERLY, WHAT DO I DO?

Please contact our Repair Department at service@hatchoutdoors.com for further instruction. If repairs are needed, you must fill out the online Repair Form and send in reel with paperwork. Shipping/Handling fees will be required. 

BACKING CAPACITY—DO I NEED THAT MUCH?

Hatch backing recommendations are based on a floating line installation and are given in yardage lengths. Our capacities are generous for most fishing situations because, let’s face it, do you really want to run out of backing? For unique line installations, spey lines, extra thick floating lines etc., please give us a call for our recommendation.

I DON’T UNDERSTAND WHAT MID AND LARGE ARBOR IS?

Hatch offers a mid and large arbor spool in 3 Plus through 12 Plus. Our goal is to make each reel size as versatile as possible with multiple line types. Both spools are the same widths, allowing them to interchange on the same frame. The depths of the spools are different. Our mid arbor spools are approximately ¼” deeper than the large arbor to allow for more room when installing thicker fly lines.

WHAT IS COVERED BY THE HATCH WARRANTY?

All Hatch reels are carefully inspected to assure product consistency and quality, and are guaranteed against manufacturer’s defects in materials and craftsmanship for the life of the product by its original owner. Any defective Hatch product will be repaired or replaced (at our option) at no charge for parts and labor. This warranty does not cover damage caused by accident, misuse, or modification. Register your Hatch product today!

I HAVE AN OLDER HATCH REEL, WILL THE FINATIC SPOOL FIT ON MY FRAME?

We made all Finatic Gen 2 spools and frames interchangeable with every Hatch model made after 2007, including the Finatic, Monsoon & Pulse. Our very first reels in 2005-06 were made with a different dimension. If you have an early model Monsoon, Cyclone, Typhoon, or Squall Hatch reel that says 56 or 78 on the spool nut, it will not fit with the Finatic Spools.