Angling On The Go

Rodless fishing tools, like the GoReel pictured here, can catch a variety of river fish. 

An inventive device that makes a fishing trip less cumbersome has hit the market in Western North Carolina and beyond. Crystal Creek Gear Company, owned by Mike McKearin, has introduced GoReel, a rodless fishing device that’s pocket friendly and compatible for use in inland and ocean waters.

“Growing up in Delaware and Ohio, I was deeply immersed in the world of fishing from an early age, thanks to my dad, who was a sporting goods rep for major fishing companies,” McKearin explains. “This early exposure fostered my passion for fishing, making me a lifelong enthusiast.”

McKerin eventually moved to WNC, earning degrees from Brevard College, and furthering his love for the outdoors. Now married, and the father of four, he strives to get his family on adventures whenever possible.

Mike McKearin (left) holds the GoReel. Fishing line is twisted around the outside of the spinning reel and tossed to cast off.

“The idea for our GoReel began as a fun project for me and my kids in our garage,” he recalls. “We were looking for an easy and fast way to enjoy fishing with children, which led us to experiment with creating our own version of a hand reel. Using a 3D printer, we started designing and producing GoReels at my house. While out on a family fishing trip, others noticed our products and asked where they could get one, sparking the realization that there was broader interest beyond our immediate family.”

McKearin acknowledges that reel fishing has been used by different cultures for centuries, but he has modernized the concept using 21st century technology. “The GoReel is a versatile and effective tool for a wide range of fishing environments and target species, including trout, bass, sunfish, and even surf fishing,” he explains.

Crystal Creek Gear currently offers three different models of the GoReel on the market—River, Lake, and Pond—and plans to launch a Surf edition soon. While all the reels have the same design, the line and tackle are customized for its intended environment. Each reel kit comes with 60 feet of braided fishing line, hooks, and specialty lures. 

Bait and tackle is stored inside the GoReel.

Without a rod, anglers must use both hands to cast off. By holding the reel with their non-dominant hand, the fisher can use their dominant hand to throw the line into the water; once a fish is hooked, it can be pulled in with the reel—although it may take some practice first. The company’s website has a helpful video with step-by-step instructions for visual learners.

Crystal Creek Gear is expanding in other areas as well, including a compact first-aid kit called the GoAid and a circular slingshot known as the GoShot. 

Crystal Creek Gear
(828) 283-0766; crystalcreekgear.com