The only time I ever have seen the backreel used effectively is when you are fishing with livebait. It allows you to let the fish run with the bait for several seconds and still maintain a feel for the fish prior to setting the hook ensurig the fish has your bait in its mouth. Mind you as soon as you do set the hook I ussually turn the back-reel off. Also I use this strategy allot less now as it can result in guthooks quite easily.