Level wind mechanism

The present invention relates to a bait casting fishing reel and, more particularly, to an improved level wind mechanism forming a part of a bait casting reel. A fishing reel with side walls includes a spool shaft rotatably supported therebetween and a level wind comprising a line guide having an eyelet therewith through which the fishing line is threaded. The spool shaft supports a spool that holds the fishing line. The level wind comprises a multiple-part transverse shaft rotatably secured between the side walls in front of the spool. The transverse shaft is adapted to be rotated by the driving gear, and is formed with a single continuous helical thread along the length thereof extending approximately 180° along the length of the shaft in a first direction and the approximately 180° along the shaft in the opposite direction. The threaded portion of the shaft is engaged by a pawl carried by the line guide.