Abstract: A bait cast fishing reel includes electronic timing circuitry for controlling deceleration of the spool thereof, about which fishing line is wound and playing out. The spool is mechanically released and the timing circuitry is activated by the pressing of a control button. When a casting sequence is commenced, the timing control allows the spool to first rotate freely for a preselected period of time. A second phase of the timing circuitry then applies a spool braking mechanism for a preselected time period. At the completion of this second period, the timing circuitry again releases the spool for manual braking by thumb pressure. Rewinding the spool resets the timing circuitry for the next cast, and disconnects power from the circuitry.