Abstract: A control system for a fishing line of a fishing rod and a reel with a spool having a fishing line. At least two cooperating dispensing members are arranged about the reel, so that the line emanates from the spool and is positioned between the dispensing members and a cooperating action of the dispensing members dispenses the line. A drag mechanism for providing resistance to dispensing motion of the line is also described. A docking station is provided for the reel. The reel may be specifically adapted to the interchangeable between the fishing rod and the docking station. Also described is a control system which measures the amount of line dispensed or wound in or both and a mechanism for attaching a reel to a rod. A kit for a fishing rod comprising a reel and a docking station is provided.