How to Replace a Fishing Line on a Zebco 202

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Zebco produces several different models of fishing reels suitable for use in both fresh and salt water conditions. However, spin-cast reels are what Zebco is perhaps most well known for. For many years, Zebco has produced spin-cast reels that have helped introduce thousands of youths to the sport of fishing while also helping anglers catch countless fish. The Zebco 202 features an ABS housing, 2.7:1 gear ratio and star drag adjustment. Although the reel comes spooled with 75 yards of 10-lbs test mono filament line, it may be necessary to replace the line as a result of normal use.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Zebco 202 spin cast reel
10-lbs test mono filament line
Scissors

Step 1

Remove the spool cover from the front of the reel. Turn the cover to the left and pull straight out from the reel to remove it.

Step 2

Press the spool release button at the rear of the reel to disengage the line pick-up pin. This will allow the line to spool off and onto the reel more easily.

Step 3

Remove the old mono-filament fishing line from the spool and place in a mono-filament fishing line recycling container. Use a pair of scissors to cut the line loose from the spool if necessary.

Step 4

Thread the free, or tag, end of the new fishing line through the hole in the spool cover. Wrap the line around the spool of the reel so that 5 to 6 inches of line extends past the spool.

Step 5

Attach the line to the spool with an Arbor knot. Form an overhand loop with the tag end of the line so that the loop goes around the main line. Tie another overhand knot, with only the tag end, just below the first knot.

Step 6

Moisten the knot slightly, pull the knots down securely around the spool, and trim any excess from the tag end of the knot with scissors.

Step 7

Place the spool cover on the front of the reel. Turn the handle of the reel to engage the line pick-up pin and begin winding line onto the reel. It will be necessary to apply a slight amount of tension to the line in front of the reel so that the line will wind properly.

Tips & Warnings

The Zebco 202 is designed to hold 75 yards of 10-lbs test mono-filament line.

Article Written By Keith Dooley

Keith Dooley has a degree in outdoor education and sports management. He has worked as an assistant athletic director, head coach and assistant coach in various sports including football, softball and golf. Dooley has worked for various websites in the past, contributing instructional articles on a wide variety of topics.

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