How to Put Fishing Line on a Zebco Z20 Reel by Brunswick

fishing reel image by Brett Mulcahy from <a href='http://www.fotolia.com'>Fotolia.com</a>

The Brunswick Zebco Z20 is a closed-face spincast reel that features a large push-button spool release, antireverse handle and top-mounted drag control. Discontinued by the manufacturer, the Z20 was designed to be durable and easy to use by anglers of different skill levels. Routine maintenance was simplified, including the routine changing of fishing line. With a minimum of fuss, putting new line on a Brunswick Zebco Z20 is a quick process.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Monofilament fishing line
Scissors

Step 1

Hold the Brunswick Zebco Z20 spincast reel with one hand so that the front spool cover is easily accessible. Grasp the spool cover and turn it slightly to the left, or counterclockwise. Pull the spool straight out and away from the body of the reel for removal.

Step 2

Thread new monofilament fishing line through the hole in the front spool cover. A name brand monofilament fishing line in the 8 lb. to 10 lb. test range is a good starting point for deciding on what line to use. Ultimately, you should base the line choice on the fishing situation and your personal preferences.

Step 3

Pull the monofilament line around the spool of the Z20 reel for several inches. Attach the line to the spool with an arbor knot. Tie the arbor by forming an overhand knot with the free end of the line. Tie the overhand knot so that the loop passes around the main line. Tie a second overhand knot below the first one this time using only the free end of the line to form the knot. Moisten the knots, pull tight and trim excess line from the knot with scissors.

Step 4

Place the spool cover back on the front of the Z20 and turn it to the right to secure it in place. Hold the monofilament line several inches in front of the spool and apply slight tension with your hand. Tension is necessary for the Zebco Z20 to properly spool.

Step 5

Turn the handle of the reel to begin spooling line. Continue to wind line onto the reel until the level of the reel is within 1/2 inch of the spool edge. Avoid overfilling the spool because this can lead to problems with tangles and affect the casting of the line. Cut the line free from the filler spool, leaving 12 to 15 inches of line extending from the front of the spool cover.

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.

Editor's Pick

Backcountry Camping Tips

You've already tried car and RV camping. You've camped at commercial campsites that had a convenient restroom and water supply. Now, you want to explore the road less traveled. Backcountry camping, also known as primitive camping, is a wonderful way to explore the remote...
More Backcountry Camping...
Popular Article

Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

Pismo State Beach, California, has many attractions and activities including camping, swimming, hiking and wildlife viewing. Birdwatching is one of the primary activities in the area. The park also has the largest over-wintering colony of monarch butterflies in the natio...
More Beach Camping...
Featured Video

Common Sense Hiking Tips

The first and most fundamental thing is never hike alone. There are too many situations, especially as an unexperienced hiker, where you may find yourself without anyone to help you. So the buddy system works and applies very much in hiking.
More Camping Basics...