How to Setup a Penn Baitcast Reel

cast image by Rick Sargeant from <a href='http://www.fotolia.com'>Fotolia.com</a>

Penn is a name that is widely recognized by freshwater and saltwater anglers alike. Manufacturing a variety of equipment, the company's reels are particularly known for being reliable and durable. Among the reels produced by Penn, baitcast reels such as the Pursuit are a popular option for both freshwater and inshore anglers. Penn baitcast reels have features including corrosion-resistant bodies, aluminum spools and brass gears for long-lasting service in a variety of conditions. Setting up a Penn baitcast reel is a simple process that all anglers should understand how to accomplish.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Penn baitcast reel
Matched baitcast rod
Monofilament fishing line
Scissors

Step 1

Loosen the locking ring on the reel seat of a matched baitcast rod. Place the foot of the Penn baitcast reel on the reel seat and tighten the locking ring so that the reel is securely held in place.

Step 2

Pull the free end of the monofilament fishing line through the rod tip and down through each successive line guide. Locate the small round line guide at the front of the Penn baitcast reel.

Step 3

Feed the free end of the monofilament fishing line through the line guide and pull 6 to 7 inches of the line around the spool. Attach the line to the spool with an arbor knot. Tie the arbor by forming a simple overhand knot with the free end of the line, so that the loop of the knot passes around the main line. Tie a second overhand knot using only the free end, then pull both knots tight against the spool.

Step 4

Apply tension to the line between the Penn baitcast reel and the first line guide, then turn the reel handle to begin winding line on the reel.

Step 5

Fill the spool with line until it is with in 1/4 to 1/8 inch of the spool edge. Do not fill the spool completely full with line, as this can contribute to problems with casting, such as backlash and birds nest.

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...