How to Attach a Fishing Line

Before you can attach a hook or lure to the end of the fishing line you must first rig the line to the rod and reel. The first step in the process is to attach the line to the spool of your spinning or baitcasting reel. Although the method for attaching a line to a reel is simple, it is no less important than any other knot used in fishing. It is important to use the right knot and technique in all fishing applications.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Baitcasting or spinning reel
Monofilament or fluorocarbon fishing line
Scissors or snips

Step 1

Open the bail of a spinning reel or feed line through the line guide of a baitcast reel and pull 8 to 10 inches of the main monofilament or fluorocarbon fishing line around the spool of your fishing reel.

Step 2

Wrap the free end of the line around the main line two times keeping the loops loose. Wrap the free end around the main line a third time and hold the loops in place with your fingers.

Step 3

Pull the free end of the line back and through all three loops formed around the main line. Moisten the knot with water or saliva.

Step 4

Tighten the knot by pulling on the free end and the main line. Pull the loops down tight around the main line and continue pulling to snug the knot against the spool of the reel.

Step 5

Trim excess line from the free end of the knot with a sharp pair of scissors or snips so that no more than 1/8 inch of line extends from the knot.

Step 6

Apply tension to the line with your hand in front of the reel and turn the reel handle to begin spooling line onto the reel.

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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