How Do I Spool the Line Without Twisting the Fishing Line?

fishing image by Terje Asphaug from <a href='http://www.fotolia.com'>Fotolia.com</a>

Regular replacement of line is important. Fishing line degrades from use and the environment. If not replaced, the line could part, resulting in the loss of a trophy fish. If the angler is not careful, new line can become twisted when spooling the reel. Twisted line will not cast long distances and is liable to snag and make bird nests. When adding new fishing line, remember that the line must go onto the reel in the opposite direction of bail rotation.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

New spool of monofilament
Nail clippers

Step 1

Unwind 10 to 12 feet of line from the new spool of monofilament. Thread the line through the rod guides from the tip to the spinning reel. Open the bail on the reel.

Step 2

Attach the new line to the reel's spool by first running the tag end of the line around the spool. Leave 8 to 10 inches of tag line to make a loop that sits next to the standing line. Make three loops around the doubled line. Pull on the standing and tag ends to tighten the knot.

Step 3

Close the bail and turn the reel handle to note the direction the bail spins. If the bail turns in a clockwise direction, the new line must come off the spool in a counter-clockwise direction. Set the spool of new line on the floor while reeling and check the rotation. Flip the spool to the other side if it's not correct.

Step 4

Apply tension to the new line while reeling. Squeeze the line with your thumb and forefinger so the line sits snugly on the reel. Watch the line for kinks and knots when spooling the new line.

Step 5

Fill the spool 1/8 inch from the spool's lip. Snip the line with nail clippers. Tie on your favorite lure or hook and go fishing.

Tips & Warnings

Change line on a yearly basis or as needed.

Never dispose of monofilament in the water. Take line to a nearby recycling facility.

Resources

Animated Knots: How to Tie a Uni Knot

Article Written By Daniel Ray

Daniel Ray has been writing for over 15 years. He has been published in "Florida Sportsman" magazine. He holds an FAA airframe and powerplant license and FCC radiotelephone license, and is also a licensed private pilot. He attended the University of South Florida.

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