Ever dreamt of effortless casts and a line flowing freely off your reel? Flawless line spooling is the key! Here’s a breakdown on how to properly spool your spinning reel, avoiding those frustrating line twists and tangles:
Gear Up:
Before spooling, familiarize yourself with your reel. Unlike baitcasting reels where the spool spins, a spinning reel’s spool stays stationary during casting. Line peels off as tension is released. This eliminates the risk of backlash, making spinning reels generally easier to use.
Backing Up for Success (Optional):
Large reels often hold more line than you’ll typically need. Consider adding backing (filler line) to avoid wasting precious fishing line. Braided line users, this step is crucial! The slickness of braid can prevent it from gripping the spool, causing slippage under pressure. For mono or fluorocarbon, you can skip backing on your first spool.
Tying the Knot:
No fancy tools needed! Simply thread your line through the first guide closest to the reel, open the bail, and secure the line with a few loops around the spool, finishing with a basic overhand knot. A small piece of electrical tape can add extra security (check the video for a visual guide).
Spooling with Tension:
Close the bail manually (get used to this habit!), ensuring the line is taut. Place the line spool on a flat surface with a clear path to the reel. Note the direction the spool spins when you retrieve line. The line coming off your spool should match this direction (clockwise for clockwise retrieval).
Avoiding Line Twists:
Start reeling. If you see “pigtails” or curls forming at the entrance guide, you’re spooling in the wrong direction. No worries! Just flip your line spool and continue. Maintain steady pressure on the line as you spool, ensuring even distribution across the spool.
Filling Up Just Right:
Stop spooling when you’re about 1/8 inch from the spool’s edge. Overfilling can cause uncontrollable line billowing during casts, while underfilling limits casting distance. Aim higher and remove excess line later if needed.
Leader Love (Optional):
For braid users, consider a fluorocarbon leader. This minimizes line stretch and twist while allowing you to replace just the leader section as needed. Use a high-strength, low-profile knot to connect the braid to the leader (Double Uni, Crazy Alberto, or FG knots are popular choices).
Line Selection:
Check your reel’s spool for line capacity (printed or online). Spinning reels can handle a wider line range than you might think! Choose a line type and test weight compatible with your reel and target species.
Bonus Tips:
- Close the bail manually after each cast to keep the line tight.
- Never reel against the drag. Loosen the drag or backreel to avoid breakage.
- Condition your mono/fluoro lines regularly. In cold weather, apply conditioner to your guides too.
- Don’t hesitate to replace your line! Line twist or memory can hinder casting and compromise breaking strength.
By following these steps and incorporating the helpful tips, you’ll be a spooling pro in no time. Now go forth and conquer those casts with confidence!
Images/Source: OutdoorLife
