How To Spool A Baitcasting Reel

At first the idea of putting line on a baitcasting reel can be intimidating, but it really doesn’t have to be. It is really simple and can be done in less than 15 minutes. In this post we will discuss how to put line on a baitcasting reel.

How to spool a baitcasting reel?

You will need the following:

Fishing Line

Baitcasting reel

Something to cut the line such as, Fishing Pliers or scissors.

Pencil/Screwdriver

A Friend or Reel Spooling Station.

10- 15 minutes

Check Out The Following Video:

Steps for putting line on a baitcasting reel.

1. Begin by threading the line through the line guides of the rod and the line guide of the reel itself. Be careful not to miss any line guides as this can put added stress onto the fishing line.
2. Attach the line to the fishing reel by means of an arbor knot.
3. In order to do the next part you will need an extra hand. Put a pencil or screwdriver through the eye of the fishing line spool and have you friend hold both sides. Note: It is important when spooling a baitcasting reel that the line comes off the spool in the same direction that it goes on the reel. If you do not have a friend who can give you an extra hand you can always use a Reel Spooling Station.
4. Next, begin to reel in the line. As you begin to retrieve, use your opposite index finger and thumb to put some tension on the line. This will help the line to go on straight and tight.
5. Fill the spool until it is 1/8 inch from the top of the spool
6. Time on your favorite fishing lure and start fishing!

How to spool a baitcasting reel with braid?

Putting braid on a baitcasting reel is a little different. Braid should never be put directly onto a fishing reel as it does not have traction and will simply slide around your fishing spool. Also, using a cheap monofilament as a backing is a great way to save money on fishing line.

1. Follow the above steps with a monofilament fishing line until you have a backing on your fishing spool.
2. Attach the monofilament fishing line with the braid using a uni-knot or a double uni-knot.
3. Have your friend hold the line spool or use a Reel Spooling Station.
4. Put tension on the line with your thumb and index finger.
5. Begin to reel.
6. Fill the spool until it is 1/8 of an inch from the top of the spool.
7. You have now successfully put braid on your baitcasting reel and are ready to go fishing.

Important tip: In order to prevent future backlashes it is important to put tension on the line when reeling in the new line. To make sure your fishing line is going on correctly every once and awhile stop retrieving and look at your line. Do you see line twist? Is the line going on tight or does it seem loose? Does it look like the line wants to come off the spool?  If not you can continue. If so, stop and fix the problem immediately.

Learn more about choosing the best fishing line for a baitcasting reel in a previous post found here.