How To Put Line On A Spinning Reel Without Line Twist

How To Put Line On A Spinning Reel Without Line Twist

Putting line on a spinning reel is very important. When done correctly you should have no issues with your reel and you will possibly enjoy a nice day fishing on the water. However, if it is done incorrectly you could be left with a mess! No doubt about it, it will run your fishing day.

In this post we will discuss how to spool a spinning reel so as to avoid line twist.

First, a few tips to keep in mind when spooling your fishing reel.

How much line should I put on my spinning reel?

Line capacity:Before putting line on your spinning reel it is important to check the reel’s line capacity. Remember the line capacity of one reel may not be the same as another. Most if not all spinning reels will have the line capacity noted on the front side of the fishing reel itself. For example, you may see something like this 6lb/240 8lb/200 10lb/175. What that means is for that specific reel you can put 240 yards of 6lb test and up to 175 yards of 10lb test. I would not recommend going beyond the line capacity ratings as this will only cause you troubles while fishing

How to avoid line twist?

The right direction: The tricky thing about spooling a spinning reel is you need to put on the fishing line in the same direction that the reel itself turns. For example, if the spool turns counterclockwise you need to load the line coming off the spool counterclockwise. If you don’t do this you are going to experience a lot of line twist when fishing.

For more information on the direction of the line, check out the following short video:

To begin, you will need the following:

Fishing Line

Spinning Reel

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

Pencil/Screwdriver

10- 15 minutes

Steps for putting line on a spinning reel.

1. Lay your fishing rod and reel on a flat surface with the bail open.  Note: This is an important step because if your bail isn’t open from the beginning you will not be able to turn the spool to bring in the line.
2. Next run the fishing line through the first guide on the fishing pole.
3. Before tying the fishing line to your reel make sure the line is coming off the spool in the same direction that the reel turns. Use an arbor knot to attach the fishing line.
4. Close the bail and pick up your fishing rod.
5. Pinch the fishing line in your right hand between your index finger and your thumb. Note: This is another important step to prevent line twist. If you retrieve the line too loosely you will have notice line loops. These line loops can lead to line twist and other problems later on. By applying some pressure with your finger and your thumb you can prevent this from happening.
6. Begin to slowly retrieve your line. Note: While retrieving your line make sure your line spool doesn’t flip over. Always make sure it comes off in the same direction as your spool turns.
7. Remove the spool and let it set in hot water for 10 minutes. Note: Once you have finished spooling your reel it may seem like the line wants to spring off the fishing reel. If you are having this problem after spooling your fishing reel, remove the spool. Take the spool and soak it in hot water for 10 minutes. This will cause your fishing line to gain memory while still on your spool. This especially works really well with fluorocarbon and monofilament fishing line.

For more information on how to spool a spinning reel enjoy the following video:

How To Spool A Spinning Reel With Braided Line?

I know what you are thinking. Wouldn’t you put on mono the same way you put on braid? The answer is no. The reason is because braid doesn’t grip the spool as well as monofilament.

If you were to put braid directly onto the spool you will find that the line can actually spin along with the spool. This can make it almost impossible to reel in a fish.

To avoid this, many fishermen like to first put on monofilament just enough to cover the spool itself. After that is done they follow the above tips to finish with braid.

Another helpful tip when it comes to putting braid on a spinning reel is to cover your spinning reel with masking tape. This masking tape will give braid the needed grip so that the line won’t spin with the spool.

Now it is your turn. What tips do you have when it comes to putting on line on a spinning reel?