Want to spend more time fishing and less time untangling knots? Learning how to put fishing line on a reel is the first step to smoother casts, fewer tangles, and better days on the water. Whether you’re new to fishing or just need a refresher, this guide will walk you through the process—no jargon, no guesswork.
Why Spooling Your Reel Correctly Matters
Ever wonder why your line gets twisted or why your casts fall short? The answer often lies in how you spool your reel. Doing it right means:
- Fewer tangles and wind knots
- Longer, smoother casts
- Less wasted line and money
- More time fishing, less time fixing
What You Need
- Fishing reel (spinning, baitcasting, or closed-face)
- Fishing rod (optional, but makes things easier)
- New fishing line (monofilament, fluorocarbon, or braid)
- Scissors or line cutters
Step 1: Attach Your Reel to the Rod
Mount your reel onto your fishing rod. This gives you better control and helps you guide the line through the rod’s guides. If you don’t have a rod handy, you can still spool the reel, but using the rod makes the process smoother.
Step 2: Thread the Line Through the Rod Guides
Start at the tip of the rod and thread the line through each guide, working your way down to the reel. This ensures the line lays properly and reduces the chance of tangles later.
Step 3: Open the Bail (for Spinning Reels)
Open the bail arm on your spinning reel before tying the line to the spool. If you skip this, you’ll have to cut the line and start over.
Step 4: Tie the Line to the Spool
Use an arbor knot or a couple of overhand knots to secure the line to the spool. Here’s a quick way:
- Wrap the line around the spool twice.
- Tie an overhand knot in the tag end.
- Tie a second overhand knot around the main line.
- Pull both knots tight and slide them down to the spool.
- Trim the tag end close to the knot.
Pro tip: Some anglers add a small piece of tape over the knot to keep it flush and prevent slippage, especially with braid.
Step 5: Close the Bail and Apply Tension
Close the bail arm. Hold the line between your thumb and forefinger a few inches above the reel to apply gentle tension as you spool. This keeps the line tight and prevents loose coils that can cause tangles.
Step 6: Position the Line Spool Correctly
Place your new line spool flat on the floor with the label facing up. This ensures the line comes off the spool in the same direction it goes onto your reel, reducing twists. For most spinning reels, the line should come off the spool counterclockwise. For baitcasters, let the line come straight off the spool.
Step 7: Start Reeling
Slowly turn the reel handle to begin spooling the line. Keep tension on the line with your fingers the entire time. Stop every 20–30 turns to check for line twists. If you notice twists, flip the line spool over and continue.
Step 8: Fill the Spool (But Don’t Overfill)
Fill the spool until the line is about 1/8 inch below the spool’s rim. Overfilling can cause tangles and wind knots, while underfilling reduces casting distance.
Step 9: Cut the Line and Thread Through Remaining Guides
Once you’ve got enough line, cut it from the supply spool. Thread the line through the rest of the rod guides if you haven’t already. Leave about three to four feet of line hanging down from the tip so you can tie on your lure or hook.
Step 10: Secure and Test
Tie on your favorite lure, hook, or use a line keeper. Pull some line out and reel it back in to check for smoothness and tension. Now you’re ready to fish!
Read more: How to Line a Fishing Pole: Step-by-Step Guide
Pro Tips for Perfect Spooling
- Always close the bail by hand, not by turning the handle. This prevents line twists and extends the life of your line.
- Use quality line—cheap line leads to more tangles and headaches.
- For braid, add a few wraps of monofilament as backing to prevent slippage on the spool.
- If you’re new to fishing, start with monofilament. It’s more forgiving than braid or fluorocarbon.
- For a video walkthrough, check out this easy-to-follow tutorial on how to string a fishing pole.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Forgetting to open the bail before tying the line on (you’ll have to start over).
- Not applying enough tension while spooling (leads to loose coils and tangles).
- Overfilling or underfilling the spool (affects casting and causes knots).
- Letting the line come off the spool in the wrong direction (causes twists).
Frequently Asked Questions
How much line should I put on my reel?
Fill the spool until the line is about 1/8 inch below the rim. Too much or too little can cause problems.
Can I use the same method for braid and fluorocarbon?
Yes, but for braid, add a few wraps of monofilament as backing to prevent slippage.
Why does my line keep twisting?
Usually, the line is coming off the spool in the wrong direction, or you’re not applying enough tension while spooling.
Do I need to use a special knot?
The arbor knot is simple and effective for attaching line to the spool.
Should I close the bail by hand?
Always close the bail by hand to prevent line twists and extend the life of your line.
How do I know if I’ve overfilled the spool?
If the line is flush with or above the rim, you’ve put on too much. Remove a few yards until it’s about 1/8 inch below the rim.
Now you know exactly how to put fishing line on a reel. Follow these steps, and you’ll spend less time untangling and more time catching fish. Tight lines and happy fishing!