How to Put Fishing Line on a Spinning Reel: Easy Steps

You just got a new spinning reel, or maybe it’s time to replace old, worn-out line. Either way, you’ve got a spool of fresh fishing line ready to go. But how exactly do you get that line onto the reel correctly? If you do it wrong, you end up with frustrating tangles, loops, and a bad day on the water.

Learning how to put fishing line on a spinning reel is a fundamental skill for any angler. It’s not difficult, but it requires a few key steps to ensure your line lays properly, reduces memory and twist, and performs well when you’re casting and retrieving.

This guide walks you through the simple, actionable steps to spool line onto your spinning reel like a pro. Say goodbye to frustrating line issues and get ready for smoother casting!

How to Put Fishing Line on a Spinning Reel (Infographics)

What You’ll Need

Gather these items before you start:

Your spinning reel and rod (the reel should be mounted on the rod)
A new spool of fishing line (check the recommended line weight for your reel)
Scissors or line clippers
A way to hold the line spool (a friend, a bucket, or between your knees works)
Optional: Arbor knot tool, electrical tape, backing line (like monofilament if using braid)

Step-by-Step Guide: Putting Line on Your Spinning Reel

Step 1: Mount the Reel on the Rod

Attach your spinning reel securely to the rod.
This provides leverage and the correct angle for winding the line evenly onto the spool.

Step 2: Find the Right Direction

This is crucial to avoid line twist.
Place the spool of new line on the floor or in a bucket.
For spinning reels, the line should unspool counter-clockwise if the reel handle turns clockwise (when you’re winding it like you would when fishing).
Or, if the label side of the spool is facing up, the line should come off the bottom.
If the label side is facing down, the line should come off the top.
The goal is for the line to peel off the supply spool in the same direction it will be wrapped onto the spinning reel’s spool.

Step 3: Tie the Line to the Spool Arbor

Pull a few feet of line off the new spool.
Open the bail arm on your spinning reel.
Feed the end of the line through the first guide on the fishing rod (the largest one closest to the reel).
Now, tie the line directly to the arbor (the core) of the spinning reel’s spool.
The best knot for this is often the Arbor Knot because it cinches down tightly and won’t slip on the smooth spool.
A simple overhand knot cinched onto the arbor with a piece of tape over it also works for monofilament.

Step 4: How to Tie a Simple Arbor Knot

Wrap the tag end around the arbor.
Tie an overhand knot around the standing line.
Then, tie a second overhand knot using just the tag end a few inches above the first knot.
Pull the standing line to slide the first knot down to the arbor, and the second knot down to meet it.
Trim the tag end.

Step 5: Close the Bail

Once the line is securely tied to the spool arbor, close the bail arm on your spinning reel.

Step 6: Start Winding the Line

Hold the rod or secure it between your legs.
Have your friend hold the supply spool with a pencil through the center, or place the spool in a bucket so it can spin freely.
Begin turning the reel handle at a moderate speed, as if you were reeling in a fish.

Step 7: Apply Light Tension

It’s important to keep light tension on the line as it spools onto the reel.
If a friend is holding the spool, they can lightly pinch the line.
If the spool is in a bucket, the weight of the spool and the friction in the bucket will provide some tension.
You can also lightly grip the line between your thumb and forefinger on the rod blank above the reel, but be careful not to burn your fingers.
Tension helps the line lay tightly and evenly.

Step 8: Check for Line Twist

After winding a minute or two, stop and let the line hang loosely from the rod tip.
If the line twists or coils on itself, you are spooling the line in the wrong direction off the supply spool.
Flip the supply spool over and continue winding from the other side.
This is a critical step to avoid frustrating tangles later!

Step 9: Fill the Spool Correctly

Continue winding the line, maintaining tension and occasionally checking for twist.
Fill the spool until the line is about 1/8 inch to 1/4 inch from the lip of the spool.
Do not overfill the spool, as this will cause line to jump off and create “wind knots” or tangles.
Underfilling can reduce casting distance.
Aim for the sweet spot just below the lip.

Step 10: Cut the Line

Once the spool is filled to the correct level, cut the line connecting your reel to the supply spool.

Step 11: Secure the Line (Optional but Recommended)

Many spools have a small clip on the edge to secure the loose end of the line.
You can use this or simply open the bail, wrap the line around the spool once, and close the bail to prevent it from unraveling.

Tips for Spooling Line Like a Pro

Consider Backing:

If you are using braided line (which can be expensive and doesn’t stretch), tie a base layer of cheaper monofilament line onto the arbor first. This “backing” prevents the braid from slipping on the spool and saves you money by not having to fill the entire spool with expensive braid. Use a strong knot like an Albright or Surgeon’s knot to connect the mono backing to the braid.

Line Type Matters:

Monofilament line is often easier to spool for beginners as it has some stretch and is less prone to twist than fluorocarbon or braid if spooled incorrectly. Braid requires careful attention to spool direction.

Warm Water Helps (for mono):

If you’re spooling monofilament, running the line through warm water as you wind can help reduce line memory and make it lay flatter on the spool.

Don’t Spool Too Fast:

Winding too quickly can also contribute to line twist and uneven line lay. A moderate, consistent speed is best.

Understanding how to put fishing line on a spinning reel correctly is a skill that pays off every time you cast. A properly spooled reel means fewer tangles and smoother performance.

FAQ: Line Spooling Questions

Q: Why does my line keep twisting when I spool it?

A: The most common reason is that the line is coming off the supply spool in the wrong direction relative to how it’s winding onto your spinning reel’s spool. Spinning reels lay line onto the spool in coils. The line must peel off the supply spool in the same coiling direction to prevent introducing twist. Check step 2 carefully!

Q: How much line should I put on my reel?

A: Fill the spool until the line is about 1/8 to 1/4 inch from the lip. This provides maximum line capacity for casting distance without overfilling, which causes tangles.

Q: Do I need backing line?

A: It’s highly recommended if you’re using braided line to prevent slippage on the spool arbor. For monofilament on smaller reels, it’s less critical but can still be used if your supply spool has more line than your reel’s capacity.

Q: What knot should I use to tie line to the spool?

A: The Arbor Knot is a popular and effective choice as it cinches down securely. A taped-down overhand knot also works, especially for monofilament.

Q: How often should I replace my fishing line?

A: This depends on how often you fish, the type of line, and conditions. As a general rule, replace monofilament line at least once a year, as it degrades over time. Braided and fluorocarbon lines are more durable but should be replaced if they show signs of abrasion, fraying, or excessive memory/twist.

With your line properly spooled, you’re ready to hit the water with confidence. Now go catch some fish!