The reel is the part of a fishing rod that holds the fishing line. When a fisher casts the line into the water, the reel spins freely, allowing the line to travel outward from the end of the rod. Once the fisher feels a tug at the end of the line, the fisher turns a crank on the side of the reel to retract the line and bring up the fish. There are different types of fishing reel with their own strengths and weaknesses; the process of trying the line onto a reel varies slightly from one type to another.
Spinner Reel
Step 1
Grip the end of the fishing line in one hand. Tie a simple knot near the end of the fishing line, as you would use when tying a shoe. Use a pair of scissors or nail clippers to cut off the excess length of line.
Step 2
Take the knotted end of the line and fold it upwards several inches. Wrap the knotted end around the line, then tie another simple knot to form a simple loop out of the line.
Step 3
Flip open the wire bail attached to the fishing reel. Fit the loop over the spool on the fishing reel. Pull on the fishing line until the loop closes over the reel spool.
Bait Caster Reel
Step 1
Grip the end of the line and pass it through the guide at the far end of the rod.
Step 2
Feed the line through the remaining guides until you reach the reel. Pass the line through the guide on the reel.
Step 3
Wrap the end of the line around the reel spool. Use a simple knot to tie the line to the spool. Use a pair of scissors or nail clippers to cut off the excess length of line.
Winding
Step 1
Hold the spool of fishing line directly in front of the reel spool. Position the fishing line spool perpendicular to the fishing rod, such that the line will unravel in the same direction as it winds onto the reel spool.
Step 2
Spin the reel counterclockwise to begin feeding the line onto the reel spool. Wind the fishing line onto the reel until the gap between the front edge of the spool and the top of the wound line reaches the appropriate length; allow a 1/8” gap for spinner reels and a 1/4” gap for bait caster reels.
Step 3
Use a pair of scissors or nail clippers to cut off the excess length of line. Close the wire bail.
Tips and Warnings
- If you do not position the fishing line spool correctly when loading the line onto the fishing reel, the line may twist when you use the fishing rod. Avoid overfilling the reel spool; if you do not leave a gap between the line and the edge of the spool, the line may slip off. Prior to casting your line, be sure to set your line onto the line roller; otherwise, wind may cause the line to catch on the reel mechanism.
Things You'll Need
- Scissors or nail clippers
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