Bait-casting reels are superior to spinning reels when angling for larger fish because of their efficient drag systems. But if you do not feed the line into the reel correctly, it can quickly become tangled in the reel. When this happens, casting becomes difficult and the rod may even be rendered useless until the line is replaced.
Step 1
Draw out a length of line from the spool of new line. Ensure the line is longer than the fishing rod you are using. Pass the line through the fishing rod eyes and bring it to the reel. If the reel has a completely closed face, remove the covering.
Step 2
Feed the line through the metal ring inside the reel. This is called the level winder, and its job is to spool the line evenly on the reel by moving back and forth as you turn the handle crank.
Step 3
Thread the line over the reel spool, then bring it back around toward the tip of the rod to create a loop around the spool. Pass the open end of the line around the standing line three times. Fold the open end of the line back toward the reel once more, then pull it up through the center of the three loops you made.
Step 4
Pinch the open end of the line securely in your fingers and pull on the standing line to tighten the knot into a noose around the reel. Cinch the noose tightly against the reel spool and then clip off the excess line on the open end using scissors.
Step 5
Place the spool of new line on the ground. To make spooling easier, stick a pencil or stake through the center of the spool to hold it in place as it turns. Close a book around the line. Lay the bait-caster rod and reel across your lap with the tip pointing toward the book.
Step 6
Grip the standing line with one hand and lightly pull it toward the tip of the reel to keep it taut. Crank the handle of the reel with your other hand to feed it onto the reel spool. Continue cranking the line until there is roughly 1/4-inch of space from the line to the edge of the reel spool flange.
Tips and Warnings
- Periodically inspect the line as it is going onto the reel to ensure it remains taut and tangle-free.
Things You'll Need
- Scissors
- Pencil
- Book
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