How to Change Fishing Line on Reel: A Step-by-Step Guide
Gone Fishin’! Time for a Fresh Start with New Fishing Line
Are you ready to embark on your next fishing adventure? Before you cast your line, it’s essential to ensure that your reel is equipped with fresh and reliable fishing line. Changing the fishing line on your reel may seem like a daunting task, but fear not! In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of changing the fishing line on your reel. So let’s get started!
Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Materials
Before diving into the process, make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials at hand. Here are the items you’ll need:
- Fresh spool of fishing line suitable for your specific needs (monofilament, fluorocarbon, or braided)
- A pair of scissors or nail clippers
- A clean cloth or paper towel
- A secure work surface such as a table or counter space
- Your fishing rod with an empty reel (make sure there is no old tangled line left)
Step 2: Remove Old Fishing Line from the Reel
Begin by removing any existing fishing line from your reel. Locate the small hole in the side plate of your reel called “line clip” or “line tie-off.” Unwind several yards of old line while holding it firmly between two fingers. Once enough has been unwound, cut off this section using scissors or nail clippers.
Repeat this process until all existing fishing lines have been removed entirely from both sides of the spool.
Step 3: Clean and Prepare Your Reel Spool
After removing the old fishing line, it’s crucial to clean and prepare your reel spool for the new line. Take a clean cloth or paper towel and wipe away any dirt, debris, or residue on the spool. Ensure that there is no leftover old line tangled within the grooves of the spool.
Step 4: Attach New Fishing Line to Reel
Now comes the exciting part – attaching your fresh fishing line to the reel! Locate a small hole in the center of your reel’s spool called “arbor hole” or “line tie.” Begin by inserting one end of your new fishing line through this hole from underneath until you have about six inches sticking out.
Next, tie an overhand knot around the main section of fishing line using these six inches. Make sure it is tightly secured but not too tight that it restricts movement when casting.
Step 5: Wind New Fishing Line onto Reel Spool
With one end securely attached to your reel, start winding the fishing line onto its spool carefully. It’s essential to maintain tension as you wind by holding both ends of the line between two fingers while slowly rotating the handle with your other hand.
Continue winding until you reach approximately 1/8 inch from filling up the entire spool. Be mindful not to overfill; leaving some space prevents tangling and allows for better casting performance.
Step 6: Secure and Trim Excess Fishing Line
Once you’ve filled up most of your reel’s spool (leaving room as mentioned earlier), detach any remaining slack by cutting off excess fishing line with scissors or nail clippers. Leave about half an inch beyond where it attaches at first—the extra length will secure it firmly within place during use.
To prevent slippage, loop this remaining length through a guide located just above or below the handle. Make an overhand knot, tightening it securely against the reel.
Step 7: Test and Fine-Tune
Congratulations! You’ve successfully changed the fishing line on your reel. However, before you hit the water, it’s important to test its functionality. Reel in a small amount of line while observing if it retrieves smoothly and evenly without any signs of tangling or twisting.
If everything looks good, give yourself a pat on the back and get ready for an excellent day of fishing!
Conclusion
Changing fishing line on your reel shouldn’t be seen as a tedious chore but rather an opportunity to optimize your angling experience. By following this step-by-step guide, you can easily change your fishing line with confidence and embark on memorable fishing trips knowing that you have reliable equipment at hand.
Remember, fresh line is essential not only for maximizing casting distance but also for ensuring successful hook sets when battling those elusive fish. So take some time to maintain your gear properly – after all, nothing beats being perfectly equipped when casting off into adventure!
