How to Untangle a Snarled Fishing Line

Fishing is a bit like golf--so frustrating sometimes that you wonder why you do it. But you wouldn't give it up for the world. That's what you tell yourself, anyway, when you're waist-deep in cold water watching your line do a bird's-nest snarl around the reel. But don't be embarrassed. Even the pros suffer this problem on occasion.

Things You'll Need

• Patience

Instructions

1. Move to a comfortable spot and put your pole down as soon as you realize there's a problem.

2. Inspect the tangle. It may not be as bad as it looks. Sometimes a seemingly large snarl will disappear with the release of a single loop. Resist the urge to tug on the line.

3. Free any loops that are caught around or in the reel.

4. Look for tight sections of line that are trapping other loops. Pull the trapped loops free.

5. Work slowly to continually loosen the snarl. Flip loose coils out of the way.

6. When the snarl is cleared, inspect the reel for damage. If it is bent, the line may begin to snarl again. A bent reel will probably require professional attention.

7. Consider dipping the reel into the water for cleaning if it has been dropped in the dirt. This may help clear obstructions from the reel mechanism.

Tips & Warnings

• Many pros use the 3-minute rule: If they can't clear a snarl in 3 minutes or less, they will probably cut the line, then retie the leader and fly onto the shortened line.

• If you're using two flies on the same line, place the heavier fly at the end of the line.