How to Spool a Fishing Rod
The beginning fisherman will likely buy a rod and reel that comes pre-spooled with fishing line. At some point the line will need to be replaced. This is a task that should be performed every year before the fishing season starts. There are three types of fishing reel; all are quite easy to spool with new line.
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Instructions
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How to Spool Line Onto a Closed-Face Reel
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1
Remove the front cover to the reel by grasping firmly and turning counterclockwise.
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2
Press and hold the button on the back of the reel (the same button you press when casting with this reel). This will cause the line winder to extend away from the spool, allowing access to the old line.
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3
Remove the old line.
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4
Run the new line through the rod guides and the reel cover (make sure it is facing in the proper direction to reinstall on the reel).
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5
Make a loop on the end of the line with a slip knot. Place this knot over the spool and slide the loop tight on the reel.
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6
Release the button and start to wind a few turns of line onto the reel.
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7
Replace the cover.
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8
Hold the line between your fingers to apply a little tension and wind line on your reel until full. You will need to remove the cover periodically to check the amount of line you have reeled in. Fill to about 1/8 inch from the top of the spool.
Spooling an Open-Faced Spinning Reel
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9
Remove the old line from the reel.
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10
Open the bail (the wire front to the reel).
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11
Run the line through the guides and tie tightly to the center of the spool.
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12
Close the bail.
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13
Place the spool of line on the floor with the label up.
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14
Wind the line onto the reel while applying tension to the line. Apply tension by running the line through your fingers, or run the line through the center of an old phone book placed on a chair above the spool of line. Closing the book on the line applies the right amount of tension.
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15
Fill the spool to about 1/8 inch from the outer edge of the reel spool.
Baitcasting (Levelwind) Reel
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16
Remove the old line.
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17
Run the new line through the rod guides and through the front guide of the reel.
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18
Run the line around the reel spool and tie with a slip knot. Tighten the knot against the spool center and wind a few turns onto the reel.
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19
Hold the line to apply some tension and crank the reel handle to fill the reel spool. Fill to about 1/8 inch of the top lip of the spool.
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Tips & Warnings
Remember to dispose of any old fishing line properly.
