Outdoor Blog

How to Put A Line On A Fishing Reel (7 Easy Steps)

Published

3 years ago

July 24, 2021

Hands of a man in a Urp plan hold a fishing rod

Have you ever been wrangling in a trophy fish, only to have your precious monofilament or braided line get horribly messed up or damaged?

And now you’ve got a spool full of twisted, knotted, and otherwise unusable lines that you’ll have to cut up and get rid of? Even worse, you’ve never had to do something like this by yourself and you’re at a loss as to how to re-spool your reel. This is why we’ve put together this guide on how to put a new line on your fishing reel.

Types of Fishing Reels

Before we get into step-by-step guides on how to put a new line on your fishing reel, we’ll first look at all the different types of reels. The type of reel you have will change how you should replace your line.

multiple fishing reels next to each other

There are 3 types of fishing reels: spincast, spinning, and baitcast.

Spincast Reels

A Spincast reel is by the far the simplest model of a reel on the market. It has a very simplistic design that makes it easy to use, making it popular with beginners, young anglers, or fishermen on a budget. While it’s not the most widely used model, it certainly has its merits.

This reel has all of its inner workings hidden beneath a nose cone. On the bottom of it, there’s a handy little button that will act as your reel control. Pressing it will toggle between letting the reel drag out or locking it. A unique feature of this type of reel is the drag adjustment.

Essentially, this tool will adjustment how much resistance a fish will feel when they’re pulling the line. These reels are extremely easy to cast, hence their popularity with fledgling anglers. Simply hold down the button on the bottom of the reel, swing the rod, and then let go of the button.

Upon release, your line will fly out to wherever it is you were pointing with your rod’s tip. You can stop your line at any moment during the cast by pressing the button again. There are a few problems with this type of reel. The covering over the spool has a tendency to capture water, dust, and other debris causing damage to the line.

Unfortunately, these types of reels are usually not the best quality and don’t typically last more than one fishing season. They also don’t have as big of casting distance as other reel types and generally aren’t as precise.

Spinning Reels

Next up are spinning reels. These are a step up from Spincast reels because they’re just a little more complicated. Spinning reels are the most popular type of reel out there and many expert fishermen likely have one or have used one in the past.

They’re also popular with beginners as they’re not hard to use. A spinning reel does not have any sort of covering on it as you’d see on a Spincast reel. Instead, this one uses a completely open design that features a drag adjustment mechanism on top.

By far, the most important feature on a spinning reel is the metal bail. This device locks the line, prevents it from unspooling, and ensures that the line will come back evenly on the spool as you reel in. The final feature of spinning reels is unique to them specifically.

This type of reel is attached to the underside of the rod, unlike Spincasters or Baitcasters. The position of the reel creates a more natural holding position and reportedly allows for a more balanced cast. Casting a spinning reel is extremely easy and really only requires a few auxiliary steps for a successful cast.

You’ll need to place a finger on a small part of the line that’s exiting the spool, above the bail. Then, you’ll simply disengage the bail and give your rod a swing, as it comes forward, take your finger off of the line and let your lure loose.

When the bait is landed you’ll want to reengage the bail. Most spinning reels will actually do this automatically when you start reeling in. However, that first spin of the reel can sometimes unbalance the line and cause a tangle that will ultimately require line maintenance if not a complete replacement.

Baitcasting Reels

This is the most advanced type of fishing reel, both in terms of technology and in terms of the learning curve. The reason for this is because this type of reel features more moving parts than the previous two. However, mastery over a Baitcasting reel will ultimately give you the greatest casts you’ve ever seen.

But what makes this rod so special? Well, besides the semi-enclosed and more durable makeup, the Baitcaster reel has two extra mechanisms that increase performance and allow for added customization. These two additions are the spool tension knob and the braking system.

These systems allow you to adjust how quickly the line will spill from the reel. Unlike the Spinning reel, a Baitcaster does not have a bail. While casting you’ll need to use your own thumb and press against the spool in order to stop the line from going out.

Once your bait has hopefully landed in your desired spot, simply press the clip to keep the line locked. This type of reel is recommended for advanced users because differing weights in lures require special settings while using the spool tension and braking system.

You’ll need to make sure to mess with both of the mechanisms to find the sweet spot every time you use a new lure. Additionally, these lures are the most expensive of the three.

How to Put A Line On Each Fishing Reel

Now that we’ve covered the different types of reels, we can get into how to change out the lines. We’ll start with the most simple type of lure, the Spincaster.

How To Put Line On A Spincaster:

First, you’ll need to take the cover off of the reel. As mentioned above, all spincaster have some sort of nose cone, whether it is plastic or metal. Some of these reels might have screws or latches that hold this nose cone together.
Now replace the old line by removing it from the spool. You can easily pull the old line from the Spincaster’s spool. A good strategy is to leave enough of the old line still in the spool for backing.
You’re now ready to start putting the new fishing line on the reel. Run the line through the first guide (the one closest to the reel) and then run it through the hole in the nose cone. If you don’t do this, you’ll have no way of putting the line through the nose cone.
Now, you’ve got to tie the line to the spool. Tie an overhand knot and trim off the tag end with a pair of scissors. Then, tie a slip knot. This will create a big loop in the line with a tag end. Now, place the loop over the spool and pull on the end where you made the overhand knot, a type of fishing knot. The line should stop tightening once it hits the overhand knot.
Next, simply replace the nose cone. Remember to make sure it is locked in place!
Now you’re ready to start spooling. It is best to create some tension on your line by holding it between your thumb and index finger between the first guide and the nose cone. You can then start cranking until you have the desired amount of line inside of your spool. Don’t be afraid to remove the nose cone to see if you’ve used too much or too little of your new line.
Now, that you’ve got your line spooled. Cut off however much excess you’d like and then thread the end of the line through the remaining rod guides. All that’s left to do is tie on your favorite lure to your fishing rod!

How To Put Line On A Spinning Reel:

If you have any old or tangled line still on the spool, remove all of it.
Next, you’ll need to run your line through the first guide and get ready to tie it around the spool.
Before you do that, you’ll need to remember this important step. It’s crucial that you open the bail arm of your spinning reel. If you skip this step and try to reel in the line, it won’t get picked up by the bail. Make sure to do this right before you tie your line!
Now you’re ready to put your line on the spool. Loop the line around the reel spool once and then tie an overhand not and pull it tight. Then, tie one more overhand not and make sure it’s tight just like the last one. Some people like to loop the line around the spool twice for extra security. This is known as an arbor knot. Make sure to cut the tag end off of your knot as close to the not as you can.
Winding the line onto the spool is a little tricky. To ensure there are no problems, have the new spool’s label facing upwards. The clockwise rotation of the new line will match up with how your reel spins.
Now, pinch a piece of the line between your index finger and thumb away from your reel. This will create tension and allow you to easily get your new line onto your reel. Start winding, but don’t go too quickly as you can burn your fingers. It will be full when it’s about 1/16th of an inch below the capacity of your spool.
Now, clip any excess line with a pair of scissors and thread it through the rest of the rod’s guides. Thread your new line through the rest of the line guides and then tie on a new lure. Now you’re ready to go fishing!

How To Put Line On A Baitcaster:

If you haven’t already, be sure to apply your Baitcaster reel to your fishing pole.
The next step, like with any of the different reel types. Is to remove any old or tangled line you’d like to replace. It is possible to save the old line and tie on the new line if you’re an angler who likes to save money.
Feed your new line through the first guide. On the front of Baitcaster reels, there is a hole known as the “wormguide.” Feed your line through that.
Next, wrap your line around the spool. Then attach it securely to the spool using two overhand knots. Remember to clip off the tag ends with a pair of scissors or fishing pliers.
Now you can start re-spooling. Like spooling a new line into a spinner reel, keep the packaging of your spool of line facing upward. Remember to put some pressure on the line by holding it between your thumb and index finger! Then, start reeling.
Spool enough line until there’s about 1/8th of an inch of space from the edge of the reel’s spool. This is the ideal amount of line to have on your spool and will ensure smooth casting from the get-go.
All that’s left is to clip any excess line from your new package of line and then feed the freshly spooled line through the guides. Now just open up your tackle box, grab your favorite lure or bait, and start fishing!

Fly fisherman using a spinning reel with yellow line in a close up view on his hands against water with green reflections

A fly fisherman attaches a yellow line to a spinning reel.

How To Attach New Line To Old Line

Something we’ve mentioned a few times in this article is that you can save the old line of your reel. This is something we highly encourage as it can save time and money. But when is it appropriate to try and save your reel’s old line? The answer to that question really depends on how big the damage is to your line is.

If your line is super tangled up and looks like a literal bird’s nest, then there’s no point in trying to save it. At that point, the line is far too tangled and damaged. If there’s only a little line twist, it can be salvaged. Another point to watch out for is how much weight your new and old lines can withstand.

If you plan on angling big fish, it probably isn’t the best idea to attach the new, stronger line to an older, weaker one. You might lose that trophy fish in the heat of battle! Instead, it’s best to just replace the entire spool. The actual process for attaching new lines to old ones is actually pretty simple.

First, you need to clip off whatever tangled part of your old line is left to make room for the new line. Once you’ve done that, it’s time to attach the new line. The best way to do this is to use a special kind of knot known as a double uni knot.

The process for tying this sort of knot is a little complicated and is better explained by watching a demonstration, rather than having us try to explain it to you. This video will show you the quickest and easiest way to tie such a knot.

Final Verdict

As you can see, putting a new line on a fishing reel isn’t all that complicated. The biggest thing you have to worry about really is tying the right knot on your fishing line and making sure you don’t over-spool your line. If you’d like to learn more about the different types of fishing knots, check out this article!

Outdoor Blog

Gear You Should Snag for the Great Outdoors This Season

Published

2 months ago

September 25, 2024

Caleb Cole

Outdoor enthusiasts know that having the right gear can make all the difference. Whether you’re hiking, camping, hunting, or engaging in any other outdoor activity, quality equipment ensures not only safety but also a better overall experience. As we head into a new season, it’s time to refresh your gear collection with essential items that will enhance your adventures. In this article, we’ll explore five pieces of must-have outdoor gear, focusing on both practicality and comfort.

Shooting Glasses Are Essential for Outdoor Adventures

If you’re heading out for a shooting range session or a hunting trip, investing in a quality pair of shooting glasses is non-negotiable. Eye protection is critical when engaging in any activity involving firearms, and shooting glasses are designed to keep your eyes safe from potential hazards like debris, shell casings, and even harmful UV rays.

Shooting glasses are a key safety measure that helps shield your eyes from impact and glare. The lenses are typically made from high-impact resistant materials that can endure tough conditions, making them a must-have for hunters, target shooters, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Beyond safety, these glasses often come with polarized lenses to improve visibility in various lighting conditions. By incorporating shooting glasses into your outdoor gear, you’re ensuring not only better safety but also improved performance during your time in the wilderness.

What Should You Look For During Black Friday Hunting Gear Deals?

One of the best times to stock up on essential outdoor gear is during Black Friday. Black Friday hunting gear deals provide an opportunity for hunters to snag high-quality items at significantly reduced prices. Whether you’re after apparel, backpacks, or specialized equipment, Black Friday sales often feature steep discounts on top brands that every outdoor enthusiast should take advantage of.

This sale season is ideal for upgrading your hunting wardrobe and stocking up on essential gear that may normally be out of your price range. From weather-resistant jackets to durable boots and base layers, hunting gear can be pricey, and Black Friday is the perfect time to invest in the best equipment. By keeping an eye out for deals during this shopping period, you can save money while ensuring you’re well-prepared for your next big adventure.

Multi-Tools Are a Must-Have

Want to know the most versatile pieces of gear you can carry? It is a multi-tool. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or hunting, having a tool that can serve multiple functions is a game-changer. Multi-tools come equipped with a variety of features such as knives, screwdrivers, pliers, and scissors, all compactly housed in a single device that easily fits in your pocket or pack.

The practicality of a multi-tool is hard to beat. It allows you to tackle unexpected tasks, from cutting rope to repairing gear, all without needing to carry a full toolbox. When you’re out in the wild, you want to be prepared for anything, and a multi-tool ensures you’re ready to handle small emergencies or make quick fixes with ease.

Insulated Water Bottles Can Improve Your Outdoor Experience

Staying hydrated is one of the most important aspects of any outdoor activity. Whether you’re embarking on a long hike or spending hours in a hunting blind, having an insulated water bottle can make a difference. Insulated bottles have features that help to keep your drinks at the desired temperature for a long time, which is especially useful during extreme weather conditions.

These bottles maintain the temperature of your beverage—whether cold or hot—so you can enjoy refreshing water in the summer or a warm drink during chilly morning hunts. Insulated water bottles are also typically made from durable materials, meaning they can withstand the rigors of outdoor use without breaking or leaking. Investing in a high-quality insulated bottle ensures that you stay hydrated and comfortable throughout your outdoor excursions.

Durable Backpacks Can Enhance Your Outdoor Experience

A good backpack is the cornerstone of any successful outdoor trip. When you’re out in nature, you need a reliable, durable pack to carry all of your gear comfortably. Look for backpacks that are built to withstand harsh conditions, provide ample storage, and have ergonomic designs that distribute weight evenly to prevent strain on your back and shoulders.

Modern outdoor backpacks come equipped with multiple compartments to help you stay organized, as well as specialized features like hydration bladder compatibility, rain covers, and reinforced straps. By investing in a durable, well-designed backpack, you’ll have the capacity to carry everything you need—whether it’s extra clothing, food, or hunting gear—while maintaining comfort during long treks.

Outdoor Blog

Are You Ready for Autumn Adventures? How to Prep for an Unforgettable Outdoor Fall Guys Trip

Published

3 months ago

August 26, 2024

Caleb Cole

As autumn rolls in, the great outdoors beckons with its crisp air and colorful foliage. For those gearing up for an adventurous Fall Guys trip—think hiking, camping, and maybe some deer hunting—the preparation is half the fun and all the necessity. With a myriad of activities to choose from, how do you ensure your fall excursion is not only exhilarating but also safe and comfortable? Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the most of your outdoor escapades this fall.

Choosing Your Adventure

First things first: deciding what type of fall outdoor activity tickles your fancy. Are you looking to conquer trails with breathtaking autumn views, or are you gearing up for a weekend of tranquil camping beside a glistening lake? Perhaps, the thrill of tracking and observing wildlife is what you’re after.

Each activity demands a different approach and preparation method. Start by defining what your fall guys trip looks like. Is it a quiet escape into the wilderness, a challenging hike, or a dedicated hunting expedition? Once you’ve nailed down the type of trip, you can start tailoring your prep list to match the demands of the activities you’ve chosen.

Plan a Camping Trip

If camping is on your agenda, meticulous planning is essential to enjoy both the spontaneity and serenity of nature without a hitch. When you plan a camping trip, think beyond just a tent and a sleeping bag. Consider the overall length of your trip, the climate of your chosen destination, and the size of your group. Are you venturing into bear country? If so, bear-proof containers for your food and trash are a must.

What’s the weather forecast? Ensure your gear is appropriate for colder nights and unpredictable weather patterns. A well-planned camping experience means securing the right campsite, bringing sufficient food and water supplies, and ensuring you have the necessary permits. Also, be aware of the leave-no-trace principles to keep your environmental impact to a minimum. Planning with precision ensures you’re free to relax and revel in the beauty of the season without unnecessary interruptions.

Gear Up for Deer Hunting

For many outdoor enthusiasts, fall is synonymous with deer hunting season. If this is the core of your guys trip, gearing up appropriately cannot be overstressed. Your deer hunting gear is your ticket to not only success but also safety. Start with the basics: a reliable hunting rifle or bow, suitable ammunition, and a quality scope or binoculars for spotting your target.

Clothing is next on the list; opt for layers that can easily adjust to changing temperatures and are also camouflaged to blend in with the fall environment. Don’t skimp on a good pair of boots—comfort, warmth, and durability are key when you’re on the move. Also, essential gear like a hunting license, deer tags, a first-aid kit, and even a GPS or compass should be non-negotiable items in your pack. Remember, the right gear not only enhances your chances of a fruitful hunt but ensures you can do so safely and responsibly within the ecological balance.

Map Your Route

Mapping your route is crucial whether you’re hiking, camping, or hunting. This involves more than just selecting a trail or a campsite; it means understanding the terrain, noting water sources, identifying potential shelter spots, and being aware of exit points in case of emergencies. Topographic maps, GPS devices, and even mobile apps can be incredibly useful tools for this.

Spend time familiarizing yourself with the area through these resources, and always carry a physical map and compass—you never know when technology might let you down. It’s also a good idea to inform someone about where you plan to go and expected return time is a safety must. Properly mapping your route not only helps in avoiding getting lost but also maximizes your interaction with nature, letting you find those hidden spots that make a trip memorable.

Prepare Physically and Mentally

The physical demands of outdoor activities, especially in the unpredictable weather of fall, should not be underestimated. Start conditioning your body weeks in advance, particularly if your trip involves strenuous activities like long hikes or hunting. Cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hikes with a loaded backpack can prepare your body for the exertion to come.

Equally important is mental preparation. Familiarize yourself with survival skills, such as how to start a fire, basic first aid, and how to stay calm in unexpected situations. A physically and mentally prepared adventurer is more likely to enjoy the trip and handle potential challenges effectively.

Pack Smart

The final step in preparing for your outdoor trip this fall is packing. Since fall weather can be highly variable, layering is key. Include a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating middle layer, and a waterproof outer layer. Besides clothing, pack essential gear tailored to your activities—this could include a sleeping bag rated for colder temperatures, waterproof bags to keep gear dry, cooking equipment, food supplies, and safety items like a whistle, flashlight, and multi-tool. Be mindful of the weight and volume of your pack; every item should justify its place in your backpack by being essential or serving multiple purposes.

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

5 months ago

June 26, 2024

Jonas Muthoni

BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.