Outdoor Blog

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

Published

4 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

How to Take Your Own Internet to Outdoor Events

Published

3 days ago

October 18, 2025

Jonas Muthoni

You’ve got the permits, the lineup, the stage design, and the crowd — but when it comes to WiFi, outdoor events can turn from dream festivals to data dead zones in minutes. Reliable connectivity is now as essential as power or sound. Whether it’s a music festival streaming to TikTok, a food fair using mobile POS systems, or a corporate brand activation relying on live dashboards, the internet connection is what keeps the gears turning.

But the truth is this: counting on venue WiFi at a large outdoor event is a gamble. Hundreds of devices fighting for the same bandwidth can jam up the signal before the headliner gets on stage. Public networks only have one backhaul connection, so your production crew, security cameras, and vendors could all be fighting with concert-goers streaming YouTube in the crowd.

So, if your aspiration is to keep the event chugging along like clockwork, the genius move is to bring your own internet — designed specifically for the occasion, private, and controlled by your event staff.

Why Venue WiFi Fails When Crowds Arrive

Let’s start with the numbers. According to Cisco’s 2024 Annual Internet Report, the average person now connects four to six devices at live events — phones, wearables, tablets, scanners, and streaming gear. Multiply that by 5,000 or 50,000 people, and you’re looking at a digital traffic jam.

Outdoor locations have a very minimal amount of wired infrastructure. The majority utilize older systems or common fiber links, which were not designed for thousands of users at once. When the signal is over-stretched, latency increases, access points fail, and the network grinds to a halt.

For event organizers, this is not only inconvenient — it’s a safety and revenue gamble. POS terminals won’t work. QR ticket scanners crawl. Even backup communication programs freeze.

The Smarter Solution: Creating Your Own Network

Constructing a stand-alone network for an outside event may seem daunting, but technology has made it relatively achievable. Instead of relying on one provider or tower, professional crews now use several sources of the internet to deliver redundancy and stability.

Outdoor WiFi specialists use multi-carrier cellular bonding, satellite uplinks, and WAN smoothing to keep traffic consistent even when one source is down. It’s a lot like having several water pipes feed one tank — if one pipe gets stopped up, others keep the flow consistent.

The best configuration depends on three variables:

Location: Urban park, remote valley, rooftop, or open desert all have different signal profiles and line-of-sight challenges.
Bandwidth Demand: Are you providing power to a 50-person AV crew or streaming to a million online viewers?
Duration: A day-long music festival versus a week-long brand tour will change the way you plan power, cooling, and redundancy.

Professional crews will often pre-deploy with site surveys — gauging carrier strength, spectrum congestion, and potential sources of interference such as LED walls or nearby broadcast towers.

Lessons from the Field

Outdoor WiFi would be a niche specialty, but in today’s world it’s simply part and parcel of modern event production. In the last decade, TradeShowInternet’s teams have helped support hundreds of big outdoor festivals and corporate activations, and there have been a few hard-won lessons along the way.

There was the time crews climbed a half mile up the flank of a Santa Fe mountain with over 200 pounds of gear to put in a solar-powered relay antenna for Red Bull’s Guinness World Record truck jump. A second assignment involved digging cable trenches through snake country in Los Angeles for Christian Dior’s fashion show.

When Univision taped La Banda on the beach in Miami, technicians climbed a 20-foot truss into a lightning storm to raise antennas. These are probably war stories, but they represent reality: each outdoor location introduces its own wildcards. Wind, weather, terrain, and local RF noise all push the limits of planning.

The lesson? Experience is as important as gear. Knowing when to use additional directional antennas, when to flip to satellite failover, or how to protect a router from 100-degree heat isn’t something you can read in a manual.

The Technical Side: How Redundant Networks Keep Events Alive

This is how seasoned outdoor internet crews engineer reliability into temporary networks:

Multi-Carrier Bonding: Equipment stitches together data from multiple cellular carriers (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, etc.) to maximize bandwidth and fill signal gaps.

WAN Smoothing: Packets are duplicated and relayed on secondary paths to prevent noticeable drops or hiccups in live streams.
Satellite Integration: Especially when out at remote sites or in mountain events where cell phone reception is spotty.
5G + LTE Hybrid Units: Combining newer high-bandwidth 5G networks with more predictable LTE offers well-rounded throughput.
Portable Mesh Access Points: Create overlapping areas of WiFi that eliminate dead spots across vast grounds or over tented locations.
Power & Weather Protection: Ranging from Pelican case enclosures to solar power solutions, all of which ensure uptime regardless of adverse weather conditions.

It’s a multi-layer strategy — not one device straining the load, but several working in tandem to handle bandwidth, robustness, and coverage.

Why Your Vendors, AV Staff, and Guests All Need Their Own Network Layer

External events normally have three distinct user communities that require the internet:

Production and AV Personnel – operation of live feeds, mixing panels, lighting, and communications programs.
Vendors and POS Devices – card transaction processing, QR menus, and inventory software.
Guests and Media – posting, uploading, or taking part in brand interaction activity.

Mixing them all on one open WiFi is risky. It provides security vulnerabilities and causes too much congestion. The preferred method is network segmentation, creating separate virtual networks that prioritize mission-critical traffic (production, POS, security cameras) and restrict non-mission-critical use like social browsing.

This is exactly how professional outdoor WiFi & Internet solution companies like TradeShowInternet build event systems. They design bespoke topologies that match the unique demands of every event, whether a food festival, marathon, or big corporate activation.

Budgeting and Planning: What Organizers Should Know

According to EventMB’s 2024 Event Technology Report, 73% of event planners say maintaining a reliable connection is important to attendee happiness, yet less than half have a standalone internet budget in place upfront while planning. That’s a recipe for last-minute scrambling.

For all to run smoothly, the network plan needs to be created alongside stage design and power planning — not an afterthought.

Some planning advice:

Start early: Conduct site surveys at least 30 days ahead of the event.
Prioritize wired backbones: Use fiber or Ethernet in production areas whenever possible.
Segregate guest WiFi: Utilize bandwidth caps or sponsored captive portals to control usage.
Redundancy: Cellular + satellite bonding is well worth the investment for mission-critical space.
Post-event review: Collect performance data to inform next year’s plan.

Real-World Use Cases

Outdoor connectivity is not just for music festivals. It’s a necessity for:

Marathons and triathlons – for timing chips, live maps, and emergency co-ordination.
Outdoor conferences or summits – where executives require office-grade internet to make presentations.
Food truck festivals and markets – all vendors need POS access.
Film and TV productions – production villages rely on low-latency connections for uploads.
Races and motorsport events – telemetry, live scoring, and media streaming.

Each of these environments needs a different trade-off among coverage area, upload speed, and mobility.

Why Experience Matters for Outdoor Internet Installations

Each outdoor location is unique. Trees, humidity, metal buildings, even bodies of water can affect wireless performance. Having individuals who’ve done hundreds of installations means fewer surprises and faster repairs when something unexpected happens.

That’s where TradeShowInternet, a leading outdoor WiFi & Internet solution company, comes in. The company has built up networks on deserts, beaches, helipads, mountain ridges, and pop-up brand villages — keeping organizers, vendors, and AV teams connected wherever the event is hosted.

Outdoor Blog

Outdoor Event WiFi: The New Backbone of Open-Air Experiences

Published

3 days ago

October 17, 2025

Jonas Muthoni

A concert in the canyon. A film night under desert stars. A bustling waterfront food festival with 10,000 guests. Across the country, outdoor events are turning parks, coastlines, forests, and fields into memorable destinations. But there’s one service now as essential as power, permits, and porta-potties: outdoor event WiFi.

Whether for ticket scanning, mobile POS systems, sponsor activations, or live-streaming performances, WiFi for outdoor events has become the invisible support that keeps everything running. Without it, payments stall, communication falters, and digital engagement stops.

Why Outdoor Event WiFi Is Mission-Critical

The outdoor events sector, from farmers’ markets to endurance races, is growing quickly. Allied Market Research predicts global festival revenues will exceed $50B by 2030. These venues offer unique charm, but they also pose a challenge: a lack of built-in internet infrastructure.

“Outside doesn’t mean offline,” says Emma Castillo, a production manager for festivals, film nights, and open-air corporate launches. “We rely on temporary internet for outdoor events to manage our security communications, allow vendors to keep selling, and ensure our livestreams don’t drop.”

Cellular service can struggle with the demands of thousands of devices. Some remote locations may not have any service at all. That’s where outdoor event WiFi solutions come in—portable, scalable, and designed for unpredictable weather.

How Outdoor Internet Keeps Events Moving

Today’s outdoor events rely on connectivity in ways that go far beyond letting guests post on social media:

Mobile POS & Cashless Payments – No signal means lost revenue for vendors.
RFID & Access Control – Real-time validation at gates and VIP areas.
Streaming & Social Content – From TikTok reels to sponsor livestreams.
Sponsor Engagement – QR contests, AR activations, and digital signage updates.
Safety & Logistics – Staff communication, emergency alerts, GPS tracking.

A recent Event Manager Blog study found 63% of sponsors now require guaranteed internet access before committing. Attendees want it too; more than half say connectivity is a key factor in their event satisfaction.

Outdoor Event WiFi Solutions in Action: “Lights on the Lake”

In June, the lakeside town of Lakeshore hosted a three-day open-air film festival. The views were stunning, but no wired internet was available, and mobile service barely worked.

The technical crew set up:

Multi-carrier 5G bonding for vendor and guest networks
Long-range weatherproof access points covering the pier and food court
A private secure network for organizers and emergency staff
A satellite uplink for backup

The festival processed thousands of transactions, streamed Q&A sessions with international filmmakers, and even operated a live voting app without a single connectivity failure.

Industry Perspective: Connectivity as a Core Utility

According to WiFit founder Matt Cicek, changes in event technology priorities have been significant:

“Five years ago, internet at an outdoor event was seen as a nice-to-have. Now, it’s as essential as running water and electricity. From safety coordination to sponsor returns, there’s too much at stake to leave it to chance.”

The Future of Temporary Internet for Outdoor Events

As events become more complex, WiFi for outdoor events from service providers like WiFit will play an even larger role. Expect advancements like:

Solar-powered network kits for sustainable operations
AI-managed bandwidth that adjusts to real-time crowd size
Edge computing for instant AR and interactive attractions

For event planners, the message is clear: the quality of your internet connection is as important as your stage, lighting, or sound system. The next time you’re booking a venue, remember—the crowd may be watching the performers, but they’re also looking at their screens. They expect both to work perfectly.

Outdoor Blog

Gear You Should Snag for the Great Outdoors This Season

Published

1 year 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.