How to Put Fishing Line on a Baitcasting Reel-7 Easy Steps

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Fishing is a fun leisure activity practiced by millions across the globe. It usually seems like an easy activity, but the truth is, you need to acquire some skills to become a competent angler. One of these skills is putting a fishing line on the reel. 

There are two major types of fishing reels; baitcaster and spinning reels. Spinning reels are the most common among beginners since they are easier to cast, and they still get the job done. 

Baitcasters, on the other hand, they are a bit more difficult to cast and quite challenging when putting a new line into one. The upside is baitcasters are more accurate, and you can use them to cast over long distances. 

In this blog, I will show you how to put a line on a baitcasting reel. But before we get to that, you should familiarize yourself with a baitcaster first. 

More about Baitcasters 

If you are new to baitcasters, some information about them will probably make your work easier. 

First, baitcasters are best used for larger and fighting fish. Therefore, if you plan to catch smaller fish like trout, a spinning reel will do a better job. Spinning reels are easier to cast with lighter lures required for smaller fish, unlike baitcasters that are excellent with heavier lures for larger fish like catfish. That said, you will need heavier lines with baitcasters. 

You should also note that there is a learning curve with baitcasters. You will need to invest your time and practice how to cast in your backyard or the nearest pond. The reason baitcasters are more challenging to cast is they usually require much initial power to start compared to spinning reels. Also, the fishing line is often harder to stop once you’ve cast. That’s why cases of Birdnesting are often common with baitcasters. 

However, with some days of practice, you will get used to it, and you will realize just how comfortable they are. You will be able to cast over longer distances accurately and land larger fish. 

What You Will Need 

Now that you have basic knowledge about baitcasters let’s discuss how to put fishing line on a baitcasting reel. First, you will need to ensure you have all the fishing supplies required. These are the supplies I mean:

  • Fishing rod 
  • Reel
  • Fishing line (braided or monofilament)
  •  A person to help you when necessary
  • Linesman’s pliers that you can use to hold and cut the line. 
  • Screwdriver, preferably a long one 
  • Practice plug  

If you have a fishing buddy and the equipment required, putting the fishing line shouldn’t be hard. Here’s how to go about it:

7 Easy of Putting a line on a baitcasting Reel

Step 1: Dispose of the Old Fishing Line 

I will assume you bought the fishing reel spooled, and now you want to replace the line it came with a new one. Remove the old line and dispose of it appropriately. Don’t just toss it into the water as it can endanger aquatic life and water flow. You can maybe burn it while burning other waste in your house. 

Step 2: Thread the New Line 

Now, thread in the new braided or monofilament line you are using through the loops. Please make sure that you don’t miss even a single loop while threading in the line. The loops at the end of the rod are usually very small, and you can miss them with ease if you are not attentive. Please note that you should start threading from the bottom of the rod, as you work your way up. 

Step 3: Loop the Line’s End towards the Reel 

Now, loop the end of the fishing line towards the reel and then around it, before securing it with a knot. At this point, call your fishing buddy to help you hold the line steady as you securely tie the knot. There are two major knots you can tie, the arbor knot or the double uni-knot. 

Most people prefer uni-knot since it is stronger. However, you should note the knot is a bit complex, and you will need to take your time to tie it perfectly. Here’s how to tie the knot:

  • Overlap the lines’ ends to join them. 
  • Take the left line’s end and double back. 
  • Wrap it around the two lines made after doubling back three times. 
  • Ensure that everything is tight before repeating the process on the other end. 
  • Pull the lines away from each other and form a knot. 
  • Clip the ends with the linesman’s pliers, and you are good to go. 

I know it is easier said than done, but it is not that complicated either. Maybe you can practice tying the knot with shoelaces first, before doing it with the fishing line. 

Step 4: Ask Your Fishing Buddy to Hold the Spool of Line 

While holding it, ask your buddy to put the spool on the screwdriver. Putting the spool on the screwdriver will allow the spool of line to spin with ease. 

Step 5: Reel in the Line into Your Baitcaster

Slowly, start reeling in the fishing line into the baitcaster reel. While at it, ask your buddy to ensure that there is just enough amount of tension on the line. 

When there is some tension, the fishing line stays tight. It is vital that the fishing line is tight while fishing. When it is loose, the risk of Birdnesting is usually very high. It will help if you put a little more tension while you are spooling. You can do this by pressing on the fishing line with your forefinger and thumb. 

Please take your time while spooling because it is crucial you do it right. By right, I mean, the line should be tightly rolled on the baitcasting reel. If you feel that it’s loose, kindly repeat the procedure. There is no need to do it fast and do it wrong. 

Step 6: Cut the Fishing Line 

Once you’ve put enough line on the baitcaster, use your pliers to cut the line. I will discuss the right amount of fishing line on the FAQs section down below. 

Step 7: Test the Rod 

You can’t be sure you’ve done a good job if you don’t test and see how if it is working appropriately. This action is very crucial since it is easier to deal with line problems at home than when you are out fishing. It is no fun trying to fix your baitcaster while confined to the space of your boat. Test the rod with a practice plug, one of the items I mentioned you should have. 

If the spool is not releasing the line as it should, remove the line and begin spooling it again until you get it right. Since visual help can do more good than written instructions, I hope this video will help you put a new line into your baitcaster. 

Frequently Asked Question

I know I’ve tackled most things one would love to know about putting a new line into a baitcaster, but there’s still a chance you still have some questions. If that’s the case, here are answers to the FAQs about this topic. 

How Much Line to Put on a Baitcaster?

Generally, you should reel in the fishing line until there is about a 1/8 inch gap between the spool’s top and the fishing line. If you fill the spool completely, you will not be able to use the fishing reel. On the other hand, if you don’t put enough line into the spool, you won’t be able to cast perfectly. 

Can I Use Braided fishing Lines on My Baitcaster reel?

Yes, you can use a braided line on your baitcaster. However, braided lines often lead to drag problems and backlashes. That’s why it is usually recommended using a monofilament backing before reeling in a braided line. That way, you can avoid line slippage, backlashes, and drag problems. 

What Pound Test is Excellent for Bass Fishing?

Typically, the higher the pound test, the stronger the line is expected to be. If you plan to catch trout, for example, you can use a 4-pound test line. If you plan to catch bass, I recommend using an 8-pound test line. You can use fluorocarbon, monofilament, or braided lines for bass fishing. 

What Size Line Is the Best for Baitcasting?

The size of the line also affects the castability and accuracy. That said, you should note that baitcasters are not designed for lighters lines. You should always aim for 10 pounds and above for your baitcaster. Lines with larger diameters come off the spool with ease and rarely overruns. 

How do you tie an overhand knot?

The overhand knot is a fundamental knot .to check this video to tie this knot.

Wrapping Up 

Congratulations! You now know how to add a fishing line into your baitcaster reel. It is not as hard as some people would want you to think, but it is not so easy either. Please take your time, practice, and ensure to do it right. With seriousness and determination, you should be able to do it after a few hours of practice. Doing it yourself will save you the money you would have used hiring someone to add the line on your reel, plus make you a pro that you can help others.

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