Spooling fluorocarbon line onto a spinning reel can be tricky if not done correctly. Fluorocarbon has different properties compared to monofilament or braided line it’s stiffer, more prone to memory, and can lead to tangles or line twist if mishandled. However, when spooled properly, fluorocarbon line provides excellent sensitivity, abrasion resistance, and low visibility in water, making it a valuable choice for many fishing situations. To make the most of these benefits, it’s important to follow the right steps when putting fluorocarbon line on a spinning reel.
Why Use Fluorocarbon on a Spinning Reel?
Fluorocarbon fishing line is nearly invisible underwater, sinks faster than other lines, and has high resistance to abrasions. It’s perfect for finesse fishing or targeting easily spooked fish in clear water. While some anglers prefer to use it as a leader material, it’s entirely possible and often advantageous to spool a full reel with fluorocarbon, especially for techniques like drop shotting or fishing in rocky or brushy areas.
Materials You’ll Need
Before starting, make sure you have the following tools and materials ready:
- A quality fluorocarbon line spool
- Your spinning reel and rod
- A pair of scissors or line clippers
- A damp cloth or towel (optional, for tension control)
- A pencil or line spooler tool (to help hold the spool)
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Put Fluorocarbon Line on a Spinning Reel
1. Attach the Reel to the Rod
Start by mounting your spinning reel securely onto your fishing rod. This gives you more stability during the spooling process and helps maintain proper alignment.
2. Open the Bail Arm
Before threading the line, always open the bail arm on your spinning reel. If you forget this step, the line won’t wind properly, and you’ll have to start over.
3. Thread the Line Through the Guides
Take the tag end of the fluorocarbon line and pass it through the rod’s line guides, starting from the tip and working your way down to the reel. This ensures the line is properly guided as it winds onto the spool.
4. Tie the Line to the Spool
Use an Arbor Knot or similar secure knot to attach the fluorocarbon line to the spool. After tying the knot, trim any excess line so it doesn’t interfere during spooling.
5. Close the Bail and Position the Spool
Once the knot is secure and the bail arm is closed, position your spool of fluorocarbon line correctly. Lay it flat on the floor with the label facing up, allowing the line to come off in the same direction that it goes onto the spinning reel. This minimizes line twist, which is especially important for stiffer lines like fluorocarbon.
6. Apply Tension and Begin Reeling
Hold the line between your fingers or use a damp cloth to apply slight tension as you reel. Begin turning the reel handle slowly, guiding the line evenly onto the spool. Be sure not to over-tighten, as too much pressure can create memory coils in the fluorocarbon line.
7. Check for Line Twist
After 1520 turns of the handle, stop and let the line go slack. If it begins to coil or twist, flip the fluorocarbon spool over and try again. Finding the correct orientation is critical to reducing memory and future line management issues.
8. Continue Filling the Spool
Once the direction is correct, keep spooling until the line is about 1/8 inch from the spool’s lip. Avoid overfilling, as it can lead to tangles and wind knots during casting. Likewise, underfilling the spool may reduce casting distance.
9. Cut the Line and Tie on a Lure or Hook
Once you’ve reached the optimal spool level, use scissors or line clippers to cut the fluorocarbon line. Tie on a lure, hook, or rubber band the end of the line to the rod to prevent it from unraveling during storage or transport.
Tips for Managing Fluorocarbon Line on a Spinning Reel
Even when spooled properly, fluorocarbon can behave differently from other types of line. Use the following tips to maximize its effectiveness and prevent common issues:
- Use Line Conditioner: Spraying a fluorocarbon-friendly line conditioner can help reduce memory and increase casting performance.
- Check for Line Twist Regularly: Line twist builds up over time and can cause loops or tangles. Occasionally unspool some line and let it hang free to remove twist.
- Store Your Reel Properly: Avoid storing your reel in hot or direct sunlight environments, as fluorocarbon can degrade under extreme conditions.
- Re-spool When Necessary: If the line becomes too curly or damaged, replace it rather than risk losing a fish due to weak spots.
Should You Use a Backing Line?
Fluorocarbon is more expensive than other types of line, so many anglers choose to use a backing line to fill most of the spool, then finish with a top layer of fluorocarbon. Monofilament works well as backing because it’s inexpensive and adds cushioning. This technique also improves line lay and reduces the amount of costly fluorocarbon needed.
How to Add Backing Line
- Start by spooling monofilament onto your spinning reel until the spool is halfway full.
- Connect the mono backing to the fluorocarbon using a strong joining knot such as a Double Uni Knot or Albright Knot.
- Continue spooling with fluorocarbon until the line is about 1/8 inch below the spool lip.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Anglers new to fluorocarbon may experience frustration if they skip certain steps. Here are some frequent mistakes and how to avoid them:
- Skipping the Bail Arm: Forgetting to open the bail can cause line to wind incorrectly, resulting in poor performance and tangling.
- Spooling Too Fast: Reeling in the line too quickly can cause loose coils or twist, especially if tension isn’t applied consistently.
- Incorrect Spool Orientation: Always ensure the line comes off the filler spool in the same direction that it goes onto the spinning reel. If you see loops forming early, flip the spool.
- Overfilling the Spool: This leads to tangles and poor casting control. Stop filling when the line reaches about 1/8 inch from the edge.
Learning how to put fluorocarbon line on a spinning reel the right way is essential to getting the most out of your fishing experience. Although fluorocarbon can be slightly more challenging to handle than other types of line, its performance advantages are well worth the effort. By following the proper spooling technique, maintaining tension, using the correct spool orientation, and applying smart line management habits, you’ll enjoy smooth casts, fewer tangles, and more successful fishing trips. With attention to detail and regular care, your fluorocarbon setup will perform reliably across a wide range of fishing conditions.