Learn How to Change Fishing Line on an Open Face Reel Like a Pro

As an angler, knowing how to change your fishing line is an essential skill. One of the most common types of reels used by fishermen is the open-face reel. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, this guide will show you how to change fishing line on an open-face reel like a pro.

Changing the fishing line on an open-face reel is not a difficult task, but it does require some knowledge and tools. This guide will take you step-by-step through the process so that you can do it with ease. It’s essential to change your fishing line regularly to maintain your equipment’s optimal performance and to avoid losing that catch of a lifetime.

So, are you ready to learn how to change fishing line on an open-face reel like a pro? Great! In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know, from choosing the right fishing line to spooling the new line onto the reel. Keep reading to get started.

Choose the Right Fishing Line

Choosing the right fishing line for your open face reel is essential to having a successful day out on the water. There are many different types of fishing line available, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. Some lines are designed for strength and durability, while others are designed for sensitivity and flexibility. You should consider the type of fish you’re targeting, the type of water you’re fishing in, and the type of lure or bait you’re using when choosing your line.

Monofilament is a common type of fishing line that is versatile and easy to use. It’s a good choice for beginners because it’s relatively inexpensive and forgiving. Braided line, on the other hand, is stronger and more durable, making it a good choice for fishing in heavy cover or for larger fish. Fluorocarbon line is virtually invisible underwater, making it a good choice for finicky fish.

When selecting a fishing line, you should also consider the pound test. This refers to the amount of weight the line can handle before breaking. The pound test you choose will depend on the type of fish you’re targeting and the type of water you’re fishing in. Generally, lighter lines are used for smaller fish and in clear water, while heavier lines are used for larger fish and in murky water.

Finally, you should also consider the diameter of the fishing line you’re using. Thinner lines are less visible underwater and are more sensitive to bites, making them a good choice for finesse fishing. Thicker lines, on the other hand, are more visible but also more durable, making them a good choice for heavy cover or for larger fish.

Choosing the right fishing line can make the difference between a successful day on the water and a frustrating one. Take the time to consider the factors discussed here when selecting your line, and you’ll be well on your way to a great day of fishing.

Select the Appropriate Line Strength

1. Consider the type of fish: Different types of fish require different line strengths. For example, if you’re fishing for trout, you’ll likely need a lighter line than if you’re fishing for bass or pike. Make sure you research the type of fish you plan to catch and choose a line that is appropriate.

2. Check the fishing conditions: The conditions you’re fishing in will also affect the line strength you need. If you’re fishing in clear water, you may need a lighter line than if you’re fishing in murky water. If you’re fishing in heavy cover, you’ll likely need a stronger line to avoid snags and break-offs.

3. Think about your fishing style: Your fishing style can also impact the line strength you need. If you’re using a finesse technique, such as drop shotting or wacky rigging, you’ll likely need a lighter line. If you’re using a power technique, such as flipping or pitching, you’ll likely need a stronger line to handle the heavier baits and lures.

Remember, selecting the appropriate line strength is crucial to having a successful fishing experience. Choosing the wrong line can result in lost fish and frustration. Take the time to research and consider all factors before making your final decision.

Determine the Best Fishing Line Material for Your Needs

Choosing the right fishing line material is crucial for a successful fishing trip. Here are three of the most popular materials:

• Monofilament is a popular option for beginners because it is affordable, easy to handle, and has a moderate stretch.
• Braided line is known for its strength and sensitivity, making it a good choice for catching large fish or fishing in heavy cover.
• Fluorocarbon is nearly invisible underwater and has low stretch, making it a great choice for fishing in clear water or for finesse fishing techniques.

Each fishing line material has its own strengths and weaknesses, so choose the one that best suits your fishing needs.

Get the Tools You Need

Before you start changing the fishing line on your open face reel, make sure you have all the necessary tools. You don’t want to start the process and then realize you’re missing a crucial item.

First and foremost, you’ll need a new fishing line. Make sure you choose the correct type and strength, as discussed earlier. You’ll also need a pair of scissors or a sharp knife to cut the line to the appropriate length.

Additionally, you may want to have a clean cloth or paper towel on hand to wipe down your reel and remove any debris or dirt that may have accumulated. This will help ensure your reel is in good condition and ready for your next fishing trip.

Gather Your Fishing Line Replacement Tools

Before replacing your fishing line, you need to gather the necessary tools for the job. The tools you will need are scissors, replacement line, and a clean cloth.

Make sure the scissors are sharp enough to cut through the fishing line, and the replacement line is the right type and strength for your reel. A clean cloth will come in handy to wipe down the reel as you work.

Having all the necessary tools at hand will make the process quicker and more efficient, ensuring that you can get back to fishing in no time.

Clean and Prepare Your Work Area

Before you begin spooling the new fishing line, it is essential to prepare your work area properly. Clean the surface where you will be working to avoid any dirt or debris from getting into the reel. You can use a damp cloth or tissue paper to clean it up.

Next, ensure that you have enough space to work in. A cluttered workspace can make it challenging to work effectively and may cause the line to tangle or knot. Make sure you have enough room to move around and access all the tools you need.

You should also consider the lighting in your work area. Poor lighting can make it difficult to see what you are doing, and you may miss essential details. Make sure you have enough light to work in, or use a lamp or flashlight to illuminate your work area.

Remove the Old Fishing Line

Step 1: Locate the end of the fishing line on the spool and cut it off with scissors or a line cutter.

Step 2: Open the bail on the reel and begin winding the line onto a disposable spool or similar object.

Step 3: Use a line winder to assist with the process and prevent tangles.

Step 4: Continue winding until all of the old line has been removed from the reel.

Step 5: Dispose of the old line properly by recycling or throwing it away in a designated trash bin.

Remove the Spool Cap and the Old Fishing Line

First, locate the spool cap on the open face reel. Use your fingers or a flathead screwdriver to remove it, being careful not to lose any small pieces. Set the cap and its components aside in a safe place.

Next, carefully remove the old fishing line from the spool. Depending on the age and condition of the line, it may be brittle and prone to breaking. Use a pair of scissors or a line cutter to carefully cut the line and remove it in sections if necessary.

Inspect the spool for any damage or corrosion that could affect the performance of your new fishing line. Use a soft cloth to clean it thoroughly before proceeding to the next step.

Clean the Reel and Inspect Its Components

Before putting a new fishing line on your reel, it’s important to clean the reel thoroughly. Use a soft, clean cloth to wipe down the reel’s exterior, and remove any dirt, debris, or old fishing line from the reel.

Next, inspect the reel’s components to ensure that everything is in working order. Check the drag system, the bail mechanism, and the spool for any damage or wear and tear. If you notice any issues, consider taking your reel to a professional for repairs.

Finally, lubricate the moving parts of the reel with a quality reel oil or grease. This will help to keep the reel functioning smoothly and reduce the chances of any future problems.

Prepare the Reel for New Fishing Line

Clean the Reel: Before spooling new fishing line, make sure to clean the reel thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Use a soft cloth and warm soapy water to wipe down the reel.

Inspect the Components: Inspect the reel components such as the spool, bail, and line roller for any damage or wear and tear. Replace any worn or damaged components before spooling new fishing line.

Apply Line Lubricant: Apply a few drops of line lubricant to the spool and the bail to prevent the line from tangling and improve casting distance.

Prep the New Fishing Line: Take the new fishing line out of its packaging and make sure it is untangled. Tie the line to the reel spool using an arbor knot, and then spool the line onto the reel, making sure to keep it tight and even.

Thread the New Fishing Line Through the Guides and the Bail

Gather your tools: Before you begin threading the new fishing line through the guides and the bail, make sure you have all the necessary tools within reach. These tools include the new fishing line, a pair of scissors, and a spool of tape.

Attach the new line to the reel: First, tie the new fishing line to the spool of the reel. This is usually done with an arbor knot. Once the knot is secure, reel in the new line until the spool is about 1/8th of an inch from the edge.

Thread the line through the guides: Starting at the bottom of the rod, carefully thread the new fishing line through each guide, working your way towards the tip. Make sure the line is properly seated in each guide and not twisted.

Thread the line through the bail: Once you have threaded the line through all the guides, it’s time to thread it through the bail. Open the bail and thread the line through the roller and around the bail arm. Make sure the line is positioned correctly and not twisted.

Properly Position the New Fishing Line on the Reel Spool

Before you begin spooling the new line onto the reel, make sure the spool of line is the correct size and type for your reel. Check your reel’s manual or manufacturer’s website for this information.

Open the bail and lay the spool of line on the floor with the label facing up. Run the line from the spool through the first guide on your rod and then through each additional guide until you reach the reel.

Tie the line to the spool of your reel using an arbor knot. Make sure the line is tight and secure before you begin spooling.

Slowly begin turning the handle of your reel to spool the new line onto the reel. Make sure the line is spooled evenly and tightly to prevent tangles or slack line.

Once the new line is spooled onto the reel, you’re ready to head out to the water and start fishing with confidence!

Apply Tension to the Fishing Line as You Spool It

Once the line is properly positioned on the spool, it’s time to begin spooling the line. Make sure to hold the line taut with your thumb and forefinger, applying gentle pressure as you spool the line onto the reel.

You want to make sure the line is tightly packed onto the spool, so continue to apply pressure as you wind the line onto the reel. Be careful not to add too much tension, as this can cause the line to become twisted or tangled.

If you’re using a spinning reel, you can also apply tension to the line by closing the bail by hand as you spool the line. This will help to ensure that the line is wound tightly and evenly onto the spool.

As you near the end of the spool, slow down your winding and continue to apply pressure to make sure the line is packed tightly. You want to leave about 1/8 inch of space at the end of the spool to prevent overfilling.

Spool the New Fishing Line

Step 1: Once you have spooled the line on the reel, you need to spool the new fishing line onto the reel. To do this, start by tying the line to the spool using a knot that will hold the line securely in place.

Step 2: Next, begin to spool the line onto the reel, taking care to wind it evenly and tightly. You can use a spooling station or a friend to help you spool the line properly.

Step 3: As you spool the line, make sure that there is proper tension on the line. This will help prevent tangles and ensure that the line is properly loaded onto the reel. Continue spooling the line until you have filled the spool to the desired level.

Slowly Turn the Handle to Spool the New Line

Once the new line is properly secured to the reel, slowly turn the handle to begin spooling the line onto the reel. Monitor the line as it is spooled to make sure it is winding evenly onto the spool.

Apply light pressure to the line with your fingers as you spool it to prevent it from becoming tangled or twisted.

Continue spooling the line onto the reel until it is filled to the appropriate level, leaving enough room for casting and avoiding overfilling the reel. Trim off any excess line and secure the end of the line to the spool using an arbor knot or another suitable knot.

Attach the Fishing Line to the Reel

Step 1: Tie the Fishing Line to the Reel

To tie the fishing line to the reel, make an overhand knot in the end of the line. Then, tie a second overhand knot in the tag end of the line.

Step 2: Attach the Line to the Spool

Attach the fishing line to the reel spool by passing the tag end of the line through the line guide on the reel spool. Then, tie an arbor knot around the spool.

Step 3: Spool the Line onto the Reel

Use the same method described earlier to spool the line onto the reel. Be sure to apply tension as you spool the line to prevent it from becoming loose on the reel.

Tie a Knot to Secure the Fishing Line to the Reel Spool

Now that the new fishing line is spooled onto the reel, it’s time to tie it securely to the reel spool. Start by cutting the line about 6 inches from the end of the spool. Then, tie an arbor knot by threading the end of the line through the spool’s arbor, creating a simple overhand knot around the mainline. Finally, tie a second overhand knot on the tag end of the line, making sure it’s tight and secure.

If you prefer a more advanced knot, you can also use the uni knot or the palomar knot. Both of these knots are known for their strength and reliability, making them great options for securing your fishing line to the reel spool.

After tying the knot, trim any excess line with scissors or nail clippers, leaving about 1/8 inch of tag end to prevent the knot from slipping. Congratulations, you’ve successfully spooled and attached your new fishing line to the reel!

Frequently Asked Questions