By Spencer HollisWhy Spooling Correctly Matters
Line twist is one of the most frustrating problems an angler can face. It causes tangles, reduces casting distance, and can cost you fish. The way you spool your reel, how you attach the line, how full you fill the spool, and how you handle the line during the process, has a direct impact on whether twist becomes a problem. Understanding how different reel types manage line helps you spool each one the right way.
Reel Types and How Line Comes Off the Spool
The Minnesota DNR’s freshwater fishing guide describes three common reel types that beginners and intermediate anglers use: closed-face (spin-casting), open-face (spinning), and baitcasting. Each handles line differently, and that affects how likely you are to encounter line twist.
Closed-face reels, also called spin-casting reels, have a cover over the spool and a push-button release. The spool is fixed and parallel to the rod, and the button releases the line for the cast. According to the Minnesota DNR, this design makes the line less likely to tangle than with an open-face reel, which is why closed-face combos are often recommended for beginners.
Open-face, or spinning, reels have no cover. The spool is fixed and does not turn during a cast. Instead, a wire bail spins around the spool to lay the line back on as you retrieve. The Missouri Department of Conservation explains that in spin fishing, the line falls off the spool in loops when you cast. The Minnesota DNR notes that heavy monofilament line springs off the open spool and tangles easily, so spinning reels are better when using light line, about 4- to 10-pound. The New York State DEC adds that spinning reels sometimes have annoying line twist, requiring you to remove the line and respool the reel.
Baitcasting reels mount on top of the rod, and the spool is oriented perpendicular to the rod. Unlike spinning and spin-casting reels, the spool on a baitcasting reel revolves during the cast and retrieve. The New York DEC’s intermediate fishing guide points out that this revolving spool reduces line twist. However, baitcasting reels are prone to backlashes, a tangle caused when the spool spins faster than the line can leave the reel, and the Minnesota DNR does not recommend them for novice anglers.
| Reel Type | How Line Lies on the Spool | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Closed-face (spin-casting) | Fixed spool with a cover; line releases through a hole when the push-button is pressed. | Less prone to tangles than open-face reels; good for beginners (Minnesota DNR). |
| Open-face (spinning) | Fixed, open spool; bail spins to return line; line comes off in loops. | More prone to line twist, especially with heavy line; works best with 4 to 10 lb (Minnesota DNR, NY DEC). |
| Baitcasting | Revolving spool perpendicular to the rod; line peels off as the spool turns. | Reduces line twist compared to spinning, but prone to backlashes; not for beginners (NY DEC, Minnesota DNR). |
Choosing the Right Line Strength
The Missouri Department of Conservation suggests starting with 8-pound monofilament line for a medium-light rod and reel combo. That weight is a good compromise for most fish, balancing castability and strength. The New York DEC also calls 8-pound a good all-around line weight, and suggests 8- to 12-pound line for bass. If you are using a spinning reel, the Minnesota DNR advises sticking with lighter line, roughly 4- to 10-pound, because heavy monofilament tends to spring off the open spool and tangle. Always check your reel’s specifications to see what line weights it is designed to handle. For more on matching rod, reel, and line, see our guide on how to match a rod, reel and line.
How to Attach Line with an Arbor Knot
The Missouri Department of Conservation’s Introduction to Fishing guide describes a simple arbor knot for tying line to the reel spool. This knot cinches tightly against the spool and prevents slipping. Here are the steps it outlines:
- Wrap the tag end of your line around the reel spool.
- Tie an overhand knot in the tag end. This keeps the end from pulling through the main knot.
- Tie another overhand knot with the line around the spool.
- Wet the main knot and pull it down tight onto the spool. Make sure the first overhand knot pulls in tight to this main knot.
The MDC’s rigging guide also notes that a simple overhand knot can be used. Whichever knot you choose, moistening it before tightening helps the coils seat neatly. For other essential knots, visit our fishing knots guide.
Filling the Spool to the Correct Level
How full you fill the spool matters for both casting performance and line twist. The Missouri Department of Conservation states that the reel is full when the wrapped line is about 1/8 inch from the outside edge of the spool. (Another MDC resource, the Rigging Your Pole guide, says about 1/16 inch.) The New York DEC’s beginners’ guide also recommends leaving 1/8 inch of space from the spool lip for best casting. The MDC also warns against allowing knots in your line except at the very end, because knots weaken line and make it difficult to cast.
Preventing Line Twist When Spooling and Fishing
Several practices help keep twist to a minimum. The New York DEC advises putting the line on your reel correctly by following the instructions included in the line packaging. For spinning reels, after making a cast, flip the bail over by hand instead of using the reel handle. Then grab the line just above the reel and give it a slight tug before you start reeling. This removes any small loops before they become tangles. The DEC also says that if your line keeps twisting, it is time to put new line on the reel.
The Missouri Department of Conservation adds that you should never reel while a fish is taking line against the drag, because that will twist your line. The New York DEC’s intermediate guide explains that monofilament has memory, it stays in the shape it was stored in. If a reel comes pre-spooled with line that has been sitting for a while, that line will curl easily and create tangles. It is best to put fresh line on the reel. Baitcasting reels reduce line twist because the spool revolves, but they require careful thumb control to avoid backlashes. For a deeper look at reel mechanics, read our article on fishing reel drag explained.
Inspecting and Replacing Old Line
Old monofilament line becomes brittle and loses strength. The New York DEC recommends replacing your line at least once a year. A simple check is to tie a knot and pull: if the line breaks easily, it is time to replace it. The Missouri Department of Conservation also advises cutting off and retying if the line is frayed near the hook. Regularly inspect your line for nicks, abrasions, or discoloration. Fresh line not only reduces the chance of break-offs but also helps prevent the loose coils that cause twist. For more on line types and their durability, see our comparison of mono vs fluorocarbon vs braided line.
Disposing of Old Fishing Line Responsibly
The New York DEC notes that monofilament fishing line can take up to 600 years to break down in the environment. The Missouri Department of Conservation reminds anglers to dispose of all litter, including fishing line. Never leave old line on the ground or in the water; take it home with the rest of your trash.
Fishing regulations, including license requirements, gear restrictions, and size and bag limits, vary by state and body of water. Always check with your state wildlife agency before heading out.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my line is twisted?
You will often see loops forming on the spool or the line curling when it goes slack. The New York DEC explains that tangles form when line has been incorrectly put on the reel or when you reel in loose line. If you notice loops, open the bail and strip line off until the loop is gone, then reel it back under tension.
Can I spool a baitcasting reel the same way as a spinning reel?
The basic steps, attaching the line with an arbor knot and filling to the proper level, are similar. The New York DEC notes that baitcasting reels reduce line twist because the spool revolves, but they are prone to backlashes. Always follow the instructions that come with your reel and line.
How often should I replace my fishing line?
The New York DEC says you will land more fish if you replace your line at least once a year. Replace it sooner if the line breaks easily after tying a knot, shows visible nicks or fraying, or develops persistent twist that cannot be resolved by re-spooling.
For more guidance on selecting the right line for your fishing style, visit our Fishing Line category page.
Sources
- Minnesota DNR: Freshwater Rods and Reels
- Missouri Department of Conservation: An Introduction to Fishing
- Missouri Department of Conservation: Rigging Your Pole
- New York State DEC: I FISH NY Beginners’ Guide to Freshwater Fishing
- New York State DEC: Intermediate Fishing, Tackle and Techniques
About Spencer Hollis
Spencer puts together our beginner & family fishing guides, digging through specifications, manufacturer details and owner reviews so you don't have to.
