How to Replace the Fishing Line of a Spinning Reel

Introduction

If the line on your spinning reel keeps getting tangled up, is often breaking unexpectedly, or you want to avoid losing your next big catch, it may be time to replace your old line with some fresh filament.

Over time, even with proper care, fishing line degrades from exposure to UV rays, stress, and abrasion. This guide will walk you through all the necessary steps to properly replace the old line on your spinning reel and prevent frustrating setbacks while fishing.

What you need

Step 1 Fishing Line

How to Replace the Fishing Line of a Spinning Reel, Fishing Line: step 1, image 1 of 1

Find the recommended line weights on the side of the reel and purchase the specified line.
The side of this reel reads lbs/yrds 6/390, 8/320, or 10,200 so use 6, 8, or 10 pound fishing line.

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Step 2

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Flip up the metal bail on the spinning reel.
Remove the old line by pulling it off the top of the reel.

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Step 3

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Feed the end of the new line through the first eyelet of the fishing rod.
Tie a single overhand knot towards the end of the line.

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Step 4

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With the bail still up, wrap the line around the reel and tie a double overhand knot.
Tighten the line up to the first knot made in the previous step.

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Step 5

Use utility scissors to clip the excess line near the base of the reel.

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Step 6

Place the new spool so it is facing up to prevent line twist.

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Step 7

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Flip the bail down and slowly reel the line, keeping light tension using your finger.
Continue reeling until there is roughly an 1/8th of an inch of radial space left on the reel.
Do not overfill the reel with line. This may cause tangles.