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How to Spool a Fly Reel With Fly Line and Backing

The initial point the new fly fishermen most learn is how to spool their fly reel. It is a simple process, but there are a couple of items you need to do to get the tapered fly line onto the reel.

How to Spool a Fly Reel With Fly Line and Backing


How to Spool a Fly Reel With Fly Line and Backing



  • Determine which type of fish you will be fishing for with your reel. This will determine which type of backing you will use. For heavier saltwater fly fishing, use braided fly line backing with a test that matches the fish you are searching for. Tests range from 10 to a hundred lbs or a lot more.
  • Tie the backing to the reel making use of a typical knot, then spool the line onto the reel. Be confident it goes over the top of the reel spool and does not feed out beneath the spool.
  • Attach the fly line backing to the end of the fly line. You can notify which end is the right end by searching through your fly line taper. The tapered end goes on previous. Un-spool your fly line and then find the taper, then find the bitter end.
  • Tie the backing to the reel using a nail knot. This is completed by wrapping the backing several times around the fly line and a tube, then threading it through the tube and securing the knot. You can also secure the line with a touch of glue if you want to.
  • Set the reel down and let the glue dry, then test your fly line to backing link.
  • Reel the remaining fly line onto the reel, and you are set to go!

Tip


Spool a floating line and a sinking fly line to two independent spools, in case you need to switch in the center of a trip.

Warning


Tighten and test your nail knot by pulling on the two ends with a good deal of power. If it isn't going to hold, re-tie and pay careful focus to your knot!