Spinning models are among the easiest to master. With them you don't have to learn the correct casting technique for a very long time, you don't have to deal with complicated settings and you don't have to be afraid that the line will get tangled at the slightest mistake. If you follow the basic recommendations, then during the first fishing trip you will be able to start making long & accurate throws. And your catch depends directly on this. Read the detailed beginner's guide from our fishing gear shop.
How to work a spinning reel
Such models have a special design, which is intended to be attached to the top of the Fishing Rod. To understand how to work a spinning reel, let's study its structure and main elements:
- Compact & lightweight body made of durable materials. Most often aluminum/graphite/composite materials. Its function is to protect and hold all major parts together;
- A rotating spool for winding fishing line. Its location depends on whether you have a right-handed or left-handed model;
- The line roller guides the fishing line evenly while the spool is moving. This mechanism ensures that the fishing line is not tangled, but is laid in layers;
- Convenient handle located on the opposite side of the spool. That is, if you hold the rod with your right hand, it will be on the left. In other models, for example, baitcasting variants, it is located differently;
- The friction for controlling line tension is located next to the spool (top of the body). On the side of the reel you can find a special wheel for its adjustment;
- Metal bail for fixing the fishing line, which is located on top of the spool. By default, it is in the closed position. This prevents uncontrolled unwinding of the line.
All these elements work together. By pressing the bail, you release the fishing line and it is free to unwind (this is necessary when casting) -> When you start turning the handle, the spool will begin to rotate and the fishing line will wind up -> Friction system will be responsible for the tension. Thanks to it, you will avoid breaking the line when a hooked fish jerks.
Main steps of using a fishing reel for spinning
Our step-by-step algorithm will help you make a successful cast. The recommendations are general and adapted to different reel models (regardless of technical specifications such as gear ratio, body size/weight and so on).
Gather Your Equipment
The first step is to gather and check all the gear you will need for fishing. What is included in the minimum kit:
- Fishing rod. For a reel like this, you need a spinning model. Check the strength of the guide attachments + that there is no damage to the rod itself;
- Spinning Reel itself. Check that all mechanisms operate smoothly (friction system, spool, handle, bail and so on);
- Line. Which kind depends on the type/depth of the water body (for example, braid line is often used for ocean fishing) and the type of prey. Make sure it is intact/sturdy and there are no knots;
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Baits/Lures. Also depends on preferences: spinners, poppers, deep-diving crankbaits and so on. Hooks should be sharp and there should be no rust. Also check that the baits are not damaged.
Connect the Reel to the Rod
The peculiarity of such models is the attachment under the rod. How to do it right:
- Find the reel seat that is closest to the base of the rod (just above the spot you wrap your hand around when fishing). Check it to make sure it's free of dirt.
- Take the reel and determine which side you will have the handle on - left or right (depends on the model and your preference).
- Insert the foot of your reel into the seat (there are special slots). Turn the locking mechanism to secure your gear. This is usually a tightening ring/locking nut. It should be cranked clockwise. Strong force is usually not required.
- Check the balance of your gear.
String the Rod
Thread your line through all the guides. Start with the one closest to the fishing reel. It's the biggest one. Move toward the end of the rod. Avoid knots. Your fishing line should pass through the guides freely.
Pay attention to the tension at all times. The success of your casting depends on the correct execution of this point.
Tie the Knot
You need to lock the fishing line onto no spool. This will help create tension so that you can then wind the fishing line evenly. This will protect against slippage.
So, you should check the tension of the line -> then secure it on the spool. Various knots are used. The most traditional is the arbor knot. How it's tied:
- Place the tip of the fishing line on the arbor (note the direction of winding).
- Make a loop around the arbor.
- Take the free end of the line and tie a simple knot around the main line.
- Repeat the process with the same end of the fishing line (you will have 2 knots, they should be tight against the spool).
- Pull both ends of the fishing line to tighten the knot.
- Cut off the excess fishing line. You can use line cutters or fishing tackle scissors for trimming.
How to Spool Your Line
The next step - you need to distribute the fishing line evenly on the spool. In the future, when throwing, it should unravel smoothly and not create knots. What exactly you need to do:
- Make sure that the knot on the spool is tightened firmly.
- Start turning the handle of the reel to wind the line on the spool. Move slowly and without sudden movements. The fishing line should be laid in layers. The line roller will help with even distribution.
- When 1/12 - 1/18 inch remains to the edge of the spool stop. It is not a good idea to fill the spool completely to 100% full.
How to Set Fishing Reel Drag
You need to carefully control the drag to effectively pull fish out of the water. If you set the braking system correctly, you will not be afraid of jerks from hooked fish or line breaks due to too much tension. Spinning models most often use a front or rear brake (they have different locations):
- The front brake is the most common. It has the advantage of greater tuning accuracy, which is especially important when fishing for large/strong prey. It is located next to the spool;
- The rear brake is located at the back of the reels. It is easier/faster to set. But loses out to the front brake in terms of precision tuning.
The first step is to set light resistance. The fishing line should be pulled out by hand with moderate resistance (not jerky/not completely loose) -> Adjust the brake system to achieve this state by gradually increasing the resistance.
The next step is to test the drag system under higher tension. Create tension on the fishing line, then give it a sharp pull (it should unwind smoothly without breaking/jerking).
You may need to adjust the settings when fishing under realistic conditions. Please note that the brakes need to be adjusted tighter if you are hunting big/strong prey.
Cast the Bait
The next step is the casting itself. The general algorithm of actions:
- In order for the fishing line to unwind freely, you need to open the bail arm (often you need to flip this metal mechanism at the top of the reel).
- Press the fishing line against the spool with your index finger. It must not unwind before you cast. Do not press too hard, so as not to damage the equipment, but make sure it is secure.
- Hold the rod at a slight incline. Find a comfortable hand position.
- Take a swing with the rod and cast smoothly. Your baits/lures will speed up the process and provide weight. Remember to take your finger off the fishing line.
- When your bait is in the water, close the bail arm so the line stops unwinding and you maintain the proper tension.
Reel in the Line
When you feel a bite and that the fish is firmly on the hook, you need to start reeling in the line. Here's how to do it:
- Start turning the reel handle smoothly/evenly. Avoid unnecessary and sudden movements. The speed should be medium. This is the best choice to keep control of the fish;
- Keep an eye on the tension of the fishing line. Avoid slack/excessive tension;
- Hold the rod at an incline. Maintain a comfortable grip;
- Adapt the reeling speed to the behavior of the fish. For example, in strong jerks, sometimes you need to give the prey some freedom and avoid too much speed;
- Spool the line until it is wrapped around the spool . The line should be evenly spooled in even layers.
When to use Anti-Reverse Feature
The anti-reverse function prevents the spool handle from turning backwards in an uncontrolled manner. It keeps the fishing line tension normal and prevents tangling/slack. Often this mechanism is only disconnected when servicing the gear. When this option is particularly useful:
- When retrieving large/resistant prey from the water. The handle is in one fixed position + you keep control over the line tension;
- When winding the fishing line. This mechanism protects against knot formation;
- When hooking a fish. The hook will be firmly embedded in the prey;
- When a fish jerks and tries to escape. The mechanism complements the braking system.
How to Service a Fishing Reel
If you want your gear to last a long time and run smoothly, it needs to be cared for. This will prevent premature wear and seizure of the mechanisms. Required actions:
- Clean the reel regularly. To do this, disassemble it into its component parts (spool, handle, etc.). Wipe the parts with a soft cloth. You need to remove dirt/sand/salt and other contaminants. The procedure needs to be done more often if you fish in saltwater. Salt buildup can quickly lead to corrosion and wear on the mechanisms;
- Apply grease/oil to all moving parts of the gear (drag system/screws/handle and so on). But do not add too much. This will ensure smooth operation of the mechanisms;
- Check parts for wear and replace them in good time. This is especially true for line roller and brake system components;
- After reassembling the reel, test the operation of all parts. This will allow problems to be detected in a timely manner.
After freshwater fishing, it is sufficient to remove dirt and wipe down. On average, global cleaning can be carried out once every 2-3 fishing trips. When angling in the sea/ocean, it is mandatory to rinse the equipment after each fishing trip. With proper care, using a spinning reel, you shouldn't encounter any issues with the mechanisms. Everything will operate smoothly/without difficulty.