Loading Line on a Levelwind Reel

[Tomcat]

Despite already having six levelwind / baitcasting reels, I bought a new one and need to add line.

In the past, I've always purchased bulk line and had the store fill the reel for me. However, this time I'm going to try loading the line myself. Will be using a thin "one shot" spool of Maxima UltraGreen monofilament.

To ensure that I do it right and avoid twisted line, I'd appreciate some advice on the proper method for accomplishing this task. Seems pretty simple, but want to make sure I do it right. Thanks.

 

[Ripface]

It's really quite simple. Run the line through at least an eye or two (or all) on your rod, tie a knot on the reel's "spindle," hold the incoming line with your non-reeling hand so that it doesn't slack up, and reel. I would not fill it completely, rather about 80% full. I've always put my own line on my reels and have never had a problem.

 

[Chuck375]

To avoid line twist

To avoid line twist

Stick a pencil or pen through the center of the feeder spool and hold the the pencil ends with your feet, line coming off in same direction it's going onto the reel, under tension, while you reel the reel's spool full. Cuts down on loose wraps and the associated backlash, as well as line twist.

Chuck

 

[Ripface]

Also, if you use the superbraid line, like Power Pro, you should put some electrical tape on the spindle. This prevents slipping of the line on the spindle, which is a problem with superbraids.

 

[Tomcat]

Mission Accomplished

Mission Accomplished

Many thanks for the info...

I was concerned about synchronizing the direction of the line coming off the spindle with the direction that the reel spool was spinning. Figured out that the mono needs to be pulled from the top of the filler wheel onto the reel.

During the process, I discovered a valuable lesson regarding the position of the hand that's holding the rod above the reel and maintaining tension on the line. It's important to keep it centered or the line will wind onto the reel in a lopsided fashion. After the first try, had to pull the line off and do it again.

 

[AKBighorn]

Berkley also makes a very handing portable line spooling station. It has a line stripper as well. If you have very many poles and change the mono each year as I do it is well worth the $30. On another note after you spool up a levelwind reel I like to hook it to a tree and let all the line out, then respool it with the rod partially bent. This allows you to get the line on the spool tight so you don't get a deep burial while fighting a fish. This is to me especially important if you are using spiderwire or something similar.

 

[fishermann222]

you make a good point

you make a good point

Also, if you use the superbraid line, like Power Pro, you should put some electrical tape on the spindle. This prevents slipping of the line on the spindle, which is a problem with superbraids.

Excellent point you made for people new to using superbraids. Another thing you can do is use a mono backing.