C’mon Baby, Let’s Do the TWIST! This may be the perfect song for some dancing, but not what a fisherman wants to hear or see. Twisted fishing lines means a ruined and weakened presentation. All types of fishermen deal with twisted lines and leaders.
Most streams and rivers are moving. Our lures, flies, and baits tend to go with the flow. This means that they can loop, spin, and roll into a knotty mess.
More tangling means less angling. Discarded and tangled fishing lines are also harmful to wildlife. Dispose of twisted lines properly. Most fishing shops have a line recycle box on site.
Spinning lures are designed to spin. Without something to compensate for the spin, your line will do the twist. Now you need to change knots, line, or rigs.
Most monofilament will retain memory. This means that the line will come off the reel in loops. You need to slightly pull and add tension to the line to remove these loops.
The best chance to hook up a fish is when the line is completely straight, with no slack. If you need to set the hook, by pulling out yards of loops first, you will miss the bite. You can also use line conditioners to minimize loops form forming on the reels. Cheapo line will get tangled easier and faster than a quality line.
Some fishermen use a leather or rubber pad to pull their twisted line through. Any friction will generate heat and weaken the line. If you choose to use these pads, wet the line first or pull with less compression.
A quality fishing reel with a smooth drag will also reduce twisting and improve line control. A herkie Jerky drag will stretch the line in spurts. A smooth drag will give way, as the fish battles, and not damage the line. Maintain a full spool of line to minimize twisting and tangling.
Trolling means that you are dragging the lures or bait. They will often begin spinning the line. When you pull the line in, it will often get twisted on the reel. Your next cast will result in a Birds Nest mess.
The best way to reduce Twisting is to attach a swivel to the line. Normally, the swivel is upline from the terminal end. Use as small of a swivel as you can. They are often rated by pounds, so keep the size of your fish in mind. Stainless steel and ball bearings make better quality swivels. If you hook the lure or look directly to the swivel, the presentation will be reduced.
Barrel Swivels work great for making a line to leader connection. You will just need to tie 2 clinch knots to make the connection. This also allows you to add a quality florocarbon tippet that is clear, stronger, and thinner than regular monofilament. This will allow you to use golden or colored lines that you can easily see but will not spook the fish.
Shake it but don’t break it!
Montana Grant
