Angling often leads to Tangling! Every fisherman has had a Tangling day. There is the problem of brittle line, knots in the line, kinks, twists, and Bird Nests. These line issues then require patience, lost fishing time, and more patience.
Controlling your line begins with what kind of line you buy. Cheapo line will degrade faster than quality line. It’s a great idea to replace your line annually, though many fishermen don’t. Line ages due to temperature, sunlight, use, abrasion, and application.
Winding the line onto the reels spool backwards will make the line constantly tangled. If you ever tried to wrap up a garden hose, you know exactly what I mean. The new line should be wrapped onto the reel with the spool label up. That way the natural coils will stay the same. This means longer casts and less tangling.
Fishing line needs constant attention. Keep your reel/line out of the sun. It will also not do well sitting in a hot or freezing truck. Use a case for the rod and reel. You can also buy line conditioner, that can be sprayed onto the reel spool. Abused fishing line will also fail when you do not want the line to break. It always happens when you hook up to the MOAF(Mother Of All Fish).
Line Control is very important. Secure your line after each use. Keep in mind that the terminal end of your line is where you tie on the hook or lure. It is also the most damaged part of your line. Cut a few inches off before tying a new knot. Also lick the line before you tighten the knot. Friction generates heat which weakens your line. It is also best to use nippers rather than your teeth to cut the line. Teeth smash and break the line, rather than make an even, smooth cut.
To secure your line on the reel, use the clip that is built into most modern spinning reels. Simply press the line into the clip. You can also use bands that will cover and secure the line on the spool. I use bands cut from old bicycle inner tubes. They work great and are easy/cheap to make. Regular rubber bands work but quickly degrade and break. You can also buy reel bands at the fishing shop.
Once the line is under control, cover the reel with an old sock to keep sunlight and dirt off the reel.
The most important part of your fishing outfit is the reel. The line connects you to the fish, and a great drag will help you land it, as long as the line stays strong.
Tight Lines and Screaming Reels!
Montana Grant
