Setting Up a Spinning Reel Pole

Spinning rods and reels are some of the most common types that fishermen use. Available in many lengths and strengths, anglers use spinning rods and reels in freshwater and saltwater and target fish ranging from small to large. Anglers maximize performance of their equipment by setting it up properly.

  1. Select a Reel

    • The reels that go with spinning rods are called spinning reels. They hang below the handle of the rod and their spool is readily visible, with just a thin piece of metal, called a bail, protecting it. Attach the reel to the rod and then hold it in your hands. The combination should feel comfortable and well balanced. If the reel feels too heavy for the rod, or too light, try another. You will enjoy fishing more – and be more productive at it – if your equipment is comfortable.

    Spool With Line

    • Check on the side of the spinning rod, just above the handle, for words and numbers. The numbers indicate which fishing line strengths work best on the rod. Load the rod and reel with line by stringing it through each rod guide, beginning at the tip. Then open the bail of the reel and wrap the line around the spool two times before securing it to the spool with a knot. Close the bail and reel on line until it is 1/4 inch below the rim of the spool.

    Attach a Lure

    • Also check the side of the spinning rod to determine how much weight the rod can handle. Then choose a lure – or a weight for a live-bait rig – that is within the weight range listed. Attach a lure or live-bait rig to the end of the line with a Palomar knot. If you are using a live-bait rig, attach a leech, minnow, night crawler or other bait to the hook.

    Set the Drag

    • The spinning reel's drag is the mechanism that allows line to come off the reel, even if the bail is not open. A properly set drag reduces the risk of a fish breaking the line. The drag-control mechanism is found in one of two spots on spinning reels: a knob on the top or bottom of the reel. Turn the knob clockwise as far as possible to tighten the drag, then spin it a couple of times counterclockwise. When the drag is set properly, it will release the line when you pull on the line with a firm, steady tug.