Attaching Spiderwire to a Fishing Reel

Spiderwire is a brand of high-tech fishing line manufactured from spun polyethylene fibers. The name derives from the product's numerous similarities to spider silk, including the spinning method, and the line's combination of light weight and unusual strength. Because of its unorthodox construction, Spiderwire's handling characteristics are different from conventional fishing line. Even basic tasks such as spooling the line onto a reel require extra thought.

  1. Spiderwire Advantages

    • Spiderwire was introduced to the angling marketplace in the 1990s and quickly established itself as having several technical advantages for professionals. Spiderwire line at any given strength is approximately one-third the diameter of conventional monofilament line. That allows anglers to use up to three times as much line, a major advantage in fighting large and powerful fish. The line's strength makes it less prone to breakage in weeds and other cover, which endears it especially to bass fishermen. Spiderwire's strength means it won't stretch in the way other lines do. Generally that's a benefit, but it affects how you load the line on your reel.

    Spiderwire Challenges

    • Spiderwire's unusual strength and lack of stretch can make it slightly challenging to use. One common problem is that when an angler feels a bite and pulls on the rod to set the hook, the pressure will pull the extra-thin line down through several underlying layers on a spool. This creates a tangled line, and that requires several minutes' work to undo. Even spooling Spiderwire onto a reel can require significant adjustments. It tends to slip on the reel because of its unusual thinness, so most anglers start the reel with several yards of ordinary monofilament.

    Spooling Spiderwire

    • Begin spooling your reel with 40 to 50 yards of conventional monofilament line. Secure the end of the line with a knot and wind in most of your monofilament. Once the end of the monofilament is within easy reach, tie it together with the Spiderwire. Don't use a conventional granny knot, which strains the line and will cause breakages. Use a blood knot to join lines and a palomar knot to attach tackle, because they distribute the strain more evenly. You can find clear visual instructions for both knots on the Animated Knots website.

    Further Tips

    • Once you've attached your Spiderwire to the end of the monofilament, continue reeling in the line until you've reached the end of the spool. If you're using a high-capacity reel, you might need to tie another knot and add a second spool of Spiderwire. It's often useful to coat the knots with a thin layer of clear glue to prevent slippage. If you opt for glue, allow it to dry fully before winding the line onto your reel. Apply as much pressure as you can when you're spooling the Spiderwire. This helps it spool tightly and miminizes future tangles.