How to Set Up Your Saltwater Fly Reel

Saltwater fly fishing generally requires a more specialized reel than freshwater fly fishing. When pursuing larger saltwater quarry, the most important characteristics of an angler's saltwater fly reel are likely increased line capacity and a quality drag.

Things You'll Need

  • Fly-fishing reel
  • Backing line
  • Fly line
  • Leader
  • Tippet
  • Scissors or clippers
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Instructions

    • 1

      Use an arbor knot to tie your backing line to the saltwater reel spool.

    • 2

      Reel in the backing line until a sufficient amount of such line has been transferred to the reel spool. A saltwater reel should hold anywhere from 250 to 450 yards of backing line. Cut the line to form a tag end that extends about 1 foot beyond the reel spool.

    • 3

      Use an Albright knot to tie the backing line to the fly line. Reel in the fly line until the end of the line extends about 1 foot beyond the reel spool.

    • 4

      Use a nail knot to tie the fly line to the fishing leader. Reel in the leader until the end of the leader extends about 1 foot beyond the reel spool.

    • 5

      Use a blood knot to attach a tippet to the end of the leader. The length and diameter of the tippet will vary depending on how you plan to fish and the fish you intend to pursue.

    • 6

      Adjust the drag on the reel (this usually involves turning a knob on the reel's faceplate) until the drag is set at the desired level of tension. Your saltwater reel is now ready for use.