How to Set Up a Fly Reel

Fishing with a fly rod is a relaxing and enjoyable way to fish for many different species of fish, from small pan fish to larger game fish such as large mouth bass. Before heading to the lake, stream or pond, it is necessary to first set up the fly rod outfit which includes setting up the fly reel. A fly reel set up will typically consist of the reel, fly line backing, fly line and leader.

Things You'll Need

  • Fly reel
  • Fly line backing
  • Fly line
  • Fly line leader
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Instructions

    • 1

      Attach the fly line backing to the reel by wrapping the end of the backing line around the spool of the reel. With about 4 to 5 inches of the line end extending from the reel, tie an arbor knot to secure the backing to the reel. Tie the arbor knot by forming an overhand loop with the tag, or loose, end of the backing around the main line. Tie another overhand loop around the tag end only and pull tight.

    • 2

      Wind the backing onto the reel by turning the handle of the reel and guiding the backing onto the reel evenly. Spool enough backing to take up excess room on the reel not filled by the line and to also provide a cushion for the line.

    • 3

      Tie the fly line to the backing using a nail knot. Tie the nail knot by laying a small tube next to the tag end of the backing. Lay the fly line on top of the backing facing the opposite direction. Form a loop several inches down from the end of the fly line and begin wrapping the fly line around the backing and tube with tight and concentric loops. Feed the end of the line through the tube, remove the tube, and pull the knot tight. Trim excess with clippers.

    • 4

      Wind the full amount of fly line onto the reel. Fly line will often feature weighted or tapered ends which aid in fishing and casting. Cutting the fly line may compromise the design of the line.

    • 5

      Tie a leader onto the fly line using a perfection knot. Lay the fly line end alongside the leader end allowing for several inches of overlap. Form a loop with both pieces of line and wrap the leader end of the line in and out of the loop 2 times. Pull the loop tight adjusting the knot as you go. Trim the excess with clippers.