Fishing Reel Keeps Getting Tangled? Here’s How To Fix This!

We’ve all been there; one minute you’re casting out, ready to catch the big one, and the next, your reel’s turned into a tangled mess. It’s like the fish are watching, having a good laugh while we fight with our gear. But don’t let that knot stress you out! Fixing a tangled reel is easier than you think. With a few simple tricks, you’ll have it running smoothly in no time.

In this article, I’ll share some personal experiences and practical tips to help you prevent your fishing reel from getting tangled. By understanding the common causes and learning a few simple fixes, you can make your fishing trips more enjoyable and stress-free.

Things That Cause Fishing Line Tangle & How to Fix Them!

1. Incorrect Spooling

One of the biggest culprits for tangled fishing lines is incorrect spooling. When we first started fishing, we didn’t realize how important it was to spool the line properly. If the line isn’t spooled correctly, it can lead to loops and tangles during casting. We’ve been there, spending more time untangling knots than actually fishing. Here’s what we’ve learned:

Lay the spool flat on the ground and reel the fishing line in slowly, making sure it goes on smoothly and evenly. The key is to ensure that the line comes off the spool in the same direction it will go onto your reel. This minimizes twists and helps the line lay flat on the reel.

Keeping slight tension on the fishing line as you spool it can prevent loose loops from forming. We’ve also found that using a line conditioner can help reduce memory and make the line more manageable. By paying attention to these details, we’ve significantly reduced our line tangling issues and made our fishing trips much more enjoyable.

Learn how to spool a spinning reel in the right way.

2. Line Twist

Line twist is a common headache for anyone using spinning reels. We’ve learned that this happens because the fishing line gets twisted as it’s wound onto the reel. To fix this, we recommend letting your line out behind a moving boat or walking it out in an open field, then reeling it back in. This simple trick can remove the twists and make your line much easier to manage.

Line twists can be frustrating, causing loops and tangles. One trick we’ve found helpful is using a swivel between your main line and leader. The swivel lets the line untwist itself, cutting down on tangles.

Another method we’ve tried is trolling the fishing line behind a boat without any lure attached. This helps to remove any twists that have built up. If you don’t have access to a boat, walking the line out in an open field and reeling it back in works just as well.

Additionally, using high-quality fishing lines that are less prone to twisting and regularly checking for twists while reeling in can make a big difference. We’ve also started manually closing the bail arm instead of cranking the handle to close it, which helps reduce twists. Paying attention to these small details can help you avoid the frustration of tangled lines.

3. Overfilling the Spool

We’ve all been there, thinking that more fishing lines on the spool would be better. However, overfilling can cause the line to spill off the reel and tangle. We recommend filling the spool to about 1/8 inch from the edge. This gives the line enough room to move without jumping off the spool and causing a mess.

When we first started fishing, we thought packing as much line as possible onto the spool would mean fewer re-spooling sessions. Overfilling the spool can cause the line to jump off, especially during casting, leading to a tangled mess.

Now, we fill our spools to about 1/8 inch from the edge, and this simple adjustment has greatly reduced our tangling issues. It’s a small change that makes a big difference.

It’s important to choose the right line for your reel. Different reels are designed for different line capacities and types. Using a line that’s too heavy or too light for your reel can make overfilling even worse.

We also suggest checking the manufacturer’s recommendations for your reel to ensure you’re using the optimal line weight and capacity. This can prevent overfilling and help maintain smooth casting and reeling.

4. Slack Line

We’ve noticed that reeling in slack lines often leads to tangles. You see, a loose line doesn’t wind onto the spool tightly and can create loops that turn into knots. We always make sure to keep the line tight while reeling in, especially when retrieving our bait.

Slackline can be a real pain, causing loops and knots on the spool. We’ve found that keeping tension on the line while reeling in helps a lot. If you feel slack, give the line a gentle tug before continuing to reel. This simple step ensures the line winds evenly onto the spool and cuts down on tangles.

Try to avoid situations that create slack lines in the first place. For instance, when casting, make sure to close the bail manually and start reeling immediately to maintain tension. Also, be mindful of windy conditions, which can easily create slack. By staying aware and keeping the line tight, you can minimize tangles.

5. Line Memory

Line memory can be a real nuisance. This happens when the line retains the shape of the spool, resulting in coils and tangles. We’ve found that the braided line is better because it has less memory than the monofilament line.

If you prefer monofilament, try soaking the spool in warm water before spooling it onto your reel. This helps the line relax and reduces memory.

Line memory, which causes the line to coil and tangle, can be quite frustrating. We’ve had more success with the braided fishing line, as it tends to have less memory than monofilament. For those who stick with monofilament, soaking the fresh line in warm water before spooling can help reduce memory. This makes the line more flexible and less prone to coiling, leading to fewer tangles.

Regularly stretching the line can also help keep it straight and prevent it from coiling. These simple practices can significantly decrease tangles.

You might want to read: Do You Need to Soak New Fishing Line? Let’s Know the Truth

6. Casting Technique

We’ve learned that your casting technique can greatly influence whether or not you end up with tangled lines. Casting into the wind often causes the line to loop and tangle. Whenever possible, we try to position ourselves so the wind is at our back. This way, the line lays flat and tangles are less likely.

If you can’t avoid casting into the wind, try keeping your casts low to the water’s surface. This helps reduce the wind’s impact on the line.

Another useful tip is to use a sidearm or underhand cast in windy conditions, which can help keep the line trajectory lower and more controlled. Additionally, keeping an eye on your line as it lands can help you catch and correct any potential loops before they become tangles.

Preventative Measures and Solutions For The Future

1. Use Appropriate Line Size

Choosing the right line size for your reel is crucial to avoiding tangles. We’ve learned that using a line that’s too thick or too thin can cause problems. Always check your reel’s specifications and pick a line that matches. For example, with a 2500-size spinning reel, an 8-12-pound test line usually works best.

Using the correct line size ensures smooth handling and reduces the chance of tangles. When the line is properly matched to your reel, it casts better and retrieves more easily.

We’ve found that sticking to the recommended line size not only prevents tangles but also improves overall fishing performance. So, make sure to follow the reel’s guidelines and choose a line that fits those specs for a hassle-free fishing experience.

2. Add a Swivel

Adding a swivel between your main line and leader can help cut down on line twists. We’ve found that barrel swivels are particularly effective, allowing the line to untwist itself. This simple addition can make a big difference, especially when using lures that tend to spin.

Swivels are fantastic for preventing line twists. We’ve had great success using barrel swivels, which help the line untwist itself.

This is especially useful when using spinning lures. By adding a swivel between your main line and leader, you can significantly reduce the chances of tangles. It’s a small and inexpensive investment that pays off big, making your fishing experience much smoother.

You might find it helpful: Should You Use a Swivel on Your Lure? Let’s Conclude The Debate…

3. Maintain Your Gear

Keeping your fishing gear in good shape is key to avoiding tangles. We’ve found that regularly cleaning and lubricating our reels keeps them running smoothly and reduces the chances of tangles. Make it a habit to check your line for any nicks or frays and replace them if needed.

Taking care of your gear is crucial for preventing tangles. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and lubricating reels, ensures they stay in top condition.

A Piece Of Advice From The Author

Personal Experiences

We’ve tried various methods to reduce line tangles, and the line conditioner has stood out. Spraying the line and letting it sit overnight improves castability and reduces tangles significantly. It’s a simple step that makes fishing smoother.

Combining line conditioner with proper spooling and regular gear maintenance enhances the overall experience. A quick spray before your trip can lead to fewer tangles and more enjoyable fishing.

General Recommendations

Regularly check your line for wear and replace any damaged sections to avoid issues during your trip. These simple steps ensure better casting and fewer tangles.

Everyone’s fishing style varies, so experiment with different lines and techniques. We’ve found that braided lines with a fluorocarbon leader offer strength and invisibility for various types of fishing. Spooling correctly and maintaining your gear helps avoid tangles. Connecting with fishing communities can also provide valuable insights from other anglers.