Hi,

I get this problem every now and then which is quite annoying. The problem is when I cast ... half the reel get spooled all at the same time and I end up with a mess of lines all tangled up. Initially I thought maybe my line is too old and the "memory" of being wound on the reel caused the lines to just come off in a bundle rather than being spooled properly. But then I've recently changed my line, and still I got it again today. Not sure if it's the reel too old, or what it is. Has anyone experienced this? Anyone got any theory as to what might have caused this?

Thanks!

What kind of reel is it? A threadline (egg beater) or an overhead (baitcaster) ?

It is egg beater

OK, not a common problem for a threadline. There could be a couple of causes...

The first thing that comes to mind is line tension. If you are lucky you might find the recommended line tension for your reel online or in the service manual. But most manufactures don't state it.

Basically, the line needs to be put on the reel under tension. It is not a lot and for the most part just reeling in your line is enough. Give the line a squeeze on the spool. Thumb and finger on each side of the spool and squeeze. If you feel any movement then the tension is not tight enough.

You can purchase special line tensioners. But you can make one real easy. A bolt with wing nut (or normal nut) couple of washers and a spring.

Or you can do it manually. Put the spool of line in a bucket of water. Thread the line through the stripper guide only. The stripper guide is the one closest to the reel. Then wind the line onto the reel using your thumb and finger to apply tension on the line. The water will keep it cool and stop it burning your fingers. The water also lubricates the line as it is going onto the reel. Using only the stripper guide ensures there is enough water on the line as using more guides will knock the water off.

Did you stretch the line? Some line comes pre-stretched but it is a good idea to stretch it any way. You will need a park or other large area. Tie the line to a tree or post or fence etc, then walk out the line. Once all the line is out gently pull on it to stretch it. Be gentle, you don't want to snap it. You should be able to stretch it several feet. Then maintaining tension wind the line back onto the reel.

Over filling the reel can also cause your problem. Most reels will have capacity stated on the spool. If you are not sure, usually 2 to 3mm below the rim of the spool is good.

Some of the cheaper brand lines are just that...cheap. You get what you pay for! Some of the cheaper brands are just to hard and will not sit on the spool correctly. If you are not sure what to get, go to the experts. Ask your local tackle shop or BCF. You want the best and softest line for whatever your budget is.

Another thing I can think of is maybe your terminal end is to light. That is the bait, sinker etc is to light and not able to apply enough tension. After a few casts the line would become loose on the reel. If that is the case just use your thumb and finger to apply some pressure as you wind back in....you wont need to do that if you have a fish on

Thanks itsaboat!

I think it's a combination of those issues. The terminal end is light indeed, as I've tried to fish without sinker the last few times. I'll and rewind the line onto the spool following your instructions.

I used to have this problem with mono lines. Especially the very thin ones with light weight lures.

Since I switched to braided lines with fluoro leaders I don't have anymore problems.
Braided lines don't have a memory effect and don't tangle easily.

The only problem is the joining knot between line and leader.
If I tie it it up a little too sloppy it sometimes gets stuck on the rod guides and causes the braid to wrap around the guide when casting. But happens very seldom and only if the leader is much heavier than the braid.

So maybe try some braided lines. They are also more fun to fish with because they don't stretch and you can feel bites much better.

This is the knot that I use for braid to mono -

https://www.netknots.com/fishing_knots/yucatan-knot

In my opinion it is better than a double uni. It maintains almost full line strength (no knot can give 100% line strength). If done correctly it will not be a problem for the guides.

thanks for the link - I'll give it a try.

Thanks Mark!

Interesting I happened to have bought some braided lines on Wednesday before reading this. I bought the superthin 15lb braided lines and some flouro leaders, having read that the flouro leaders are nearly invisible. Reason for me to try this change is I've been trying to catch some breams without much luck. I've used salted cooked prawns & salted pilchards, and went out on the recent excellent day at a major time. But got no bites. So wondering if my line was somehow visible and spooked the breams.

Thanks for the link itsaboat!