Attaching braid to your fishing reel spool securely is essential to prevent the line from slipping, as braid is known for its smooth texture. A common and effective method involves creating a knot that cinches onto the spool arbor, followed by securing wraps.
Why a Special Method for Braid?
Unlike monofilament or fluorocarbon lines, braid is very slippery. A simple knot tied directly to the smooth metal or plastic arbor of a spool is likely to slip and spin freely when you try to reel in line under tension. A secure attachment ensures the line grips the spool properly right from the start.
The Secure Spool Attachment Method
A widely used technique, often based on or similar to the Arbor Knot, provides the necessary grip for braid. The reference provided describes a key step in this process: securing the line onto the spool with wraps after the initial knot is made.
As described in the reference: "So take the bottom one around twice in the other direction once twice so you've crisscrossed it onto the spool. And then all you do is pull everything tight." This highlights the crucial step of using securing wraps that effectively "crisscross" the line onto the spool's arbor, creating friction and preventing slippage once the initial knot is tightened.
Here's a breakdown of the steps:
- Start with a Knot: Begin by feeding the end of your braid line around the arbor (the center shaft) of your spool. Tie a simple overhand knot around the standing line.
- Tie a Second Knot: Tie another overhand knot a few inches away from the first one on the tag end of the line.
- Tighten the First Knot: Pull the standing line to slide the first overhand knot down until it cinches snugly around the spool arbor.
- Secure with Crisscrossed Wraps: Now, take the tag end and, following the principle described in the reference, wrap it around the spool arbor several times. The reference suggests wrapping "around twice in the other direction once twice so you've crisscrossed it onto the spool." This action helps secure the line by creating friction and preventing the initial knot from spinning freely on the smooth arbor.
- Pull Everything Tight: As the reference states, "all you do is pull everything tight." Pull the standing line firmly to ensure the knot is secure and the securing wraps are snug against the arbor. Trim any excess tag end close to the knot.
This method ensures the braid line is firmly anchored to the spool, allowing for proper line lay and preventing frustrating slippage under tension.
Practical Tips for Braid on Spools
- Add Backing: Many anglers put a small amount of monofilament or electrical tape on the spool arbor before attaching braid. This provides a less slippery surface for the braid to grip onto initially, further enhancing security. You only need a few yards of mono backing.
- Wet the Knot: While not strictly necessary for the knots described, wetting knots often helps them cinch down tighter and reduces friction heat.
- Even Line Lay: After securing the knot, begin winding line onto the spool, ensuring it lays evenly from edge to edge to prevent issues during casting and retrieval.
Using a method like the Arbor Knot or the wrapping technique described in the reference is key to a successful setup when spooling braid.
