I really enjoy using a spinning rod for soft jerk type baits as well as other baits, but I have bad problem with my line getting really twisted up and causing a HUGE mess. i tried helping by using a barrel swivel with the jerk baits but that didn't help. I've even encountered problems with the line twist when using a texas rig. Is it possible that I am putting the line on "incorrectly"? Also, could it be the size and type I using which is 12-14 lb trilene xl?

Thanks,

KP

One thing could be that you are putting to much line on.

Kevin,

Line twist is an inherent problem with spinning and spincasting reels. It's inevitable and you just have to deal with it. Happens on baitcasters too, but not to the same degree. You cannot totally eliminate it, but you can minimize it to a tolerable level. Here's how.

1. The supply spool, that is the spool/line you are putting on the reel, should be perpendicular to the reel so that the line coming off the spool is in a loose coil. Make sure the reel spool is turning in the SAME DIRECTION as the coils coming off the supply spool. If it is not, turn the supply spool around. Not doing this actually STARTS the line twist problem!

2. Once line twist gets to the annoying level, I've heard of two ways to get rid of most of it. One is to attach a pretty big crankbait to a quality ball bearing swivel/snap and troll it behind the boat just fast enough to put a little bend in your rod while letting out line somewhat longer than your longest cast. Do this a little while, then stop and reel in the crank. This works OK when you're ON open water and don't want to interrupt your fishin'. The other way is a land method and does the best job IMO. I still like to use a good ball bearing swivel (but may not be really necessary) tied off to an immoveable object. Then back off in a straight line somewhat longer than your longest cast. Grasp the line just above the rod tip and SSSTTTRRREEETTTCCCHHH it out well short of breaking point. Pulling the line above the rod tip prevents unnecessary stress on your reel and rod. Let it go slack and repeat 2-3 times. Reel in and go fishin'.

Couple of quick comments. You'll probably hear pros and cons regarding a swivel/snap between end of line and lure. I'll let others state their arguments on this. I will say that there are some GOOD ones on the market that will NOT be the cause of a lost fish. And it may make the line un-twisting procedure less frequent. Braided line is MUCH less prone to line twist than mono. But it is more expensive and is not always BEST suited for all applications. Trilene XL SHOULD be OK, but you will probably get some different opinions on this too. Some other lines might be worth a try if you are of a mind to.

Gotta go!

Hossman

Oh, yeah. What BigJohn said, too. Don't spool the reel more than about 3/4's full!!

reel magic

i use spiderline and dont have a problem with coils

one thing to try is cut the lure off, open the bail, pull out some line and take off until the spool is empty. Then apply tension to the line and reel back up.

Always, but always, NEVER use the handle to close the bail. Always close it manually. As soon as my lure begins to reach the end of the cast I put my index finger of my casting hand down on the front edge of the spool and close the the bail with the other hand. It becomes one seamless/effortless motion with a little practice. I know this is a hard habit to break but once you do you'll be amazed at the improvement (much less line twist). Take care and God Bless.

Charlie

hey Kevin, you probably already know this but i'll chime it in anyway. don't use in-line spinners on a spinning reel. line twist is guaranteed if you do. my 2 cents. GOFISH

If all else fails, use the oldest solution known to fisherfolk----
On the water, cut your speed to just above idle, remove ALL terminal tackle and let the forward motion of your boat pull all the line from your reel. After about three to five minutes of moving, chop the throttle to neutral and reel in your line. The key is eliminating ALL terminal tackle and troll a bare line.
I've used this system for years, on lakes, rivers and the ocean. It always seems to solve any line twist problem.
Of course I finally convinced myself to stop cranking a spinning reel when a fish is taking drag. That in itself is enough to twist any line.
=ROSS=

i have the problem of them spooling off additional line and twisting...now i use powerpro braid for guided trips and family or others who cannot use bait cast reels.


you need to turn the spool upside down, then take the spool off and soak it in very very hot water...this will relax the line....a guide told me that and it worked well.

if you go to a braid, then be sure to use mono backing first.

I had problems with the Trilene XL....i like trilene big game with reel magic...works well for me