How to Thread a Zebco Fishing Reel

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Zebco makes a variety of fishing reels that accommodate anglers of all skill levels, from novice to experienced. But in order to use these reels properly, and to catch fish, you'll need to spool them with fishing line. Some anglers, especially those who compete in tournaments, put new line on their reels once a day or week, but for most anglers, changing their line once each season will suffice.

Items you will need

  • Zebco fishing reel

  • Fishing rod

  • Fishing line

  • Scissors

Attach the Zebco reel to a fishing rod. This will simplify the process of threading the line onto the reel.

Grab a spool of fishing line and remove the small piece of tape that fastens the line to the spool. Grab the end of the fishing line.

Place the end of the fishing line through the tip of the fishing rod, then thread the line through each of the guides on the rod until you reach the Zebco reel.

For spinning reels, flip open the bale.

For bait-casting reels, place the line through the line guide at the front of the reel.

For spin-cast reels, twist the cap of the reel to reveal the spool and thread the line through the line guide at the front of the reel.

Wrap the fishing line two times around the reel spool, then tie a knot so the line and knot sit tightly against the spool.

Cut most of the excess line above the knot with scissors, leaving about 1/8 inch of line. If you are threading a Zebco spin-cast reel, screw the reel cap back onto the body of the reel.

Turn the handle of the reel so line begins spooling onto the reel. Continue reeling until the top of the fishing line sits 1/8 inch below the rim of the spool.

Cut the fishing line so that about 12 inches of line hangs from the tip of the fishing rod.

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