Water relaxes line, reduces memory
Being a fishing guide, Capt. Curtis LeNormand probably re-spools more reels over the course of a year than even the most conscientious weekend angler.
So he’s learned a few tricks along the way to give his customers the best fishing experience possible.
Anyone who’s ever used monofilament knows that, especially when it’s been stored on your reel a while, it can develop memory — forming tightly looped circles that make casting and fishing more difficult.
To combat memory issues with mono (or fluorocarbon), LeNormand places his spool of new line in a bowl or bucket with enough water to reach about halfway up the diameter of the spool.
He then just attaches the tag end of the line to the arbor of his spinning reel or baitcaster, and puts the new line on wet while it spins in the container of water.
LeNormand, a guide with Curt’s Fishing Charters out of Buras, said the technique has two benefits.
“It helps keep the memory out of your line, and it helps go on your reel smoother,” he said.
And don’t make the mistake of over-spooling the reel. LeNormand typically leaves between 1/16 and 1/8 inch between the new line and the edge of his reel.
“I never fill it up too full,” he said. “Even on a spinning reel, if you put too much, line will just fall off when you close the bail, and you’ll have nothing but a big bird’s nest.”
Placing the new spool of line in water has an added plus, especially if you’re working alone.
“You don’t need a buddy to sit there and hold the spool for you,” he said.
Editor’s note: LeNormand can be reached at 504-616-2064.
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