Getting the correct fly fishing reel and line setup can be a tricky business. Many anglers are uncertain about the following when it comes to fly fishing reel and line setup:
- How to tie the backing to the reel
- How to connect the fly line and leader
Firstly, you must select the correct reel type, which can be fixed and non-detachable, or detachable (detachable reels can be closed cage or open cage). Selecting the correct reel type will allow you to thread the backing in the correct manner, which will allow you to tie it on the spool while using the correct knot.
1) Type Of Reel
The open cage type of reel is the easiest reel to tie your backing onto. The closed cage type may not be as simple as the open cage type but it is not very difficult either. In this form of reel you need to remove the spool and then pass the backing through the spool’s opening but in the opposite way before reattaching the spool. Finally, the fixed spool reel requires that you thread the backing through an opening in the right and then pass this around your spool and back out before you tie the knots. Make sure you get a reel with a detachable spool (either open cage or close cage), as it makes your life a lot easier.
2) Tying the backing onto the reel spool
The next set to getting the fly fishing reel and line setup correct is tying the backing onto the reel spool, or Arbor. For this, you can tie the backing in a Arbor Knot(or you can even use a simple knot), and then mount the spool onto the reel cage while making sure that the backing passes in the correct direction through the cage.
3) Ensure you have sufficient backing
The next step for the fly fishing reel and line setup is to ensure you have sufficient backing for the type of fishing you are doing. Big game fish, and saltwater fish require more backing for when they run with the line. In addition you must also ensure that the backing is always tight and evenly distributed on your reel spool.
4) Tie the backing onto the fly line
The last step in your fly fishing reel and line setup is to prepare the fly line by tying the backing onto the fly line. You should know how to tie the Albright knot which is the best type of knot to tie the backing properly onto the fly line. This kind of knot is very durable and it is also easy to learn.
The Scientific Anglers backing is a good multipurpose backing for any type of fly fishing. This backing is made from exceptionally thin material (for more reel capacity), is highly visible, and with its advanced 3M technology is very strong. Its available in 20lb and 30lb strength.
