How To Fix a Spinning Reel That Is Not Spinning Smoothly?

Fixing different issues in the spinning reel is not too difficult. But, we need to have proper knowledge first. Specifically, problems in the spinning reel encounter its smooth running. Therefore, beginners are keen to find out how to fix a spinning reel that is not spinning smoothly.

Isn’t it?

Of course, you have landed on this page with the same intention. So, we have brought it to you to troubleshoot common problems in the spinning reel.

Keep in mind, all you need to have enough knowledge about the spinning reel. Therefore, fixing issues will be quite easy. We can hear you have all the necessary about your spinning reel. So, it’s time to explore fixing a spinning reel that is not spinning smoothly.

How to Fix a Spinning Reel That Is Not Spinning Smoothly

First of all, ensure proper maintenance of your spinning reel. So, the chances of its optimum and smooth performance will enhance. If the situation persists, you can go for a quick solution in search of smooth action.

1- The Spinning Reel May Not Be Reeling In

This issue arises due to three different reasons.

  • Braid may slip on the spool of the spinning reel
  • The reel may get locked up
  • The line may not pass under the bail arm

As a quick fix to the first issue, you may get the services of electrical tape.

Simply, place it on the spool surface and your reel will turn braid ready. As a result, the line would not slip.

Alternatively, you can prefer monofilament as backing. Of course, you must tie it to the line.

In addition, the handle may get hard to turn. In this condition, the reel is jammed which encounters smooth running. Most commonly, this problem arises in the reel made for saltwater fishing specifically that lacks sealing technology.

In fact, this problem arises due to salt deposition in the various reel parts. So, you need to detach all the parts followed by cleaning, degreasing, and regreasing. By the way, the suggestion is not to detach all the parts as a beginner. You may not put them again accurately.

Of course, you can get the services of an expert friend or a professional.

Moreover, you may forget to run the line under the bail arm. And you face trouble while fishing. Luckily, the solution is too simple. Just, remove the spool after unscrewing the drag knob. Now, it’s time to open the bail arm. You can place the spool in its place.

Make the bail arm close and check. At this time, the line will pass under the bail arm.

2- The spinning reel is hard and not turning

If you feel the spinning reel is hard to turn, the issue lies in the maintenance and cleaning. There are great chances that sand and salt have made deposits in the gears and internal parts that are making the handle hard.

Apart from it, enhanced greasing or the use of the wrong oil brings the same results. Therefore, cleaning all the internal parts and use of accurate grease oil are the only fixes.

3- Spinning reel line gets tangled

The spinning reel may suffer from tangling issues or it may attract wind knots. In fact, a line twist is the key reason behind it. If your spinning reel suffers from the same issue, go for accurate spooling. Moreover, it may be due to lures or rigs.

So, spool it correctly, first. To ensure accurate spooling, the rotation of the bail arm should be parallel to the line coming off the line spool.

The problem with this practice may introduce line twists in your spinning reel. Moreover, you can use barrel swivel terminal tackle and main line. Plus, the use of snap swive offers the same results.

Is your reel line suffering from a lot of twits?

Okay. Release the line from the reel and let it drag behind your boat. In addition, retrieve it after releasing the maximum line. As a result, your line will be twist-free and smooth.

Final words

Fixing a spinning reel that is not spinning smoothly is not a hard task. Multiple reasons arise for this issue. Therefore, multiple solutions are there to apply fixes. So, in this article, we have introduced multiple reasons and relevant solutions for line twists.

All are easy to follow and simple for beginners. As a result, we hope that you would be confident about the usage of spinning reels after reading this article.

Are you satisfied with the content or do you have some questions?

Please feel free to consult us in the comment section.

We will be glad to support your fishing need.

Have ever nicer fishing experience!


Share post on

Spinning Reel Insider is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

How to Match a Spinning Reel With the Right Fishing Rod? Blog

How to Match a Spinning Reel With the Right Fishing Rod?

Finding the best rod and reel combo is not a mystery. No doubt, multiple...

By James Deguzman
Updated
What Is The Difference Between A Spinning Reel And A Fly Reel? Blog

What Is The Difference Between A Spinning Reel And A Fly Reel?

The market has introduced different types of fishing reels as per need. Of course,...

By James Deguzman
Updated
Why Does a Spinning Reel Spin in Reverse Sometimes? How to Fix Blog

Why Does a Spinning Reel Spin in Reverse Sometimes? How to Fix

The technical features in the spinning reels are increasing at the same speed as...

By James Deguzman
Updated
How to Troubleshoot Common Problems With a Spinning Reel? Blog

How to Troubleshoot Common Problems With a Spinning Reel?

Maintaining the budget is always the point of focus for multiple anglers. Are we...

By James Deguzman
Updated
How to Maintain a Spinning Reel for Longevity? Tips For Better Results Blog

How to Maintain a Spinning Reel for Longevity? Tips For Better Results

Have you spent a handsome amount on the best spinning reel on the market?...

By James Deguzman
Updated
How to Choose the Right Spinning Reel for Saltwater Fishing? Blog

How to Choose the Right Spinning Reel for Saltwater Fishing?

Do you plan to catch a fish from saltwater for lunch today? The plan...

By James Deguzman
Updated
What is the Best Gear Ratio for a Spinning Reel? How to Select Blog

What is the Best Gear Ratio for a Spinning Reel? How to Select

Catching the fish demands an accurate gear ratio for the reel in question. Obviously,...

By James Deguzman
Updated
How to Spool Braid on a Spinning Reel? – Step By Step Guide Blog

How to Spool Braid on a Spinning Reel? – Step By Step Guide

As a new angler, you are eager to find out multiple questions. Among them,...

By James Deguzman
Updated