How to Fill a Dredge Spool By Yourself

Filling a Dredge Spool Correctly: Preventing Line Twist and Equipment Failure

Dredge spool line installation affects whether your dredge deploys smoothly or creates problems costing you fish before you ever leave the dock. RJ Boyle demonstrates why proper spooling technique matters more than most anglers realize and how simple mistakes during this seemingly mundane task lead to line twist, increased amp draw on electric reels, and deployment failures during critical tournament situations. Understanding what separates correct spooling from the haphazard approach most anglers use determines whether your dredge system functions reliably or creates frustration when you need it working perfectly.

Why Does Improper Spooling Cause Fish Loss at the Dock?

Line twist introduced during spooling creates problems that don't appear until you're deploying dredges in fishing situations. Twisted line causes electric reels to work harder, drawing more amps and potentially failing when you need them most. The line comes off the spool unevenly, creating tangles and deployment issues that cost you productive fishing time or result in broken connections during retrieval. These problems originate entirely from how line goes onto the spool initially, making proper technique during this shore-based task critical for on-water performance.

How Do You Prevent Line Twist When Filling Dredge Spools?

The bag spinning method eliminates twist by matching the line's natural lay as it transfers from manufacturer packaging to your spool. Find the inside piece of line on the skein, poke it through the bag creating your own dispenser, then spin the bag as you add line to the LP S1200 dredge spool. This rotation removes the twist that would otherwise transfer from packaging to spool. For 300 to 400 pound monofilament extra hard, this technique becomes mandatory rather than optional because heavy mono's stiffness amplifies any twist problems.

What Amount of Line Prevents Overfilling Issues?

One hundred yards provides sufficient capacity for dredge deployment without overfilling the spool. Overfilled spools create line management problems and increase the likelihood of tangles. The trick for ensuring straight line installation involves maintaining consistent tension while verifying the line lays evenly across the spool width.