How to Use a Closed Face Spinning Reel | Cast Like a Pro

Closed face spinning reels are the standard starting point for new anglers because they eliminate tangles and overruns that frustrate beginners on open-face reels. The push-button mechanism manages line management automatically. Setting one up takes under five minutes, and casting accurately requires just one drill session on the lawn.

Setting Up Your Closed Face Reel

Getting line onto the spool correctly determines whether casts fly smooth or balloon into a mess.

Remove the cover. Hold the reel handle so it cannot spin, then turn the nose cone counterclockwise. Covers are thin metal or plastic—handle gently and never force threads when reattaching.

Thread the line. Run your fishing line through every rod guide, starting at the tip. Pass the line through the small circle at the front of the cover if your model has one, or feed it directly to the spool.

Knot the line to the spool. Use an arbor knot: wrap the line around the spool two or three times, tie an overhand knot in the tag end against the standing line, and pull tight.

Wind the line on. Crank the handle clockwise. For even tension, have a helper hold the line spool on a pencil about five feet away and apply light thumb pressure. Stop spooling when the line sits 1/8 inch to 1/4 inch below the spool rim—overfilling causes balloon loops. Trim the excess tag end and wrap the tail around the reel handle before cutting to stop the loose end from sliding inside.

Start with sensible gear. A seven-foot rod pairs naturally with this reel. Use 6–10 pound test line and lures from 1/16 ounce to 3/4 ounce.

How to Cast a Spincast Reel Accurately

The push-button release makes casting simpler than any other reel type, but three timing details separate a smooth cast from a ground-bound lure.

1. Stand shoulder-width apart, facing your target. Grip the rod just below the reel with your dominant hand and stabilize it lower down with the other.
2. Let the lure hang about 12 inches from the rod tip.
3. Press and hold the thumb button. Check that the line is not tangled.
4. Slowly bring the rod tip behind your shoulder—do not swing it all the way back.
5. Swing the rod forward in one smooth motion toward the target.
6. Release the thumb button when the rod tip reaches the 10 o’clock to 11 o’clock position. Point the rod tip at where you want the lure to land.
7. Let the rod complete its natural follow-through.
8. Watch the line enter the water to spot tangles immediately.

For gear recommendations, check our tested roundup of the best closed face spinning reels.

Common Mistakes Beginners Make

• Releasing the button too early. The lure drops straight down. Wait until the rod tip passes the 10 o’clock mark.
• Overfilling the spool. Line balloons off in loops. Stop at 1/8–1/4 inch below the rim.
• Cross-threading the cover. The nose cone will not seat and can crack. Start threads by hand.
• Poor line tension during spooling. Uneven line lay causes tangles. Keep constant finger pressure as you wind.
• Holding the rod tip at the wrong angle. Too high sends the lure skyward; too low drills it short. Keep the tip pointed at your target.

Safety and Limitations

Closed face reels hold less line than baitcasters or open-face spinning reels, so avoid heavy tests that eat spool capacity. These reels excel in freshwater and are not built for heavy saltwater use unless you buy a corrosion-resistant model. Adjust the drag to match your target fish. Most rods work, but those with a trigger grip under the handle give you better purchase on the cast.