How to Attach Backing to a Fly Reel – Step by Step Guide

how to attach backing to a fly reel

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One of the most essential things a fly fisher needs to get right is attaching their fly line backing to their fly reel spool.

I made the mistake of doing this wrong once. Having been exclusively fly fishing for trout in my early years, a fish had never taken me to my backing, and I thought of backing more as a line to bulk up my fly reel so my fly line was higher on the reel. Boy, was I wrong!

The first time I went fly fishing in saltwater, a bonefish took me to my backing in seconds. It was a cluster of tangles, and it broke off! Since that day, I have ensured my backing is attached correctly to my fly reel no matter what species I’m targeting.

How To Attach Backing To A Fly Reel

Attach Backing To The Reel Spool

Step 1

The first step to properly attaching your backing to your fly reel is to take a few feet of line off the backing spool and tie either an arbor knot fishing or a uni knot around the reel arbor.

These fishing knots are super strong and great for this purpose as they don’t slip even on the slippery gen spun backing materials. Just make sure to wrap the backing around the spool two times before tying them, this way they’ll be stronger. I use the arbor knot as it’s easier to tie.

Step 2

You’ll need a pen/pencil, towel, and a friend for this next step. Give your friend the spool of backing, then place a pencil through the center hole of the spool to let it spin, and use the towel to apply pressure to it.

Step 3

step 3

Take your reel and start winding your backing onto the reel using your thumb to guide it neatly while your friend applies equal pressure during the process.

The reason for this method is so that the lines go on tightly. If your backing is soft, it will bite into itself and break when you’re fighting a fish.

Wind on about 250 yards of backing, leaving enough space for your fly line.

Step 4 – Backing To Fly Line Knot

Now it’s time to tie your backing to your fly line. There are a few knots to choose from, and which knot you choose depends on your preference and whether a fly-line loop is ready-made at your fly-line end.

If your fly line already has a loop end, you can create a backing loop by tying a single or double bimini knot. I always tie a double bimini knot as it’s solid, and if you leave the loop large enough, you can easily change fly lines. You could also use an Albright knot to do this, but it might bite into the loop of your flyline. See our post here on how to tie the Albright knot for a step-by-step guide.

If your fly line doesn’t have a loop at the end, you can make one with a perfect loop, but it will be too large to go through the fly rod guides. A nail knot is better, especially if targeting smaller fish like trout.

Here is a video showing you how to attach backing to a fly reel

What can I use for backing on a fly reel?

You can use two types of lines for backing on a fly fishing reel: dacron or gel spun braid. Dacron is a little thicker but hollow, allowing you to thread your fly line into it and make a solid connection. Gel spun backing is more popular and affordable; you can get more of it onto your reel.

How much flyline backing do I need?

Generally speaking, all anglers need about 250 yards of backing on their reel, but the amount depends on the fish they target. In saltwater fly fishing 250-300 yards is a must, if you’re chasing trout, then 100-150 yards will do.

The easiest way to look at it is to put enough backing so that the reel is full with the fly line while ensuring space for your fly line on the reel. This way, you have the maximum amount of backing.

See our post here if you are looking for the best fly line backing in the market today.

What knot do you use to tie backing to your reel?

What knot do you use to tie backing to your reel

The arbor or uni knot is the best knot for tying backing to your reel. Both knots are strong, attach to reels when needed, and make winding the backing onto your reel much easier as they don’t slip.

Conclusion

Ensuring that your fly line backing is correctly attached to your reel is crucial for any angler, whether you’re chasing bonefish in saltwater or trout in freshwater. As I’ve learned the hard way, overlooking this essential step can lead to disaster when a powerful fish takes you into your backing.

By following the steps outlined—choosing the right knot, winding your backing tightly, and selecting the appropriate type and amount of backing—you’ll be better prepared for whatever the fish throws your way. Proper preparation and attention to detail can make all the difference between landing your catch or losing it to a tangled mess.

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