I fish braided line when targeting trophy fish. Since braided line is expensive, I re-use the “rear section” of the braided line on my large saltwater reels on my smaller freshwater reels. Hence, I have developed a simple DIY Line Un-Winder.

In order to make this DIY Line Un-Winder, you need an empty 1/4 lb spool, a 6″ long bolt, two flat washers, and a nut. First, secure the bolt through the empty spool. Second, attach the exposed end of the bolt to a power drill. Third, secure the line on your reel to the empty spool via tape. While holding the drill with one hand, use your other hand to keep tension on the line as you guide the line onto the spool. This ensures that the line fills the spool tightly and evenly.

Once the line is removed from the larger reel, repeat this process to transfer the line to another empty 1/4 lb spool. This will “reverse” the line. You can then use this second spool to fill your smaller capacity reel with braid that was hardly ever used on the larger reel (the “rear section”). The remainder of the braided line can be used for other DIY projects. 🙂

In addition to saving money, this low cost DIY Line Un-Winder also helps to save the environment. Build yours today and start reeling in the $avings!