# Arbor Knot and How to Spool a Fly Reel with Backing and Line Source: https://flyfishnest.com/blog/arbor-knot-and-spooling-a-fly-reel Published: 2026-10-29 Publisher: Fly Fish Nest Spooling a fly reel is a short job, but small mistakes show up later as line digging into the spool, slipping backing, or a fly line that comes off in tight coils. The arbor knot anchors the backing to the reel, the backing fills the spool, and the fly line goes on last. This guide covers the order of work, how to tie the arbor knot, how to keep tension consistent, and how to check that the line is wound in the right direction for your reel. It is written for beginners, but experienced anglers may find a few useful reminders as well. ## The order of work The usual sequence is backing first, then the fly line. Tie the backing to the reel arbor with an arbor knot, wind it on under light tension, join the backing to the fly line with a knot such as the Albright or a nail knot, and then wind the fly line onto the spool. A leader is added after that. Many anglers actually wind the fly line onto a temporary spool in reverse order so they can judge fill level exactly. That method is optional, but it helps avoid a spool that is too full or too empty. If you are unsure, follow the capacity guidance printed by the reel maker. ## Tying the arbor knot Pass the backing around the arbor, the central post of the spool, and bring the tag end back alongside the standing line. Tie an overhand knot around the standing line with the tag end, then tie a second overhand knot in the very end of the tag as a stopper. Wet the knot and pull the standing line so the first knot slides down and tightens against the arbor, with the stopper knot sitting behind it. The stopper helps stop the knot from sliding off the end if it comes under strain. Trim the tag, leaving a small stub, but not so close that it can pull through. ## Winding on the backing Make sure the line leaves the supply spool in the direction that matches how the reel turns. For many reels, that means the backing comes off the top of the supply spool as it goes onto the top of the reel spool. Check that your reel's handle and drag work as expected before you start. Use steady, moderate tension. Pinch the backing lightly between your fingers as you wind, and guide it back and forth so it lays evenly rather than piling in one place. Backing wound too loosely can let the fly line dig in later when a fish pulls hard. Backing wound too tightly can stress some spools. [Compare fly line backing](https://flyfishnest.com/best/best-fly-line-backing) ## Adding the fly line After the backing is on and joined to the fly line, wind the fly line on slowly, again with moderate tension. Watch the connection knot pass onto the spool, and make sure it does not bind. Keep winding until the whole fly line is on, then attach the leader. Leave a small gap between the line and the rim of the spool. A common goal is a fill level that sits a little below the edge, so the line does not rub on the frame. Your reel's specifications can help you decide how much backing to use. ## Common mistakes Winding the line on in the wrong direction is a common error, and it can cause twists. If your line twists badly, check how it comes off the supply spool. Another mistake is skipping the stopper knot in the arbor knot, which leaves the backing able to slip off the post. Overfilling the spool is a third problem. The line can jam against the frame during a run. If you have too much backing, take some off. If you have too little, add more. [Compare fly reels](https://flyfishnest.com/best/best-fly-reels) ## Tools that make it easier A line spooling station or a second person holding the supply spool with a pencil through it makes tension easier to control. Some tackle shops will spool a reel for you, which is a good option if you are new to it and want to see the process. Keep nippers handy for trimming tags. Handle the line gently, since friction from a fast spool can leave burns on your fingers. If you spool several reels in one sitting, label each reel with the line weight and backing used, so you know what is on it later when a season of fishing has passed and the notes are long forgotten. ## Checking your work before you fish Once the reel is spooled, strip off some line and reel it back in with light tension to confirm that it lays evenly. Look at the spool from the side. The line should be level, without a hump on one side or a gap near the frame. Run the drag a little to be sure the line comes off smoothly. Take the reel out for a short practice session before an important trip. A few casts and retrieves will show whether the knots pass through the guides, whether the line coils badly, and whether the fill level is right. Fixing a problem in the backyard is far easier than fixing it on the water. ## Frequently asked questions How much backing do I need? It depends on the reel and line weight. Check the maker's capacity guidance, and see our article on how much backing to use for general ranges. Do I have to use an arbor knot? It is the standard choice because it is simple and effective, but other secure knots can work. How tight should I wind? Firm enough that the layers do not slip when you press on the spool with a thumb, but not so tight that you stress the spool. ## Related buying guides - https://flyfishnest.com/best/best-fly-line-backing - https://flyfishnest.com/best/best-fly-reels - https://flyfishnest.com/best/best-floating-fly-lines