Making Foam Leader Spools Turorial

    By SSSF member Ed Fast - Ed Fast's River Adventures

    Here are some basics for making your own leader spools.

    Lots of people have different ways, but this is simple and the way I do it.



    First, start with some foam pipe insulation from the hardware store. I like the big size so that there is less wrapping to do.



    Next, cut off a piece to fit your needs. I use a small size to fit in my gear bags or a vest pocket. They will also fit in the tray of the bench seat in your drift boat. I stick them in the top of my waders sometimes when I walk away from the raft.

    The larger size shown is to fit on the spool rollers that guys have on their side drifting sleds.



    Next, starting perpendicular to the slit running the length of the foam, cut a slit about 1/3 the way down the foam



    Now, cut slits about 1/2 an inch or so apart down the length of the foam. The end result looks like this:



    Note when it is bent, it will open like an accordion, if you did it right!



    Now, take the hook point of your leader and stick it in the slot of the foam, like this: (sorry 'bout the pic quality)



    Next, wrap the leader firmly around the foam until your last turn. Wrap the line firmly, NOT TIGHT OR LOOSE!
    Use your last turn to snug the end of your leader down into the slot closest to your hook. Now, trim the excees line leaving about an inch sticking out so you have someting to grab when you unwrap the leader. Continue down the spool 'til you've used all of the slots!



    Again, here is the finished product:



    Hope this helps! Good luck!

    Ed
    This article was originally published in forum thread: making foam leader spools turorial started by Ed Fast View original post