Trot line storage - need some ideas.

[The Maverick]

Can anyone give me some ideas on what I can use to wind in\store my baited trot line? I've read that some use a hose reel and that would be a great idea except I'm not sure I can fit a hose reel in my freezer. Currently I'm using an old wood CATV spool which I insert an old broom stick thru to wind it in. Naturally, this wood spool is begining to fall apart so I need something that is water proof. Most importantly, I'm kinda limited on my storage space. I stick the spool in the top freezer part of my beer fridge out in the garage. The freezer is totally designated for my baited trot line but I just don't think I can fit a hose reel in there. Thanks in advance for any advice\replies.

[ChrisS]

Maverick,
There doesn't sound like there is much you can do, other than buying a larger freezer for you line....you can find them fairly cheap and sometimes free. Unfortunatly the Laws of Physics aren't working in your favor here. One thing you may be able to do, is buy a Rubbermaid Laundry basket from Walmart and put your line in that. It is rectangular and doesn't sit as high as a basket or bucket. I have used them in the past and can easily fit 1000' of baited locktite in it with room to spare. Only issue is that, unless you have a puller, you'll have to pull it in by hand.
Good Luck

[K-9Crab]

Try the hose reel it works great, when you get home from crabing pull the line off the reel and rebait any part if needed, as you pull off the reel drop it in a trash can liner ( tall kitchen ) that is in a 5 gallon bucket,
When the reel is empty pull the bag out of the bucket and a few twists will remove air and compress line and bait- works good, little extra time but gives me more room in the frez. for other stuff

[Domino]

milk crate

[The Maverick]

Thanks for the tips. I guess there really is no need for me to keep the whole hose reel in the freezer. I just figured it would be nice to keep the line baited on the reel, grab it, and head out. I guess with using the reel there really is no need to do that. Thanks again.