Abstract: A line storage and dispensing device having a spool housing and line passage. The line passage is configured so that friction is created between the line and the line channel. The friction is great enough to resist casual advance of the line through the line channel, substantially maintaining the angular position of the spool in the housing, reducing line unspooling, accidental retraction of the line into the housing or backlash of the line on the spool. The line passage is formed preferably in a resilient material that allows a compressive force to be selectively and manually applied against the line passage and the line. The compressive force is of a magnitude great enough to allow the line to be tensioned as it is pulled from the spool through the line passage, straightening the line and removing coil memory in the line as it is withdrawn from the spool.