Abstract: A reel for electric fence wire is formed from electrically insulative material and is supported for rotation between electrically conductive arms of a grounding stake, the reel containing an energizer which is grounded through an electrically conductive shaft which extends axially through one end of the reel to provide a journal bearing for the reel, the shaft being in electrical continuity with the associated arm of the grounding stake, and extending axially into engagement with a grounding electrode of the energizer, thus eliminating a requirement for slip rings.