Accurate baitcasting can be tough and difficult to get right. However, if you want to gain better control and precision, a baitcaster is the best. In fact, it offers even better control than a regular spinning reel. This inevitably leads to more accurate casts.
If you are looking to master this technique the right way, here is everything you need to know about how to cast a baitcaster accurately. Be sure to check out our baitcaster reel guides too: Best baitcasting reel for redfish, best baitcasting reel for surf fishing, best baitcasting reel for light tackle and best saltwater baitcasting reels under $100.
It is a three path system
To cast a baitcaster, there are three parts you need to follow.
- The first part involves launching the bait from the rod tip. Over here, the angler removes his thumb that is at the spool. This makes it easy for the bait to take the line. Once the spool spinning begins, you need to pay specific attention to the spool control knob setting.
- The second part needs you to pay attention to the braking system. Here, as the bait moves through the air, it slows down gravity and wind resistance.
- The third part involves making use of the ‘educated thumb’. This is generally the part where the bait starts to go down and slowly touch the water.
Remember, you need to pay attention to deal with the momentum changes. You can do this by paying attention to timing and your own instincts. Adjusting the components that are built into the baitcasting reel also helps.
Finding that sweet spot
The sweet spot is basically the moving target that needs constant adjustment. This depends on the weight of the bait as well as the conditions you are coming in contact with. Whenever you alter the bait’s weight, begin by understanding the best fall rate. You can understand this with a spool control knob. You can add or do away with braking until you find a sweet spot at the time of casting. Strong winds can also play a role and so you may need to adjust the settings of your baitcaster.
Understanding backlash
If you do not cast your baitcaster accurately, the chances of you experiencing backlash are high. If a backlash occurs earlier in the cast, the lure is moving too promptly. You need more tension on your spool control knob. If this occurs in the middle of the cast, you may need to perform adjustments to the centrifugal or magnetic braking. If backlash takes place late, you may be not keeping your thumb on the spool in the nick of time.
Other than this, make use of a heavy lure rather than a light one when casting a bait. This helps to pull the fishing line in the water at a faster pace. Make sure you use the wind to the best of your advantage. Always cast with the wind as it assists the bait in moving forward and enhances the accuracy of your cast. When practicing, you can make use of a monofilament line. It reduces the likelihood of a backlash and even if it does occur, you can easily untangle it. So there you go. Now that you know how to cast a baitcaster more accurately, go ahead and put these tips into practice the right way.
Check out our guide for best trout lures if you want more success catching trout.
