How To Cast A Baitcasting Reel

Casting a baitcasting reel takes a bit more technique than a spinning reel, but once you get the hang of it, you'll be able to use a much wider variety of rigs when you hit the water. 

Whether you're brand new to using a baitcaster or you're sick and tired of backlashing, here's how to make a clean cast. 

1. Face Your Target

Line up your body with where you want the lure to land. Keep your feet shoulder-width apart and square to your target. 

2. Grip The Rod

Hold the rod in front of you and angle it slightly down with your dominant hand on the reel. Your thumb should rest on the spool to control it during the cast. 

3. Set The Brakes And Tension

Make sure to set your brake systme and tension knob on your baitcaster. To start, make them a bit tighter than you think you'd need to help avoid backlashes. As you get more comfortable, you can loosen these. 

4. Press The Thumb Bar

Use the thumb that's on the spool to press down on the thumb bar to disengage it. The lure will now be ready to drop once you ease your thumb off the spool. 

5. Load Up

Bring the rod back over your shoulder in one smooth motion. You don't need a huge windup, just keep it nice and easy. 

6. Make A Cast 

Swing the rod forward and lift your thumb slightly off the spool to allow it to turn. You can feather the spool to help control the lure as it flies through the air. This also helps to avoid backlashes. 

7. Stop The Spool 

Right as the lure is about to hit the water, press your thumb firmly onto the spool to stop it from spinning. This will keep you from having a backlash in the reel. 

8. Engage The Reel 

Turn the handle on your reel to re-engage the spool. Then you can reel in until the slack is gone. 

9. What Comes Next? 

What you do next will depend on the type of rig or lure you're using. Texas rigs and jigs should sink down in the water column and then be retrieved slowly back to you. Crankbaits and other lures can be retrieved right away.