Baitcasters reels have a dual-position release button that’s operated with the thumb of the casting hand. The release button frees the spool for casting when depressed to the first position, and depressing a second time locks the spool for retrieving the line. The casting motion is from back to front in an overhead arc, using a combination of arm swing and wrist action.
Step 1
Thread the fishing line through the eye of the level-wind at the front of the spool, and then pass it through each of the guides. Tie the teardrop sinker to the line using a clench knot and wind the sinker to the rod tip.
Step 2
Grip the rod just behind the reel with your casting hand, and put your thumb on the release button. The rod and reel should be about waist high, with the rod tip extending in front of you on a horizontal plane.
Step 3
Depress the release button to the first click to free the spool and use thumb pressure to prevent the spool from turning. Lightly lift your thumb to allow the spool to turn and the weight to drop approximately 2 inches from the rod tip. Stop the spool with your thumb.
Step 4
Continue holding pressure on the spool with your thumb and swing the rod tip behind on a semiflat trajectory until it is pointing away from you. The rod should be in a horizontal position and your eyes should be on the sinker.
Step 5
Cock your wrist to drop the rod tip slightly, and look forward to the target area, approximately 20 feet ahead. Swing the rod tip overhead in a continuous motion and release thumb pressure from the spool just before the top of the arc.
Step 6
Follow through on the arc until the rod tip is directly in front, and stop the spool with your thumb the instant the sinker lands. This will prevent the spool from over spinning and creating a backlash of line on the spool.
Step 7
Retrieve the sinker to the rod tip and repeat the procedure, making certain the rod is horizontal at the start and finish points of the cast. The initial casts should remain short until the procedure becomes familiar.
Tips and Warnings
- A few "flicking" casts using wrist action only will accustom you to the release button. Emphasis at first is on stopping the spool as the sinker lands.
- If you have a backlash on the spool, do not pull on the line. Lift the loops in the spool to free the tangles.
Things You'll Need
- #10 test line
- 6-to-8-foot light fishing rod
- 1 oz. teardrop sinker
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