How to Cast a Baitcaster

Learning how to cast a baitcaster isn't hard; it just takes a little practice. Get simple tips on how to cast with a baitcaster, find out why a baitcaster is better for certain bass fishing techniques, and then get out to try fishing with a baitcasting reel on your own.

Baitcasting Reel Tips

Don't let a concern over backlashes keep you from learning how to cast a baitcaster. In fact, if you plan on fishing for bass with heavier lines and lures, learning how to cast a baitcasting reel will give you an advantage. The best baitcasting reel options on the market offer higher gear ratios that provide additional speed to pick up line faster when fishing with spinnerbaits, crankbaits, and buzzbaits.

Baitcasting reels are also better equipped to handle heavier lines and lures. A good general rule of thumb to follow is to use a baitcaster fishing rod and reel when fishing with line that is 10-pound test or heavier. If you fish waterways with heavy cover, consider learning how to use a baitcasting set up because it will have the power you need to pull fish out of thick vegetation.

How to Cast a Baitcaster: Step-By-Step

Get some practice learning how to fish with a baitcaster reel by following these simple step-by-step guidelines.

  1. Make sure the baitcasting reel you are using is paired with the right rod. Use between a 6-foot, 6-inch medium heavy rod to a 6-foot, 10-inch medium heavy rod.
  2. Use heavy line to learn the baitcasting basics. 15 to 17-pound monofilament fishing line will be the easiest for you to cast initially, and will help you avoid backlashes.
  3. Refer to the owner's manual of the reel to set the proper star drag and spool tension.
  4. Hold your rod out horizontally and depress the thumb bar to make sure your lure falls slowly and smoothly to the ground. This is a good way to check your spool tension before casting.
  5. Bring the rod back over your shoulder in preparation for your cast.
  6. Depress the thumb bar while maintaining pressure on the line spool with your thumb. Keep in mind that when you depress the thumb bar, your line will release.
  7. Aim for your target.
  8. Apply firm pressure on the spool with your thumb as you start your cast to help prevent the spool from over-winding (particular attention to this part will help you avoid a backlash), and then gradually back off on the pressure to feather your line out during the remainder of the cast.
  9. Reel once or twice to engage the anti-reverse and you’re ready to fish.


These step-by-step instructions should make it easier for you to learn how to cast a baitcaster reel. If you want to work on improving your overall casting skills, and like to fish with smaller baits or lures, pick up a few extra tips on how to cast spinning reels.