Step-by-Step Instructions for a Baitcast Reel

Baitcast reels can be a mystery to someone who has never used one. Fishermen are often frustrated at their first attempts to use this type of reel, spending more time trying to fix a tangled line in their reel than actually fishing. Baitcast reels are actually simple to use as long as you remember to set the brake properly each time you put a new bait or lure on the line and to control the spin out of the line.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Step 1

Set the brake on the reel itself. The brake controls how freely the reel can spin when you cast. On most reels, a small dial on the side of the reel controls this setting. With your bait on the line, hold the rod in front of you. The bait should not fall to the ground. If it does, tighten the brake. Bounce the rod a little, and the bait should fall a few inches. If it does not, loosen the brake because it is too tight.

Step 2

Prepare to cast by placing the pad of your thumb on the spool of line in the reel and pressing the release button down until it clicks and stays. The reel is now free to spin, but your thumb will keep it from doing so as you begin the casting motion.

Step 3

Cast your line by drawing the rod back, then rapidly forward in either a sidearm or overhand casting motion. As the rod snaps forward, lift your thumb off of the line allowing the line to spin out, drawn by the weight of the lure or bait flying through the air.

Step 4

Just before the lure or bait strikes the water at the end of the cast, place your thumb firmly back onto the line in the reel. Most novices forget this step, but it is very important. If you do not place your thumb back on the line, the reel will continue to spin line out after the lure stops moving, causing a huge tangle in your reel.

Article Written By Christopher Williams

Christopher Williams has spent over 11 years working in the information technology, health care and outdoor recreation fields. He has over seven years of technical and educational writing experience, and has brought strong skills and passion to the Demand Studios team in articles for eHow and Trails in 2009.

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