How to Use a Baitcaster Reel for Beginners

Baitcaster reels are one of the most advanced fishing reels that are widely used by experienced anglers only. For beginners, this rod can seem intimidating but fear not, for we have compiled the complete guide on how to use a baitcaster reel for beginners.

While learning how to baitcast might be intimidating, it’s going to take a thorough understanding of the fishing rod and practice it regularly to master it.

It may be a giant leap out of your comfort zone, but hopefully, after reading this article, you’ll be prepared for what’s next!

What is a Baitcaster?

Before learning how to use a baitcaster reel, it’s necessary to understand its built and its components.

Fishing reels are cylindrical reels attached to the rod holding the spool of fishing line. A baitcaster is an advanced version of the regular fishing reel, giving you more assistance in casting accurately.

Baitcasting reels are more proficient than regular reels as they provide control and accuracy for the angler. With their durability, strength, and cast accuracy, baitcaster reels can help you make larger catches and increase your catch rate exponentially.

The baitcaster reels are perceived to be intimidating because the spool speed is controlled just by your thumb, which can be challenging to get the hang of. If you don’t hold it properly, you might experience backlash and lose the catch. 

How to Spool Fishing Line of the Reel

To prevent excessive backlash, monofilament fishing lines are preferred. We recommend using a 12 or 15 lb. monofilament fishing line for baitcaster reels. You need to run the new line through the line guides present underneath the rod itself.

Next, you need to tie a knot to secure the line within the reel. An arbor knot is preferred with the second overhand knot at the free end of the line. Then spool the fishing line to close the bail. Proceed to pull the line down to lock it in place.

Now you’ll need to find the direction of rotation for the bail, and you can do so by cranking the rod’s handle. Next, spool the line on to your reel by holding the fishing line between your thumb and index finger. Continue to turn the handle 15 to 20 times to ensure that the line is spooled correctly.

Lastly, check the line for any tangles. You can do so by dropping a line to the ground and observing if there are any knots or twists in the line. Undo the tangles, and you’ve successfully spooled your reel! 

How to Use a Baitcaster Reel

Now that you have understood the basics of a reel and successfully loaded your fishing line onto your reel, the final step is to follow through with the implementation process comprehensively.

Here are the steps necessary for you to take when casting a reel:

1. Set the Spool Tension

Spool tension can be set using the dial next to the handle on the reel. By selecting the spool tension correctly, you’re likely to cast your reel better.

Every time you change the bait or lure, you will have to reset the spool tension and then set it accordingly. This is done to match the nature of the lure accurately.

2. Reel in the Fishing Line

You have to reel in the fishing line so that the lure or bait is at an appropriate distance from the rod tip.

This distance is approximately 6 to 12 inches. However, it can vary if you use a sinker attached to the line.

3. Handle the Reel Effectively

The trick to using a bait caster reel properly is understanding how to handle it properly.

The correct way to hold the telescopic rod is behind the reel with your hand on the spool. Rest your thumb at an angle over the spool to gather more control over the casting of the line. 

4. Make Sure the Reel Handles Point Upwards

This is a regular step for any rod or reel, ensuring that the handles point up after reeling. If you’re left-handed, however, you should make sure they’re handing down.

5. Release the Spool

Disengaging the reel spools from the handles is necessary for you to get longer casts. This step prevents the handles from turning automatically while you cast.

It’s essential to press your thumb on the spool when you launch using a baitcaster.

6. Bend the Casting Arm

The right position to cast is bending your arm as the arm’s crook is at 90 degrees and then raise your rod till the tip goes past barely from the vertical position.

7. Cast the Rod Forward

Cast the rod forward so that it rests nearly 30 degrees above the horizontal and then release your thumb from the spool so that the weight of the lure weighs it down and propels it into the water.

However, don’t release the spool entirely as that could prevent you from making catches and lose control over the line. 

8. Handle and Press on the Reel Spool

Lastly, after releasing your line to cast, it’s necessary to have firm control over the pressure you apply using your thumb.

So, when your lure is weighing down the line, be sure to immediately apply pressure with your thumb again to stop excessive backlash and tangling.

Conclusion

While learning how to use a baitcaster reel can prove tricky, practice will improve your skills. This reel is said to be used by professional and expert anglers; however, you can master this skill even as a beginner. 

From what is a baitcaster to the spooling process, we have provided you with a complete and comprehensive guide.

By understanding the reel mechanics and practicing the mentioned steps, we can assure you that you’ll no longer be a rookie at baitcasting after that!