Over the last couple of articles we took a look at reel manufacturers’ recent upgrades to anti-backlash technology, and how to tune that new rocket launcher. Now that it’s all tuned up based on the size and weight of lure that you are using, let’s take a look at how to use your rod, and execute the proper arm and wrist movements to increase your casting distance.
With all the new advancements in rods and reels, I thought I might cover some time-tested rod arm and wrist movements that will help you maximize your enjoyment out of your new reel. An interesting feature from casting reels like the Lew’s Tournament Pro is that its spring-loaded centrifugal brakes only engage during the initial acceleration portion of the cast. After that it’s 100% free-spool baby! …with only an elegant touch of magnetic cast control over the remainder of the cast.
First of all, if you want to get the most distance out of your set up, then choose a rod, like Titeline Fishing Rod, that you can use two hands with. It should have a rod handle of at least seven inches rearward of the reel seat. It doesn’t matter if it’s a split or solid grip. You should be able to apply both hands to the rod-butt section. One hand obviously connected to the rod at the reel, and engaging the reel with the thumb. The other hand should grip the bottom inch or two of the rod grip.
While you can get significant distance with a one handed cast, a properly executed two handed cast will get you increased distance and with less effort. A properly executed maneuver will have the reel hand moving forward towards the target, while the rod-butt end hand actually accelerates away from the target, or toward the angler. This rod action loads the rod with a higher amount of energy somewhat akin to a pole vault being loaded with the speed and weight of the Olympian. As the rod rebounds from this loading, it imparts maximum energy transfer in the form of speed to the lure. A one handed cast will not load the rod to the extent that a two-handed cast will.
Next is a subtle movement of turning the reel spool shaft alignment from horizontal at the beginning of the cast to vertical. This should be performed immediately after the release of the lure. Turning the reel to position the spool shaft vertically will allow gravity to work equally on any line coming off the reel instead of imparting differing amounts of force on the line coming off the spool. This subtle twist ofthewristwillhelpyoufurtherreduce backlashes and keep that line flowing smoothly off the reel resulting in maximum cast distance, cast after cast.
[easy-social-share]