How To Set Up A Baitcasting Reel [Easy & Fast For Beginners]
- By: Pat Ogletree
- on
This is the EASY and FAST way to set up a baitcasting reel for beginners!
Baitcasting reels are a bit different from spinning gear which can be tough for beginners.
Once you learn a few important things about baitcasting reels, the rest is easy.
Take a look!!
How To Set Up A Baitcasting Reel [VIDEO]
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There are TWO main settings you need to be aware of when setting up a baitcasting reel.
The first is the spool tensioner.
It is typically located on the same side as the handle of the reel.
The other is the brake control which is usually a dial on the opposite side of the reel.
To get started, tie a lure to the end of your line and open up the spool keeping the rod parallel with the ground.
Let the lure drop to the ground.
The objective here is to see the line stop on the spool once the lure hits the ground and not overrun the spool.
If the line does overrun the spool, you need to slightly tighten the spool tensioner.
Repeat this until the lure hits the ground without causing backlash on the spool.
When it comes to the brake control setting, you want that on the higher side at 9 or 10.
Most reel manufacturers use a scale of 0-10 for this setting.
After you get a feel for how to cast a baitcasting reel, you can adjust your settings to get maximum casting distance.
But until then, get the muscle memory down with these beginner settings.
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Hey Pat,
great and informative video as always! One tip that helped me when I was learning (especially with wide-spool bait casters), is to make the longest cast I can, strip off a few more yards of line, and then put a strip of electrical tape across the spool. That tends to keep the backlashes down, and if a fish makes a long run, the tape peels off easily. Is that helpful, or is there a reason we shouldn’t do that?
That actually sounds like a really good idea! That’s a new one for me, thanks for sharing!
Thanks for the tips.
No problem! Glad you liked it
I’ve been throwing bait casters since I was 5. My dad would whip me if I bird nested his reel. Everyone needs to start with mono line in the reel first. Way easier to pick out a nest. Always let your thumb slightly drag across the spool when it’s thrown. Until you get more comfortable. Also you can’t throw like a spinner. One solid motion when throwing.
You’re 100% right! Mono first then heavier braid and if you want after that, go lighter, baby steps.
Also, great point on the motion of the cast, it’s a little different than spinning gear.
Thanks for this info. What # Mono is best? And do you need a leader with mono?
Great info Pat . Thanks. I’ll have to give it another try using your tips
They have their place on my kayak! Worth giving it a shot.
This video was aimed at new bait caster anglers.
A bit of constructive criticism.
It would have been beneficial to give helpful recommendations to untangle backlashes.
Appreciate you watching and leaving the feedback!
We do have a video dedicated to backlashes:
https://www.saltstrong.com/articles/untangle-backlash-baitcaster/
I can put that link in the blog. Thanks again!
Hi Pat, great vid on the “How to” set up bait cast reel.
Thanks Alexander!!