On 22 Jul 2006 20:39:47 -0700, wrote:

My kids are getting into fishing, and I've been wanting to learn how to
use a baitcaster. I researched on the web, and have tried to educate
myself on using this reel more effectively. This is a fairly cheap
Shakespeare Agilty reel if that makes any difference.

This was a post I made to ROFB on the subject back in 2003 that
does a good job with advice baitcasting tips:

--

A long time ago, when I was learning how to use the baitcasting
equipment, I remember struggling at times and thinking about all the
negatives of the baitcaster (5500C) in relation to my trusty ol'
Johnson Sabre spincaster! However, with time came the knowledge that
the baitcasting equipment gave me better total control of the cast and
the retrieve and more efficient performance on the water. And that
meant more fish...

I'd strongly advise buying a very good reliable baitcaster (I
still use ABU Garcia 5500Cs) and just take your time learning how
"you" can work it (whether that is with a left handed or right handed
retrieve). I wouldn't discount the efficiency of baitcasters either
bc many switch their baitcasting outfits between their hands. Some
guys are awkward and may lose some performance or time...but many are
as fluid as they come.

Learning to use your baitcasting equipment takes patience. It
may take 100 hours or so...maybe longer....but it will be worth it in
the long run. Interestingly enough, it seems that women have a
tendency to pick up on using baitcasters a lot faster than men do for
some reason.

Also...try this with your new baitcasting outfit:

1. With your right hand, cast toward the horizon...

2. Right before the lure hits the water..move your left hand
toward the reel and cup/palm the left side of the reel;

3. Your right thumb should be controlling the spool by gentle
touches.

4. Your left thumb and forefinger should be gently between the
line

5. And rather than switching the rod between hands
completely...learn to use both hands to control the rod and reel. For
most people, the butt of the rod (and reel) will likely be between 3-6
inches above your belly button!

--
Dwayne E. Cooper, Atty at Law
Indianapolis, IN
Email:
Web Page: http://www.cooperlegalservices.com
Personal Fishing Web Page: http://www.hoosierwebsites.com/OnTheWater
Dog Fishing: http://www.hoosierwebsites.com/onthe...fishing040.htm
1st Annual ROFB Classic Winner