[Lard Almighty]

Baitcasters are a totally different animal from spinning gear. If you have used spinning reels your whole life you will find baitcasters to be a challenge. Having used baitcasters for many years, here are a few things I have learned:

1. DON'T GO CHEAP: You can get away with a $50 spinning reel. A $50 baitcast reel will break faster than you can get it out of the package (I learned this the hard way). I do not buy baitcast reels that have a retail price of less than $100 (sales notwithstanding). With baitcasters you get what you pay for. That being said, most people do not need a $300+ model unless they use it almost every day.

2. ADJUST BRAKES AND TENSION: The magnetic brakes and the spool tension knob require constant attention. When switching to different lures, changing casting motions, or even if the wind shifts, you MUST adjust the brakes and tension accordingly. Always start with the settings higher than you might need, then gradually back off until you find the right balance between casting distance and not getting backlashes. A good rule for the tension knob is to hold the rod perpendicular to you with a few inches of line out, put the reel in free-spool, then back off on the tension until the lure just starts to fall with its own weight.

3. BACKLASHES WILL HAPPEN: Even with the tension and brakes properly calibrated, you will still get a backlash here and there. If it happens, don't get frustrated; it's all a part of the game. When you first are learning how to cast (this is when backlashes will likely be most frequent for you), also take the time to learn how to pick out a backlash. You'll find that, with a little practice, you'll be able to untangle all but the nastiest of backlashes with not much effort.

4. PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE: You will NOT learn how to throw a baitcaster overnight! It takes practice and patience to learn how to use one, and even more practice and patience to learn how to use one well. This is something you might consider learning over the winter, practicing in the backyard for a few weeks before hitting the water.

5. PAY NO ATTENTION TO THE PROS: Yes, Kevin Van Dam can throw a spinnerbait 200 yards with a baitcaster just by wiggling his pinkie. Do not expect to be able to do the same. The reason pros can do crazy things with baitcasters is because they use them every single day. Focus on learning how to use your baitcaster for situations you may encounter, and don't try to become the next casting champion. As long as you get the lure where you want it to go, you are using the baitcaster right.