Rocketlures

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Baitcasters are almost a must learn tool for the luring hobbyist. The reason being that a baitcaster is able to cast more accurately, has less of a line twisting problem and provide more power due to the direct torque when you turn the reel. Not to mention, in a way it is more stylo and fashionable.

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But for most people new to this tackle, it won’t be long before you would encounter the dreaded “birdnest”. In local terms, it is also known as “char bee hoon” (fried noodle). Getting a tangled mess of lines, when you should be fishing will most certainly spoil your day. Therefore, some lessons are needed for you to be in control of how to baitcast with minimal problems of getting your lines in a mess.

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As for the baitcasters, there are many varieties in the market. Most of them works the same way. The more expensive ones are usually able to minimise the backlash better. Some will throw out a lighter lure better. But with poor technique, even the best baitcasting reel would not forgive a poor cast that would result in wasted time to unravel the tangles.

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First thing first, is to set up/prime your rig. With the lure/weight or whatever you are casting, unlock the spool release lever. This is normally a downward click. Hold the rod horizontally pointing outwards from you, and see if the line will slowly descend without any resistance. If not, release more of the braking knob. (at the centre of the side of the reel). Release it till the line will slowly descend with a slight tap. If you want to be conservative (for fear of backlash, from that point, tighten it back just a little).

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You will need to practise, that’s for sure. Find an isolated area, and make your first cast. But do not cast too strongly. Just a medium lob will do. Before throwing out, unlock the spool release lever, use the thumb to hold the lines, and with an overhead action from the back to the front, do a lob. Once the weight/lure is in front of you around 45-60 degrees, release the thumb from the spool and let the weight pulls out the line.

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Now, this part is the most important. Before the weight/lure hits the water/land, be ready to thumb the reel again. The reason is that if you don’t, the spool will continue spinning, and that’s where the bird nest/horrible tangle will form. Therefore, you will need to stop the reel once it hits any resistance.

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Practise this a few times, and you will get used to it. Soon, it will be second nature to you, and you would be doing it without much thinking.

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