How To Setup A Baitcasting Reel

Many anglers are now selecting baitcasting reels for optimum functioning during fishing. Whereas operating the baitcasting reel and setting it up is really complicated as compared to set up a spinning reel spool.

Tying a baitcasting reel and using it for catching any fish are the basics that every angler should learn if they are planning to use baitcasting reels. This learning procedure is also essential for anglers to be more efficient and productive.

Here are some of the facts and tips to help you master baitcasting. This article also has tips with easy-to-understand instructions to set up a baitcasting reel. We are now moving on towards the details, tips, and techniques as a complete guide for you to use bait caster. We are here sharing with you the convenient and easy-to-understand setting up of the baitcasting reel.

Related: Top Baitcasting Reels For Catfish

How To Adjust A Baitcaster

Let us run your sight over the entire process of setting up the baitcasting reel. This will be the end of your search if you are looking for easy-to-understand steps in setting up your baitcasting reel.

How To Put Line On Baitcaster & (Selection of Line)

Monofilament construction lines are the best fishing lines to use for learning baitcasting setup. Make a selection of 13 to 15 lbs monofilament lines which will serve you the best fishing line as compared to braided lines and fluorocarbon ones.

The reason why we are promoting the selection of monofilament fishing lines is that if you go with fluorocarbon fishing lines, they are more challenging and may break earlier than mono carbon ones. Similarly, the braided line can give you a tough time during backlashes and may become the reason for making us cut a more significant part of the line, again and again, hence, wasting the line more.

Setting Up A Spool Tension

The spool which we use in bait casting is a free-spinning spool. Always remember to put pressure and friction while tying a line. You can tighten the line both by applying the pressure with the thumb or tightening the knob of the spool. This knob is generally present on the side plate where the drag and handle are present. Make sure to set it the right way to experience smooth casting.

Take your baitcasting rod and reel the line. Keep in mind that when 10 to 12 inches of the line is left, reel your lure. The second step is to tighten the knot present at the side plate until you feel some pressure.

At this step, push your thumb and let the lure drop slowly. Now minimize the pressure you applied in the first stage on the knob, and you will notice that the lure is dropping on its own. Repeat this entire process until you feel the lure touching the ground in 3 to 4 seconds. Make sure the line does not overrun when the lure is reaching the ground.

How To Set Magnetic Brake On Baitcaster (Setting Up A Brake System)

There exist two different types of brakes in baitcasting reels. One is the centrifugal brake system and the other is a magnetic brake system. Different brands make and operate the brake system differently on every reel.

The Centrifugal Brake system is the system in which there are little weights allocated in the inner side of side plates. These side plates are responsible for the activation of braking. There are colored pegs present inside of the plates, which are used in applying brakes. There is an option of in and out available for you to change.

Moreover, the out option is used to apply brakes. When you turn it on, there are more weights maximizing centrifugal force outside, causing the spool to slow down.

Then, we have a magnetic brakes system in which there is a dial located external to the reel and is used to adjust and apply the brakes. There are options available for us from 1 to 10, and these options predict the intensity of the brakes.

The maximum number you select, the higher the intensity of the brake applied. You can select among both of the systems mentioned above, according to your ease.

There are many companies that are now making hybrid brake systems which means that both the magnetic and centrifugal brakes systems are allocated in them. The settings of both the brake systems are made similar to the independent settings, but there is a minus point that makes the system work slower. We will not recommend you to go with a hybrid brake system.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How many lines should be on a bait caster?

There should be a limited line on a bait caster to get the optimum final results while baitcasting. You can measure it like the line should be an eighth part of the inch from the top. Getting too much line will create an annoying sound while casting.

2. Can a beginner use a baitcaster?

Yes, a beginner can definitely use a baitcaster without any problems. But make sure to practice before finally going fishing. Good days spent practicing are better than directly going fishing.

3. What line do you put on a bait caster reel?

You can use heavy lines easily with baitcaster reels and even above because they cannot go with lightweight lines. The reels with larger size and heavyweight do not over-run on the spool. Monofilament reels are more appropriate and recommended by fishermen.

4. Do you put weights on baitcaster reels?

In general conditions, there is no need to put weights on baitcaster reels. Whereas, for braided lines and monofilaments, different pounds are available. We will recommend you to stay on Monofilament reels.

Final Thoughts On Baitcast Reel setup

The settings that are described above contain all the figures you need to set up a baitcasting reel. Setting up a baitcasting reel is not challenging but needs practice and little experience before practically performing fishing. Focus on all the settings of brake set-up, line selection, and spool settings to get the maximum of your baitcasting reel. These tips will help you in mastering the best casting reel setup and usage to get the maximum benefit.

Related Guides:

Baitcaster Vs Spinning Reel Difference

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