Problem Throwing Lighter Tackle With Baitcaster

[cpm032987]

Im very new to using baitcasters, and fishing for that matter.  I recently purchased a BP Pro Qualifier and been using an Abu Garcia Veritas 6'9 MH.  I usually don't cast smaller baits, been recently trying to throw baits around 1/4 oz and have been noticing that every few casts ive been getting some backlash.  Not too terrible that it takes a long time to get out, but just more of a pain.  Ive tried different settings on the breaks and tension knob, but haven't found the combination that works best for these smaller lures.  Anyone have any advice in throwing smaller baits with baitcasters without getting backlash.

 

Thanks

[sparky241]

first do you know how to set up a baitcaster? drag loose, breaks off tighten spool tention release line and loosen spool tension till it hits the ground and doesnt backlash. turn breaks to midway and start there. if it backlashes at the start of the throw tighten spool tension if its at the end tighten up brakes. make sure you are stopping the spool with your thumb when the bait starts to ark to the water. also try a bigger line if this doesnt help. its hard but keep at it. also practice ALOT in your back yard

[thehooligan]

The m/h veritas is like a broomstick. To throw lighter baits, you need a nice medium action rod, thinner line, and lots of practice

[cpm032987]

I usually don't set the drag too loose, try to keep the breaks around 5, and keep the tension knob pretty tight on lighter lures.  Is that a good way to have reel set? I have 17# mono on the reel. Also I may be trying to throw too hard as well

[Tywithay]

That rod is far too heavy for light weight lures. A lighter action rod and light line would help a lot. I've also never been fond of the PQ below 3/8oz or so. It's not a great finesse reel.

[Cgrinder]

You're going to have a hard time throwing 1/4 oz on a MH Veritas. Try tension loose enough to drop the lure freely, centrifugal brakes 3 on/3 off, and magnetic dial around 4-5 and adjust from there. The Pro Q doesn't excel at lighter lures but it can be done.

[OkobojiEagle]

As you expand your fishing techniques you need to expand your tools.  Buy a lighter spinning rod and spinning reel.

 

 

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[MichBassMan]

Lighter line ( like 8# to 12#. Lighter rod ( like a medium )

[fisherrw]

use the tension knob!

[TorqueConverter]

Open up the side plate and turn on a couple of the centrifugal brake shoes.  It'll govern the spool RPM and prevent it from paying out line faster than bait can take line. 

[.ghoti.]

Doesn't matter how you set up your reel, with #17 line and MH Veritas, you are not going to do well trying to cast light weights.

To cast effectively, the rod has to flex on the back stroke. This is known as "loading" the rod. In reality, this is storing energy in the rod blank, to be released back into the bait. If the light weight bait will not load the rod, you won't be able to cast well at all.

A MH Veritas is equivalent to many other manufacturers heavy power rods. Not the right tool for the job.

[new2BC4bass]

The m/h veritas is like a broomstick. To throw lighter baits, you need a nice medium action rod, thinner line, and lots of practice

 

 

That rod is far too heavy for light weight lures. A lighter action rod and light line would help a lot. I've also never been fond of the PQ below 3/8oz or so. It's not a great finesse reel.

 

X2 on about everything said in this thread.  Abu rods are noted for being on the heavy side.  I have a Villain MH rated 3/8-1-1/4 and consider 1/2 oz. lures to be too light for this rod.  Pretty sure 17# will work as a friend uses 15# all the time.  However, as a beginner you will find 8# mono to be easier to cast those light lures with.  The rod has to load with the weight you are using otherwise you are wasting your time.  Use a rod no more powerful than a Medium.  Remember most rods perform best with weights in the middle of its listed range.

 

Some reels are better than others with light weights.  I love my Zillions, but keep weights at 3/8 oz. or more for best results.  Try to find a Prolite, or older gold Carbonlite.  I have 2 of the gold Carbonlites on rods that will zip a 3/16 oz. Shad Rap out there a fair distance.

 

Your reel set-up is good as far as you described the settings (although you didn't mention how many internal brakes you have on and that is also important).  However, I have no idea if it is the right reel for 1/4 oz. lures.  The rod definitely is the wrong rod.  When you do get a rod capable of handling 1/4 oz. lures, don't try to throw very hard until you reach a point where backlashes are seldom occurring.  I also suggest using a side arm roll cast to learn as it is not only a smoother cast, but keeps the rod loaded throughout the casting stroke.

 

If you did any research at all about casting with a baitcast reel, then you had to have read where it is always suggested to start with lures on the high side of the rod's rating.  That is because light lures are a lot harder to cast.  Light lures require more operator expertise.  IMHO, trying to cast a 1/4 oz. lure is the wrong way to go until you become fairly decent with a baitcast reel.  I personally doubt that a reel designed for light lures would be much help until you get good with a B/C reel.  Spools are lighter and start up faster.  All this requires some experience using the thumb.  First couple of years I tried using light lures on my Alphas ito was an exercise in frustration.  Unfortunately I didn't get the practice I should have.  It takes quite a bit. 

[Hattrick7]

I can throw a DS 4" roboworm with a 1/8 weight no problem. Revo SX with a Veritas 7' mh. I certainly don't need the backbone dropshotting but I've never had an issue throwing that. That was on 15# mono also.

I've never tried the reel you use but man I love my Revo. Could be your reel or maybe you're still a little new to BCs in general?