Switching to baitcasting

[bassmedic46]

Switching from spinning to baitcasting. Any suggestions on rods and reels?

[dallas0996]

Noob to noob...my .02

If you can help it, don't start out with a $50.00 reel, go a little higher to the 80-130 range. I got a couple of 50-60 dollar ones last year and beat myself up pretty good with them; fortunately I am quite tenacious and have ALOT of patience --plus I wasn't gonna be beat by a reel so I got to where I can use them efficiently. Recently I was able to pickup a Quantum Accurist PT when the went on super sale at BPS and the difference is night and day....if I had know then, I would have started with a more expensive reel. Also, I made the mistake of trying to use flouro at first when I didn't know anything about it; start with mono or braid.

[Strike King]

my BC's will always be my 2nd option. i've had years with spinning but only a couple years with BC's.. so..

[J. M. Richardson]

Just started with a mid quality baitcaster a couple weeks ago (Abu Garcia Ambassador reel). I figured out how to cast it more or less in two hours reading some online guides. I'd say keep your spinning rods too. They work great for throwing plastics.

[fishizzle]

you just missed a great deal on winter clearance of reels (last years models) in January

I got a $120 Accurist PT for $60

that would have been a great starter

whatever you get  -practice in your yard

start short, then cast a little farther

[-HAWK-]

Depending on your Budget.

-Shimano Citica 200E $119 If things are tight.

-Shimano Curado 200E7 $179 if you got the extra cash

Either Reels are top notch, easy to learn reels, with an excellent braking system.

[KYntucky Warmouth]

From my experience, I would say to start with a round reel.  I really started with an old Pro Qualifier round reel and that helped a bit.  The heavier spool is easier to cast than that of a low profile.

[Ima Bass Ninja]

Whatever reel you decide to buy the most important thing is to learn how to correctly adjust the spool tension and brake. You can buy the most expensive reel on the market but if you do not adjust it correctly you will find that you have more birdsnest and/or will have shorter cast than someone with a cheaper reel that is dialed in correctly.

[5bass]

[movedhere] General Bass Fishing Forum [move by] five.bass.limit.

[rubba bubba]

The key is practice, practice, practice. Even if it's just a 1/2 hour a day (don't go too long if you are frustrated). You'll find your biggest improvement is in-between days; i.e. the start of the next practice you'll be noticeably better than when you ended the previous practice.

Once you get a basic feel down, switch to lighter weights to make your practice harder. I've always taught that if you can do it when it's abnormally difficult, regular conditions will be a breeze.

You'll develop an initial proficiency very quickly, particularly if you start with a good baitcaster; if you switch to a low end baitcaster, it'll be harder but you'll be better with both after practicing with it. After that it's on to practicing pitching. Oh, and I would recommend starting with a low-profile, not a round baitcaster.

[NJAngler609]

i would go with a Daiwa...they have the best braking systme on the market and you will definitely need that if your just starting out

[CSB]

i would go with a Daiwa...they have the best braking systme on the market and you will definitely need that if your just starting out

Eh, I dont agree but to each their own. I started to get good with my casting equipment when I bought a Curado after owning a Fuego and a Sol. I think it depends on a few different factors.

I would definitely buy the best reel you can afford, because its cheaper to buy the expensive stuff now than to buy cheap now and expensive later.

[BrianinMD]

I just made the switch this year and started with a Revo S, and loved it. Got a Citica once I figured out the Revo. Last couple of trips I have barely touched my spinning rods, love the BC's.

Of the two I have, go with the Revo....

[roadwarrior]

Confusing isn't it? Everyone has their "favorite" brands and reels.

I recommend Shimano always and the Citica in particular. However,

if you have the money, the CH50MG is being discontinued and you

might find a deal if you shop around. *** had them for

$165 last month. This is an outstanding reel.

8-)

[I.rar]

i made the switch as well. picked up a citica 201d.

i practiced for maybe 15 minutes for a few weekends and decided to only bring my UL and the BC rig and now im pretty confident in it. i still have a hard time casting into the wind , but other than that im good.

if you dont mind used reels , and id suggest getting one used incase you decide its not for you , check out the flea market for some great deals. its where i picked up my citica from and i couldnt be happier.

my $.02.