Longer Casts

[Geezer2]

I tried a search but really could not find what I am looking for.  Briefly, I would like to get longer casts from my baitcasters.  My reels are Curado Bantam (CU 100B). The bait I am tryng to work is a 6" jointed Redfin over points near drop offs for Spots. I cant really state what the action is on my rods, they were custom made by a retired guy and are 6' 6".  I do know I can get good distance when I tie on a super spook so I imagine the rods are MH or H extra fast. I usually throw 8 or 10 lb GAMA line since we are an ultra clear lake. I heard my reels can be "super tuned", but my instincts tell me maybe a 7' M or MH fast might help.  I really enjoy this forum and love top action.  Any help would be appreciated.  Thanks in advance. 

[Hammer 4]

Just out of curiosity, when was the last time your reel was properly cleaned and lubed..?

[lightsout]

I agree if your reel is hasnt been cleaned/and relubed that might be your first move.

Another thing to consider is redfins arent the best casting bait to begin with. They catch a ton of air and dont have any type of internal weight transfer system, which alot of other minnow baits do.

[Delaware Valley Tackle]

Casting distance is affected by the rod,reel and bait you're throwing. All three should be in sync to get best results. I agree with the previous poster's suggestion of a thorough cleaning/lube on the reel as a starting point. In general a longer rod will assist longer casts with all else being equal. Match your rod rating to the weight of the lures you want to throw.

[Fishes in trees]

Should you really want to throw that bait a long ways, consider spinning tackle. That 6" redfin weighs slightly under an ounce. Try using a long, 7 or 7 1/2 or an 8 foot if you can find it medium spinning rod and a larger diameter spool spinning reel. Using 10 lb Fireline and a modest foot or two fluorocarbon leader, 50 yards would be very doable, With perfect technique and the wind at your back you might hit 70 yards. Long distance casting is fun to play with and occasionally you will catch some fish too.

Check out the Cabelas Predator series rod.  With the medium 11 footer, you could probably go 100 yards with a one ounce bait.

[Geezer2]

Just out of curiosity, when was the last time your reel was properly cleaned and lubed..?

Ouch!  I knew this was coming and no I have not taken care of it for a spell.  I do have a relatively newer reel that is some better, but I am still struggling.  Your comment is noted, thanks

[Geezer2]

I agree if your reel is hasnt been cleaned/and relubed that might be your first move.

Another thing to consider is redfins arent the best casting bait to begin with. They catch a ton of air and dont have any type of internal weight transfer system, which alot of other minnow baits do.

Thanks, they do seem a little light.  What bugged me is I have seen others cast a ton with one, on baitcasting rigs.  My lake (Bull Shoals) can be ultra clear and when things are cook'n with long casts the spots come up out of the deep channel swings and drill those Redfins.  I have tied on a black jitterbug but have not connected as of yet, but I sure like it.   

[Geezer2]

Casting distance is affected by the rod,reel and bait you're throwing. All three should be in sync to get best results. I agree with the previous poster's suggestion of a thorough cleaning/lube on the reel as a starting point. In general a longer rod will assist longer casts with all else being equal. Match your rod rating to the weight of the lures you want to throw.

Noted, thanks

[Geezer2]

Should you really want to throw that bait a long ways, consider spinning tackle. That 6" redfin weighs slightly under an ounce. Try using a long, 7 or 7 1/2 or an 8 foot if you can find it medium spinning rod and a larger diameter spool spinning reel. Using 10 lb Fireline and a modest foot or two fluorocarbon leader, 50 yards would be very doable, With perfect technique and the wind at your back you might hit 70 yards. Long distance casting is fun to play with and occasionally you will catch some fish too.

Check out the Cabelas Predator series rod. With the medium 11 footer, you could probably go 100 yards with a one ounce bait.

I have thought about swapping to spinning gear, just have not made the move yet. Thought I would give the baitcasters a good try first. I never gave braid a thought.  Actually I have never used braid, but I realize that is an area I need to grow into.  I take it braid will cast easily is that right?  The bottomline is long casts here for spotrs are very productive under the right conditions.  Thanks for the input.....to all 

[BobP]

Supertuning the reel will help a little (and for a little while), another rod can help more.  For long casts in open water, I use a 7 1/2' Medium action Medium power St Croix graphite rod.  A longer, slower action rod is more flexible and will cast farther than a shorter, faster action rod.  Far enough that you don't want to use it for baits that require hard hook sets because you have so much line out.  I throw small crankbaits on mine and keep the trebles super sharp.

[WanderLust]

Should you really want to throw that bait a long ways, consider spinning tackle. That 6" redfin weighs slightly under an ounce. Try using a long, 7 or 7 1/2 or an 8 foot if you can find it medium spinning rod and a larger diameter spool spinning reel. Using 10 lb Fireline and a modest foot or two fluorocarbon leader, 50 yards would be very doable, With perfect technique and the wind at your back you might hit 70 yards. Long distance casting is fun to play with and occasionally you will catch some fish too.

Check out the Cabelas Predator series rod. With the medium 11 footer, you could probably go 100 yards with a one ounce bait.

I have thought about swapping to spinning gear, just have not made the move yet. Thought I would give the baitcasters a good try first. I never gave braid a thought. Actually I have never used braid, but I realize that is an area I need to grow into. I take it braid will cast easily is that right? The bottomline is long casts here for spotrs are very productive under the right conditions. Thanks for the input.....to all

PowerPro Braid casts a mile... Not a huge fan of its visibility or durability but for casting and stained water its hard to beat.

[Geezer2]

PowerPro Braid casts a mile... Not a huge fan of its visibility or durability but for casting and stained water its hard to beat.

So I guess I will try a carbon leader and braid, I do like Gama, low memory and plenty strong, but distance is what I need here. Thanks to all.