From an outsider's perspective, casting seems simple ?C all you do is toss back your arm, then flick it and the pole forward. But of course there's more to it than just that. In fact, there are a number of different casting techniques, each with its own different strengths and weaknesses. Before you head out to fish, take a little time to work on your casting skills ?C you'll enjoy your lazy fishing afternoons so much more when you're rewarded with a great catch.
When it comes to bass fishing, it's important to remember to always use your wrist when you cast, not your arm. Using your wrist gives your cast more finesse and reduces the wasted effort that occurs when you use your whole arm. This technique is very important in each of the following three types of cast ?C the overhand, sidearm, and underhand.
The Overhand Cast
The overhand cast has you aiming at the area straight in front of you. Raise your fishing rod up, making sure to keep your elbow close to your ribs. Flip the rod sharply behind you, and then use your wrist to flip the pole forward. Use the rod's movement to aim and follow through on your cast.
The Sidearm Cast
In this cast, you'll be once again facing your target area squarely. This time, though, hold your rod parallel to the water and at waist level. Move the rod sideways and behind you to your right, then whip it forward towards the water.
The Underhand Cast
The underhand method also begins with your rod at waist level and parallel to the water. This time, though, it should be at a 45-degree angle from where you want to cast. Start with your lure six to eight inches down. Quickly move the rod tip in a half-circle formation, releasing the lure when the rod is at the bottom of the circle. Remember to keep the rod tip down and only raise it if you need more distance or control.
In all three types of casting, there are a few key points to remember. When casting, try to minimize the amount of noise and splash your lures make when they hit the water. Always ?C as stated above ?C cast with your wrist and not your arm or entire body. It's also a good idea to drop the lure a few inches before you cast, which will give your cast a little bit of extra momentum.
Casting isn't the be-all and end-all of bass fishing, of course. While improving and mastering the different types of casting can greatly improve your fishing, it won't help at all if you don't have a good rod, reel, selection of lures, etc. Of course, weather and location will always play a factor in fishing, so don't be discouraged if your new casting techniques don't work right away. Keep practicing them, and you'll notice that the amount of bass you catch will increase as you get these casting methods down.
