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Fishing With, And Maintaining A Spinning Reel: How To Cast A Spinning Reel

How To Cast A Spinning Reel
How To Cast A Spinning Reel

Many people from all over the world are now enjoying the benefits of recreational fishing, given that it has evolved over the years from being an activity for commerce and survival, to now it is also a recreational sport, complete with professional tournaments. As people enter the world of recreational fishing, knowing the basics of casting various kinds of rods and reels is important. Since spinning reels are popular and are commonly used, learning how to cast a spinning reel properly is important for beginners.

Different techniques should be used, with specific fishing reels and rods, to successfully catch the trophy bass you're aiming for. In this regard, knowing how to fish with a spinning reel can be helpful, but before using one, you should learn the steps on how to set up a spinning reel and how to care for a spinning rod and reel to make your equipment always work properly and last longer. These basic steps can guide you into becoming a skilled angler, so over time, you will be able to better prepared when you learn how to cast a spinning reel, along with how to set up a spinning reel and how to care for a spinning rod and reel.

how to fish with a spinning reel

The Importance of Learning How to Cast a Spinning Reel

As mentioned above, there are various techniques that should be used with specific types of rods and reels for fishing. Before you cast your bait and start fishing, an essential step is to have a goal in mind. Determine the demographics of the area to see if long distance casting is more convenient with the surrounding terrain.

After determining your objectives and your terrain, then you need to employ the suitable techniques on how to cast a spinning reel to be successful in casting your line into the water and get the best catch. Casting a spinning reel requires mastery, especially if you are a beginner. You need to learn the steps of how to set up a spinning reel in order for your equipment to work properly and not get yourself into equipment difficulties, a common problem for beginners. After your fishing trip, you should keep in mind that you should know how to care for a spinning rod and reel so that your equipment won't fail you next time.

You need to learn the steps of how to set up a spinning reel in order for your equipment to work properly and not get yourself into equipment difficulties, a common problem for beginners. After your fishing trip, you should keep in mind that you should know how to care for a spinning rod and reel so that your equipment won't fail you next time.

How to Set-up a Spinning Reel

The way you set up your spinning reel can affect how you cast, which in turn, can affect your overall fishing performance. You should know how to set up a spinning reel to cast your line into the water properly and effectively. Setting up a spinning reel varies depending on the reel, as each kind of fishing reels, such as spin cast and baitcasting reels require different kinds of set-up. The following steps should help teach you what you need to know to set up a spinning reel:

  1. Accumulate all your needed tools and equipment.
  2. Take note of the parts of your fishing gear. Knowing the parts and their respective functions can help you determine the tools you need to assemble them properly.
  3. Attach the reel to the rod by tightening the reel seat once you have positioned the spinning reel's foot properly onto the rod's seat.
  4. Start spooling your spinning reel. To spool properly, open the bail and place the line around the spinning reel once. Apply the appropriate knots and close the bail. Tightly hold the line away from the reel to prevent it from tangling as you spin the reel.
  5. String the rod by placing the line through the line guides of the rod.
  6. Tie a knot and place a hook or bait at the tip of the line.
  7. Drag the knot and cast the bait. Reel the line and catch some fish.

These are some of the steps you should know on how to set up a spinning reel before you begin to cast for your line. You should also learn how to care for a spinning rod and reel so your equipment will last longer.

How to Care for a Spinning Rod and Reel

Before you begin to learn how to fish with a spinning reel and how to cast a spinning reel, you must first know the basics of taking care of your fishing equipment. Caring for your spinning rod and reel can give you a lot of benefits in the long run such as:

  1. It can minimize wear and tear on your fishing equipment.
  2. In consequence, this minimizes your need to replace parts frequently or replace the entire fishing rod and spinning reel altogether with a new baitcaster.
  3. In the long run, you can save money because you have minimized expenses in maintaining the equipment.

With these benefits in mind, it pays to know how to care for a spinning rod and reel for you to successfully execute techniques on how to cast a spinning reel and how to fish. The following are additional tips which can help you care for a spinning rod and reel:

  1. Make sure that your rod stays dry and that the reel seat is free from dirt and grime. Moisture and accumulated organic matter can cause your fishing equipment to rust.
  2. Keep the parts loose by occasionally greasing them. This avoids the parts from becoming fixated.
  3. One of the most common problems faced by a fisherman is when the fishing line gets tangled. Pull the line using your hands and don't untangle it with your rod.
  4. Make sure that your fishing rod doesn’t get bent to extreme angles, especially when you are casting your bait a short distance. This may cause your fishing rod to snap or bend permanently.
  5. Avoid placing your reel under pressure or from hitting against hard surfaces, like rocks, trees, or logs in the water. Try to cast around mossy embankments, you never know what’s under theme, and the moss can cling angrily to your line.
  6. Don't store your rod and reel in their containers if they are still moist. If you have just gone on a saltwater fishing trip, rinse your equipment with fresh water first. Pat dry, and store in dry conditions.

These are only some of ideas which can guide you on how to care for a spinning rod and reel. As you learn more about these things, you’ll have an easier time when you go fishing.

how to care for a spinning rod and reel

How to Fish with a Spinning Reel

Now that we've established the importance of learning how to cast a spinning reel, how to set up a spinning reel and how to care for a spinning rod and reel, the final thing beginners must tackle is to know how to fish with a spinning reel. As mentioned above, there have been many modern improvements to the original stick and line poles.

As mentioned above, there have been many modern improvements to the original stick and line poles. A pro usually recommends products from manufacturers with great reviews, so it’s a good idea to keep in mind that you should buy the best equipment in order to maximize learning how to fish with a spinning reel. As a quick guide on proper fishing with a spinning reel, here are a few tips:

  1. Gather your needed fishing equipment and your outfit.
  2. Using your dominant hand, hold the rod while making sure that the reel is underneath the rod. If you're a lefty, use your left hand to hold the rod. Otherwise, use your right hand.
  3. Start pulling around 6 inches of the reel line and slowly turn the handle until the line roller is positioned under your index finger.
  4. Hold the line against the rod using your index finger and open the bail.
  5. Point the line against your intended prey and with one smooth motion, pull it vertically without jerking to hard and bring it forward (making sure that you don't stop halfway through, as you wouldn't want to gouge someone's eye out). A good pull is characterized by the slight bending of your rod. Release the line once it is already halfway through the target.

With these steps, you are now prepared to cast your line and start fishing. Take note that these tips may vary depending on the factors that surround you. It is your job to know what these factors are and adjust accordingly on how to cast a spinning reel as well as fishing with it.

Recreational fishing has enabled many people to enjoy a recreational sport for active fun or laid back relaxation. As more people clamor to learn the basics of fishing, it pays to know the essentials of fishing equipment care and storage. Doing so can help make your spinning rod and reel more durable, which can help you save money.

As you learn to take care of your spinning rod and reel, it is recommended to ask a pro or the manufacturer on how to properly set-up your equipment to maximize your efficiency. As you accomplish these tasks, you can begin enjoying the advantages you can get from learning how to fish with a spinning reel and how to cast a spinning reel which will hopefully facilitate your growth as a fisherman. Learn how to cast a spinning reel properly, and share your knowledge with other enthusiasts.

Most Popular Fishing Knots

knots_featured
knots_featured

A Quick Guide to Fishing Knots

There are as many ways to tie a fishing knot as there are stars in the sky – over the years, a massive number of different knots have been created, none quite alike. It can be quite intimidating to learn how to tie fishing knots when you’re just getting into fishing, but it doesn’t have to be.

Really, there aren’t that many different knots you need to know – at least not when you’re first starting out. There are only three basic kinds of knots you need to know – line-to-line knots, which join together lines of similar or differing strength, terminal knots, which tie hooks and lures to fishing line, and loop knots, which are usually used for securing artificial lures.

With just a couple knots from each of these categories in your arsenal, you’ll have all the tools you need, and we’ve included video guides to help you learn in case the text accompanying each knot gets confusing.

Beyond those three categories, there are some specialty knots – but they’re not really necessary for beginners, so we’ll just focus on these for now, along with the Arbor Knot – the most popular knot for tying fishing line to reels.

Securing the Line to Your Reel

The Arbor Knot

The arbor knot is an important knot to know – without it, you won’t be able to attach your lines to your reels, so it’s important even for beginners to know, in case you have to replace your fishing line.

- Begin by passing your fishing line around the “arbor” – your reel, beginning with the “tag” end of the line. Then, tie an overhand knot around the line.

- After doing so, you will tie the tag end of the line one more time in an overhand knot, which will act as a stopper preventing your first overhand knot from coming undone.

- After tying the knots, slide both of them down and tighten them against the arbor.

That’s it! Your line is now securely attached to your reel, and you can begin spooling on your line.

Line-to-Line Knots

Line-to-line knots are quite important when fishing. Firstly, you often must attach a smaller line to a larger line – for example, when adding a monofilament leader to a braided superline. And if you’re fly fishing, you’ll need to be able to attach your fly line to your backing line. But don’t worry. There are several line-to-line knots that give a secure hold with just about any thickness of line, and we’ll go over them now.

Double Uni Knot

This knot is one of the most versatile line-to-line knots out there, and it’s pretty simple to master. It can be used to join backing line to fly line, and leaders to braided line, among others.

- Begin by overlapping the ends of the lines that are to be joined. Then, take the end of the leftmost line and double it back, making 3-4 loops around both lines, and pushing the tag end through the large loop created when doubling back with the line.

- Then, repeat the process on the other end – if using braided line, you will want to use at least 8 wraps – wrapping the right line around both itself and the other line, and pulling it through the loop created when you doubled back with the line.

- Finish by pulling both of the standing lines in the opposite direction from each other. This will tighten the knots and pull them together, creating a tight hold.

That’s it!

Surgeon's Knot

The surgeon’s knot is another highly versatile knot that can be used to tie together two lines of equal or differing sizes, and is quite easy to master, and is one of the most favored methods to tie leaders to line.

- Begin by laying the line and leader on top of one another, overlapping each other by about 6 inches.

- Form a simple loop with both sections of line. You should have a few inches of line and leader outside the loop.

- Take that section of line/leader together, and wind it around the loop. Repeat this process one more time for a double surgeon’s knot – you may do it one more time to create a triple surgeon’s knot.

- After feeding the line/leader through the loop as desired, pull both sides of the line tight. Before closing the knot all the way, it is recommended to moisten the knot for maximum hold.

- Once the knot is wet, pull as tight as possible.

That’s it!

Loop Knots

Loop knots are often used for artificial lures that closely mimic real fish, and they’re used because the open, yet strong loop helps the lure float more realistically, unlike terminal knots which can cause it to move in unnatural ways. We’ll go over one simple loop knot now – easy to master and easy to use, it’s better to know it and not need it than vice versa.

Surgeon's End Loop

The surgeon’s end loop is quite similar to the surgeon’s knot, but in this case, it’s used to loop one line back on itself, creating a strong loop to which many different lures and equipment can be attached.

- Begin by doubling the line back on itself, and tying a loose overhand knot.

- Once you’ve tied the overhand knot, pass the loop end of the line through the knot.

- Hold the standing end – the end with the loop – and the tag end tightly, and pull. The knot will tighten, and the standing end will form a loop.

- Clip tag end and trim excess.

You’re done!

Terminal Knots

Terminal knots are used to join hooks and other baits to fishing line, as the name might suggest. These knots are meant to have a very secure hold, and to be able to tie a variety of objects to the end of the fishing line. Often, they use multiple small loops for a very tight and secure hold. We’ll go over a few of them now.

Improved Clinch Knot

The improved clinch knot is a tried-and-true knot with great effectiveness for smaller lines – though it’s not recommended for use with braided lines or in bulky lines that are over 25lb test strength.

- Begin by threading the end of your line through the eye of the hook or lure.

- Then, double back, and make at least 5 loose wraps around the fishing line.

- Bring the end of the fishing line forward to the first loop formed around the eye, and pull it through.

- Moisten the knot, and pull the tag end of the line to tighten down the coils.

- Slide the tag end of the line tightly against the eye, and then clip it.

That’s it!

Palomar Knot

Unlike the previous knot, the improved clinch, the Palomar knot is perfect for use with bulky line, and especially great when you’re working with heavy-duty braided fishing line.

- Begin by doubling 6 inches of line and passing it through the eye of the hook or lure.

- Tie a loose overhand knot, and ensure the hook is hanging from the bottom.

- Hold the overhand knot between your thumb and your forefinger, and pass the loop formed from your overhand knot below the hook, and pull it up to the eye of the hook.

- Pull both ends of the line tight, moistening the line for extra hold if necessary.

Nice job!

Uni Knot

The uni knot is a terminal knot that’s quite easy to tie – some anglers find it easier than the improved clinch, and it’s got quite similar strength. It has the added benefit of being able to create a loop, rather than just a flush knot at the eye of a hook or lure. This is the single version of the double uni knot previously used to join two lines.

- Begin by pulling the tag end of your line through the eye of the hook or lure.

- Double back parallel to the standing line, and create a loop by laying the tag end over the doubled-over line.

- Hold onto the doubled line and the loop laid over it. Begin winding the end of the loop around the doubled line, and repeat 5-6 times.

- Moisten the line and pull the tag end taut.

- You may then slide the knot all the way to the end of the eye, or leave a small loop if desired.

That’s all!

Conclusion

While you may need to learn quite a few more knots before you can call yourself an expert angler, this basic summary of some of the most popular knots in fishing is sure to be useful as you learn the basics of knots and fishing, and will get you surprisingly far.

If you have mastered these basic knots and are interested in more exotic and specialized knots, there are plenty of web resources out there to use, such as NetKnots and Animated Knots, which feature detailed knots, diagrams, and even video resources to help you learn more about fishing knots.

So get out there, start tying up some line, and get fishin’. There’s no need to be intimidated – with just a little practice and elbowgrease; you’re sure to master these basic knots in no time, and be well on your way to fishing mastery.

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Homemade Fishing Lures

homemade fishing lures

It's certainly no secret that fishing is one of the most expensive hobbies out there. Between rods, reels, fishing line, boat upkeep, clothing, and tackle, the costs can certainly add up. Many anglers would say that lures are well worth the cost, and they certainly aren’t wrong.

However, for anglers looking to save a little bit of money in their fishing budget, it might be time to learn how to make your own fishing lures.

Although lures tend to be the cheapest fishing expense, they are also the easiest expense to avoid. By using a few household items, craftsmanship, and a little bit of patience, fishing lures can easily be made right at home. In fact, homemade fishing lures are quickly gaining in popularity amongst anglers, both as a hobby and as an easy way to save a few bucks.

The satisfaction of making your own fishing equipment is certainly not to be underestimated. Making homemade lures is a great way to hone your skills and enhance your fishing knowledge. This process even allows for unique lures in different sizes, shapes, and finishes that store-bought lures may not offer. If you find that you have a knack for making lures, they can even be given as gifts.

No matter what materials you use, or what type of lure you make, there is no doubt that making homemade lures can be an easy way to set money aside to splurge on more expensive fishing equipment. Additionally, the process can be incredibly fun and fulfilling, making homemade lures a great endeavor for any angler to try.

Other Options for Homemade Lures

Aside from using everyday household items, there are additional ways to make your own lures at home. Kits and molds are available for anglers to melt their own plastic and create unique lures from the comfort of their garage or workspace. These can come fully equipped with a wide range of options, including dyes, paints, finishes, phosphorescent powders, and even additives to adjust the buoyancy of your lures.

The downside, of course, is that purchasing a lure making kit is another expense. It may be a fun experience for those who get satisfaction from working with their hands, but it certainly is not a cost-efficient option.

Another option is to purchase parts from a warehouse or supply store to make your own lures. These typically include stainless steel or brass lure bodies, hooks, split rings, swivels, and wires. While the metal components are certainly durable—perhaps even more so than store-bought lures—the downfall is that they don't allow for many variations.

Again, the downside is that purchasing all the parts for these homemade lures is an added expense. If you’re looking to experiment with different ways to make lures, then purchasing fishing parts from a warehouse is a good option to try.

Ultimately, if your goal is to save a little bit of money, then focusing on lures made from items you already have is the best option. Not only can you cut back on fishing expenses, but you still get the benefit of experimenting and learning something new.

Common Household Materials for Homemade Lures

As it turns out, there are plenty of things that you have right in your house that can be used to make perfectly good homemade lures. While there are endless options—you may even come up with a few new ones yourself—there are a few items that tend to show up time and time again as ideal materials to make homemade fishing lures.

If you have any of these at home, you’re already well on your way to making your own homemade lures:

• Old spoons

• Paracord

• Bottle caps

• Beads

•Wine bottle corks

• Sticks or small pieces of wood

• Tin cans

• Broken jewelry (the more sparkle, the better)

• Coins

Of course, there are other things that you will need to facilitate the process of making homemade fishing lures. It goes without saying that scissors, knives, string, and a few hooks are necessary tools when making homemade fishing lures. For the best effects, paint can also be a useful part of making lures.

It’s worth pointing out that these common household items have all been used to make effective and productive fishing lures—even if they aren’t quite as attractive as the ones in the store.

Types of Homemade Lures & How to Make Them

There are multitudes of different ways to turn everyday items into fishing lures. For those who are just beginning to consider making their own homemade lures, there are a few simple and effective lures that can be made right at home. The four most common homemade lures are:

1. The Spoon Lure

Stainless steel spoons are fantastic pieces to use for making your own lure. Not only are they shiny enough to reflect light and attract fish, but they are also incredibly durable. The result will be an efficient, sturdy lure that can handle tons of pressure and weight—for a much lower cost.

Before starting, you’ll need a few metalworking tools, a fishhook, some thread, and a few feathers to make your very own spoon lure.

• Cut off the spoon handle.

• Sand the cut edges until they are smooth.

• Drill one hole into the tip of the spoon, and another into the base.

• Use glue or string to attach a few feathers to the hook.

• Clip the hook to the base of the spoon to finish your homemade spoon lure.

spoon lure

2. Jerkbait Stick Lure

This is an incredibly simple lure to make and is just as effective as a store-bought jerk bait. Of course, unless you are particularly adept at cutting sticks and painting, it probably won't look as polished or ornate, but the fish won't care about that.

Before starting, you’ll need a sturdy stick, a drill, paint, clear nail polish, a paperclip, and a fishhook.

• Break the stick and carve (if needed) to about the size of a minnow.

• Drill a hole through the center of the stick lengthwise, as if you are creating a tube.

• Unravel the paperclip, and stick it through this center hole. Each end can be looped   to make room to attach the line and the hook.

• Paint can be used to add color and vibrancy to the jerk bait.

• After drying, add a layer of clear nail polish to create a waterproof layer for the lure

Jerkbait Stick Lure

3. Cork Lure

If you happen to drink wine, then you already have plenty of materials to get you started on your homemade plugs. Instead of throwing out your corks, save them to make cork lures. 

The great thing about cork is that it is incredibly easy to work with, and doesn’t need any assistance to float. In fact, these lures can be made with virtually no tools at all. The only equipment you’ll need are the basics: a couple of screweyes and a few fishhooks.

• Insert or screw in a few screweyes to create loops for the fishhooks.

• Attach fishhooks where desired.

• Depending upon preference, paint can be added to attract fish

Cork Lure

4. Woodblock Lure

This is a great homemade lure for anglers who also like to do a little woodworking. In comparison, this type of lure takes a little extra effort, but the benefit is a perfectly functional lure, using only a bit of wood, paint, and a little creativity.

Depending upon the size of wood that you are starting with, you may need to saw, cut, or carve, so make sure you have the proper tools. The general idea is to fashion your woodblock lure after small baitfish. Each baitfish will be different sizes and shapes, so keep that in mind.

Of course, the outline of the woodblock lure won’t be half as intricate or detailed as your old store-bought lures, but that’s perfectly fine. Again, the fish won’t mind.

Woodblock Lure

The only extra tools you'll need are a few screweyes, fishhooks, some paint, sandpaper, and cutting or sawing tools (depending upon how big your starting woodblock is).

• Get an idea of the type of baitfish you want to model your woodblock lure after.    Look through old lures and pinpoint one that worked best.

• Using the weight, look, and thickness of the desired baitfish as a basis, cut your    woodblock to the desired shape.

• Sand the lure to make sure that rough edges won’t get caught in the water.

• Depending upon your skill level, you can carve in details like scales, fins, or eyes.

• Add some colorful paint to create the best representation of the baitfish that you    can. Don’t worry about precision—as long as it’s a close representation, you’ll be fine.

• Put a few screweyes in and attach the hooks to create a colorful, homemade    baitfish.

Conclusion

Without a doubt, fishing equipment is some of the most expensive sporting equipment out there. With so much money put towards best-quality reels, rods, and gear, it makes sense to cut a few costs here and there by making homemade lures.

Though they certainly take a little patience, homemade lures can be just as effective as store-bought lures. With a little practice, dedication, and attention to household items, any angler can find themselves making their own lures within no time.

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