Can Baitcasters Cast further? Get a Bitcaster or a Spinning Reel?

Baitcaster reels are a popular option, particularly with professional anglers. They’re capable of handling heavy lines and have the best accuracy and control. However, their best feature is definitely their ability to cast further than other reels.   

So, can baitcasters cast further? Yes, baitcasters can cast further than spinning reels of the length and power. Baitcasters can hold more lines than a spinning reel. Because of their larger line capacity, you can cast them further. They also offer more accuracy control when you’re targeting a distant area.

Keep reading to learn more about the difference between baitcasting reels and spinning reels and how to increase your casting distance when you’re using a baitcaster. If you’re in a hurry, you can check my picks for the best budget spinning reels here and the best budget baitcaster reels here.

What Is the Difference Between a Baitcaster and a Spinning Reel?

baitcaster vs spinning reel to show how can baitcasters cast further

There are some significant differences between baitcaster reel and a spinning reel, particularly when it comes to their design.

The design of baitcasters consists of a rotating spool attached to the top of the fishing rod. The spool rotates by turning the handle on the side of the reel, which spools line onto the reel.The line comes straight off the spool and enters the guides on your fishing rod without any twists.

When you’re casting with a baitcaster, the spool rotates smoothly and at a high speed to release the line. That’s why these reels require a high level of skill to get the right power of inertia needed to move the spool.

With spinning reels, it’s quite the opposite. The spool is attached to the bottom of a fishing rod, and it doesn’t rotate.

When you’re casting with a spinning reel, the bail arm is folded back, which allows the line to simply slip off the reel, so the spool doesn’t need to rotate during the casting process.

There are also some differences between both kinds of reels when it comes to what they’re used for.

Baitcasters are used for a variety of applications, including light spin fishing, surf casting, and big game fishing. The most popular use of baitcasters is freshwater lure casting for bass in North America.

Spinner reels are also used for several applications, including spin fishing, surf casting, and offshore fishing. However, unlike baitcasters, they are not used for heavy applications like big game fishing.

They both have a set of advantages and disadvantages, so take look at this quick summary to get a better understanding of what to expect from each kind:

Baitcaster Vs Spinning Reel: The Pros and Cons

Pros/ConsBaitcaster ReelSpinning Reel
Pros– It can cast for further distances
– It has higher casting accuracy  
– It can withstand heavy lines and lures 
– It has a higher line capacity 
– It’s lighter in weight compared to spinner reels 
– It’s more durable
– It’s easier to use
– It’s more versatile
– Its spool can be changed easily
– It’s easier to maintain
– It’s less prone to backlash during casting
– It’s better for lighter lines and casting light lures
– It’s cheaper than baitcasting reels
Cons– It needs more skill and experience to use
– It’s more prone to backlashing when casting
– Its spool tension needs to be adjusted for lures of different sizes
– It’s more expensive
– It has a lower casting distance and accuracy
– It’s not good for heavy lures
– It’s not good for big game fish
– It’s heavier in weight compared to baitcasters 
– It’s not very durable

How Far Can a Baitcasting Reel Cast?

A baitcaster paired with the right rod will help you achieve amazing distances. You can reach around 55-60 yards with a 7-foot rod. If you’re using a 12-foot rod, you might even be able to reach 100 yards with a baitcaster reel.

5 Tips On How to Increase the Casting Distance Using a Baitcaster Reel

  • Choose The Right Line

When it comes to choosing a line, the recommended line test when using baitcaster reels is a 10 to 17-pound monofilament fishing line that will be easier to cast and will help you avoid backlashes.

  • Match Your Rod Action to the Line and Lure Weight

If you’re using a light lure, you’ll need to lower the rod power to be able to cast further.

For example, if you want to throw a 1/4-ounce lure, it’s recommended to go for a medium-power rod. While if you want to throw a 3/4-ounce, it’s better to go for a medium-heavy rod.

  • Don’t Completely Fill Your Spool

Having less line on a baitcaster spool, allows the spool to spin more freely increasing its efficiency and your distance. You also don’t have too much line causing more friction.

  • Practice Your Casting Motion

Casting as hard and as possible is not the key to getting more distance.

Make sure to shorten your motion and never extend your arm all the way. Keep your elbows bent tight to your sides, so you can more effectively load and unload a rod on the cast which will create the inertia needed to cast further

  • Use Braided Line as Backing

Braid is a good option because it’s lighter, which allows the spool to spin faster.

You can wrap the braided line tightly around the spool so it can increase the diameter of the spool without adding much weight.

How to Properly Cast a Baitcasting Reel to Avoid Bird Nesting?

A baitcaster bird’s nest is basically when lines tangle around your spool. It’s very frustrating to experience, as you waste a lot of time trying to untangle a baitcaster bird’s nest.

To avoid this kind of backlash, you just need to adjust the brakes of the baitcaster reel. These brakes are meant to slow down spool rotation without decreasing the casting performance. You can also use your thumb to slow down spool rotation.

Here’s A Step-By-Step Guide On How to Cast a Baitcaster

  • Reel the line in until your bait or lure is 6 to 12 inches.
  • Hold the reel properly by gripping the rod behind the reel and have your thumb resting at a slight angle on the spool. This will give you more control over the flow of the line.
  • Turn the rod so the reel handles point up and press the reel spool release button.
  • Have your casting arm bent at the elbow while raising your rod until its tip goes slightly past vertical. This gives you the correct positioning to send the line out.
  • Swing the rod forward until it reaches eye level, which is about 30 degrees above horizontal. This is also referred to as the “10 o’clock” position.
  • Lift your thumb off the spool enough so the weight of your bait or lure pulls the line off the spool as it is pushed toward the target.
  • Press down on the reel spool with your thumb to slow the bait when it reaches the target. If you do not do this, the spool will continue to turn after your bait hits the water, which will result in backlash or bird nesting that you would need to untangle.

Related Questions

Why Do Pro Anglers Prefer Baitcaster Reels?

Professionals prefer baitcaster reels because they offer more durability, strength, and accuracy which they cannot get from other reels. Baitcaster reels also require a higher level of skill and experience to get the right power needed to work the spool and master the braking system of the reel.

How to Maintain Your Baitcaster Reel?

To maintain your baitcaster reel you need to soak a soft clean cloth with alcohol and wipe down the reel. Another method is to spray alcohol and wipe it off. This will help clean all the residue that settles on your baitcaster.

Helpful Resources 

The Feel of Fishing Reels

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