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Casting a light-spinning outfit might seem simple, but here are a few easy-to-master tips from Justin Duggan that will improve your distance and accuracy.

Hand the average person a spinning outfit and they usually have a vague idea of what to do with it. Hell, they might even whip a great cast out, every now and then. However, when it comes to anything other than a basic “chuck” most anglers lack some of the finer skills. Let’s run through some basic tips to notch you up a few gears.

PLAY IT STRAIGHT

Simple and to the point: cast the rod straight, not with a sideways swing. If you want the lure or bait to hit a target, then line the rod up in your line of sight and cast in a straight path. The tip of the rod is best travelled in a straight path, too, not in a windscreen-wiper arc.

CUT THE SLACK

When using braided lines, it is imperative to avoid slack line being wound onto the reel. If you do, you’re asking for the mother of all knots. It often accidentally occurs when the wind continues to take line after the lure or bait has hit the water. The angler then engages the reel and the first few winds of line are slack. Instead, try clicking the bail arm over just as the lure or bait is about to land. This straightens the line and removes slack.

POINT THE FINGER

In my opinion, it’s far easier to cast light spinning reels by placing your finger on the spool rather than resting the line on your finger. You will get a clean release of line for better accuracy. With larger reels, I like to create a perfect right angle with the line resting on the tip of my finger. Finally, don’t pinch the line against the rod grip with your finger when casting. This leads to poor line release and bad casts.

DON’T HANDLE IT

It is possible with many modern reels to trip the bail arm by winding the handle of the reel. Don’t do it! Use your hand to trip the bail, thus giving your reel more longevity. It takes only a short time to practise this and it will become second nature