Outdoor Blog

How to Use a Baitcaster

Published

5 years ago

September 21, 2019

Baitcaster reels can be intimidating. They’re often seen as advanced reels, for more experienced anglers. Most people start out fishing on spinning or spin-cast reels, and if you’re not used to using these kinds of reels already, we would recommend you become accustomed to them before trying the more challenging baitcaster reel.

But if you’re already proficient in using these reels, and you’re building up the courage to try a bait caster for the first time, we’ve put together our top recommendations, and a step-by-step guide, on how to use a baitcaster. Baitcasters may be outside of your comfort zone, but this article will help you prepare mentally for the step!

Baitcast reels can typically handle heavier line and actually allow for longer casts than spinning gear in the same size range.

What is a baitcaster reel?

As we all know, fishing reels are cylindrical devices that are attached to a fishing rod. Their purpose is to wind and stow line. Modern fishing reels usually have fittings to aid you in casting for distance and accuracy, as well as retrieving line.

A baitcaster reel, which is also referred to as the conventional reel, is an advanced reel that is used by experienced anglers. One of the main reasons to graduate from spinning or spin-cast reels to the baitcaster real is that it offers you more control and accuracy when you’re casting. Baitcaster reels are the big daddy of fishing reels. Proficient, and professional, anglers all around the globe choose them because of their unparalleled durability, strength, and cast accuracy.

Because of the durability, strength and cast accuracy of baitcasters, and with the right amount of training and experience, you can target even bigger and stronger fish than before. If you’re looking to impress with your catch, and want to keep bettering yourself in your fishing game, then the baitcaster is a reel you should consider graduating to. Even if you’re not ready to start using the bait caster all the time, it’s good to get starting with practicing with it, as bait casters can often take some time to get used to and perfect.

Baitcasters are not just the most accurate of fishing reels. They are also often much more durable. This means they can handle much heavier, much stronger forms of line. As the more experienced anglers amongst you will know, this is necessary for when you’re targeting much bigger or stronger fish, such as monster fish, or when you’re fishing thick cover.

The main reason why people are intimidated by bait caster reels is because of the backlash factor. With a baitcaster, the spool speed is controlled just with your thumb. This can be quite tricky to manage. If you don’t control the spool speed properly with your thumb, or if you release the lure at the wrong time, the line will try to come off the spool while the spool is still spinning. This then creates what is known as backlash or a bird’s nest.

A backlash or a bird’s nest is something you definitely want to avoid, and can result in a big, tangled mess of line. While the line is wanting to come off the spool while it’s still spinning, it ends up staying on the reel, creating an overrun of line that gets tangled. Just like with a ball of yarn, if you pull one end and don’t control the rest of the line, the rest of it is bound to get tangled up in a big mess. Consider taking a camping multi tool with you, for any repairs or cutting tasks.

However, if you follow our step-by-step guide below, and follow some of the basic rules and tips of using a bait caster reel, then you should be able to avoid the annoying tangle of a backlash or a bird’s nest.

Baitcasters can typically cast farther and with greater precision but you have to practice a lot.

How to spool new fishing line onto your baitcaster reel: a step-by-step guide

1. Before you spool your new fishing line, you need to select the right kind of fishing line for your baitcasting reel. Although you may have been using braided fishing line on your spinning or spincast reels, it doesn’t work so well with bait caster wheels and can cause bad backlashes or bird’s nests. Our recommendation for fishing line to use with your bait caster reel is monofilament fishing line, preferably 12 or 15lb mono line, to avoid those pesky backlashes.

2. Firstly you need to run the new line through the line guides. You’ll find the line guides on the underside of the rod: they are the little hoops hanging off. Always start this process at the far end of the rod, pushing the line through the loops and towards the reel. With baitcaster rods, there’s a little hole in the reel that you should be looking for, that you won’t find on other types of reel. You’ll also need to run the line through this guide to get it into the bail.

3. Next what you need to do is knot the line on the reel spool. You do this by: wrapping the end of the fishing line over the spool (the indentation in the middle of the reel). Then you must bring the end of the line back towards you and tie the line together in an arbor knot.

4. But how do you tie an arbor knot? An arbor knot is done by first tying a simple overhand knot. Then you tie a second overhand knot at the free end of the line. All you need to do now is pull both knots tight against the reel, and you’re done!

5. The next step in spooling your new fishing line is to close the bail by lowering the wire arm. Then you have to pull the wire arm as far down as it will go to lock the line in place. If it so happens that the line comes undone, what you’ll need to do is lift up the bail and redo the knot, repeating the process again until the line is securely in place.

6. Next, crank the rod’s handle to find out which way the bail rotates. Then you should mentally make note of the direction that the bail rotates in, as the line must be loaded in the same direction. Drop the spool of new fishing line on the floor with the label facing upwards and adjust the position of the rod so the line can be loaded correctly. For Baitcaster reels, this process is slightly more complicated than for spinning or spincast reels. You’ll need an extra bit of kit: a spooler. You can make a DIY spooler by sticking a pencil through the reel, and having someone else hold it for you, so you can properly spool your new fishing line. Or if you’re fishing on your own, or want a more permanent solution, you can purchase a spooler, or make one yourself by placing the spool on a screwdriver, pushed through a cardboard box on either side.

7. The next step to spool your new fishing line onto your bait caster reel is to hold the line between your thumb and your index finger. It’s important here to make sure you’re holing the line properly, maintaining constant pressure. If the line isn’t taught, and is tangling, then you’re holding it wrong. Use your free hand as you hold the rod in your other hand, and make sure the line feels taut and doesn’t tangle going onto the reel.

8. Once you’re holding it in the correct way, turn the rod’s handle around 15-20 times, ensuring that you’re continuing to grip onto the line as you crank the handle. 15-20 rotations are enough to load the line into the reel, so don’t overdo it! Make sure you keep an eye on the line, and that you’re maintaining constant pressure, so it doesn’t load with knots or tangles. If you do find yourself with knots or tangles, you’ll have to unspool the line to fix them. What you’ll need to do is gently pull the line back off the reel. Then tug on the loop of line in the tangled part and it should unknot easily.

9. As anyone who has any experience in angling knows, tangles are your worst enemy. So before you start casting, you’ll need to drop the line to test it for tangles. This is how you test the line for tangles: let go of the line and let it drop towards the ground, watching it as it goes. As you watch, you’ll be able to immediately notice any twists or loops in the line, that might come back to bite you later. To undo any of these annoying twists, flip the spool of new fishing line so that the label faces the ground. You also must ensure that the line continues to load in the same direction that the bail is rotating in.

10. So, we’re nearly there! The next step is to fill the rod’s spool until it’s almost full. Then you should pinch the line again between your thumb and index finger so it stays straight and taught, then rotate the rod’s crank. Once you have rotated the crank, load the line until the reel is almost full. Ideally, the line should be about 1⁄8 in (0.32 cm) below the spool’s rim, so try to aim for this measurement when you’re loading your line. Then, cut the line to detach it from the new spool to finish, with a camping knife, for example.

11. The last step in spooling your new fishing line onto your bait caster reel is to secure the line to the reel with a rubber band. All you need to do is simply place a rubber band around the line on the reel to hold it in place. If your reel has a tab on the side, wrapping the line around it will also hold everything in place.

Often times baitcasters can throw further than spinning reel and with great precision.

How to cast the reel: a step-by-step guide

Step 1: Set the spool tension

The tension knob on bait caster reels is the small dial on the side plate, usually on the same side as the handle. If you set this up, and the tension right, then you’re far more likely to be able to get your bait caster reel to cast properly. Every time you change fishing baits and lures, you’ll need to reset the spool tension. He’s how you do it:

Hold the rod tip up and reel your lure up so there’s a foot of line out.
Tighten the tension knob so you feel some pressure.
Push the thumb bar to let the lure fall.
Loosen the tension knob until the lure starts to fall on its own.
Reel it up and do it again until your lure can fall as fast as possible without overrunning the spool when it hits the ground.

Step 2: Reel in the line

Firstly, what you need to do is reel in the line. Reel the line in until your bait or lure is 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 centimeters) from the rod tip. If you have a sinker or bobber attached to the line, it should be 6 to 12 inches from the rod tip instead

Step 3: Hold the reel properly

There’s a bit of a science to holding your baitcasting reel properly. You should be holding the rod behind the reel with your thumb resting over the reel spool. Mainly people cast with the same hand they retrieve with. If you’d rather hold the rod behind the reel when you retrieve, switch hands when you cast. To give you more control over the flow of the line during the cast, rest your thumb at a slight angle on the spool.

Step 4: Turn the rod so the reel handles point up

As with spincasting reels that you may have gotten used to, doing this lets you use your wrist when you cast. If you’re left-handed, or you cast with your opposite hand, the handles should point down.

Step 5: Press the reel spool release button

More modern baitcasting reels have a mechanism to disengage the reel spool from the handles so they don’t turn during the cast, meaning you’ll get longer casts. Some more vintage models might have a slightly different way of operating, but most models today feature a release bar behind the spool. Just press it with your thumb when you rest it on the reel spool.

Step 6: Make sure to bend your casting arm

There’s also a science to how you bend your arm with a baitcasting reel! Bend at the elbow so that the crook of your arm is almost a right angle. Then raise your rod until the tip goes slightly past vertical. This is the right position to cast.

Step 7: Sweep the rod forward

Sweep the rod forward until it reaches eye level: about 30 degrees above horizontal. Lift your thumb off the reel spool enough so that the weight of your bait or lure pulls line off the spool as it is propelled toward the target: but don’t totally lose that pressure! If you want to learn how to use a long-handled baitcasting rod, often used in saltwater fishing, when you cast use your opposite hand as a fulcrum, to pivot the rod as you cast to the exact right angle.

Step 8: Press down on the reel spool

Press down on the reel spool with your thumb to stop the bait when it reaches the target. This will feel similar to pressing the button on the spincasting reels you may have been practicing on, to break the line. But with baitcasting reels, there’s an extra element of risk! If you don’t press your thumb down soon enough, you risk creating a backlash, or tangled line. This is because, if you don’t press down your thumb in time, the spool will continue to turn after the bait hits the water, leaving you in a bit of a pickle!

Now that you’ve learned to use a baitcaster it’s time to get out on the water.

Final Verdict:

So there we have it: a step-by-step guide to spooling and casting your new baitcaster reel and rod! There are a few other ways we would suggest you preparing for your first baitcasting fishing experience. Firstly, you need to choose the right baitcasting reel. The main thing to remember when doing this is to find one that feels right, and is balanced well, in your hands.

After all, you’ll be holding it for a while, potentially, waiting for the perfect catch. You could even take some heated socks with you, to stop your feet from getting cold as you wait! We would recommend going to a store that sells baitcasting reels, and hold a few in your hands, to see what works. Also use the opportunity to get some advice from the staff there, and let them help you choose the right reel for you.

Before you cast your baitcasting rod for the first time for real, we would also recommend you practice your casting technique away from water. You can replace your bait with a rubber practice plug, and have fun in your garden, getting accustomed to your new piece of kit. This will not only improve your effectiveness while you’re casting, but will make you feel more comfortable with the new piece of kit, reducing the likelihood of having a backlash. You should also consider the best time of year to go fishing.

We hope that these guides, and tricks and tips, on how to use a baitcaster will get you prepared for your first time, and feeling less intimidated by this reel. Don’t be intimidated, practice away from the water, and when you’re ready, happy fishing!

Bonus tip: While you’re at it, check out this awesome video on how to use a baitcaster for beginners!

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

4 weeks ago

June 26, 2024

Jonas Muthoni

BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.

Outdoor Blog

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Sam Brooks

The wilderness beckons with the promise of adventure, but any seasoned hunter knows that what you wear can make or break your experience. Gone are the days when outdoor apparel was purely utilitarian. Today, fashion and functionality blend seamlessly to create gear that’s not only practical but also stylish. From the latest camouflage patterns to weather-resistant fabrics, let’s explore the evolution of outdoor apparel and how it’s revolutionizing the way we approach the great outdoors.

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Camouflage has come a long way from the simple green and brown patterns of yesteryear. Modern camouflage designs are now a blend of advanced science and cutting-edge style. These patterns aren’t just about blending into the background; they’re about creating an optical illusion that makes the wearer nearly invisible to wildlife.

Contemporary camo gear incorporates a variety of colors and textures to match different environments, from dense forests to arid deserts. This evolution in design is as much about aesthetics as it is about effectiveness, allowing hunters to move through their chosen terrain with confidence and stealth.

The shift towards more sophisticated camouflage patterns also reflects a broader trend in outdoor apparel: the desire for gear that looks good and performs even better. Hunters today want apparel that makes a statement while still providing the ultimate in concealment. Whether it’s a jacket with a sleek, modern design or pants that offer the perfect balance of comfort and camouflage, today’s outdoor apparel combines fashion and function like never before.

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Layering is a critical concept in outdoor apparel, offering both practical and aesthetic benefits. Modern layering systems are designed to regulate body temperature and provide protection from the elements. However, they also offer a chance to showcase personal style. Successful layering starts with choosing pieces that work well together both functionally and visually.

Base layers, for instance, have evolved from simple thermal wear to stylish garments that can be worn on their own or as part of a layered ensemble. These pieces are often made from advanced fabrics that provide warmth without bulk, ensuring that hunters can stay comfortable and mobile. Mid-layers add another dimension of style and functionality, offering insulation while allowing for breathability. Softshell jackets and vests come in many different colors and designs, making it easy to find pieces that suit individual tastes.

Layering can also help you catch different kinds of animals. For instance, when you’re looking for turkey hunting tips, it’s important to look at the best kinds of layering to stay incognito and catch the best birds. Choosing the right layers can make a significant difference in staying comfortable and concealed during long hours in the field.

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

Footwear is another area where outdoor apparel has seen significant evolution. In the past, hunting boots were purely functional, but, today, they still offer these essential qualities but have also become a fashion statement. Modern hunting boots come in a variety of styles, from traditional leather to contemporary synthetic materials, and are available in a range of colors and designs.

The advancements in footwear technology have been remarkable. Today’s hunting boots are designed to be lightweight yet durable, with features like waterproof membranes, breathable linings, and advanced traction systems. These innovations ensure that hunters can move comfortably and safely through any environment. But it’s not just about functionality; the aesthetic appeal of modern hunting boots is undeniable. Many boots are designed with sleek, stylish lines that make them suitable for wearing both in the field and in more casual settings.

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

When it comes to hunting, high-performance gear is a game-changer. This is the section where outdoor apparel truly shines, combining cutting-edge technology with sleek design to create products that offer unmatched performance. Performance hunting gear includes everything from moisture-wicking base layers to high-tech outerwear designed to withstand the harshest conditions.

Today’s high-performance apparel utilizes advanced materials that are both lightweight and durable. Fabrics like Gore-Tex and other proprietary blends offer superior protection against wind and water while maintaining breathability. These materials help regulate body temperature, keeping hunters comfortable in a wide range of environments. In addition to these practical benefits, high-performance gear often features ergonomic designs that allow for a full range of motion, ensuring that hunters can move freely and easily.

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter

Sustainability has become an increasingly important consideration in the world of outdoor apparel. Hunters who are passionate about preserving the wilderness they love to explore are now seeking out eco-friendly clothing options that minimize environmental impact. Eco-friendly outdoor apparel is made from sustainable materials such as recycled polyester, organic cotton, and biodegradable fibers. These materials offer the same performance benefits as traditional fabrics but with a lower environmental footprint.

Outdoor Blog

The Role of Camouflage in Wildlife Photography and Hunting

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Caleb Cole

Camouflage plays a vital role in the worlds of wildlife photography and hunting, serving as an indispensable tool for enthusiasts and professionals alike. It’s not just about blending into the environment; it’s about becoming a part of it. Camouflage allows for closer interactions with wildlife, ensuring more successful hunts and breathtaking photographs. Here, we explore the key roles camouflage plays in these outdoor activities.

Blending In: The Art of Disappearing

One of the primary roles of camouflage is to help the wearer blend seamlessly into their surroundings. This art of disappearing is crucial whether you’re capturing a stunning image of a deer at dawn or patiently waiting for your prey during hunting season. In wildlife photography, the goal is to get as close as possible without disturbing the natural behavior of the animals. Camouflage clothing, face paint, and even equipment coverings can make the difference between a once-in-a-lifetime shot and a missed opportunity.

For hunters, blending into the environment increases the chances of a successful hunt. Animals have keen senses, and the slightest hint of an unnatural shape or color can send them running. Camouflage gear allows hunters to become virtually invisible. This skill of blending in isn’t just about wearing the right colors; it’s about understanding the terrain, the light, and how to move with stealth.

Reducing the Human Scent and Sound

Another critical aspect of camouflage in both photography and hunting is the reduction of human scent and sound. Animals naturally use their sense of smell and hearing to detect potential threats. Successful hunting trips often hinge on the ability to minimize human presence in these sensory fields. Specially designed camouflage clothing can help mask human odors, making it harder for animals to pick up on your scent.

Similarly, wildlife photographers need to consider their scent and sound output. Even the most visually inconspicuous photographer can ruin a perfect shot if their scent or a stray noise alerts the animals. Using scent-masking sprays and moving with extreme caution are part of the camouflage strategy, ensuring that photographers can get closer to their subjects without causing alarm.

Enhancing Patience and Stealth

Patience and stealth are virtues that every hunter and wildlife photographer must possess, and camouflage gear enhances these qualities. When you’re properly camouflaged, you can afford to be more patient, knowing that you are less likely to be detected. This confidence allows for longer waiting periods in prime locations, increasing the chances of capturing that perfect shot or making a successful kill.

For wildlife photographers, the need for patience is paramount. Animals won’t always show up when you want them to, and sudden movements can ruin hours of careful preparation. Camouflage helps in remaining undetected, allowing photographers to wait silently and still for the right moment. Hunters also benefit from this patience, as it enables them to wait for the ideal shot without rushing and potentially missing their target.

Specialized Camouflage for Different Hunts: Moose Hunting

Different types of hunting require specialized camouflage, and moose hunting is a prime example. Moose are large, elusive animals often found in dense forests and swampy areas. Successful moose hunters understand the need for specific camouflage patterns that mimic the unique environments where moose thrive. Moose hunting clothes are designed to blend into the dark, shadowy forests and marshes, making hunters virtually invisible to these keen-eyed creatures.

During moose hunting season, the right camouflage can make or break your experience. Moose have excellent vision and can easily detect unnatural movements or colors. By wearing appropriate camouflage, hunters can move quietly and position themselves for a clear shot without spooking their quarry.

The specialized gear often includes clothing that covers the entire body, including gloves and face masks, ensuring that no part of the hunter stands out against the natural backdrop. This thorough approach is essential in moose hunting, where patience and precision are key.

Capturing Authentic Wildlife Behavior

Wildlife photography isn’t just about taking beautiful pictures; it’s about capturing authentic wildlife behavior. Camouflage allows photographers to become invisible observers, documenting animals in their natural state without any human interference. This is particularly important for conservation efforts, as understanding genuine animal behavior can inform better strategies for protecting various species and their habitats.

Photographers who use camouflage can get closer to their subjects, often capturing moments that would be impossible to see from a distance. This proximity results in more intimate and detailed shots, showcasing the animals’ daily activities, interactions, and environments.

The authenticity of these images can inspire greater appreciation and respect for wildlife, encouraging more people to support conservation initiatives. By blending into the environment, photographers can witness and document behaviors that might otherwise go unnoticed, providing invaluable insights into the natural world.

outdoorcommand.com (Post 2)

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter