Casting Techniques

[ash]

OK I have only been bass fishing for about 10-12 years and decided that this year I really would like to learn the loop or backhand cast or whatever you want to call it. Its a one handed technique that allows the bait to softly enter the water (its not pitching)

If you know what I am talking about (cause I barley do ) and know where I can see video or instructional on this I would appreciate it.

Thanks!

[21farms]

i saw kent brown doing some warm-up casts at the demonstration tank using the loop technique at the sacramento sportsman's expo...i was mesmerized . once his seminar started though, he only pitched. i loop cast too but it sure didn't look as pretty and as effortless as kent's. i'd like to know more too.

[BassManDan]

Not really answering your question, but I thought I'd fling these in here...

I have an old Daiwa promo video, Denny Brauer is pitching docks and he makes a really cool pitch, he does not grab the bait, but reels up to where there is about 6 feet of line from rod tip to bait, he swings the bait in a full circle (an "Around the World" for those of you who ever played with a yo-yo!) and releases it just as he would a normal pitch, super cool looking and really nice for pitching short range under low hanging cover!

This is for those of who who cast righthand with left hand reels (those of you who switch hands after every cast (c'mon get with the program ) )
One thing I do is when I'm just pitching to cover water (i.e. when I dont need to be super precise in my pitches) is a quick manuvere that cuts about 3 seconds off each pitch. I reel up the line to a point thats a little longer than my normal pitch. As the bait is swinging back to you, drop your rod into normal pitching position. Catch the line with two fingers, about 4 inches above the bait, the momentum will carry the bait around in a small circle along side your hand. As the bait is travelling the small circle, open your fingers and let the line free, this small amount of momentum is enough to load the rod tip for a smooth pitch.
It saves time, saves energy and makes me feel cool

give em a try, they both have been very useful to me.

BassManDan

[bircher]

I first learned the "circle cast" from Kevin Vandam's "Spinnerbait Techniques" from Bass Pro Shops, which may still be available. I then practiced daily in the backyard standing on a milk crate to simulate the bass boat. I thought I had perfected the technique until I attended the International Sportsmans Expo and witnessed Stan Fagerstrom's casting clinic. I will never forget that day and purchased his video afterwards. The man is truly a magician with both the bait caster and spinning reels. I watched the video 1000 times, and even paused and hit rewind during the process. I started casting in the house until it was "perfected". This technique not only allows for a silent presentation, but also allows you to "skip" the bait with a baitcaster with a little practice.

Do yourself a favor and Google Stan Fagerstrom. It will open your eyes up to new possibilities.
Mike Birch

[kopper_bass]

HawgHunter,
The best i have seen at this technique is Randy Pringle. He is a whip at this.

Go see him at the WRL events, or ring him up and take a guide trip with him. He will amaze you with his loop casting.

Kopper_Bass

[MIKE TREMONT]

I second Randy Pringle. He gave a demonstration last year at Gone Fishin Marine that showed you everything. In nice step by step motions, so even a knuckle head like me could pick it up.

He teaches a bass fishing class at a local college as well, I think it was in Stockton?

Good natured, funny individual.