How to Use an Open Face Bait Casting Reel

There are many different types of fishing reels available, but open face bait casting reels are the most popular design. These reels come in a variety of sizes, which make them suitable for both freshwater and saltwater fishing. One advantage of this reel design is that its user can quickly detect line problems because the portion of the reel which stores the unused line, referred to as the "spool," is visible at all times. Properly operating a bait casting reel takes practice, but once mastered, it is easy to use.

Instructions

1. Point the tip of the fishing rod towards the body of water so that the rod is at a horizontal position.

2. Pull the fishing line at a point just above the reel with the index finger and hold the fishing line against the fishing rod. Open the bail arm on top of the reel while holding the fishing line against the rod.

3. Raise the fishing rod sharply to a vertical position so that the weight of the fishing lure causes the tip of the rod to bend backward. Snap the rod toward the body of water, and then release the fishing line once the tip of the rod has reached a 2 o'clock position to cast the lure.

4. Close the bail arm once the lure has entered the water, and then retrieve the lure by turning the reel's handle in a clockwise direction.

References

• Fishing; George S. Fichter and Phill Francis; 1987