Casting a Fishing Pole in Motion

The motion that fishermen use while casting their fishing poles is key because it relates directly to how far they are able to cast their lures. Whether they fish with bait-casting equipment or spinning equipment – those are the two most common types of fishing rods – the motion required to propel the lure away from the boat or shore and into the water is the same. It resembles the motion required to throw a baseball.

Things You'll Need

  • Lure
  • Hook
  • Weight
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Tie an artificial lure or hook onto the end of the end of the fishing line with a Palomar knot. If you are using a hook, also crimp two split-shot weights on the fishing line about 8 inches above the hook.

    • 2

      Hold the fishing rod and reel in your casting hand. For most anglers, that's their dominant hand. If you use a bait-casting rod, which has a trigger that differentiates it from a spinning rod, grab the butt of the rod with your other hand.

    • 3

      Open the bale of the reel and grab the line with your index finger, if you're using a spinning rod and reel. If you're using a bait-casting rod and reel, push down on the reel's thumb bar and then press your thumb down on the spool.

    • 4

      Bring the rod over your casting shoulder until it makes a 45-degree angle with your back.

    • 5

      Bring the rod forward over your casting shoulder. Just after the rod passes in front of your shoulder, release the line from your index finger or lift your thumb off the spool. Roll your casting wrist forward to propel the lure even further.