How to Cast a Fishing Pole Without a Weight

Fishing weights work well to keep your bait under water when using a bobber or trolling. Other times, though, keeping the bait or lure far under water contradicts your purpose. For example, you may want your bait to sit on top of the water, or a weight may provide too much tension in addition to your lure. Less tension on your line creates a different casting feel. While casting with a weight and casting without a weight require similar methods, the nuances make a difference and can ruin your cast entirely if you don't adjust.

Instructions

    • 1

      Hold your pole horizontal to the ground. Let out enough slack that the lure or bait is 8 to 12 inches from the end of the pole. Keeping the lure closer to the pole gives your line the weight it needs for the cast.

    • 2

      Push and hold the button down with your thumb if you're operating a spin-casting reel with an enclosed bail. Pin the string against the bottom of the pole, with the bail facing down, if you're operating a spinning reel. Open the bail by flipping the half-circle metal piece from one side to the other.

    • 3

      Bring the pole up quickly so that it is vertical, flipping the lure upwards and backwards, and causing the pole to bend backwards a bit. When the pole reaches its farther backward bend and begins to straighten, throw your hand and the pole forward as if flipping a knife at a tree.

    • 4

      Let go of the button or string when the pole reaches the 45-degree angle between horizontal and perpendicular. Continue moving the pole until the tip points to the spot you want your lure to land. Wait until your lure hits the water, then set the line by reeling until your hear a "click."