I am an entry level novice who normally is a flyfisherman. However, I was recently introduced to Bass fishing by a good friend. I soon realized I would probably do better with a baitcasting outfit than with a spinning outfit.

So I purchased a Basspro Shop outfit with a baitcast reel that has both centrifical and magnetic brake system.

When I first tried it I had an instant backlash.

I knew then to stop and find out what to do.

I have read evrything I could find. I read about how to hold the rod so that the reel handles are up, adjusting the brakes, and thumb placement, using a piece of tape to limit the amount of line that might backlash, etc, etc, etc.

I have spent hours trying to get it right, but ...

So here are the questions...what is the deal with the thumb? How snug should I hold it?

How do I get a good overhead cast that will go farther than 15 feet and not basklash?

Why when I do a side arm cast does the cast go farther and not backlash very much?

Maybe I need some personal attention ??



Note my friend now lives in Oklahoma so he is no help !!