How Far Can I Cast?

There are times when an angler needs to maximize their casting distance to reach the fish.  The world record fishing casts that are for distance competitions, not for actual fishing, can reach over 300 yards.  It is typical for a surf fishing angler to cast at distances reaching 100 yards.  Even if maximum distance is not needed, by using the guidelines in this document, you can be most efficient and accurate in your casting regardless of the distance required.

Reels/Rods for Distance Casting

There are many different types of fishing rods/reels.  For the purposes of this article, we will focus on spinning, baitcasting or conventional fishing tackle.  I will cover the topic of distance fly casting in a future article.

There are even certain reels that are designed as “long spool” or distance casting reels.  These reels have spool geometries that are perfected for longer casts.

Here is the Penn Spinfisher Long Cast Spinning Reel

These reels both have long, thin spools to maximize casting distance and minimize friction as the line leaves the reel spool.

Maximizing Casting Distance

There are major points that can help maximize your casting distance.

Match the Rod, Reel, Lure

It is important to match the rod, reel, line, and lure/bait weight to enable effective casting.    All modern fishing rods have their recommended line weight and lure weights listed on the rod blank.  These figures are not absolutes, but there are good guidelines to follow to have a balanced fishing combo setup.

Use Thin/Light Line

When looking to maximize casting distance it is best to use line that is as thin as possible.  This will not only minimize friction as the line leaves the reel and flows through the guides on the fishing rod, but also minimize air drag as the line leaves the rod. 

It is also important to have fresh line on the reel.  While fishing line lasts a long time, it does break down over time and this can effect not only casting efficiency, but the line strength in general.  When you notice that line is fraying or when it has a chalky surface coating, it is time to replace the line with a fresh spool.

Typically, braided lines and super lines have the smallest diameter to strength ratio as compared to monofilament or fluorocarbon lines.  I have shown the specific data for 10, 20 and 40 pound braid and monofilament lines.

10 Pound Test Line

• Braid average diameter 0.006 inches
• Mono average diameter 0.011 inches
• Monofilament line is 83%+ larger diameter for the same strength.

20 Pound Test Line

• Braid average diameter 0.009 inches
• Mono average diameter 0.013 inches
• Monofilament line is 44%+ larger diameter for the same strength.

40 Pound Test Line

• Braid average diameter 0.013 inches
• Mono average diameter 0.018 inches
• Monofilament line is 38%+ larger diameter for the same strength.

Source: http://www.mels-place.com/String/string.htm

Properly Spool Your Line

One of the major problems that cause shorter casting distances is not having the proper amount of line on the reel.    For spinning reels, it is critical to have the right amount of line so that the friction of the line as it leaves the reel is minimized.  This also requires periodic attention as you will lose line during fishing that will affect the overall amount of line on the spool.

 You should spool the line on a spinning reel not more that 1/8” from the edge of the spool.  You can get as close to 100% full on the spool as you can but the line might uncoil and be difficult to work with if you have too much line on the reel.