As I indicated in earlier stories, I am trying out baitcasting now that I am doing more bass fishing. It isn’t a wholesale change though. There are times when one or the other makes more sense.
For today we’ll ignore that there are many other choices in either category. Rod weight and action, retrieve speed (gear ratio) are more choices that vary with lure, water, vegetation, etc. We’ll get to those in future stories.
Choosing between baitcasting and spinning gear for bass fishing depends on various factors, including your experience level, the type of lures and techniques you plan to use, and what you’re fishing in.
Spinning for lighter/smaller/finesse/clear water
If you won’t have to pull the lure or lure and fish through vegetation, logs or other obstacles, spinning might be a good choice. If you are throwing a lighter or smaller lure or need better feel and subtle control, spinning is probably the best choice.
I use my spinning gear for smaller, lighter jerk baits, small spoons, smaller plastic worms and grubs, and basic spinners (not spin baits).
Baitcasting for Bigger/Heavier/Frogs/Vegetation
In a surprise to no one, I use baitcasting gear in the opposite situations. If I am going to have to fight a fish in heavy cover, I use the baitcasting gear. If I’m throwing a frog lure onto pads, I use baitcasting gear. If I’m throwing bigger, heavier spinbaits/chatterbaits, swim baits or larger jerk baits or square bills, I use baitcasting gear.
Pros and Cons
Baitcasting Gear
Pros
- Precision Casting
- Specific casting techniques like flipping and pitching
- Heavier lures
- Casting into structure or cover
Cons
- Requires more skill and experience to avoid backlash
- More expensive
- Shorter casting distances
- Not suitable for light lures
Spinning Gear
Pros
- Ease of use
- Cast lighter lures
- Longer casts
- More versatile
Cons
- Less precise casting
- Difficult to flip or pitch
- Not as suited for pulling a fish out of structure or heavy cover
Summary
Use baitcasting gear when you need precision casting, are using heavier lures or techniques, and have the experience to control the reel effectively. On the other hand, choose spinning gear for ease of use, lighter lures, finesse techniques, and when you require longer casts. Ultimately, it’s essential to have both types of gear in your arsenal to adapt to different fishing conditions and techniques. Your choice should be based on the specific situation and your comfort level with each type of reel.
