baitcasting
Noun
Meaning
baitcasting (uncountable)
(fishing) A form of casting in which the weight of the bait pulls the fishing line off of the spool (subject to some control by thumb pressure)
Examples
;Baitcasting Reel Operation To cast a baitcasting rod and reel, the reel is turned on its side, the "free spool" feature engaged, and the thumb placed on the spool to hold the lure in position.
Because the baitcasting reel uses the weight and momentum of the lure to pull the line from the rotating spool, it normally requires lures weighing 1/4 oz. or more in order to cast a significant distance.
Many of today's baitcasting reels are constructed using aluminum, stainless steel, and/or synthetic composite materials.
Spool tension on most modern baitcasting reels can be adjusted with adjustable spool tension, a centrifugal brake, or a magnetic "cast control."
The baitcasting reel dates from at least the mid-17th century, but came into wide use by amateur anglers during the 1870s.
The baitcasting reel's unusual mounting position atop the rod is an accident of history.