CASTING QUESTIONS
Q: Do I need another rod for backcasting?
John Holden says: Cut your teeth on a normal rod, then, if necessary, look for a custom model, but be wary of too much horsepower.
A backcasting rod should be stiff or almost rigid in the bottom half, where the shovelling force and leverage are applied. A bit of ‘feel’ in the handle is perfect, but one that goes squishy between your hands wastes energy and ruins the cast. While you need a meaty butt, you don’t want the pokiness to extend all the way to the tip.
Anything in your collection that feels a shade too steely for your normal casting style could be perfect for backcasting. Many modern rods that are too long and stiff for many anglers become docile and rewarding for backcasting with five or six ounces of lead, even into a headwind.
Expert backcasters often use 15ft rods, but almost any beach rod around 13ft long will do to learn on. Even a 12ft rod powered by a relaxed swing should throw comfortably beyond 120 yards.
You will probably get on better with a fixed-spool reel set about a foot from the butt cap, even with a multiplier rod. Multipliers are more awkward to handle, but still viable, although for most it’s more comfortable and secure to clamp down on the spool with two fingers. The important trick is to hang on to the rod butt when you let go of the spool.
Q: Should I be worried about breaking my rod when casting with heavier weights?
John Holden says: In contrast to ground and pendulum casting, a little more sinker weight may help you come to terms with the backcasting action. If you normally use 150g, try stepping up to 170g.
It is difficult to damage a rod by adding more casting weight, the exception being that big leads, fine rod tips and an inside layout are a deadly combination for casting off the ground. You will be able to handle 6oz, 8oz or more.
It’s worth including a few casts with big lead weights in your practice sessions, because there is no quicker way to discover whether your casting arc and power flow are on the right track.
It’s also important to use a leader that feels good under pressure. You don’t want one that feels rubbery or, at the other extreme, a low-stretch leader that feels harsh and may make it difficult to get a clean release. ■