Long Range Casting Techniques

By Alan Partridge

Because the popularity of carp fishing has exploded in recent years more and more anglers are fishing for the same number of carp. On larger waters carp can usually only find sanctuary from the constant attentions of anglers by moving out into the middle. To keep catching these wary carp anglers now have to fish at long range.



Because of this a lot of thought has gone into effective rigs to help anglers reach these areas where the carp now feed. Most anglers are putting more time into rigs than into the correct casting technique which is the thing that will have the greatest effect on the distance cast.



With the aid of some photos I will try to give you some helpful tips to improve your casting distances.



Photo 1 - shows the normal starting position taken up by most anglers. A combination of pulling with the hand on the end of the butt and a pushing with the hand by the reel creates the cast. Now compare this with Photo 2. You will notice that the rod is held a lot higher above the head. By doing this you can see that a lot more arm movement can be achieved with this extra height so more power can be transferred into the cast making it an improvement on the stance shown in Photo 1.



To gain maximum distance try to release the lead once the rod is at a 45 degree angle. This minimises friction between the line and the rod tip and maximises the flight of the lead as it will rise and fall at 45 degrees. Photo 3 shows the correct stance for release. This type of casting is ideal for distances up to 120 yards. If you need to fish at more than 120 yards you must think about changing your casting style.

Improved casting technique

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