Baitcast tackle is actually a bit of a misleading name for those who are unfamiliar with this type of fishing, while this specific type of rod and reel can certainly be used to cast natural baits, the name actually is an American term, where “baits” are what they call lures. So, baitcast tackle is actually designed specifically for casting lures, often with greater accuracy than by other means.

Baitcast rods are designed to be coupled with baitcaster reels (naturally), and have a number of physical modifications to make them ergonomic in this way. The first thing that you will notice on a bait cast rod is the trigger grip style handle, this aids with stability and control of the outfit when casting and retrieving. As bait cast outfits are designed to be used in an “overhead” configuration, these rods will generally have smaller, low mounted guides as the line does not need to be “choked” as it does when using a threadline/spin outfit. Typically baitcast rods are shorter (sub 7 foot), as they are intended more often for short, accurate casting rather than distance casting. However, in this modern, ever-evolving game, we are seeing an increase in longer bait cast rods for use in specific scenarios.

Here in Australia baitcast rods have a cult following in the Barramundi fishing scene, where they nearly always provide the most effective and practical rod to use when targeting this species. But due to the nature of their lure-casting pedigree, they will lend themselves to many applications where lure casting, particularly where accuracy is paramount. Murray Cod, Aussie Bass, Mangrove Jack, Flathead, Black and Spot tail Bass and even inshore slow pitch jigging is seeing a marked increase in the acceptance and use of baitcast tackle.

Top established brands such as Shimano, Daiwa, Samaki and Abu Garcia all have varying ranges of Baitcast rods in their stables, as do some fantastic Aussie boutique brands such as Millerods and Irukandji. We stock the lot, so check them out today.