What Size Lead for Maximum Casting Range?

Question:   Hi Shaun,

.I’ve currently got the Freespirit XS rods. I’m fishing a lake at present which involves a fair chuck. What weight lead can I get away with?

Cheers, Lee Nichols


Shaun Answered:  Hi Lee,
.
I found 3 1/2′s went best for me on my X.S. but I did occasionaly use 4oz in big side winds. It depends a lot on casting styles.In ideal conditions (no strong cross wind) then 3 1/2oz suited my casting style for maximum range although I know Mark Hutchinson gets more out of them with lighter – it all comes down to how much you can compress the rod against the lead and then the rod being able to spring back quick enough.
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One thing I usually do when trying new rods out and doesn’t take long is something I would strongly urge you to do and that is to get yourself a 3oz a 3 1/2oz and a 4oz lead then starting with the 3 cast as far as you can. Tie a pole elastic marker on your line, wind in and repeat this 3 times tying a fresh marker on if you cast further removing the original as you wind in. Repeat this with the 3 1/2 and then the 4 and you will soon see which size suits your rod for your style of casting.
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Similarly you may be surprised how much difference certain types of lead make as well. It is a simple test which can reveal so much.
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Hope this helps.
.
Best fishes, Shaun
This article first appeared on the Quest Baits Blog & is reproduced with kind permission.

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