This is how I hold a baitcaster. Actually, there are a couple techniques I use, depending on the lures and presentation being used.
For me, a baitcaster is the gateway to mastering artificial baits.
While only a tool in the toolbox, and not "better" than other inshore equipment, a baitcaster has capabilities that, when mastered, offer superior lure presentation.
I love baitcasting equipment and use them more than I use anything else. If I do use spinning tackle, it is almost exclusively for popping corks, which are something like the Ak-47 of the Louisiana marsh.
How I hold a baitcaster
Over the years, I have learned there are different ways I like to hold a low-profile baitcaster, and at least one way that anyone should definitely not.
Conventional Grip
This is the grip most people use when throwing any kind of lure.
I like it for sightfishing redfish, tossing topwater lures or throwing crankbaits.
Note that I keep my thumb over the reel, so it can do duty "thumbing" the spool as a lure is flying through the air.
![Normal Grip for Baitcaster Normal Grip for Baitcaster](https://www.lafishblog.com/wp-content/uploads/Normal-Grip-for-Baitcaster.jpg)
Here is how it looks on the underside.
Note the trigger is between my middle finger and ring finger.
![Conventional Grip for Baitcaster Conventional Grip for Baitcaster](https://www.lafishblog.com/wp-content/uploads/Conventional-Grip-for-Baitcaster.jpg)
See that the trigger of the reel seat is between my middle and ring fingers.
Palming the Reel
"Palming" the reel is a technique I use for jigging, or any kind of lure presentation where I need to "feel" the line.
I do this by moving my hand up the reel seat, putting the side of the reel into my palm, then running a finger under the line so that I can feel any vibration, tick or tap.
I already use high quality, sensitive rods but palming the reel gives me that direct line to the business end of my tackle.
![Grip for Jigging with Baitcaster Grip for Jigging with Baitcaster](https://www.lafishblog.com/wp-content/uploads/Grip-for-Jigging-with-Baitcaster.jpg)
When I jig for speckled trout, this is how I hold my baitcaster.
Note my entire hand is forward of the trigger.
![Palming the Reel Palming the Reel](https://www.lafishblog.com/wp-content/uploads/Palming-the-Reel.jpg)
This is how I was holding my baitcaster when jigging for trout in this fishing report.
How not to do it
Baitcasters aren't meant to be held like this. It's not how I hold a baitcaster.
![Wrong Way to Hold a Baitcaster Wrong Way to Hold a Baitcaster](https://www.lafishblog.com/wp-content/uploads/Wrong-Way-to-Hold-a-Baitcaster.jpg)
It's just unnatural and puts too much weight forward of the wrist, increasing fatigue.
Plus it yells "I'm a newbie".
![How Not To Hold a Baitcaster How Not To Hold a Baitcaster](https://www.lafishblog.com/wp-content/uploads/How-Not-To-Hold-a-Baitcaster.jpg)
You're wrong if you have a fistful of rod.
What works for you?
Ultimately, you have to figure this out for yourself. I know anglers who never palm a reel because it is so uncomfortable for them.
I know other anglers who only palm reels, even if they are fishing in a manner they don't need the extra sensitivity.
What I do here is what works for me. It's how I hold a baitcaster.
Find what works for you.
Justin, I have learned to cast with both hands in virtually every casting style. I advise you do, too.
If your right handed do you cast a baitcaster with your right hand ?