Casting
There is no one single method for casting with Keiryu due to the numerous variables involved. The best result will depend on the length and action of your Keiryu rod along with the line you are using.
For each rod we sell, we test extensively and make recommendation as to which cast type to use for different situations. Consider it a starting point which you can refine with practice. Of course, in some situation nature will dictate what cast you have to do. When you are surrounded by trees, one has no choice but to use the bow cast. Thankfully, the bow cast works well enough in almost all situations.
THE ORBIT CAST
On average, the Orbit Cast is the most effective way to cast for most situations and for most rods.
Casting:
Begin with the rod pointed skyward and angled over the left shoulder (if right handed).
Position your dominant hand on the handle and the other hand 8-12” above.
Start drawing circle with rod above your head.
At halfway point (rod behind your head), pause slightly, then thrust out using your left hand to push the rod forward.
As you finish the cast, the momentum will thrust your body forward slightly, with your upper body bending slightly down and forward. Steer cast slightly right as you finish casting.
Tip:
The inertia of this cast will tend to make your cast go right or left (depending if you are right or left handed). If you are right handed, pivot your body a little left of where you want to end up.
THE BOW CAST
Align yourself sideways. Grasp the line several feet above the hook and pull back with your left hand (if right-handed), bending the rod into the shape of a bow, while your right hand holds the handle forward. NEVER POINT THE ROD DOWN. Always point rod at a slight upward angle. When ready, release the line.
With this cast, there is one important variable to keep track of: How much do you bend the rod??? Experiment and make a mental note of what works best for different rod/line combinations. Too light of a bend will not get your tackle to it target, while too much will cause the line to swing back, resulting in line coil.
Light bend: hand is well forward of grip
Medium bend: hand is slightly forward of grip
Strong bend: hand is aligned with or past grip.
Generally, a medium bend works best, but on a softer rod more bend is required and on a stiffer rod, less bend.
THE LOB CAST
This style of casting uses the weight of bait. This is not an aggressive cast – a slight back and then forward roll movement is all that is required.
Hold the rod handle with your dominant hand using the other hand to help pull the rod.
Begin with the rod pointed skyward and angled over the shoulder.
Swing the rod back to about 1-2 o'clock.
Throw rod forward.
Stop the rod part way (around 9 o'clock) to let the bait settle softly.
