I'm trying to teach myself pitching with a casting reel. But keep seeing these references to 'flip 'n pitch' reels.

Just what are these, and how do they differ from regular casting reels. Just what makes a good 'pitching reel???

Just about any good quality BC reel will work fine for pitching unless you are using very light weight baits. The braking is done with your thumb.

Reels designed for flipping either have a "flipping switch" that allows the reel to re-engage when you let off the thumb bar, or a thumb bar that can be pushed up to re-engage the reel without turning the crank.

an ugly waste of money if you ask me.

Reels with pitching switches - When switched ON, you press the spring loaded thumb bar to cast and when you let up on the bar, the reel automatically engages.  Instead of a switch, Shimano uses a rocker thumb bar, rock it back to cast, rock it forward to engage the gears.  All of this is designed so you can cast and engage the reel with the same hand that holds the rod.  Some right handed guys like to use a left handed standard reel instead.  It allows them to pitch lures and not have to switch hands holding the rod.  It's all about what you are comfortable using.  Flipping/pitching switches are not for everyone!  They feel awkward to me so I use a standard reel and switch hands.  I'm more concerned that the reel be able to pitch light weights and has a smooth retrieve with good cranking power.

I use lefty TD-X103HSDL.  The spool release is on the top, allowing you to palm the reel.  As with most recent Daiwas, you can manually flip the thumbar or switch back, in this case without going to the handles to engage the spool.

Front row, right: