For many years I've been casting the baitcaster outfit with my index finger hooking the trigger on the rod handle. Last weekend, for some weird reason, I tried holding the rod with the middle finger hooked around the trigger when casting, and it worked fine. And it saves moving the hand to "palm" the reel. Needs some practice though, with different thumbing. . .

Not sure if I'll use it much, but just wondered how many of you guys out there might have used the index or middle finger on the trigger when casting??? And what - if any - advantages/disadvantages did you find???

interesting question.

Now that I think about it, I actually cast with my index finger on the trigger, but after the cast, I switch to my ring finger on the trigger. For casting, my thumb gets much better positioning if my index finger is on the trigger. However, when I want to work my bait back to the boat, it is much easier when my ring finger is on the trigger because I can palm the reel and it is more balanced and I feel like I have much more control.

I almost always have my middle finger on the trigger during casting, and often move my ring finger up as I engage the reel. It is more comfortable this way for me.

As a newbie I have wondered the same thing. Never considered asking. tho. Glad you did.

It kind of depends which type of cast.  Forefinger for long line overhead casts and middle finger for most everything else.  I put the trigger behing my ring finger on slow bottom bait retrieves.  The size of your reel and hands will dictate which is more comfortable. 

I haven't been baitcasting that long, but I've always had my middle finger around the trigger.  It's probably because I've always had reel seats that expose the blank and smaller reels.  This way my index finger always remains in contact with the blank.  I'm also able to cast this way with the larger Quantum Tour Edition.

Are you guys all casting with your right hand and retrieving with you left?

Are you guys all casting with your right hand and retrieving with you left?

Yes, I do not switch hands so I have a secure grip at all times (unless I get sloppy )

Are you guys all casting with your right hand and retrieving with you left?

Yes. It is the way I learned, and controlling the rod with my right hand just works better for me.