Hey guys, Ive never used a baitcaster before, and finally got one, a Quantum Escalade. I 20lb spiderwire braid on it, and really like the way it performs, except i cant figure out how to make a good, long cast. Theres 2 separate cast controls, plu the spool tension, and i cant figure out where to set all of them too get it casting right. I also think it has a lot to do with the lure being to light. Any Suggestions?

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If you are as new as you say, I would highly recommend removing the 20# braid and switching to cheap mono of 10 through 14# test.

The thin diameter of 20# braid is not conducive to a novice's learning.

Also use at least a 1/2 oz weight to practice with.

Unfortunately, I am not familiar that reel but based on a description I read online, this puppy has magnetic brakes and I am not familiar the magnetic brakes so I couldn't help you there.

Generally speaking, a great starting point with your lure tied on is the have the lure fall (hold the rod at about a 45 degree angler) at a rate that when it hits the ground that it doesn't cause a bird's nest. You can make finer adjustments from there.

Hey guys, Ive never used a baitcaster before, and finally got one, a Quantum Escalade. I 20lb spiderwire braid on it, and really like the way it performs, except i cant figure out how to make a good, long cast. Theres 2 separate cast controls, plu the spool tension, and i cant figure out where to set all of them too get it casting right. I also think it has a lot to do with the lure being to light. Any Suggestions?

Definitely use at least 1/2 oz weight. I'm not familiar with any Quantum model, but have never heard of one being suggested for light lures. Casting a light lure takes a reel designed for them, and some casting experience on your part. As already suggested, fill with some cheap 12-17 lb. mono to learn with. Be smooth. Don't try for distance. It will come with time.

I started last year, and still have a long way to go yet before becoming good with one. A good way to practice is to start with a pitch cast. This requires good thumb control because spool tension and brakes will be set light (or completely off). At least that is how I have practiced. Here's a nice video on pitching. http://www.monkeysee.com/play/1485-fishing-pitching-a-bait-casting-reel There are others worth watching.

Last year I had my spool tension too tight. I wasn't loading the rod properly. Nor was I always as smooth as I should have been. This year spool tension is set just tight enough to remove side-to-side play. Brakes are no doubt set higher than an experienced caster would use, but I am getting about the same distance this year using an underhand cast (with less effort) than I was getting last year with side arm casts. BTW, side arm seems to be the easiest way to learn. Once the thumb gets a little education, a 2-hand overhead cast is very doable even for us neophytes. You will then be getting some respectable distance with your casts even with heavier spool and brake tensions.

Hopefully someone using this reel will soon give you a few hints on how to set it up. Good luck. I personally enjoy using baitcasting gear more than my spinning gear that I've fished with for umpteen years.

EDIT: I wouldn't start with spool tension as low as I outlined just yet except for if you try pitching. Low spool tension will help you get some distance as it is unlikely that you will have the rod skill to help get distance at first. Keep magnetic brakes set high to help avoid overruns/backlashes while the thumb is being trained. That's where I am currently at with my pitching.

Can't offer any help with centrifugal braking. All my reels use magnetic brakes. Just received my first two Shimanos about 2 weeks ago, but not only haven't I fished with them yet, but haven't spooled either. Debating on line choice. And rod choice.