Spinning or Casting: Which Rod to Choose for Predator Lure Fishing?

canne spinning comparé à une canne casting

Choose his rod for the predator fishing is a crucial step. Spinning or casting ? This fundamental question is posed by many lure fishermen, whether they are beginners or experienced. Faced with the impressive diversity of models available, making the right choice can seem complex.

However, it is essential to clearly distinguish between these two types of fishing rods in order to fish under the best conditions, with a set perfectly suited to your fishing technique (pike, perch, zander, black-bass, trout...), your budget and your level.

This detailed comparative guide is here to help you. We will dissect the key differences between a spinning rod and one Casting rod, so that you can select the ideal equipment with confidence.

The Spinning Rod : Versatility and Ease of Access

The spinning rod remains the most popular in France and Europe. It offers many advantages for predator fishing with lures, notably standing out in the fine and light peaches which require a high sensitivity (for example for perch or trout in drop shot or with small soft lures).

However, make no mistake: there are also some very powerful spinning rods, designed to tackle combative fish such as catfish, large pike, or even tuna.

What is a Spinning Rod exactly ?

The spinning rod is designed to be used with a spinning reel, recognizable by its fixed drum. This reel is positioned under the rod. Its main characteristic is the pickup (the metal handle) that opens to release the line during casting and closes to lock it during retrieval.

Another visual signature of the spinning rod is his ring ramp. The first ring (the starting ring) is wide and far from the blank (the body of the rod) to effectively guide the line that comes out in large spirals from the reel. The following rings gradually decrease in size.

canne avec un moulinet spinning

The Major Assets of the Spinning Rod

Intuitive handling: This is THE strong point. The spinning rod is very easy to use, making it the ideal choice for the beginner fishermen, while still being appreciated by experts for certain techniques.
High sensitivity (often): Particularly on light (L) or ultra-light (UL) models, sensitivity allows for the detection of the most subtle touches, essential for technical fishing. perch, from the trout or from pike.
Affordable budget: It is possible to find some spinning sets)rod + quality reel) at reasonable prices, perfect for getting started with lure fishing without breaking the bank.
Versatility Sea / Fresh water: With a reel and rings treated against corrosion (often indicated by "SW" for Saltwater or specific mentions), a spinning rod can be perfectly used as well at sea as in a river or a lake.
Excellent throwing distance: Thanks to the fixed drum reel where the line comes out freely without friction from the rotating spool, the spinning rod allows to reach of long distances, even with some light lures. Ideal for fishing from the shore or reaching distant hunts.

What are the limitations of spinning ?

Less reactivity when throwing: Spinning casting usually involves opening the pick-up with one hand and holding the line with the index finger of the other. This requires a two-handed manipulation, making the sequence of throws slightly slower than in casting.
Less precision (initially): The control of the line release is less direct than in casting. It is more difficult to "stop" the lure smoothly at a specific point. Reaching a high precision requires training, although quite possible.
Discretion at impact: Controlling the end of the cast so that the lure lands gently on the water ("placing" the lure) is less easy than in casting. The impact on the water can be louder.

The Ideal Profile for the Spinning Rod :

You are beginner in lure fishing? Do you prioritize the light and sensitive techniques for perch, trout, or pike? Do you mainly fish from the edge and need to throwing distance, even with small lures? Are you looking for a rod versatile and easy to master with a contained budget ?The spinning rod is probably made for you.

She is also the weapon of choice for sea fishermen targeting tuna hunts or other pelagic species requiring long and strong casts.

See all our spinning rods

The Casting Rod : Precision, Power and Technicality

Less common in France than in the United States but increasingly adopted by specialized lure fishermen, the Casting rod is the perfect complement to spinning. It excels in certain approaches, especially fishing. pike with big lures (big bait), precision techniques for the black bass (power fishing, pitching, flipping), and even gaining ground for the trout fishing on the river.

Specific Features of the Casting Rod

The Casting rod is imperatively used with a casting reel, said to rotating drum. Unlike spinning, this reel is placed on top of the rod. During the throw, it's the the reel itself that spins to release the thread.

The rings of a Casting rod are smaller and closer to the blank. Their role is to channel the line that comes straight out of the rotating coil. Another distinctive sign: the presence of a "trigger grip" under the reel seat, which ensures a firm and ergonomic grip.

Canne à pêche avec un moulinet casting

Why Choose a Casting Rod : Key Advantages

Surgical precision: This is the number one advantage! The thumb control of the coil allows you to brake the release of the line at will, to stop the lure exactly where you want it and to place it on the water with a maximum discretion. Essential for fishing marked spots (obstacles, foliage).
Speed of execution / One-handed throw: You can disengage the spool with your thumb and start retrieving almost instantly after casting, often with one hand. It's a huge advantage for fast fishing (power fishing), in the current, or vertical fishing where you can adjust the depth while keeping one hand free (or warm!).
Comfort with large lures: The position of the reel on top and the grip with the trigger make fishing with these more comfortable. heavy and bulky lures (large baits for pike) a lot more comfortable and less tiring. The shoeing is also more powerful and direct.
Better line control: Direct contact with the line through the thumb on the reel provides better feel and control, particularly useful for animating certain lures or detecting subtle bites vertically.

The Challenges and Disadvantages of Casting

Throwing distance often shorter (especially with light lures): The rotation of the coil creates friction that slows down the release of the wire. Achieving very long distances, especially with lures of less than 7-10g, is more difficult than in spinning (although modern reel technologies are constantly improving this point).
Necessary learning: Mastering the casting throw requires more practice tangles in spinning. A poor adjustment of the friction brake and/or the magnetic/centrifugal brake of the reel inevitably leads to "wigs" (tangling of the thread on the spool). The progress curve is slower.
Generally higher cost: A good casting set (especially the reel) represents a larger initial investment that an equivalent spinning set. A casting reel low-end can quickly become frustrating. Also plan a budget for a braid of quality (and possibly a spare one at the beginning!). Choose a diameter of at least 17/100 to start, this makes detangling easier.

The Ideal Profile for the Casting Rod :

You are a fisherman in search of absolute precision and of discretion to flush out wary fish like the black bass ?Do you like to use big lures to track down the specimen pikes ? Do you often fish in boat, in float tube or in vertical, where the throwing distance is less critical? Do you appreciate the reactivity to quickly prospect positions in the river trout ? The Casting rod, despite its technicality, could become your best ally.

See all our casting rods

Spinning vs Casting: The Decisive Criteria for Making Your Choice

So, spinning or casting? To be sure to choose the equipment that suits YOUR needs and YOUR means, here are the key criteria to analyze:

Criterion 1: Ease of Use and Ergonomics (Beginners vs Experienced)

Spinning: Very easy to handle, ideal for the beginners. Casting and fighting a fish is intuitive.
Casting: More technical, requests a learning time to master casting and avoid wigs. The ergonomics with the trigger is appreciated by many once mastered, especially on powerful rods (more than 15-40g) for supported ironwork.

Criterion 2: What Rod Throw the Farthest and with the Most Precision ?

Distance: Advantage Spinning, especially with some light lures (. The line comes out more freely.
Precision & Discretion: Advantage Casting. The thumb control allows for precise throws and gentle landings.
Tip: To gain distance with a Casting rod, opt for a longer length (e.g. 2m20 / 7'3" and more) and a reel equipped with advanced casting technologies.

Criterion 3: Power, Resistance and Management of Large Lures

Available power: We find canes very powerful in both categories (spinning for tuna, casting for catfish or pike).
Comfort with big lures: Advantage Casting. The position of the reel and the grip are more comfortable to animate "big baits" (> 50g) for hours.
Fine peaches: Advantage Spinning. Launch and animate Very light lures (are much easier in spinning.

Criterion 4: What Budget Should Be Planned for a Spinning or Casting Set ?

Spinning: Accessible. Allow approximately. 100-150€ for a correct beginner set)rod + reel).
Casting: More expensive. A reliable casting set for beginners usually starts around 200-250€. The quality of the reel is paramount; prioritize recognized brands like Shimano, , Daiwa or Abu Garcia even on the entry-level (ex: Shimano SLX, Daiwa CC80). Don't forget the budget braid !

Criterion 5: Required Technical Level and Progression of the Fisherman

Absolute beginner: Start with the spinning. It's simpler, less frustrating, and will allow you to quickly enjoy and catch your first fish.
Progress: Once comfortable, nothing prevents you from acquiring a set. additional casting. It will open the doors to new techniques and sensations, especially for the search for precision or the use of large lures. The two types of rods are perfectly complementary in a lure fisherman's arsenal.

Quick Comparative Chart: Spinning vs Casting

Characteristic	Spinning Rod	Casting Rod
Reel Position	Underneath	Above
Reel Type	Fixed Drum	Rotating Drum
Getting Started	Very Easy	Technique (learning)
Throw Distance	Excellent (especially light lures)	Good (less good if
Precision Throw	Average (practical application)	Excellent (thumb control)
Discreet Composed	Average	Excellent
Large Lures (>50g)	Less Comfortable	Very Comfortable
Light Lures)	Ideal	Difficult / Less suitable
Throwing Speed	Good (2 hands)	Excellent (often 1 hand)
Initial Budget	Accessible	Higher
Ideal for Beginners	Yes	No (rather as a second intention)
Key Techniques	Finesse, Drop Shot, Throw Far	Power Fishing, Pitching, Big Baiting

Conclusion: So, Spinning Rod or Casting ?

Finally, there is no "best" rod in absolute terms. The real question is: which one? rod best meets YOUR needs, YOUR favorite fishing techniques, and YOUR means ?

The Casting rod, more expensive and technical, shines for its accuracy, his discretion and his comfort with big lures. It is perfect for specific fishing of black bass or pike with big bait.
The spinning rod, more accessible and versatile, excels in the long distance throws and the manipulation of small lures. It is ideal for beginners and remains essential for many approaches.

These two types of canes do not oppose each other, they complement each other wonderfully. Most avid lure fishermen end up owning both to cover a maximum number of situations.

To be absolutely sure of your choice, nothing replaces a trial! We warmly invite you to come and visit us at our store. Leurre de la Pêche advice on various spinning and casting sets at (8 Rue des Rémouleurs, 33340 Lesparre-Médoc). personalized advice from Louis, our fishing expert.

Can't you move? contact us or browse our selection of articles:

Good fishing !