As is quite evident by the replies, bait casters are a real pain in the ass to learn as well as to use. Outside of the superior drag capability, I have never found them to have any overwhelming attributes and that's only necessary for really big fish.
Just because you already bought the thing, follow the instructions and TRY to get proficient. When you tire of the practice and have picked out your umpteenth backlash..... go get a spinning reel (or even a good push-button Zebco) and head out to experience that which we came for....a FUN time and something to go with the salad and potatoes !
Catch and release only ....is simply RATIONALIZED wildlife harrassment ! I will never understand why you would want to fish while never keeping. I don't understand the sport of tarpon fishing (you can't legally even take it out of the water !), bass tournaments, redfish (basically sea CARP, yuk!), I could go on, but you get the idea.
If you are not interested in getting a meal.....why the hell are you doing this ?? Gonna prove that you are the dominant specie ?
Here in Oregon we have an incredible fishery, varied opportunity...rivers, cold creeks, lakes big & small, the ocean....and sooo many regulations about what is kept, what is to be released (adipose fin clipped---keep....fin present? Release.) Size "slots" (sturgeon), you practically have to carry the regulations book on every trip !
I say, fish mainly because it's a great day AND you are hungry (or wish to gift someone ) for the bounty of the water !
Just don't be like my friend Beau, who goes to John Day river every year to C&R small mouth bass to the tune of 60-80 a day ! Whyyyyyy? Seems so mean ! Now THAT would work on my internal angst !
Don't quit fishin', just make sure you are out there for the reasoning that is best for you and your better Angels ! Fish on !....Hook 'n' Cook !
VaCork is most correct.. it's a bamboo fishin' pole gone 21st century ! I have 4, 2@ 10', 2@ 13'. I use them when I take small children, since they rarely are ready to learn how to cast. A bobber and hook w/ split shot 6" up from hook, occasionally a crappie jig. Old school...bank-sittin' or boat-sittin'..... ain't nothin' as fun as watching the bobber dance, then disappear ! Never gets old !
Simplicity is often rewarding as all get out ! Enjoy it !
Re: the corn thing.....
You missed a couple of details of my use of corn. First, the Kokanee we catch (in the Pacific Northwest) are NOT stocked . Second, you didn't heed my last words....troll deep. Not much trolling going on in a creek, now is there ? Pretty sure the floating (air-injected)worm (along w/ Powerbait)works only in lakes as well, I use both for browns and yes, for stocked rainbows with good success. Have never fished corn in a creek, maybe doesn't work, might be why the "mess" ! lol ! I'm not sure if I would worry about it, some animal will be grateful. Keep hookin' and cookin' !
Sea Eagle 285fpb....the best $900 I ever spent on a boat, and I have seven floating/fishing vehicles. From "belly-boat" to lake and drift boats. Unless I have passengers, I take the Sea Eagle. River, lake, rowed or powered(electric troller or Honda 2hp) this boat is outstanding. Speaking of which, you can STAND to cast in this 9' inflatable ! It also will fit in the trunk of my little Audi TT ! (Not my normal fishing trip vehicle, but, Hey...be prepared for fun... always) I know I sound like an ad, but I will always gush over what I consider a good product worth the price. The ability to store easily, another big plus, check it out.
The pipe cleaner thing works, however you can also use garden tie wire. It's wire w/ rubber coating, usually in green, won't disintegrate, won't scratch rod, grips wherever you put it. I get mine at the Dollar Tree store ! Also a GREAT rod "bundler"..short piece for a collapsed rod...18-24"+ piece can bundle 2-4 rods and allow for a carry handle if you like. Niteize makes a heavier version in various lengths and diameters for extension cord and air hose management, but they're kinda spendy (Walmart and sporting goods stores, REI,Dick's etc) Both are a staple on my boats for this purpose, as well as for other "fix-it" needs (secure that extra lifejacket or such)
I am laughing over the comment of "never use corn, they can't digest" ! We're not FEEDING them.... we're hookin' & cookin' !
Shoepeg corn is the best for Kokanee, bar none. I take half the can, drain, put it in a Tupperware & add pro-cure shrimp or anise or garlic. The other half I keep plain, the fish may be picky and bite on it by it's lonesome.troll deep,.