Bolognese fishing with a reel: casting and retrieval techniques

Fishing with a Bolognese rod and reel: casting and retrieve techniques. A Bolognese rod and reel is one of the most versatile and effective tools for fishing in current-flowing rivers. It allows for long, precise casts, control of the rig in the current, and quick response to bites. Unlike a pole rod, a Bolognese rod allows for fishing at distances of 20–40 meters, which is especially important when targeting wary fish.

Advantages of a Bolognese with a reel

• Long and accurate casting
• The ability to fish at a considerable distance from the shore
• Good control of the rig in the current
• Quick change of fishing depth
• Convenient landing of large fish

Preparing the gear

Before fishing, it is important to set up the bolognese rod correctly:

• Rod: 6.0–7.0 m, test 15–40 g, medium-fast action
• Reel: 1500–2000, with good drag and smooth laying
• Fishing line: main line 0.18–0.25 mm, leader 0.14–0.18 mm
• Float: 3–8 g (depending on the current)
• Loading: distributed (70% main load + sub-loader)

Bolognese Rod Casting Technique

Correct casting is the basis for successful fishing with a bolognese rod.

Classic overhead cast (the most accurate):

1. Release 1–1.5 meters of line from the tip of the rod.
2. Pull the rod back behind your head at an angle of 45–60°.
3. With a sharp but smooth movement, send the rig forward, simultaneously releasing the line from the reel.
4. As the rig flies over your head, gently slow the spool with your finger for precision.
5. Once the rig has landed, close the reel bail and take up the slack in the line.

Side cast (in strong wind or obstacles behind):

• The rod is pulled to the side, the movement is horizontal.
• Less accurate, but safer in thickets.

Tip: On your first few fishing trips, practice casting on the open bank without a hook to get a feel for the tackle.

Wiring technique

Bolognese rigging is not just about holding the rig, but about actively controlling it.

Main types of wiring:

1. Classic "demolition" wiring
   The rig is cast slightly upstream and follows an arc. The angler gently holds the line to allow the bait to move more naturally.
2. Wiring with hold
   The line is slightly slowed to slow the bait down. This is very effective for bream and ide.
3. Stepped wiring
   Periodic twitches and pauses. Works well on active fish.
4. Wiring "towards yourself"
   After casting, slowly reel in the line, causing the rig to move against the current or across the stream.
5. Standing wiring
   The rig is held practically in one place (holding). It is used when fishing in pits and on the edges.

Fishing on the Putorana Plateau

The rivers of the Putorana Plateau (Erachimo, Tutonchana, and others) often have strong and variable currents. Here, a Bolognese rod 6.3–7.0 meters long with a casting weight of 15–40 grams allows for effective fishing of distant riffles, rocky outcrops, and the exits of pits. Drift and hold-and-hold retrieves are most effective. The main fish caught are grayling, whitefish, and lenok.

Helpful tips

• Always keep the line slightly taut - this helps you feel the bite better.
• In strong winds, use heavier floats and sinkers.
• Change your fishing depth regularly - fish may be at different depths.
• Don't be afraid of long casts - often the biggest fish are found far from the shore.

Conclusion

A Bolognese rod and reel is a powerful and versatile tool for fishing in currents and at long ranges. By mastering the proper casting and retrieve techniques, you can effectively catch bream, ide, chub, roach, and other fish, even in large rivers.

If you're just starting out with a Bolognese rod, start with a length of 6.3 m and a casting weight of 15–40 g. With experience, you'll get a feel for which type of rod works best on your particular body of water.

Good luck on the rivers and steady bites!