Casting a surf rod

The overhead thump is the cast to learn first. It is simple, safe and works with most rods and sinkers.

Face your target with your feet shoulder width apart. Turn your head to look at the target and swing the rod back over your shoulder until it points upward and behind you.

• Hold the rod with your lead hand on the butt and your other hand on the grip

• Push with the top hand and pull with the bottom hand in a smooth movement

• Release the line from your finger at about 45 degrees

• Follow through, pointing the rod at your target

The pendulum cast swings the rig behind you and then forward, using your body turning to load the rod. It adds distance, but it needs more space and more practice.

Learn the overhead thump first. Once you are confident, practise the pendulum on an empty beach in daylight with no one near.

Most casting problems come from timing and not from strength. A smooth, steady acceleration will always outdo a jerk.

• Releasing too late, which sends the cast into the ground

• Releasing too early, which sends it too high and short

• Dropping the rod tip too soon

• Bait too long, which catches the wind

Always look behind you before you cast. A sinker and hook on a heavy line can hurt someone badly. Give other anglers plenty of space and never cast over someone else's line.