What does the term “pitching” mean when used by Walleye fishermen?

Pitching is a term used by many fishermen from anglers trying to catch bass in Italy to anglers trying to catch Walleye in north America, yet many people do not understand what the term actually refers to.

Pitching is actually a presentation technique, this means it is a type of casting used in certain situations. The idea behind pitching is to cast your bait in to your target area with as little sound and disturbance as possible.

The pitching cast

To make a perfect pitching cast you need a rod that is at least six and a half feet in length with a single hook on the end of your line. The idea is to face the target area you wish to cast in to with the rod tip facnig straight towards the water, let the line come from your reel till you can hold the baited hook at your waist level.

In one quick motion pull the rod upwards letting go of the lure at the same time, as you let go of the lure let the line free and use your thumb on the reel to give a light tension to the line.

The bait should travel just above the water to the target area, just before the bait goes in to the water give it a gentle tug by adding tension to the line so you control its entry and you should find the bait goes in to the water without any sound or water disturbance.

Immediately place your hand on the reel and rod in the position you would normally take when ready for a strike and you should get a bite.