Q I just bought my first shooting head, a 34-footer I was told would help load the rod better than a shorter head. Under the same conditions I can throw almost as far with my standard Pike Taper as I can the shooting taper, and I feel with the shooting taper I work harder and lose accuracy. Is a different rod going to help, or is it a technique issue?
To fully utilize the 34-foot head, you need to be able to false cast it effortlessly and with good line speed. Since the Pike Taper has a much shorter head and you apparently cast it well, I think you have a shooting head that is too long and heavy. I would suggest cutting at least 5 feet from that head to accommodate your casting style.
