I've changed over to a 9ft rod recently to gain a bit more mobility over the winter months. Most of my fishing lately is sub 70m so no need for 12ft.

The problem I'm having is casting where mid cast I loose all feeling/weight and the lead ends up "lobbing".

I've tightened my drag properly, Ive tried releasing later in the cast but I'm still getting these "duff" casts.

I can only put it down to stretch in the mono. I'm currently fishing 0.28mm mono. Will changing to 0.38mm help?

Set up is scope 9ft 3.5 rod, penn conflict reel, 0.28 hydro flo mono and 0.38mm shock leader.

Leads are 2.75 to 4oz

Any advice appreciated.

I have a set of 10ft. And even though they are 3lb test I find casting anything over 2oz awkward. I tried casting out 3oz leads it just felt really unbalanced. So as you were saying it was more lobbing then casting. The only thing I could put it down to was the length of the handle. I'm no casting expert but I'm sure the further your arms are apart the more leverage and balance you have.

Much prefer light leads and under me tips anyway.

In reply to Post #1
I fish softish 10ft rods as my small water set up.
the shorter rod means less tip speed so you need to speed up the casting action to ensure the rod is moving faster and the rod then compresses adequately.
It helps to swing the lead/bag out on the back of the cast to help compress the follow through a bit better.

In reply to Post #3
No idea why you want a shockleader fishing so short out?

lose a bit of feel with a 3.5lb rod -it is more of a lob with a short rod.

In reply to Post #1
Tried shortening the drop a little maybe this will help?

In reply to Post #4
I was using shock leader even at short range to avoid stretch on the mono when casting heavy leads and pva bags.

Ive moved over to 0.38mm mono now straight through.

Shortening the drop has helped!

In reply to Post #4
I have to admit, 3.5 is a bit much.

I'm starting to regret not going 3.0.

In reply to Post #3
Correct answer.

I own all manner of spinning rods - mainly use them for Bass, but have some heavier ones for pike. They range between 6'6" and 9' and the heavier rated rods can cast up to 3oz. I can cast all day long - accurately and to distance if needed, zero issues. I also have three hi s 10ft 2 3/4 and zero issues there - easily hit up to 100 yards using a 2.5 oz lead, although I don't tend to use them over about 50yds. Just a case of getting your technique right, as the chap has correctly stated.

Why not get someone to video you casting - post it online and get some feedback? Just an idea...

In reply to Post #7
Was on the bank yesterday, the following has definitely made an improvement!

Shortening the drop
Faster action in casting
0.38mm mono straight through

Thanks for all advice.