Thanks Tim for all of your efforts in my endeavor.
The biggest factor in me gaining distance in casting has been my going to 2# line . The Floroclear I use has a special coating that helps , but I have to add a twist in my knots to prevent slippage.
Adding weight does add distance, but my jig falls faster .
Just noticed you used a 500 reel .
I was wondering about a larger spooled reel like a 2000 or 2500 with bigger stripper guides .
Most of my UL rods have smaller stripper guides and I think I lose the benefits of of using a bigger spool with bigger line loops coming off the spool having to squeeze through a small stripper guide.
I have some longer medium light rods with bigger stripper guides I may give a try .
I actually have a 9’ St. Croix light action steelhead rod I can try .
“ The bigger the Bend , the Wider the Grin ! “