"Proper" fretting technique

[Frettage]

I constantly see accomplished bass players who don't hold their fretting hand the way I'm reading that I should. I have very long fingers, and when I try and hold my hand the way I'm supposed to, it bends my wrist in an awkward and uncomfortable way, particularly when I try and stretch my fingers out to cover four frets. I realize I'll get better finger stretch with practice, but in the meantime I'm going to get carpal tunnel.

James Jamerson used to pluck his strings with only one finger, which had the nickname of "The Hook." Obviously anyone on TB would be told this is not the way to play the bass, but I don't think anyone would say that Jamerson couldn't play.

Should I play with what feels natural, or is it really worth working hard to force my hand into a position that is more likely to suffer repetitive strain injuries?

[Nashrakh]

Originally Posted by Frettage

Should I play with what feels natural

^
This.

[K2000]

The most important thing is to fret the note cleanly. It's less important IMO if you fret the note using your fingertip vs. flatted finger etc. That kind of technical finesse probably gets to be more important for players who use advanced techniques like tapping, extended range bassists etc. Also, be comfortable when you play... if conventional 'good' technique isn't comfortable (for example) then find positioning that is. We are all built differently, wear our basses differently, and play different kinds of music. There isn't one single mandatory way to play, IMO.

[basmartin]

Originally Posted by K2000

The most important thing is to fret the note cleanly. It's less important IMO if you fret the note using your fingertip vs. flatted finger etc. That kind of technical finesse probably gets to be more important for players who use advanced techniques like tapping, extended range bassists etc. Also, be comfortable when you play... if conventional 'good' technique isn't comfortable (for example) then find positioning that is. We are all built differently, wear our basses differently, and play different kinds of music. There isn't one single mandatory way to play, IMO.

I agree somewhat to your post, but I recommend to avoid playing with flatted fingers, unless you have to barr two notes at the same time... A good starting point is to watch how the hands looks in a relaxed mode and try to keep it that way while playing. The fingers are stronger when the are slightly curled and flattened fingers is a waste of energy.

To the OP: Avoid big stretches, move the hand or use the thumb as a pivot. Keep the wrist straight, always.