2torial #0959:
Learn2 Cast a Fly Rod

Something fishy's going on

The key to successful fly fishing is tricking fish into believing your man-made bait is a real insect. Choosing the right fly and presenting it to the fish with a skillful cast are two crucial ingredients to this task.

While there are many effective styles and kinds of casts, the roll cast is a great place to start. It'll give you a foundation of skills from which you can move on to other, more intricate casts. You can use it equally effectively with nymphs, wet flies, and dry flies. Plus, it's easy to understand, you can practice it on your own, and once mastered, it'll help you catch fish with flair.

To get the feel for imitating a fly, spend some time watching other anglers. Pay attention to how they stand, how they grip their rods, their casting form, and how they play with the line. Or, seek out some videos on casting a rod. Just watching will provide you with a model to copy until you develop the nuances of your own form. Ask at a local fly fishing store or consult a guidebook to discover a local fishing spot.

Note: The illustrations in this 2torial represent the left-handed version of the actions described.