Tip of the Week: (SSFF) Start Slow Finish Fast when casting a fly rod.

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"Why does my line just fall in a heap in front of me when I'm casting?  How do I get a tight loop to fight wind?"  These questions come from beginners and avid anglers alike.  It all comes down to your casting technique.

Fly fishing is as much an art as it is a sport, requiring precision, patience, and practice. One of the fundamental techniques that can significantly enhance your casting ability is the principle of "starting slow and finishing fast." This approach ensures a smooth, powerful cast and a more accurate presentation of your fly. Here's a closer look at how to master this essential technique.

The Basics of a Fly Cast

In fly fishing, casting is all about transferring energy from the rod to the fly line. Unlike other forms of fishing, where the weight of the lure propels the line, fly fishing relies on the weight of the line itself to carry the lightweight fly to your target. This requires a delicate balance of timing, speed, and control.

Starting Slow and Finishing Fast

The first part of the cast, often referred to as the "back cast," sets the stage for a successful forward cast. Here’s how to start slow:

1. Stance and Grip: Begin with a relaxed grip on the rod and a balanced stance. Your feet should be shoulder-width apart, and your body should be turned slightly towards your casting side.

2. Lift and Pause: Slowly lift the rod tip to begin the back cast. This gentle lift helps to load the rod with the line’s weight. Pause briefly to let the line straighten behind you, forming a tight loop.

3. Smooth Acceleration: Gradually accelerate the rod, moving it from a low to a high position. This controlled movement ensures the rod bends (or loads) properly, storing energy for the forward cast.

The second part of the cast, the "forward cast," we will basically do the same thing backwards. 

1. Fast Acceleration: Quickly accelerate the rod tip towards your target. The faster the rod tip moves, the more energy is transferred to the line, resulting in a longer and more accurate cast.

2. Stop the Rod Abruptly: As you near your rod tip pointing at your target, apply a quick, decisive stop to the rod. This sudden stop releases the stored energy in the rod, propelling the line forward.

3. Follow Through: Finish with a smooth follow-through. This ensures the line unfurls completely and lands gently on the water.

Putting It All Together

To effectively combine starting slow and finishing fast, practice is key. Here are a few tips:

• Practice Drills: Set up practice sessions where you focus solely on the back cast and forward cast separately. Use markers or targets to improve your accuracy.

• Mind Your Timing: Pay close attention to the timing between the back cast and forward cast. Rushing the process can lead to poor casts and tangles.

• Stay Relaxed: Tension in your body or grip can hinder your casting motion. Stay relaxed and let the rod do the work.

We teach these techniques and more through our casting courses in our University of Fly Fishing.

UPCOMING COURSES TO HIGHLIGHT 

All of our Tributaries are open!  These are the greens and the blues of the fishing slopes.  Check available dates out HERE. 

ENTIRE COURSE CALENDAR HERE 

Our University of Fly Fishing is the most unique, comprehensive fly fishing education available.    

With summertime flows currently happening on the Yakima, we have been concentrating on our tributaries as the classroom for most of our classes.  Euro, Trout Spey and all walk and wade Fishalongs can happen up on one of our Tributaries.

• August 1st         Drift Boat Rowing
• August 3rd         Fly Fishing 101/201
• August 4th         Fly Fishing 301
• August 6th         Tributary Fishalong/Yakima Fishalong
• August 7th         Euronymphing Intro/Fishalong
• August 9th         Tributary Fishalong