How to Cast a Fly Rod

Most of the lines that you'll use for fly fishing will be made of nylon monofilament.
However, other lines are becoming just as popular such as lines that are braided, cofilament,
or fused.
Never underestimate the impact a good line will have on your casting ability and whatever you buy make sure that it's a premium line. Premium lines are more durable and even than cheaper lines.

When considering how to best cast a fly rod the impact of the following should all be taken into account

· Strength: Strength is measured in the pounds of force that is needed to break the
line. Most lines will break at higher weights than they are sold at.
· Resistance to Abrasion: When you're fishing in areas where there are a lot of rocks or brush you'll want to use a line that won't break when it is constantly snagged or rubbed.
· Line Diameter: The diameter of the line will affect the way the line is cast as well as how deep your lure will run. Diameter also has an affect on the visibility andstretch. The thinner a line is the harder it will be for the fish to see it.
Thinner lines will also give ligh bait, such as grubs, a more realistic flowing action.
The good thing about lines with a thicker diameter is that they are better able to withstand abrasion.
· Stretch Lines: Stretch lines won't break as easily when they are being pulled by a catch. They are beneficial in letting you feel strikes as well as help you in setting hooks.
· Line Stiffness: The stiffness of the line is related to its stretch. The stiffer the
line is the harder it will be to cast but it has the advantage of increased sensitivty
· Line visibility: In clear water it's important that your line is as invisible to the fish as possible. Don't forget this - it's a common mistake for fly fishing beginners! However, you'll want to have a line that is highly visible when your
fishing lures are on a subtle strike, such as worms, grubs, and jigs.

Standard casting is really quite simple. The fly line and the rod are both lifted in a smooth motion.
You use an up and backwards direction which you stop when the rod is just at the vertical point. When the line starts to straighten out or fall downwards the cast will begin increasing in speed at the same time that your wrist snaps the entire rod back from the11:00 and 1:00 clock positions. The line will then fly forward to where you want it to land.

When you're ready to cast, make it a long cast that moves straight out from where you are standing. You should aim for about a ten foot cast. Once the bait hits the bottom wait for a minute or two before you start to drag it slowly up along the slope.

When you're ready to cast again throw your line out a bit to the right. Then cast to the left the next time - this is a fanning moving covering the area in front of you.

You also have the option of wading knee deep out into the water to cast your line so that it
runs parallel to the bank. Allowing you to fish the entire area of the bank this will increase your chance of success.

Wear clothes that are going to let you blend into the bank, such as camouflage. And walk
softly and carefully as you walk along the bank to avoid spooking the bass or other fish in the area. Keep all your movement slow and steady at all times.

Fishing for fish from the bank can really challenge you as a fly fisher. Once you get those first few bites you'll believe that bank fishing is just as good as fishing in the stream.

Once you master how to cast a fly rod you will find yourself hooked - hopefully as will the fish!