Casting Classes

[ted4887]

Does anyone know of someone in the southern half of the state that offers winter casting lessons?

Chances are there probably isn't, but it's definitely worth asking. I would love to get a lesson from someone that has a little experience. This self-teaching stuff isn't as much fun as I thought it would be! lol

[Comit 2]

Are you casting outside in the snow?

[Whopper Stopper]

One-time years ago I had a fly rod. I wanted to learn how to use it and wasn't sure what weight line I needed. I stopped into Thorne Brothers (this was when Thorne's still owned it) one of the Brothers took me out side with the rod and we stood in their parking lot casting. I think we were out there for at least a half hour as he gave me tips. This was in January and the temperature was in the single digits with a light snow.

What I learned that day was that Fly Fisherman are nuts!

WS

[OnAFly]

Ha, yeah. I've stood outside casting in the snow before. It's not so bad.

If you are in the cities, go to TB. If you are near a Cabela's, they'll be more than happy to give you a few pointers. These guys that work at these places love fly fishing. It's why they work there. So, any time someone wants to go cast a rod for a while, they're going to jump at the chance.

[panfishpounder00]

check in with the FFF (FEDERATION OF FLY FISHERS), they have certified casting instructors located throughout the state, more so in the northern half though. i wouldnt recommend casting in the snow with a "good line" ! the small ice crystals can damage the line.

[Comit 2]

ted4887 When we get some open water I'll make a post for you. Late March or early April at a boat landing or at an early season Crappie spot. Just remember that fly casting is the opposite of spin/bait casting in that you need to slowly speed up you line and then give it a small flip at the very end of the cast. Little or no wrist.

[ted4887]

That's my thinking to Comit. I think that once we get some open water, i'll go practice on some shallow staged panfish.

[Ic3wind]

I think the best place to learn to cast is definatly on the water. There isnt much you can do to simulate the way surface tension can load a rod without using the real stuff. A dock with a bunch of sun fish around is pretty much the best place in the world to learn. especially the more subtle things like how not to rip the water when you pull your line off etc. Those fundamentals will pay off in spades when your are casting to a pool with a 20 incher and only have one good shot at em

[OnAFly]

+1 - That how I learned to cast.

[itchmesir]

a lake is definitely a good place to start.. but the stream is your best bet.. a lake doesn't have a running current like a stream so you'll never learn how to mend.. plus there are usually way more obstacles on a stream than on a lake.. not to mention a panfish taking a fly is a lot different from a trout taking a fly..

one thing i will mention.. is don't get disappointed when you go out with the dozen or so flies you buy and lose all but 1... its bound to happen.. initial investment of flies can be expensive as you snag time and time again

[Comit 2]

Quote:

one thing i will mention.. is don't get disappointed when you go out with the dozen or so flies you buy and lose all but 1... its bound to happen.. initial investment of flies can be expensive as you snag time and time again

Isn't that the truth. Some time I think put plants around stream just to pi$$ off fly fishermen.