celebrity writers

Fly Fishing Roll Cast

Varied Casts Expand Fly Fishing Expertise

Jul 17, 2008

When fly fishing in tight places, the roll cast is the way to go.

Once the angler has become proficient with basic casting technique, it is time to learn the roll cast. This is a method for casting a fly or lure without the traditional back cast. Roll casting allows presentation of flies and lures in tight places next to banks or beneath overhanging vegetation. It also allows the angler to lift and replace the fly quickly and efficiently during a drift presentation.

The “D” Shape

In the roll cast, the angler begins by shaking out a few yards of line onto the water. It is best to begin with a conservative amount of line, building up to longer casts as proficiency increases. The rod tip should be lifted up and back to the two o’clock position, allowing the line to fall into a narrow “D” shape just behind the angler’s casting arm. The angler then hammers the rod tip forward, causing the line to follow a line of movement that sends it forward, turning over and accurately placing the fly or lure.

Line Position Crucial

The line must be positioned correctly when the angler initiates the cast. If too much line crosses in front of the angler, the cast attempt can result in a self-hooked fisherman. Strong wind can also drive the line into the angler’s body. The line must be gathered on the water before the angler. It is difficult to roll cast when the line is straight out on the water, as too much force is spent in retrieving the line to allow enough power for the forward cast.

Roll Casting Situations

Roll casting allows the angler to place a bass bug, popper, or fly near overhanging growth where bass, panfish, or trout may be resting. No back casting is required, decreasing the chance of snagging the lure on trees or weeds. When fishing streams, roll casting allows the angler to pick the fly up and replace it quickly, working a pool without the constant need for false casting. Roll casting on moving water requires more skill than using the same technique on still water, so lakes and ponds are best for learning this technique.

Study Videos for Best Form

As with all skills, practice makes performance. Fly fishing instructional videos are widely available to provide guidance for developing casting technique. By observing the experts in these videos, then copying their movements during practice, even the novice fly fisher can learn to roll cast like a pro.

The copyright of the article Fly Fishing Roll Cast in Fly Fishing is owned by Brenda Layman. Permission to republish Fly Fishing Roll Cast in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.