Short casts

Slow is smooth...

I was multitasking during a meeting recently and came across another excellent casting video from Orvis’ Pete Kutzer. Pete is a Wrangler favorite and has helped me with my cast, so I take his lessons to heart.

Because I fish and guide on small or smallish water, the ability to cast a short distance is a lot more useful than being able to air out a 40-60 foot cast.

Here’s the video

Here are some key points.

• When you cast a short line, you have to help make the rod load. A short line doesn’t have enough weight to do the job.

• Keep your casting stroke short and compact.

• Pay attention to your leader. Make sure it will turn over the fly you are fishing.

• PRACTICE THIS CAST.

I’m often asked about rod length and weight for fishing mountain streams. When choosing rods, there is a three-part litany we use to describe rods; line weight, length, and action.

My “go to” mountain stream rod is a 7’9” rod with a 5 weight double taper line and a 7’6” leader, usually 3x or 4x. I add short lengths of tippet as needed. That may sound odd to some who think a short rod, say shorter than 7’ and a light line like a 3 weight or lighter, are what’s needed.

Here’s the thing, I’m using a bamboo rod. It has a slow or soft action. That slow action that makes casting more effective and enjoyable because that slow action makes it easier to load with a short line (see bullet one above.) The slow action enhances the “feel” I get during the cast because I don’t have to overcome the stiffness of the rod. At 7’ 9” I still have the length to “high stick” or make mends.

Shop talk

When you’re testing rods for small streams, try rods that load easily. If you are used to faster action rods, it may take a bit to get comfortable with a the slower action, but the results will be worth it.

If you are looking for a rod for mountain streams or creeks, a slower action rod may be just the ticket.