How to Cast a Heavy Nymph

Heavy nymphs and streamers require adjustments to your casting style. Weighted flies require you to change the rhythm and length of your stroke to compensate for the additional weight. Failure to make the adjustments will have a negative impact on your cast and the flies will not travel to the intended target. You must attempt regular practice of the new casting motion in order to make the appropriate corrections to you cast. Extra force is required to make an effective cast with the weight.

Instructions

  1. Overhead Cast

    • 1

      Begin with the line in front of you and the rod tip close to the water. Hold the line in your free hand to control the cast. Lift the rod tip to begin moving the line. This will require a significant amount of force to generate line speed and begin the casting motion.

    • 2

      Move the rod tip overhead to start the back cast. Stop at the two o'clock position with a tight wrist and allow the rod to drift slightly past the three o'clock position. This will allow the rod to load under the extra stress of the heavy nymph.

    • 3

      Move the rod forward when you feel the rod "load," or absorb the weight of the line and nymph on the end of the back cast. Use full force to punch the line forward and slow the rod at the ten o'clock position.

    • 4

      Allow the rod tip to slowly drift forward until the fly lands and the rod is level with the water. Place the line under your forefinger on the rod hand to begin fishing.

    Water Haul

    • 5

      Point the rod tip downstream and allow the line to pull downstream against the current. Hold the line in your free hand to control the cast.

    • 6

      Lift the rod tip slowly to raise the section of line closest to the rod off the water. Punch the rod tip upstream in one swift motion to sling shot the line and fly upstream. The rod tip must be vertical in order to make and effective water haul. The resistance of the current provides power as the the line is lifted from the water.

    • 7

      Place the line beneath the forefinger in your rod hand and fish the nymphs through the current in front of your body. Follow your strike indicator or bounce the fly on the bottom with a high-sticking technique.