SpongeBob (Children's Cartoon Character): We can do this the hard way or the easy way. Or the medium way. Or the semi-medium-easy-hard way. Or the sort of hard with a touch of awkward-easy-difficult-challenging way.
Fly casting for me means casting in a certain style, using a specific system, a methodology.
Fortunately I encountered a complete system of practical 'real world' fly-casting many years ago as taught by renowned Scottish caster Peter Anderson. A system specifically designed for the attainment of full control with economy of effort, attained through the use of efficient, effective leverage and channeling leverage and line momentum as much as possible in the one overall direction. It is a system that I have used and taught since then. Everything I mention here is in relation to that style of casting. There are other styles of course and other people do other things and do them very well.
The term fulcrum is used specifically as a label or title for this style. Its use is in a very specific context and this is explained below under 'Fulcrum Interlude.'
I have also met several other Instructors with a very great understanding of Fly-casting technique, including mainly Alastair Gowans, the Carron people including James Chalmers and Andrew Toft, Ruairi Costello, and the American Instructor Al Buhr and Finnish Instructor Antti Guttorm.
Particular attention is paid to the specific way the rod is loading and unloading in Fulcrum Fly-casting style. The progressive nature of rod loading is an axiom upon which all of fly-casting technique must be built.
Some of the most quintessential elements
involved in rod loading movements are
perfectly defined and explained on page
thirteen of American Instructor Al Buhr's
book on Two Handed Fly-Casting, in
particular the Introduction to casting stroke
fundamentals section, and the description
relating to figure 1. The same principles
also apply to single-handed rod casting.
Fundamentals
There are various topics of fundamental importance in fly-casting such as, the type of leverage used when, and how we apply and direct leverage to create the necessary line momentum, line speed and correct loop morphology (loop formation and shape). The most efficient leverage and rod loading will occur when the pivotal point is placed along the lever.
Fundamentals involve -
Self control - control over your own movements for precision.
Making correct position changes and angle changes of the rod of the right amount and in the right sequence.
Keeping in plane and understanding the various rod, arm and body planes.
Making true and smooth accelerations, or sometimes maintaining a steady overall tempo.
Channeling or directing line momentum and leverage.
The ability to execute straight line inclines, or climbing curves.
Effective stops and sufficient pauses.
Controlling overall timing and tempo.
Using weight shift and upper body rotation.
Controlling power application.
Controlling trajectories.
Any of those topics and some others are of importance. I could however largely sum up in a couple of statements what fly-casting means and indeed determines for me.
1. The attributes and properties of the rod and line are not going to change to suit me or anyone else, I must learn therefore both to utilise them, and to ensure my technique suits them.
2. The principles of efficient and effective leverage, and of ergonomically efficient use of the body are not going to change to suit me or anyone else, I must therefore learn to understand, incorporate and utlise them in my technique.
I also believe that to do something well, and just as with anything worthwhile, there are no quick fixes. It's also not usually picked up in your back yard. I consider it necessary to learn from the experienced. This may mean traveling to source good information. I also see that the world of wild fish game fishing is ruthless at times, either you have the ability to cope with the situation as it presents itself or you're beat.
Using economy of effort and control is based upon understanding the properties of the rod combined with ergonomic principles of body use when applying and directing leverage. Economy of effort is an over riding principle of Fulcrum Fly-Casting Style - this aspect of things will take precedence and therefore full control will be achieved through the use of bio-mechanically or ergonomically efficient technique. Control and economy of effort go absolutely hand in hand. One of the most beautiful things about fly-casting in this style is how in fact everything so perfectly blends together and each aspect of technique compliments another, amazingly so in fact. This is something I have a constant appreciation of.
To really cast well one will not ever replace with any physical force what a better technique in terms of a more efficient manipulation of the rod will do.
To have some control over loop formation but to be using force or perhaps reaching unnecessarily is not the ideal or the objective, nor the optimum.
Everything is inter related and when casting at the optimum level of efficiency one will not then have to compensate in one area or any aspect of technique for a failing to achieve efficiency in another area or aspect of technique.
A Fulcrum Interlude -
Fulcrum - the point or support upon which a lever pivots. The point around which a lever rotates. A prop, support, or fixed point on which a lever moves, i.e. about which rotation can take place.
Also: It is the point beyond which a cantilever extends into space, its other end anchored on the opposite side of the fulcrum.
I would point out that the word 'Fulcrum' is simply a generic term used in physics to describe a pivotal point. Where the fulcrum is placed on a lever, along with effort and load also defines the different types of leverage, (see bottom of page Terminology 1 - under Fly-casting heading).
All casting styles use fulcrums, it is part of the substance of fly-casting as the Americans say. All other casting styles make use of fulcrums to cast and it is nothing unique to this style of casting using that name as a title for the style. It would be impossible to cast in any style without using the rod as a lever and fulcrums to create the various classes of leverage used in Fly-casting.
Our context of use of the word 'Fulcrum.'
The word Fulcrum became used as a title for this particular Scottish style of
fly-casting when it was referred to by Andrew Toft, myself and others who use this style - the style originating with the teachings of Peter Anderson and using its own particular combination of characteristics. Partly because fulcrum is a short, handy word to use.
Mainly due to the fact that in double-handed casting the top hand (in context of the role of the two hands) is most often meticulously maintained as the rod supporting fulcrum during the power application, the caster ensuring the rod is being rotated or pivoted at the top hand support as the top hand moves through the stroke used during the power application, rather than pivoting at the bottom hand. Thus ensuring the most efficient leverage and rod loading over the shortest movement. It is the support around which the rod pivots because of a bottom hand and body dominated power application allowing the rod to pivot at the prop or support of the top hand.
The word is not used in connection with any visual axis. The use of the word fulcrum in this instance being in the specific context of the role of the two hands, and used to define which hand the rod rotates around (top hand). Therefore also which hand (the bottom one) is dominant in movement and power application.
We ensure the bottom hand is dominant during power application and that rod is rotating around the support of the top hand during most of the stroke. Prior to this in pre load both hands may be moving together or moving from weight shift. As the top hand is moving along the stroke used the rod also mainly rotates at or around it from the use of the bottom hand pushing out or pulling in. In single-handed casting the word fulcrum pivot or fulcrum point pivot was used to describe what others might describe as the power snap or rotation. In double-handed casting this style is a bottom hand dominated long stroke style where the bottom hand and body supply the main power application. The top hand support acts as the support upon which the rod rotates, while it also directs or steers and helps provide stroke length. Simple, no scientific measurements are required to grasp the concept and technique. No visual axis needed to be located, it refers to the role of the hands.
Fulcrum as a title means then a lot of things or nuances of a particular style summed up in one word. So it can be used to mean - long stroke bottom hand dominated double-handed casting - ensuring control with economy of effort - the use of a straight line incline for overhead casting - the use of continuous motion in overhead casting - learning by an exercise system such as the incline exercise / half lift exercise e.t.c. - in fact all elements related or key to this Scottish style.
Its not about finding any visual axis points or where they might appear, or scientific measured data for any other fulcrums outside of the context of the defined role of the two hands. The term is simply used as a convenient overall label or title for a particular Scottish system and style of fly-casting, and in the context of defining the role of the top hand in double-handed casting in this style during the power application.
I am fully aware of the efficiency and results of using a double-handed rod with the rotational point at the top hand during power application in the context of the use of the two hands, both on the back loop set up, and on the final delivery. Stroke length will also be occurring and so the top hand will be moving along through the stroke as it is still maintained as the prop or support for the rod, around which it will be rotated by the use of the bottom hand pushing out or pulling in. I am also fully aware of the great difficulty people have in gaining enough control to suppress the use of the top hand in terms of power application while still maintaining stroke and acceleration with it. I am very happy with the system and use and teach it as I was taught it.
Fulcrum Style is a complete system for everyday practical fishing casting with both single and double-handed rods, and for both Overhead and Spey casting techniques. It is taught through an exercise system. The fly line will not be hitting the ground beside or behind the caster when overhead casting as line height management behind is practiced as a key aspect of the style.
Control
What is the necessary level of control? Primarily the main thing being controlled is exactly how smoothly and efficiently the rod is loading and unloading and how the rod is directed through using exacting precision as to how, where and when the position and angle change of the rod is made, and how the body is used. This precision and understanding is important for casting with economy of effort and control.
When the body and the compound movements used in the specific application of leverage are used correctly to manipulate the rod in a progressive, directed manner, it will allow the rods own inherent properties to work best for you. It will allow the caster full control of fly turnover, control of loop shape, directional control, trajectory control, control of line height behind, control over power application, control over making an acceleration and importantly the overall tempo. Control over the stroke length, wrist movements, overall elevation, rod tracking and the rod tip paths and all planes used. The rod tip path is very critical.
Its really important to realise that we can only control the rod when we can fully control our own motion and body. I must have full control over how I apply leverage in order to control the rod properly. If I cannot have command over my own actions, such as making a smooth progressive acceleration from blended compound movements, instead of making an uncontrolled swipe or a sudden tug from an uncontrolled single movement occurring and dominating briefly, then I cannot control a rod properly or efficiently. Fly-casting is about self control and self discipline as much as anything else. Its very easy to say to make an acceleration, its quite another thing to do it perfectly and consistently including at faster tempos or to retain that control and place full reliance on that technique during adverse conditions rather than starting to use force.
Fulcrum - the point or support upon which a lever pivots. The point around which a lever rotates. A prop, support, or fixed point on which a lever moves, i.e. about which rotation can take place.
Also: It is the point beyond which a cantilever extends into space, its other end anchored on the opposite side of the fulcrum.
I would point out that the word 'Fulcrum' is simply a generic term used in physics to describe a pivotal point. Where the fulcrum is placed on a lever, along with effort and load also defines the different types of leverage, (see bottom of page Terminology 1 - under Fly-casting heading).
All casting styles use fulcrums, it is part of the substance of fly-casting as the Americans say. All other casting styles make use of fulcrums to cast and it is nothing unique to this style of casting using that name as a title for the style. It would be impossible to cast in any style without using the rod as a lever and fulcrums to create the various classes of leverage used in Fly-casting.
Our context of use of the word 'Fulcrum.'
The word Fulcrum became used as a title for this particular Scottish style of
fly-casting when it was referred to by Andrew Toft, myself and others who use this style - the style originating with the teachings of Peter Anderson and using its own particular combination of characteristics. Partly because fulcrum is a short, handy word to use.
Mainly due to the fact that in double-handed casting the top hand (in context of the role of the two hands) is most often meticulously maintained as the rod supporting fulcrum during the power application, the caster ensuring the rod is being rotated or pivoted at the top hand support as the top hand moves through the stroke used during the power application, rather than pivoting at the bottom hand. Thus ensuring the most efficient leverage and rod loading over the shortest movement. It is the support around which the rod pivots because of a bottom hand and body dominated power application allowing the rod to pivot at the prop or support of the top hand.
The word is not used in connection with any visual axis. The use of the word fulcrum in this instance being in the specific context of the role of the two hands, and used to define which hand the rod rotates around (top hand). Therefore also which hand (the bottom one) is dominant in movement and power application.
We ensure the bottom hand is dominant during power application and that rod is rotating around the support of the top hand during most of the stroke. Prior to this in pre load both hands may be moving together or moving from weight shift. As the top hand is moving along the stroke used the rod also mainly rotates at or around it from the use of the bottom hand pushing out or pulling in. In single-handed casting the word fulcrum pivot or fulcrum point pivot was used to describe what others might describe as the power snap or rotation. In double-handed casting this style is a bottom hand dominated long stroke style where the bottom hand and body supply the main power application. The top hand support acts as the support upon which the rod rotates, while it also directs or steers and helps provide stroke length. Simple, no scientific measurements are required to grasp the concept and technique. No visual axis needed to be located, it refers to the role of the hands.
Fulcrum as a title means then a lot of things or nuances of a particular style summed up in one word. So it can be used to mean - long stroke bottom hand dominated double-handed casting - ensuring control with economy of effort - the use of a straight line incline for overhead casting - the use of continuous motion in overhead casting - learning by an exercise system such as the incline exercise / half lift exercise e.t.c. - in fact all elements related or key to this Scottish style.
Its not about finding any visual axis points or where they might appear, or scientific measured data for any other fulcrums outside of the context of the defined role of the two hands. The term is simply used as a convenient overall label or title for a particular Scottish system and style of fly-casting, and in the context of defining the role of the top hand in double-handed casting in this style during the power application.
I am fully aware of the efficiency and results of using a double-handed rod with the rotational point at the top hand during power application in the context of the use of the two hands, both on the back loop set up, and on the final delivery. Stroke length will also be occurring and so the top hand will be moving along through the stroke as it is still maintained as the prop or support for the rod, around which it will be rotated by the use of the bottom hand pushing out or pulling in. I am also fully aware of the great difficulty people have in gaining enough control to suppress the use of the top hand in terms of power application while still maintaining stroke and acceleration with it. I am very happy with the system and use and teach it as I was taught it.
Fulcrum Style is a complete system for everyday practical fishing casting with both single and double-handed rods, and for both Overhead and Spey casting techniques. It is taught through an exercise system. The fly line will not be hitting the ground beside or behind the caster when overhead casting as line height management behind is practiced as a key aspect of the style.
Control
What is the necessary level of control? Primarily the main thing being controlled is exactly how smoothly and efficiently the rod is loading and unloading and how the rod is directed through using exacting precision as to how, where and when the position and angle change of the rod is made, and how the body is used. This precision and understanding is important for casting with economy of effort and control.
When the body and the compound movements used in the specific application of leverage are used correctly to manipulate the rod in a progressive, directed manner, it will allow the rods own inherent properties to work best for you. It will allow the caster full control of fly turnover, control of loop shape, directional control, trajectory control, control of line height behind, control over power application, control over making an acceleration and importantly the overall tempo. Control over the stroke length, wrist movements, overall elevation, rod tracking and the rod tip paths and all planes used. The rod tip path is very critical.
Its really important to realise that we can only control the rod when we can fully control our own motion and body. I must have full control over how I apply leverage in order to control the rod properly. If I cannot have command over my own actions, such as making a smooth progressive acceleration from blended compound movements, instead of making an uncontrolled swipe or a sudden tug from an uncontrolled single movement occurring and dominating briefly, then I cannot control a rod properly or efficiently. Fly-casting is about self control and self discipline as much as anything else. Its very easy to say to make an acceleration, its quite another thing to do it perfectly and consistently including at faster tempos or to retain that control and place full reliance on that technique during adverse conditions rather than starting to use force.
Some people become confused at the beginning of the double-handed learning curve about all the different types of cast used with a double-handed rod. Some may feel a little daunted or perplexed by it all. Why are there so many different types of cast? What are the Snap T's / C's, the Perry Pokes? the Modern Straight line Single Spey? Traditional In Swing Single Spey? Forward Spey? Double Speys and Snake Rolls? What is original Underhand casting or modern Scandi Spey style with shooting heads?
There is absolutely no need to become confused by any of it at all - and why is that? Well due to the fact that every Spey cast, or any of the alternative replacement casts for any Spey cast, all use a similar common movement to form a correct D or V loop and of course a similar final delivery / forward cast. They are, more or less, all the very same cast at the end part of the cast and the D or V loop is formed in the practically the same way on every cast, no matter which one is being used. Therefore, once you have the D or V loop forming technique under your control, then you have the most critical part of all of the Spey casts and any of the replacement casts for a Spey cast more or less learned. The main difference from cast to cast will only be the initial line placing move used before you form the D loop and make the final delivery.
Putting a few simple moves together that allow for a couple of essential principles will soon ensure the D or V loop forming technique is perfected. It is learned mainly through both the incline exercise (airborne anchor) and the climbing curve exercise (waterborne anchor). The incline exercise used in the teaching of Fulcrum Fly-casting is simply invaluable as a learning tool for Spey casting and for the understanding of how a double-handed rod works.
The dearest place you can learn Spey casting or practice the very basics of forming a D loop is in places like Russia, Iceland or any expensive beat in the U.K. or Ireland. You should ensure that you have learned at least the basics before you are fishing on good venues so as not to waste valuable fishing time or opportunities. You should also ensure that you learn Spey casting standing in water.
Economy of Effort
The style emphasises economy of effort. Economy of effort is always an overriding principle or a main concern. Economy of effort relies on really understanding ergonomic principles and the ergonomically correct, and therefore effective and efficient use of the body when manipulating the rod and applying leverage. Therefore things like reaching (out, up or sideways) are completely out. In double-handed Spey casting things like working in front of oneself is also out instead of correctly balancing the stroke through the correct use of upper body rotation. We will always be in our comfort zone when applying leverage, always. That way we will not tire or strain ourselves unnecessarily.
This adherence to ergonomic principles is then combined with understanding the behaviour of a fly rod, the rod's own inherent attributes and its loading and unloading capabilities. The inherent properties and attributes of the rod are then able to be better utilised to ensure economy of effort in casting. Understanding for instance that rod tip turnover speed from the rod unloading and counter flex creating a more acute bend in the top section of the rod will unroll the line easier and better in a correct loop shape than any uncontrolled forceful swiping forward and down of the whole rod.
Straight line Incline - Continuous Motion
In overhead casting with single or double-handed rods, the use of a straight line Incline to the correct elevation and continuous motion are two main elements of the style. Significantly line height management behind is one element of overhead fly-casting deliberately and effectually controlled in this style. Initially the incline and continuous motion combination ensures that the rod tip is always rising as it turns over behind, this is a critical aspect of maintaining correct trajectory and loop morphology (without any compensating through speeding up). The continuous motion movement continuing along the incline after the angle change then also ensures that line height behind is maintained. It does this through counteracting the unwanted effect of sag from gravity acting on the bottom leg of the loop of unrolling fly line. This is extremely important in practical fishing cutting out the nuisance value involved in the fly catching in bushes or scrub behind, or damaging / breaking hooks off rocks or hitting the water behind while wading or when dry fly fishing from a boat.
The straight line rising incline also defines the trajectory used on the back cast and ensures that the rod tip travels a long way in one direction on the back cast with all the energy and line momentum channelled very effectively in that one direction. The rod continues along the incline after the angle change is finished and during the normal pause time ensuring the deflection is more directed and controlled. At no time in Fulcrum fly-casting style is the rod tip allowed to drop down behind during the power application of the back casting stroke when overhead casting, or on a Spey cast sweep. This is a main hallmark of the style and this simple aspect of technique contributes greatly to line control, loop shape, and to the maintaining of tautness or tension when Spey casting. An arched movement is an arch enemy. The furthest back position the rod reached on the power application of the back stroke, it rose to reach that position, including over the last few inches.
One of the ways you can learn the technique by having a friend ensure that the rod tip never drops behind, that no convex movement no matter how slight ever occurs on the back stroke of an overhead cast or on a sweep of a single or double Spey cast.
Smoothness and steadiness with line tension being maintained is important and is also derived from relying fully on the rod action and the compound effect of simultaneous loading movements blended together with no sudden tugging occurring at any time. To maintain smoothness the overall progressive acceleration is increased rather than making any sudden erratic or uncontrolled increase. Body movement and upper body rotation in particular (turning from the ankles) is used to balance the stroke especially when Spey casting, also some weight shift and occasionally weight transfer. Body movement starts from the ankles and for efficient body movement a good stance is required. A key point is understanding how to allow the rod to unload itself to place or poke the line into position when Spey casting, and also to avoid wedge loops or any pulling down of the rod tip behind when overhead casting. Understanding the subtlety and control involved in allowing the rod to unload itself in a directed manner and relying fully on its action is the optimum way of controlling the unrolling loop and rod deflection.
Ideally when Spey casting the anchor should always be as straight as possible. Also in sequence - the fly, the leader, the front taper of the fly line, (and perhaps then a part of the front end of the belly of the line) must land in that order. The belly should not touch down first. The cleaner and straighter the anchor lands the easier the forward cast will be able to be made and the more effective and efficient it will be. A shallow exit entry angle of the part of the line forming the anchor meeting/leaving the water is also essential to avoid a skipping anchor (one that leaves the water when the pressure of the forward stroke is applied). On a Single Spey cast continuous motion from circling up behind is used, circling up ensures constant tension and the the rod tip is climbing in a curve and merging into the forward cast, and circling up also curving or pulling in, into plane, the rod sliding into plane as it circles upwards and inwards and moves forward. It must not hook in past plane. Alternatively, after circling up behind is mastered and able to be used, the caster can change to a slightly increased power application at the end of the back cast or sweep and then a hesitation as the D / V loop forms. However the caster now knows from continuous motion casting exactly the feel of what they are looking for in terms of line tautness and timing. On a standard Double Spey cast there is a pause used as the D loop forms to avoid a skipping anchor as more power application is used in the D loop forming move as the line is being drawn back and up off the water.
Another emphasis is on the importance of always making a smooth and progressive acceleration on the final delivery. Sometimes in single-handed casting with the use of thrust.
A system of exercises is used to teach the style, most notably the incline exercise for both Spey and Overhead casting with a double-handed rod, and overhead casting with a single handed rod. Also the rod 'pop' / tip casting exercise for the single handed rod.
Andrew Toft’s thoughts on
Double-Handed Rod Fly-Casting
Most of the energy generated during fly-casting is due to efficient leverage.
If the bottom hand is preceding the movement of the top hand, even in minimal movements, we are achieving the foundation of the most effective rod loading, and angular change required for tight loops and maximum efficiency in medium to longish range casting.
A two handed rod works by “Fulcrum & Leverage”, the upper hand being the point round which the rod will be levered and rotated. We are able to change the angle and reposition the fulcrum to assist in stroke length and directional motion during the casting movements, resulting in a more efficient bend in the rod over a short distance. The lower hand provides more efficient leverage when rotated and moved around the upper hand as it is further from the tip. If we were to use the top hand as our primary source of power during any accelerated movement, the lower hand would then become our pivotal point, resulting in less effective rod loading .This would then require a longer stroke and more effort. If your top hand is travelling faster than your bottom hand during the casting movements, then you are not bending the rod effectively.
Tournament Spey-casting requires a larger casting arc and maximum stroke length which allows much more time to apply force so we can get much more speed .Therefore the upper hand will extend further forward than normal casting style.
Rod Tip deflection / Counter flex
Don’t overlook the way that the rod unloads at the end of the cast.!
The ability to judge the point of maximum rod tip deflection is vital when casting with efficiency. It is very important to allow the rod tip to unbend or deflect in the same direction as the intended flight path of the loop. If the rod tip unbends excessively to the inside or below the flight path of the line, then it is counterproductive and inefficient. Power and speed application cannot be excessive and has to be in the correct place terminating in an efficient stop.
Stopping and Blocking
As the lower hand is the most effective lever, it must also be stopped effectively to flip the rod tip over at the fastest speed in time with the upper hand. If efficient rod loading is a prerequisite to an efficient cast then efficient rod unloading is also a fundamental requirement. Many people try to stop the rod using the upper hand only, allowing energy to escape from the bottom of the rod rather than being concentrated at the tip. Blocking the lower hand firmly as the rod comes to a stop, transfers the energy and speed to the top of the rod allowing maximum efficiency. You cannot stop a two handed rod with one hand, you can only slow it down!
Andrew Toft
A Basic Overhead Casting Technique
Fly-casting for fishing purposes is about first being able to function.
It is initially about being able to fly fish because one can manage to get the line out a short distance consistently with the use of a modicum of technique and efficient leverage instead of an unnecessary use of force or any reaching.
That technique involves an understanding of applying directed leverage progressively, comfortably, and ensuring the efficient use of first class type leverage at the appropriate time and place.
In short understanding rod position change and angle change sequence for efficient rod loading and loop morphology - therefore leading with the butt / bottom of the cork handle - a mainly position change movement is made before a mainly angle change movement on both strokes.
Once an angler is able to put the line out again with correct loop formation and fly turnover after they have pulled it in and have retrieved the line, or after it has swung around in the current, also where there is little clearance behind, and in various wind directions including adverse winds, then the angler can fly fish. At the beginning learning enough basic fly-casting skills to function, to become a functional fly angler, is more than enough to concentrate on.
When that initial mystery or struggle of understanding how the rod and line works is removed, and a basic Overhead or Spey casting technique has been achieved, it is very rewarding. Once a certain level of control is attained then fly fishing and casting is much more enjoyable.
A basic technique is about incorporating basic fundamental principles of rod and body use into a casting technique. A technique built upon an understanding of rod loading, directed line momentum, and the principles of leverage will be effective and efficient technique.
A correct basic technique is based upon some fundamental understandings. Mainly an understanding of the inherent properties of a fly rod and line. The progressive nature of rod loading is the axiom on which good fly-casting technique is built. The progressive nature of rod loading creates a requirement for smooth, precise, directed and progressive movements in correct sequence. Uncontrolled sudden movements are unsuitable.
We can change the position of the rod, we can change the angle of the rod and we can twist the rod (like a screwdriver). We can do all or some of these at the same time. A basic fundamental of technique is that some position change will take place before the main angle change. This causes pre load of the rod tip, the easiest part of the rod to bend, and then part of the very effective loading created by the angle change is not wasted on just getting the light tip to bend.
This fundamental principle of casting is very clearly demonstrated when overhead casting a medium length of line on grass through watching the loop formation and loop shape if the bottom part of the cork butt leads before the top part is pushed over from the angle change on both the forward and backward strokes. Then watching what happens if the top part of the butt leads or is pushed over early.
That is the fundamental of overhead casting and very important to understand
The correct use of directed position and angle changes of the rod made in the right sequence allowing for the progressive nature of rod loading and unloading, and for the correct use of first class leverage to ensure economy of effort and efficiency is an essential. Understanding therefore both the effect of any individual movement exerting leverage or influence on either rod loading or direction, and also the cumulative effect of combined simultaneous or compound movements on rod loading and unloading and on the overall direction of the line momentum generated is critical.
Understanding how things inter relate allows the optimum blend of compound movements, and overall sequences of compound movements, to then be arrived at from fine tuning and experiment.
Economy of effort is an overriding principle in this style. Understanding therefore how we use our body to ensure efficiency ergonomically or bio mechanically when applying directed leverage is essential - such as for example by not ever reaching, by balancing the stroke to the most comfortable position to apply leverage, and critically by always keeping and using the forearms and wrists in the correct plane.
It is absolutely necessary that we adapt our body and arm movements to manipulate the rod correctly for directed line momentum and efficient rod loading and unloading. We must adapt our body movements to suit and to work around the requirements and properties inherent in flexible rod action, as for example the rod can only be used most efficiently by staying in plane, or sometimes for instance through being levered along a straight line incline.
We need to understand that directed line momentum and correct loop formation are a result of very controlled, directed leverage and power applications. A smoothly unrolling taut line, unrolling in a controlled fashion at a normal casual tempo, is not a line that has been excessively forced or allowed to become even momentarily uncontrolled.
It is best to start off correctly by paying due attention to these very important things, they are of absolute supreme importance. A correct basis in technique is everything, and frankly there are really quite a number of ways to miss the mark entirely because what represents correct technique is counter intuitive and demands counter intuitive movements to be learned. A lack of attention to the necessary detail of the fundamentals at the start will always show up as a limitation or a problem later.
For instance a straight line incline is a straight line incline and not a slightly convex curve. A slightly convex curve is more intuitive, ensuring an incline is counter intuitive but absolutely necessary. While fly-casting can progressively be taken to whatever level of proficiency you require over time, the most advanced casting is simply the technically correct basic principles and technique taken further.
The basic technique used for normal functional fishing however is a high enough level of proficiency for many people and it will serve them very well for their fishing life. It is however also the necessary building block or solid foundation for any realistic further development.
This style is a real world practical fishing style. Football pitch casting for distance with the line and wool hitting the ground behind or beside the caster generally doesn't suit real world fishing applications. The only distance that matters for fishing purposes is that achieved with line height management of the fly line and leader behind so that the fly hook doesn't get damaged on rocks or hook up on vegetation or something behind, and preferably distance with fly turnover on delivery. Distance achieved this way, that I greatly admire.
Two practical fundamentals
1. Not allowing the rod tip to drop behind during the power application is a fundamental principle of the style.
2. In Double-Handed Casting keeping the top hand as the fulcrum at all times (with the exception of the initial draw when overhead casting, and some initial line placing moves) is another fundamental of the style.
Fine tuning for full control with economy of effort
Fly casting for me and others is more than just getting the line out any which way, its about exactly how one uses the rod and body to unroll the fly line, exactly how one applies and directs leverage on and with the rod to generate line momentum. It is something that is able to be practiced as a very fine tuned skill. For some it is about finding the optimum in technique and loop morphology (loop formation and loop shape). Finding the optimum blend in compound simultaneous movements and sequences of movements to cast with control and economy of effort for practical fishing purposes. Trajectory both forward and backward always totally in control. Leverage and line momentum precise, controlled and directed. Movement fluent and smooth, line tautness and tempo always under control. Adverse conditions counteracted using technique and not force. V loops become the norm on the final delivery.
For me personally the ideal is when there is both no unnecessary intrusion by the caster in terms of the use of force to substitute or compensate for what a better manipulation of the rod or body would do more effectively. Also - as every aspect is inter related and interdependent - the ideal is to not be compensating in any area for any fault or lack of use of an optimum in any other aspect / part of overall technique. To not be compensating is more than superficial level fly casting, or even reasonably good casting. To not have to compensate anywhere is a fine tuned skill, a level achieved through experience and the understanding of both yourself and from others via importing knowledge. You must of course want to improve to reach higher levels of control, you must have enough control to adjust and fine tune any aspect of technique.
To find the right blend one does not have to re invent the wheel. It has already been done and is being done, but not by everyone. One does have to be able to do the extremes at each end of the spectrum to find where the optimum is. One has to have complete control over oneself to do this i.e to make an all top hand powered cast with a double-handed rod or to make an all bottom hand dominated cast, while keeping all other aspects of technique right (planes, trajectory, acceleration, elevation, tautness e.t.c). Many will live and die without ever experiencing the feel of the latter as it is a counter intuitive movement, and an ingrained top hand pushing habit will take care of any chances to change unless purposely dealt with.
For the skilled Fly-caster many necessary counter intuitive movements for effective technique will be mastered totally and become a norm. It will eventually in fact feel strange for them to do what a more natural movement would be when it is a fault. One of the difficulties experienced casters have at times is to make a purposeful fault to show people, it may take several goes before they do it or they have to practice those separately for instruction or examination examples as the correct counter intuitive movement has become a muscle memory and replaced their previous movements. One can remain a slave to ones normal intuitive motor function movements continually and thereby carry a lot of limitations to your potential, your control and ability. Or, you can start to gain predetermined precision and control over any movements you make to manipulate the rod when casting.
Oh how very easy it is to say something like - don't let the rod tip drop behind during the power application yet how hard it is for people to do it while making the angle change when overhead casting with a single-handed rod, or while making a sweep when Spey casting. How easy it is to say that the furthest back position the rod arrives at during the power application, that it must have climbed or risen to that position on a climbing curve or a straight line incline movement yet how extremely difficult it is for people to do that, amazingly difficult for some.
Or to say to make a smooth progressive acceleration, easy to say but a rare thing to witness consistently.
Or to not tug at any point. There is a saying in double-handed instruction in this style which is, 'you'll keep tugging with the top hand as long as you keep tugging with the top hand.' Its really that simple.
The paradox is that to cast well is simple enough, simple when one stops spoiling it by a lack of precision in rod manipulation and power application. The best casts always feel to be the least little thing in terms of effort. Good casting is when you do what is required, it is very easy to say and not do. A straight line incline is a straight line, and nothing else, it is not a curve or a waver but a perfect straight line. A climbing curve is concave in shape and the rod tip does not drop down behind as it is not then climbing, it does not drop down behind or pull in out of plane even though the bottom hand is pushing out.
A progressive acceleration is an acceleration and does not have any hesitation, nor does it use the same speed for a while then an abrupt tugging or pushing increase. Not tugging means not making any tug. One can watch a person do a top hand tug almost endlessly on a Spey cast sweep time after time after time though they are told not to do it and wish not to do it. The person themselves will say they don't want to do it but such is the force of habit from an ingrained muscle memory that it is practically impossible for them not to do it.
How amazingly hard it is for people to make a smooth acceleration. How hard it is for them to maintain the top hand as the fulcrum in double-handed rod casting and allow the bottom hand to dominate in power application.
I can spot a good caster almost immediately as their forearm and wrists are always in plane for the particular circumstance, the thin part of the forearm leads and the wrist works or flexes in the same direction. This is one of the fundamentals of very good casting. Great casters have meticulous automatic control of this aspect of things without thinking. It is one of the very first lessons in Fulcrum fly-casting style.
The Federation of Fly Fishers (F.F.F.)
Essentials and Terminology
If a fly-caster wishes to improve their understanding of fly-casting, and be better able to analyse and fine tune their own or a friends casting ability. Or if one wishes to become an Instructor, then it is most useful to have an understanding of fly-casting terminology based upon the American FFF (Federation of Fly Fishers) system of analysis. This means learning some of the American FFF organisation's use of terminology to describe the mechanics and principles of `fly-casting.
Personally I believe the FFF five essentials / principles to be one of the best pieces of writing on fly-casting instruction that one could come across, most especially the principle of the rod tip moving in a straight line path, (in both the vertical and horizontal planes). If that is adhered to then practically everything else must fall into place.
There are other similar uses of terminology and systems which however can also be explained to others effectively using FFF terminology.
A Foundation
For me everything should be built on a solid foundation or a system. Ergonomics for economy of effort and the fairly straightforward understanding the role of the body in applying leverage and power, and how the body works most efficiently should be a vital part of that system. It should be married with the other necessary basic understanding of rod loading and unloading properties and how to direct all the energy and line momentum efficiently in the one general or overall direction.
Taking some instruction is usually a good place to start, not necessarily from a qualified Instructor but from someone who can cast and teach very well, qualified or not. You will travel a long way to see anyone with any better technique than James Chalmers for instance, one of my main mentors in double-handed casting. He did not pursue qualifications personally yet he is one of the best teachers of Spey casting that I have ever met. It is a fact that you will also occasionally find qualified people using an inferior technique. Unfortunately qualifications aren't any fail safe guarantee that you will be taught a really good technique. It is simply a fact that I know qualified people that I would not wish my family members or friends to have lessons from as their methodology or understanding of economy of effort or rod loading properties is not at a suitable level of refinement. See Mullocking below. Sometimes it can matter whose name is on a certificate. Some examiners have more credibility.
Anything I know and use I did not learn alone, or pick up myself from books or videos, I travelled to Scotland and took disciplined formal practical training. I learned from others mainly through a system of exercises. This was a most important thing in my opinion. I consider formal training in a style as an invaluable element of becoming an Instructor. I also consider experience in spotting and correcting faults important, this comes from time spent and having worked as a Ghillie and Instructor in a Game Angling orientated Hotel for over twenty five years it certainly gave me a lot of experience in spotting and correcting faults, a magnificent opportunity in fact to really hone this ability from experience.
Did I see you drop that rod tip behind?
One of the most obvious and noticeable signs of someone casting in Fulcrum Fly-Casting style is that the rod tip is not pulled down or is not allowed to drop down at all behind at any time when they are overhead casting during their power application or angle change, not even an inch (apart perhaps from rod counter flex). To channel all the energy as much as possible in the one direction they are casting along a straight line incline with their rod hand or top hand, and the angle change is made as the forearm(s) keep moving along the incline. As the rod tip turns over it is still rising and the overall movement directs the line upwards, the bottom leg of the line then unrolls on a rising incline with a very tight loop. This keeping of the line momentum directed as much as possible in the one overall direction reduces the need for excessive power application or speed. It also creates very tight and pointed loops. Line height management behind is a main feature of Fulcrum Fly-casting style and of immense practical benefit when fishing.
Note: A straight line incline is a straight line incline and not an arch or convex movement, not even a slight arch.
It also applies to Spey casting technique where the rod must rise when it passes the angler's position, either along a straight line incline or on a climbing curve.
Note: A straight line incline is a straight line incline and not an arch or convex movement, not even a slight arch.
It also applies to Spey casting technique where the rod must rise when it passes the angler's position, either along a straight line incline or on a climbing curve.
A River Runs Through It - the book
I'm sure most people have seen the film “A River Runs Through It.” In the book by Norman Maclean, the Maclean boys' father, (John Norman Maclean), believed that anybody who did not know how to fish (fly cast), should not be allowed to disgrace a fish by catching it.
He also considered that someone picking up a fly rod who never used one before proved factually and theologically that man by nature was a damned mess, that he had fallen from a state of grace and only by picking up God's rhythms were we able to regain power and beauty. That all good things come by grace, and grace comes by art, and art does not come easy.
Fly-casting can become a graceful art form, just as it was considered to be so by Norman Maclean's Father. To cast well with a fly rod is however generally counter intuitive. Although we fly cast simply to fish, we may also find that to cast well or better becomes an interest itself. We find that achieving greater control is a very rewarding and satisfying experience, one that also greatly enhances our fly fishing capability and enjoyment of fly fishing.
I'm sure most people have seen the film “A River Runs Through It.” In the book by Norman Maclean, the Maclean boys' father, (John Norman Maclean), believed that anybody who did not know how to fish (fly cast), should not be allowed to disgrace a fish by catching it.
He also considered that someone picking up a fly rod who never used one before proved factually and theologically that man by nature was a damned mess, that he had fallen from a state of grace and only by picking up God's rhythms were we able to regain power and beauty. That all good things come by grace, and grace comes by art, and art does not come easy.
Fly-casting can become a graceful art form, just as it was considered to be so by Norman Maclean's Father. To cast well with a fly rod is however generally counter intuitive. Although we fly cast simply to fish, we may also find that to cast well or better becomes an interest itself. We find that achieving greater control is a very rewarding and satisfying experience, one that also greatly enhances our fly fishing capability and enjoyment of fly fishing.
What Is Fly-Casting?
Fly-casting means different things to different people.
Fly-casting for me is about real world practical fishing using normal or standard fly fishing outfits. It is about finding and using the optimum in control with economy of effort for practical fishing purposes - It's not just about getting the line out, but about how to do that with some degree of finesse.
Fly-casting means different things to different people.
Fly-casting for me is about real world practical fishing using normal or standard fly fishing outfits. It is about finding and using the optimum in control with economy of effort for practical fishing purposes - It's not just about getting the line out, but about how to do that with some degree of finesse.
A basic description of Fly-Casting
When someone spins or bait fishes, they are then usually casting a concentrated weight using a practically weightless and thin line. The weight cast is the actual lure itself or an added weight such as a piece of lead and it is effectively catapulted away with a short movement. Aerodynamic matters are then generally not an issue.
When we fly fish however we will be using a relatively small and lightweight fly, and we do not use or add an additional concentrated weight to cast it. Instead we change the type of line used and generally will use a longer, thinner and more flexible rod.
A weighted, tapered line
The much thicker line becomes the actual weight used. The fly line is really a long flexible and tapered weight. It is cast or projected through being unrolled from the creation of directed line momentum. The weight is distributed throughtout the belly and the front and rear tapers of the line, there is not any concentration of all the weight at one small point.
Unrolling the fly line
Fly-casting is mainly about unrolling the fly line and leader in an efficient, controlled manner to present the fly using either a single or double-handed fly rod. The leader and fly are simply towed along by the fly line.
The line is unrolled through creating directed line momentum. We use the action of the long and flexible fly rod to unroll the fly line and leader and to generate line momentum and line speed. Line momentum is generated from applying leverage to the fly rod, leverage from hand, arm and body movements that change the position and angle of the rod in a precise and controlled fashion. The weight and resistance of the fly line also loads the rod (deflects it into a curve) when we change the position and angle of the rod. Some of the energy used is then stored by the rod. Due to the rods own taper as it straightens and the energy leaving the greater mass lower down the rod causes the thinner top section of the rod to speed up, counter flex and generate rod tip turnover speed. The rod tip turnover speed from the stored energy releasing itself greatly increasing line speed and line momentum.
A fly rod only does one thing by itself, if it has been deflected into a curve it will straighten when it gets the opportunity to do so, (usually when the line breaks free from the water or when a stop in the angle change is made). Due to the taper it doesn't just straighten and stop but it counter flexes causing a rapid rod tip turnover speed.
Directed line momentum
Fly-casting is about utilising the energy, leverage and rod tip turnover speed that is able to be generated both through and by the fly rod, using hand, arm and body movements, to create controlled and directed line momentum and line speed. Some of the energy is stored and then released by the flexible rod loading and then unloading. The unloading rod creates rod tip turnover speed. Controlled and directed line momentum will cause the fly line to unroll, and project the fly line in a narrow, aerodynamically efficient loop.
The loop of fly line should unroll out fully without crossing over itself or tangling, and without skewing off to one side, or collapsing into squiggles of slack line. The line and leader should be straight and the fly should land furthest away from the angler, (excepting some specialised presentation casts). When this occurs it is called fly turnover.
Loop Morphology
The fly line would create a lot of air resistance, enough to kill the line momentum and spoil the cast, if the unrolling loop is not kept reasonably narrow. In two words fly-casting is about 'loop morphology,' (loop formation and loop shape). Other appropriate words would be directed leverage and acceleration.
Planes
Fly-casting is a personal skill. It is about you personally gaining enough understanding and control over the rod and line, and also how you use your body, so that you may cast effectively while using economy of effort. This means for instance that you will not be reaching at any time and you will also be keeping everything in plane. To cast well will mean that you really become very aware of planes, rod, arm, body and line planes.
Multi faceted
Fly-casting is multi faceted. We may be using light or heavier single-handed outfits suitable for anything from small trout fishing in streams to fishing for Salmon and grilse on larger rivers, or for pike or saltwater fishing. The world of Double-handed casting has two main groups, those using traditional or modern longer stroke Spey casting techniques and tackle. Or those using Shooting head outfits and shorter stroke styles such as Underhand casting. With the diversity we find people specialising in certain disciplines and certain styles within those disciplines, there are different styles of casting the same outfits. I am also happy to use longer stroke techniques when Spey casting with shooting heads.
We find however that all rods work in the same way and there are many shared common principles involved. We can also share and often import knowledge from other people that improves our own overall ability or understanding.
Styles
There are different styles of fly-casting. A particular combination of characteristics will define a style. A style usually originates with a person, or becomes established within a geographical region. They may also originate from various developments in fly fishing tackle and the general types of rods and lines used.
When someone spins or bait fishes, they are then usually casting a concentrated weight using a practically weightless and thin line. The weight cast is the actual lure itself or an added weight such as a piece of lead and it is effectively catapulted away with a short movement. Aerodynamic matters are then generally not an issue.
When we fly fish however we will be using a relatively small and lightweight fly, and we do not use or add an additional concentrated weight to cast it. Instead we change the type of line used and generally will use a longer, thinner and more flexible rod.
A weighted, tapered line
The much thicker line becomes the actual weight used. The fly line is really a long flexible and tapered weight. It is cast or projected through being unrolled from the creation of directed line momentum. The weight is distributed throughtout the belly and the front and rear tapers of the line, there is not any concentration of all the weight at one small point.
Unrolling the fly line
Fly-casting is mainly about unrolling the fly line and leader in an efficient, controlled manner to present the fly using either a single or double-handed fly rod. The leader and fly are simply towed along by the fly line.
The line is unrolled through creating directed line momentum. We use the action of the long and flexible fly rod to unroll the fly line and leader and to generate line momentum and line speed. Line momentum is generated from applying leverage to the fly rod, leverage from hand, arm and body movements that change the position and angle of the rod in a precise and controlled fashion. The weight and resistance of the fly line also loads the rod (deflects it into a curve) when we change the position and angle of the rod. Some of the energy used is then stored by the rod. Due to the rods own taper as it straightens and the energy leaving the greater mass lower down the rod causes the thinner top section of the rod to speed up, counter flex and generate rod tip turnover speed. The rod tip turnover speed from the stored energy releasing itself greatly increasing line speed and line momentum.
A fly rod only does one thing by itself, if it has been deflected into a curve it will straighten when it gets the opportunity to do so, (usually when the line breaks free from the water or when a stop in the angle change is made). Due to the taper it doesn't just straighten and stop but it counter flexes causing a rapid rod tip turnover speed.
Directed line momentum
Fly-casting is about utilising the energy, leverage and rod tip turnover speed that is able to be generated both through and by the fly rod, using hand, arm and body movements, to create controlled and directed line momentum and line speed. Some of the energy is stored and then released by the flexible rod loading and then unloading. The unloading rod creates rod tip turnover speed. Controlled and directed line momentum will cause the fly line to unroll, and project the fly line in a narrow, aerodynamically efficient loop.
The loop of fly line should unroll out fully without crossing over itself or tangling, and without skewing off to one side, or collapsing into squiggles of slack line. The line and leader should be straight and the fly should land furthest away from the angler, (excepting some specialised presentation casts). When this occurs it is called fly turnover.
Loop Morphology
The fly line would create a lot of air resistance, enough to kill the line momentum and spoil the cast, if the unrolling loop is not kept reasonably narrow. In two words fly-casting is about 'loop morphology,' (loop formation and loop shape). Other appropriate words would be directed leverage and acceleration.
Planes
Fly-casting is a personal skill. It is about you personally gaining enough understanding and control over the rod and line, and also how you use your body, so that you may cast effectively while using economy of effort. This means for instance that you will not be reaching at any time and you will also be keeping everything in plane. To cast well will mean that you really become very aware of planes, rod, arm, body and line planes.
Multi faceted
Fly-casting is multi faceted. We may be using light or heavier single-handed outfits suitable for anything from small trout fishing in streams to fishing for Salmon and grilse on larger rivers, or for pike or saltwater fishing. The world of Double-handed casting has two main groups, those using traditional or modern longer stroke Spey casting techniques and tackle. Or those using Shooting head outfits and shorter stroke styles such as Underhand casting. With the diversity we find people specialising in certain disciplines and certain styles within those disciplines, there are different styles of casting the same outfits. I am also happy to use longer stroke techniques when Spey casting with shooting heads.
We find however that all rods work in the same way and there are many shared common principles involved. We can also share and often import knowledge from other people that improves our own overall ability or understanding.
Styles
There are different styles of fly-casting. A particular combination of characteristics will define a style. A style usually originates with a person, or becomes established within a geographical region. They may also originate from various developments in fly fishing tackle and the general types of rods and lines used.