Roll Casting Technique

Roll Cast Fly Fishing Steps

Roll casting is a very efficient and effective form of fly casting when fishing on creeks or streams. The primary purpose of the roll cast is to give you the ability to cast when a backcast is not possible. Roll cast fly fishing is also effective when there is a stiff wind at your back or need to just quickly reset your fly.

Follow these four steps to get started on practicing how to cast in tight spots:

1. Hold the fly rod out in front of you and make sure there are no tangles in your fly line.
2. Bring the fly rod tip back so that a small segment of line hangs loosely behind your casting shoulder.
3. Move the fly rod forward gradually; slowly at first, then speed it up steadily.
4. Stop when the rod tip is still pointing slightly upward and watch the loop unroll.

That’s pretty much all there is to the technique of roll casting. However, roll cast fly fishing is always more successful when using the right roll casting fly line. If you are targeting fish that come to the surface, your best bet is to opt for floating line, which is denoted by (F) in tackle shops. On the other hand, if your target feeds underwater, it is best to use sinking line, identified by an (S) on the package.

Safety Tips

1. Wear sunglasses or other eye wear when roll cast fly fishing so the hook doesn’t accidentally snag your eye. Polarized sunglasses will cut the glare on the water to help you see fish.
2. Go fly fishing with a buddy.
3. Wear a life jacket when roll casting in lakes or streams.
4. Moving water can be especially dangerous, use proper waders and always be careful when wading. Stay away from dams

Some content courtesy of Minnesota Department of Natural Resources