just have him get away from these rocket launchers they call fly rods these days and get him into a nice older (or new) glass or bamboo rod. They literally cast themselves. And, as mentioned, technique. While I don't ever have joint pain after a day of fishing, I do notice that I'm a bit more tired when I throw the 7wt fast graphite cannon vs. when I throw my nice and easy casting Fenwick FF857. besides, it'll throw just as much line anyway...and easier. Even in the wind, it just requires so little effort to cast.