Casting Practice "picking leaves"

[Bluegill Budd]

When I first started Fly Fishing in the early 80's, my mentor said I should have to register as a defoliant in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

[sagefisher]

Once in Montana while fishing a river from the bank with trees close behind me, my wife asked me why I kept turning around and looking up into the trees. Those tree fish are really hungry sometimes.Larry ---sagefisher---

[Steve Molcsan]

You should try practicing what was taught to me years, Roll cast when trees are behind and cast in the direction of the river..This method of picking leaves as I mention here is very effective and is instrumental with judging distance, I can cast very accurately since using this practice method. Able to stop short of a tree leave.. or more importantlyable to put the fly right in front a lake gulper at 40feet. How sweet it is.. Don't knock it till you try it. Joan Wulff writes about in her casting manual -> Fly Casting Techniques @1987 Page 217-- --The manual is a great reference for those that are inclined to become better at waving the wand. Take care !

[Steve Molcsan]

Time to start brushing up with my casting.Picking leaves is one of the best ways to start.I cast directly into the trees stop short tons of fun,,,Been picking leaves for better than 15yers as one of my casting practice sessions , even on windy days with my 3 and 4 weight setups,Joan Wulff invented it. I am sure glad she did.. Tight lines to all ! ps- its not to help avoid getting hung up in trees behind once your out on the river , but it has for sure made me a more accurate caster and certainly good judge of my distance. Two things that give me satisfaction while out on the water!