Casting Practice "picking leaves"

[Steve Molcsan]

Ok I am not a pro caster pro-procrastinator thats me..


But, one practice lesson that is excellent
to hone your skills is called picking leafs.


Heres how I do it:


Tilt your casting horizontal plane up in the front
and down in the rear. I like to start with a regular
cast and adjust the plane during the setup.



Pick a stop point and work out the estimated amount
of line you think you need , start short and adjust as your
false cast extends. Play out off the reel, you only want to
barely touch a chosen leaf on a bush or tree.


This is all about false casting and repositioning , extending
the amount of line as you cast.
I move about as I cast into the trees , starting high with a parachute
type cast and working low under the branches
and switch up.


This really helps to develop body and arm movement and angle during the cast.
Being able to change position and type of cast while your arm is in motion
has great advantage out on the water.
Knowing just when ,and how to stop the line in front while maintaining
control of the end of your leader will get you into those spots
under the banks cover. Where the big boys are


I would best describe it as drawing a mental picture in the air, swing high , swing low,
Be sure to only work the amount of line out that feels comfortable , be 15feet to start
and work out to 25 to 30.


Picking leaves with practice will give you the ability to change directions , temper the cast
and even alter the line speed to lay your fly and leader down like a thistle right on spot.
Swap it up as well , pick leaves on the backcast.


Your not really picking the leafs just touch em..
Once mastered casting in the wind becomes a breeze too. but I digress.


What say you ?


Fun stuff - sm