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July 6th, 1998
Unnamed to Protect the Innocent (or Guilty)
While flying back to Washington from Michigan this last
week I debated with myself about doing this column. By now, most of you know
me well enough to know I am a sympathetic, caring, thoughtful, and generally
speaking, considerate, well-meaning person. Never would I write a column that
would embarrass, or otherwise cast aspersions on my fellow anglers. Never
would I do such a thing.
So, with that said; here goes... In the course of learning
the 'double-haul,' many have had a bit of difficulty. One may even feel they are
singled out as a 'good example of a poor double-hauler.' There was an event this
last week which involved the casting of a 'rod' for distance. I supplied the 'rod'
and was also the judge of the event. The 'rod' was a standard wood handled
broom with guides and a reel seat applied. The line was a weight-forward twelve
weight. It was part of 'The Trout Bums Bar-B-Q' on the Au Sable river in
Michigan.
The event was held on Saturday, the 27th of June. On
Sunday, the 28th of June, I instigated a 'private' tournament with some of the
folks who ran the contest the day before. These were not 'in' the contest on
Saturday, as the were involved with judging, setting up things, etc. There here
now follows a few snap-shots of some casters ( if they can be referred to as
that) who's names shall be not be listed (for many of several reasons).
If these bring a smile, or in any way encourage you
in your own attempts of the double-haul then my goal has been a worthy
one.
You may notice here the 'artisan' seems to be
attempting to un-snarl a rather messy 'birds-nest' from the extremely
expensive reel. (Approximate value $9.95.)
A serious caster indeed; however is in the process
of nearly removing a small piece of 'ear.'
This unknown lady seems to somehow have ensnared
the main fly line in the bristles of the broom; definitely a poor style and would
cost several points if done in actual competition.
Here in this shot you will observe the very difficult,
rarely used maneuver, the 'loop-in-the-air-which-needs-grabbing'
cast. A high point cast in any contest. (Degree of difficulty 8.3).
The following photo reveals a common casting fault
of the beginning double-hauler. Often called the 'wrap the @#%&$ thing-
around-yer-own-&$@+%-neck' cast. Although it is not unique, I felt it
justified a place in the sequence.
Remember, these are professional casters. Do not
attempt these casts at home. Any resemblance to known 'real' fly fishers
is purely a bad thing and a pity.
~JC
Till next week, remember ... |
