Even if you’re new to fly fishing, you can imagine the challenge that a windy day presents to the cast.
But it doesn’t have to mean you have to pack it up and go home.
It’s all about punching through that stiff breeze, so try these tips to do just that:
Thumb on top
- Make sure to accentuate the power in your thumb by ensuring it is positioned near the very top of the handle.
- You’re looking to make a tight loop so the wind doesn’t do what it will with your line and fly. With that in mind, use the headwind to your advantage and generate line speed on your backcast. Think back with authority and forward with grace.
Fly line choice matters
- Line choice is critical when casting in wind. If you often fish in wind or are traveling to a known windy location, then consider a line with more weight concentrated towards the tip. Sure it might cause deficiencies in other areas (like mending), but it will help make tight overhead loops, which assist in cutting through a strong headwind.
Practice, practice, practice.
As unappealing as it may sound to go practice casting a fly rod on a windy day, do so anyway as it will make a better and more confident caster when the wind does pick up on your favorite river.