How to Cast a Fly With a Spinning Setup

Anglers can cast flies with spinning rods and reels.

Flies are among the most effective lures for trout, although they are just as good for catching fish such as bass and sunfish. Most fishermen who fish with flies use fly-fishing rods and reels, which are designed to cast the nearly weightless flies. But some fishermen do not own fly-fishing equipment, or do own it but are not comfortable casting with it. By selecting the proper spinning setup and the right equipment, those anglers can use spinning gear to cast flies.

Things You'll Need

• Spinning rod and reel
• 4-pound test fishing line
• Split-shot weights

Instructions

1. Attach a spinning reel loaded with 4-pound test fishing line to a 7-foot, or longer, light-action spinning rod, or to a fly-fishing rod.

2. Tie a fly to the end of the fishing line using a Palomar knot. To tie the knot, create a loop by doubling 6 inches of fishing line and then threading the loop through the eye of the fly hook. Grab the loop and use it to tie an overhand knot around the doubled portion of the line. Pass the fly hook through the loop. Using saliva or water, wet the knot. Then pull on the tag end of the line to tighten the knot.

3. Crimp one or two split-shot weights onto the fishing line about 10 inches above the fly. The weights should be just heavy enough to cast the fly and carry it to the bottom of the lake or stream.

4. Open the bail of the reel. Hold the line with your index finger just above where it exits the reel.

5. Hold the rod and reel at a 90-degree angle to the side of your body. Bring the rod and reel combination backward so it makes a 45-degree angle with your body. Then bring it forward, releasing your finger from the line as the rod travels past your body.

References

• Utah Outdoors; Fly Fishing With a Spinning Reel; David M. Bresnahan

Resources

• Animated Knots: The Palomar Knot