Streamer Thoughts - Part Two

Success with streamers

Our follow up from Part One, more thoughts that we often share with fly fishers wanting to try their luck at streamer fishing... and for the fly angler that over analyzes too much...

When casting streamers and sink-tip lines you are in charge
Casting heavy, wind resistant patterns requires more assertive acceleration through the casting stroke, coupled with the correct timing on the back and forward stops. Make sure to pause on your stops and let the fly, plus loop, unfold after each cast. Often, a more open looped casting stroke can help keep the fly and line from colliding with the rod tip and sending it to the repair department.

Stay in contact with your fly
As soon as your fly breaks the surface of the water it's game on! When shooting line on your final delivery cast, keep the line between your fingers of your line managing hand, rather than completely letting go of the line. The moment you fully release the line, the odds of the line jumping around the reel or rod butt go up considerably, taking you out of the game for a few moments while you untangle your line and your fly lies lifeless in the zone.

Get the fish excited!
Put life into your fly, a dull retrieve gets dull results. Impart action (animation) into the fly whether it be through stripping the fly line or added "pops or jerks" of the rod trip, sometimes a combo of both. Brief, dramatic pauses in the retrieve often illicit interest as well.

Variety is the spice of life.
Not getting results? Change something... change your retrieve, change your swing speed, change your depth, change your pattern, heck change your lucky underwear! Do something different until you get results... you know the definition of insanity right?!

You are looking for the "players".
Streamer fishing is hunting and not typically a numbers game. You are looking for the fish that is on the prowl for a larger meal, remember that and don't be discouraged by the reduced numbers in your catch rates. It's another tool in your bag of tricks that can yield different results!

If you missed Part One you can check it out - Here