Dr. Howard Oliver has enjoyed the sport of fly fishing for nearly fifteen years.
Fly fishing is different from any other type of fishing. When most people think of fishing they tend to think of a classic pole with a hook and a reel along with a worm, lure, or some other form of live bait. This type of fishing is called spin casting or bait casting.
Over his many years of experience fly fishing, Dr. Howard Oliver has mastered the two basic casting methods: the roll cast and the back cast.
The roll cast
The roll cast is best used when you have little space behind you to work with. This cast will prevent your line from getting tangled in trees, bushes, rocks, or anything else that might get in the way. To successfully execute a roll cast, bring the pole and line up slowly in a straight up position just slightly past your shoulder with your hand at about eye level. From there give a quick flick of the wrist to project the line forward and roll right into the water in front of you.
The back cast
The back cast, also referred to as the overhead cast, Start with your pole out in front of you, facing down and low to the ground. Slowly get the end of the fly line moving and bring it up and behind the back at a smooth and easy pace. The apply a power stroke bringing the rod forward through the air with a sharpness and quickness.
Dr. Howard Oliver explains that the most important aspect of the back cast is figuring out the timing and correct motions, applying slowness and speed at the right times to get the line and fly out where it needs to be.