Single Spey cast - Spey casting instruction

Fly fishing instructor - Single Spey cast

The Single Spey cast (two handed)

Spey Casting

Learn how to make the Spey cast. Spey casting is efficient and fun. Spey casting is the most commonly used "change of direction roll casting" technique. Both single and double Spey casts depend on the principle that the "D" loop direction is changed to approximate the direction of the forward cast, which is then completed like any other roll cast.

Single Spey Cast

The single Spey cast achieves the change of angle by moving the line from the "fished out" position downstream of the angler, by a semi-circular sweeping movement to place the "D" loop on the upstream side with the anchor point further upstream than the intended delivery angle. Thus it avoids any possibility of the line that is being cast crossing the line that is in contact with the water. Otherwise a tangle is very likely to result. Perfecting the "D" loop with the anchor point in the correct location is the secret of good Spey casting and is the most difficult part to learn.

Most beginners put too much effort into the process of making the "D" loop, it is really quite a gentle action, almost "floating" the line through the air into the correct position with a controlled underhand loop. Too much speed or power and the loop will not form properly and most likely it will not anchor in the correct place. Use the roll casting loading method to form the loop, swing out and upstream as you do so the tip of the rod will naturally dip to cause the line to alight and anchor, when the line touches down, raise the rod to complete the "D" loop and keep it airborne, keep your rhythm and deliver the forward stroke tangentially to the top of the "D" loop. Practice with small changes of direction to begin with. Gradually increase the change of direction as timing and technique improves. For any set of circumstances, there is a maximum size of "D" loop that can be created. Often the angler will want to cast further than that amount and so the line must be shot to achieve long casts.

Because the single Spey cast forms the loop upstream, it is suitable and safe for an upstream wind and for a gentle or non-threatening downstream wind, providing that the angler is capable of controlling the "D" loop to keep the fly well away from his person and safe during the cast. In a strong wind this becomes impossible and the Single Spey cast is very dangerous and should not be used. Cope with downstream winds by using the Double Spey cast. More about Spey casting.

Increasing single handed Roll and Spey casting distances using hauling.

Hauling techniques can be used very successfully with roll casting methods. Back hauls are used during the formation of the "D" loop to help lift the line and accelerate it to form a deeper and hence more efficient loop. The hauled line is fed into the process of loop formation helping to make it bigger and a further forward haul can be made during the roll cast itself to increase the effectiveness of the forward cast and shoot longer distances.