Although many people start fly fishing and fly casting by obtaining equipment from a friend or relative, and then attempting to make it work, there is a better approach.

     First, stop by a fly shop and browse; just looking at the equipment and accessories is an education. One More Cast Fly Shop welcomes your questions, but if you would rather learn in the quiet of your home, we have some great reading material and videos. Please ask for manufacturers' catalogs or free publications when you stop by. A lot of beginners are intimidated by the thought of being in the company of "old pros and experts", but every expert at one time was new to the sport. Don't be shy - just jump in and soon you'll be fly fishing, too.

     Secondly, on the way to becoming a fly fisher, learn how to handle a fly rod and cast a line. Fly casting is not difficult, but it does use different arm motions than other types of fishing equipment. Learning to cast properly in the beginning will save a lot of frustration and should keep you from perfecting bad habits that often occur when beginners try to re-create the wheel. Getting professional help with casting is a good investment in yourself and your sport and is not expensive. Although friends or buddies mean well in offering their help with casting, a casting instructor is able to look at a student's casting and give on-the-spot corrections and is able to teach casting principles which are important when students start their own practicing. It is much easier to learn correctly from the start than to correct bad casting habits later.

     Supplement your casting practice with a few books and magazines to build up your understanding of fly fishing, and within a very short time, you'll be ready to get out and do some actual fishing. Stop by the shop for recommendations for books or videos on beginning casting. Most students start their fishing within a week and find that the combination of practicing, reading and on-the-water time gets them quickly on the road to a great sport they can follow for a lifetime.

     Fly fishing is an on-going learning experience for both your skills and understanding. You will never reach the end, but then again, the journey is more important than the destination. Be inquisitive and visit a fly shop where this great sport is the sole business and not just a department. Fly shops are interested in their customers' success and are your best source of information about fly fishing. We're enthusiastic about all aspects of fly fishing and know you will be also when you find out why so many fly fishers only fly fish when they go out fishing -- they do this by choice !

                         ONE MORE CAST FLY SHOP     708-482-4990