Reader flyfishtom wrote, “I would like you to mention how to work the flies you tie. Might help us transplants catch a few more fish.”
OK. First of all, Lefty Kreh wrote an entire book about “Presenting the Fly.” In my book, “Redfish on the Fly” there’s an entire chapter about presenting the fly.
So Tom, there’s not a simple, or single, answer to what you want to know. Every cast is different.
To give the simplest answer I can, let’s assume you’re throwing at a redfish you can see. Your job is to anticipate where the fish is going and put the fly there. If you guessed right, don’t move the fly until you’re sure the fish is close enough to see it. Then just give it a gentle hop off the bottom.
If the fish sees it he’ll either flee in abject terror, come over, sniff, and swim off, or come over and eat it. Assuming he’s not aware of your presence, he will almost always respond to your offering. You’ll know if he saw it or not.
Thanks for the question. I hope that helps.
John Kumiski
http://www.spottedtail.com/
All content in this blog, including writing and photos, copyright John Kumiski 2011. All rights are reserved.
Flyfishtom is a friend of mine that had enough sense to move someplace warm. He sent me the link to your blog. Some day I may live some place where I can put some of this to use.
You might want to check out Outdoor Blogger Network when you get a chance. Great group. You would make a good addition.