Wait a minute
saltsprey said:
Thanks guys for your responses. Another question if I may be so bold. I have an older Sage 9140-4, graphite III, a new Sage 8136 and a new Sage 9140 TCR as well as Windcutter Versi Tips and Skagit lines appropriate for the rods. I have fished my week on The Dean with the DH rods exclusively for the past 3 years and can do so with enough proficiency to catch a least my share of those marvelous fish. While the fish are great, it is the process that has completely captivated me and I am motivated to try to acquire the same level of expertise with a DH rod that I have with a single handed rod. There is no question that I can cast farther with the shorter heads but a GOOD cast with the regular Windcutter sure seems much more pleasant and satisfying. Is the Skagit system actually a long term answer to casting proficiency or merely a short term bandaid for one who has limited experience or someone unwilling to invest the time and effort necessary to acquire the skills necessary to efficiently utilize and enjoy the longer lines? Thanks in advance for putting up with someone who is more at home with a 21 foot push pole than a 14 foot fly rod. Wheelhoss, I sent you a PM but don't know if it got there as I am new to this process also.
Three DH rods,,,both WC & Skagit lines, been to the Dean three times,,,,in three years???? Novice,,,maybe. Rookie,,,
not!
Skagit lines and the style of casting are just another tool. Specifically designed to cast really big flies and sink tips with ease. Another, less obvious, advantage of the extreme short belly line is a much more compact D-loop. When your back is right up against the brush, it makes a big difference. The trade off is that you have to shoot & strip line as opposed to simply pick up & cast.
I like to cast a long belly line too. And I get a lot of satisfaction just from the cast. It does take some time and perseverance to become efficient at it. Casting lessons can shorten the learning curve and eliminate a lot of the frustration that comes with DIY. But I also get a charge out of shooting a lot of line. Especially when the line tightens against the reel.
Like MJC said, fishing, especially fly fishing, should be about ones pleasure. Do whatever way you enjoy doing and don't worry about it.