The Elbow

 

Elbow during the cast

For those working on establishing a sound basic flycast, the elbow should be thought of as the “foundation” of the casting stroke.  It acts as a fulcrum upon which the forearm, wrist and hand, acting together as a unit, rotate to operate the fly rod. The elbow’s position, and its function during the cast, are critical to consistency and fluidity.  

As the caster progresses in their casting, and desires additional fly line to be held in the air for lengthier casts, the arm may drift further back and up, but the elbow should maintain in this same stable position relative to the forearm/wrist.

Note of the elbow in the video clip:

  • stability of the elbow . . . it remains very stable during the entire cast, serving as the foundation upon which both Back and Forward Casts rotate
  • the elbow’s close proximity to the side of the caster . . . this helps ensure discipline and consistency
  • the elbow doesn't move in or out, up or back . . . for a basic cast, there is no need to  move the foundation

Many "old timers" (like this caster) learned how to cast with a book under their elbow.  It is an "old school training aid" that forces the beginner to keep the elbow down and close to the body during the cast.

Having to squeeze the book with the elbow requires the forearm and wrist to provide the necessary/proper action to the rod during the casting cycle. Holding a book, (or FishTarget as we do in "Fishing in Schools"), also restrains too much arm movement.  Try it.  It works.

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