The Switch Cast – Spey Casting 101

The “Switch Cast” is also referred to as the “Forward Spey Cast” is is like an energized Roll Cast.

Unlike the Roll Cast, the line never stops moving and is in constant tension. Like a Roll Cast, a “D” loop of line forms behind the rod tip, and the forward loop rolls out above the surface of the water.

This is a single directional cast which is also a non-change of direction cast just like the “Roll Cast”, but is much more dynamic. It may have limited use in actual fishing situations, but as an instructional cast it is very important. The “Switch Cast” is the essence of a Spey Cast. It has the basic elements of a cast.

• The Lift
• The Anchor
• The “D” loop
• And The Forward Cast.

Anchor Types and Positioning

The Switch Cast positions or anchors the fly to the side of the caster to form an elongated “D” or “V” shaped back loop. The size, shape or depth of the back loop may change depending on;

•  Choice of the style of casting, Skagit, Traditional, or Underhand
• The type of cast you select to throw
• Situation, lots of room, moderate room or little room behind you to set up the cast.

The Fundamentals of the Switch Cast – Three Steps

The Lift and Sweep

• The “Switch Cast” starts with the rod pointed at the line on the water and then continues with a lift with thrust that smoothly and  progressively builds to the top of the lift which is to nose height or about to the 9:30 or 10:00 position.
• The thrust becomes stronger as the rod smoothly swings into the dip at the start of the sweep, think of a shallow dish.
• At the start of the lift, the rise of the rod and the dip that follows work together to enhance the strength of the lifting thrust.
• The rise of the rod followed by the dip work as opposing forces.
• The lift and dip must be smoothly coordinated and regulated so as not to disrupt the cast.
• An efficient cast will minimize the height of the lift and flatten the dip into a streamlined movement.
• The dip or start of the sweep is directed and directs the momentum to the desired anchor point.
• During a spey cast it is critical not to misdirect the path of the dip. The path needs to be controlled. Smooth movements are best.
• Developing and regulating the amount of power or effort applied is very important.
• The correct applied power and tempo allows the “D” loop to be placed properly and in the desired position.

Placing the Anchor Point

• As a general rule the anchor point will be off to the side and slightly ahead of your position at about a rod’s length away.
• Place the rod in your right hand (for right handers) and extend and point the rod ahead, then tilt the rod tip about six to eight feet to the side. This is the target for your anchor.
• The goal is to have the anchor point closely aligned with and parallel to the target line of the forward cast.
• When setting up the anchor placement if it is skewed or misaligned the line will not clear smooth;y and may cause many errors.
• Work on getting the “Lift and Set” formed properly and you will then have better control of your anchor placement.