Home
Up

Why Spey -
Spey Casting requires less effort than standard overhand casts if done correctly and Spey Casting allow you to cover water you couldn't cover with standard casting techniques. Casting in tight quarters is easy and gone is the worry of "what am I going to catch on my backcast" because don't need a backcast.

Change of direction casts become second nature. Accuracy and continuous control over the cast along with superior mending ability are hallmarks of Spey Casting.  This translates to catching more fish because your fly is where you want it and it is doing what you want it to.

Playing fish takes on a whole new dimension. Gone is the feeling you don't have the control you need.  With a Spey Rod you have leverage and power along with a suppleness that protects your tippets.

And, last but not least, you get to keep the fly away from you and your rod.  Let that fly hit the water not you or your rod.  Wind becomes much less of an issue due to the power of the Spey Rods and the water dragging at your line just helps you load your rod.

What's a good Spey Rod for the Kennebec River?
I use a 12 1/2', Orvis 7-weight, Mid-Flex that I'm happy with.  It allows me to fish very effectively out to about 75' with anything from a Lefty's Deceiver, to a size 12 Adams.  It is best, however, at the traditional Wet Fly or Streamer swing.  Mending takes on a new meaning.

What's the effective range of a Spey Rod? Can I really fish 120' of line?
In a word - no.  At least not with all Spey Rods.  The table below is a good guideline.  Some will look at it and call it conservative but most agree it presents a reasonable expectation for the average caster.

What can I use for a leader?
There is no firm answer.  A good general guide is the bigger the fly the shorter the leader.  Said another way the heavier the fly the shorter the leader.  The tables below contain two very serviceable leaders if you tie your own.  For those of you who don't try some packaged leaders with a good stout butt section, vary your lengths as needed.  You will be able to tell quick enough if the leader is going to work. 

back to top