 |
| Winter Steelhead on a Swung Fly |
Yet, Spey casting and fishing is about more than just catching fish. If numbers were the end all and be all of fishing we'd never put down the indicator rod. In fact, we'd probably start tying spawn bags. However, like you we appreciate the grace, beauty, and efficiency of fly casting and are constantly searching for the ultimate grab by a hard hitting steelhead. Spey casting and swinging flies with two-hand rods lends itself perfectly to this task. Casting with two hands on the rod requires less effort and slows down the fishing rhythm allowing enjoyment of cast, the swing, and perhaps more importantly the natural beauty that surrounds us out on the river. And the tug... the tug is THE drug! Many a good indicator fisherman has been ruined by the electrifying smash, grab, and run of a silver fish fresh from the lake.
Whether you're interested in learning to Spey cast or want to get out on the water and see for yourself what the swung fly technique is all about, Steelhead Alley Outfitters can provide you with the proper Spey casting instruction and match you with guides who are experts at catching steelhead on a swung fly.
Guided Switch Rod Trips
Switch rods are hybrid single and two-hand rods with a slightly longer top and bottom grip. Typically they are 10' 6" to 11' 6". They are perfect for fishing the smaller tribs in OH and PA and allow for maximum versitility "switching" between single hand casting and fishing techniques and two-hand Spey casting and fishing techniques. (Although we mainly fish with switch rods, we're not shy about breaking out the bigger sticks, 12 - 14', for higher water conditions or for fishing on the Grand River).
Often we'll carry two separate spools on the river, one for indicator nymphing and one for swinging. Though it is possible to use a spey line for both, especially when fishing at close distances as is the situation on many of our rivers and streams. We fish long belly steelhead lines for single-hand applications and short shooting heads (Skagit or Scandinavian) for Spey casting or multi-use applications. Of course, for most of the two-hand work swinging flies we use sinking tips. We carry a variety of lengths and sink rates of sinking tips to match the constantly changing water conditions and cover all depths of the water column.
 |
| Switch Rod and Steelhead Streamers |
Also, it's probably no secret that our guide staff has some of most talented fly tyers in the Great Lakes region, so you know our fly boxes will be filled with proven fish catching streamers of all shapes, sizes, and colors. Whatever the case, whether you have your own equipment or need us to provide for you we will make sure you have the right tools to get the job done.
Requests and Questions on Guided Switch Rod Trips can be sent using this simple online form.
Spey Casting Instruction
Steelhead Alley Outfitters is proud to offer the services of regional Spey casting expert Will Turek. Will has been teaching Spey casting since 1998 and currently offers instruction through his Midwest Spey School. After spending 10 years on the West Coast, he returned home to Ohio and brought his enthusiasm for Spey Casting and swinging flies for steelhead to the Midwest with him. Will has been instrumental in promoting Spey casting and fishing throughout the Great Lakes region in his former role as a fly fishing manufacturer's sales rep, numerous public Spey casting presentations and demonstrations, and courses offered through his Midwest Spey School.
 |
| Midwest Spey Instructor Will Turek |
Midwest Spey
Midwest Spey casting courses are designed for anglers of all skill levels. No prior knowledge of spey casting is required, although an average level of skill with a single hand rod (overhead and roll casts) is necessary. Student to instructor ratio is kept low to ensure a quality learning experience; maximum of 8 students per one instructor. Teaching methodology includes instructor demonstration, casting exercises, individual instruction, and plenty of time to practice on your own. Use of equipment and detailed course handout is included.
Please visit http://www.midwestspey.com for a detailed brochure listing class information and free PDF files on the basics of Spey casting and Switch rods for the Great Lakes region. Questions about spey casting can be sent to willturek@midwestspey.com.
Requests and Questions for Spey casting instruction can be sent using this simple online form.
