We Have a Wonderful Sport… LET's TELL the WORLD ABOUT

SPRING 2005

ASTING is a wonderful sport, but we must tell the world about We have a it. I’m amazed at how many avid anglers are not aware of the existence of tournament casting and all the benefi ts it offers. wonderful C It’s about time we tell them. There can be no better opportunity to do so than the upcoming 97th ACA National Tournament held at Cabela’s in Dundee Michigan, August sport… 1 through August 6. As most of us know, Cabela’s is a huge, extremely successful retail and mail order company that specializes in fi shing, hunting and other outdoor products and services. Cabela’s has 10 mega stores in the U.S. and will be opening another eight in the next couple of years. In the past, our National tournaments took place at various casting LET’S clubs around the country. While these casting clubs are ideal venues for our games, they do not attract large numbers of spectators because of their TELL THE remote locations. Cabela’s is different. Cabela’s stores attract a huge number of people every day. Our accuracy games will take place at Cabela’s Lake, which is WORLD only a couple of long casts away from the store. This means that we will have ample opportunity to showcase our sport to the many spectators that ABOUT IT! are attracted to Cabela’s each day. The majority of these spectators will be anglers. So it’s up us to deliver our very best pitch to “sell” our games to interested people. In addition to our classic events, we will offer two accuracy (fl y and plug) and two distance events (fl y and plug) to the general public. We’re going to invite spectators to “step right up and cast” in these simplifi ed versions of our games. They will win prizes and awards but mostly they will have fun and be introduced to tournament casting. These fast-paced events will be open only to people who have never competed in a previous ACA casting tournaments. There will be divisions for men, women and nonadults. This should be an excellent way of getting others interested in our sport. But there are other ways we can help promote our games. Surely we will be asked various questions about Continued on page 3 We have a great opportunity...

Let’s seize it!

EVERYONE INVOLVED in the preparation for the 97th ACA National Tournament extends a hearty welcome to all. We know that all the participants, spectators and sponsors will greatly enjoy this National Tournament, which is unique because it will be held at Cabela’s at Dundee, Michigan. Cabela’s has enthusiastically given support and generously offered the use of the Dundee facility for this great event from August 1 through the 6. Every day, Cabela’s attracts huge crowds of sportsmen so this will give us an incredible opportunity to showcase our great sport to the public. It’s important that we publicize our wonderful activity to as many people as possible and Cabela’s offers a splendid opportunity for us to accomplish this. Another important new feature of the 2005 National is the addition of special casting events that will be offered to men, women, and non-adults who have never competed in a previous ACA casting tournament. These events will be held on grass, near the front of Cabela’s building thus attracting maximum attention. Tackle and allied manufacturers will supply equipment, products or prizes for the non-tournament casting competition. Let us promote and publicize tournament casting to everyone possible, by demonstrating what an enjoyable activity casting is. At all times, we want to stress the most important benefit: By becoming a better caster, he or she greatly improves one’s ability to catch more and larger fish, and at the same time have fun casting. The Creel editor Jim Chapralis has provided a list of benefits in this issue. Keep them in mind when discussing casting with interested spectators.

WE ALSO WANT TO DEMONSTRATE to the tackle industry how important tournament casting has been in the past and will continue to be in the future development of fishing tackle and fishing methods. The contributions of tournament casters to the industry are immense, but often overlooked. Among the contributions and innovations: The double-haul fly fishing technique. Using a shooting head and mono running line. The light aluminum plug-casting spools that reduce the number of backlashes. Rod tapers. The modern fly line designations by Myron Gregory. The fingering of a spinning reel during a cast for superb accuracy. Jimmy Green’s marvelous tip over butt ferruling system that practically every rod manufacturer uses today. The list goes on and on. Tournament casters are always experimenting with tackle and constantly are improving products. We need to tell the world about our wonderful sport and major contributions on a continuing basis. The 97th ACA Casting Tournament at Cabela’s gives us that a magnificent opportunity to do so. Let’s seize it! Please take the time to fill out the reservation form that’s included in this issue of The Creel and mail it to us as soon as possible. I hope to see you at Cabela’s in August. You’ll want to be a part of this exciting event!

Frank Gralak President of the Toledo Casting Club

THE CREEL/Spring 2005/Page 2 th 97 ACA National Tournament at Cabela’s, Dundee, MI: Here’s an awe- some opportunity for us to show “our stuff.” Huge numbers of potential spectators could view our games and our events. Many will undoubtedly participate in special, simpliﬁ ed events. Let’s convert them to casters.

Continued from page 1 more time together in wholesome DO IT ANYWHERE, activities. I analyzed the last ANYTIME tournament casting, and it’s up to four Nationals and it amazed us, the ambassadors of casting, to Sure, it’s great to belong to a me that slightly more than half explain the benefi ts and virtues of casting club, especially like some (50.2 percent) of the casting tournament casting. of those gems located on the West participants were composed of It amazes me at the number of Coast, but the fact is that you can family members (spouses, children, benefi ts that tournament casting cast anywhere. Really all you need brothers, etc.). That’s an amazing offers. All things considered our are a few Hula Hoops and some statistic! I doubt that there’s any sport should enjoy tremendous open ground or a pond or pool. For other competition that remotely participation. For example, I have distance, you don’t even need the approaches this percentage. Clearly nothing against “curling” the sport Hula Hoops, just an athletic fi eld. casting is a family sport. Let’s tell that’s played on ice with brooms, the world about it! When winter comes in the but it bothers me that curling is an northern climes, you can probably Olympic event and casting is not. LOW COST, LOW practice casting indoors at various It bothers me that recently I saw MAINTENANCE park facilities or gyms. Years ago, an entire curling competition on Once you purchase the original we, the Lincoln Park Casting Club television but not casting. tackle, practice casting is virtually and other Chicago clubs, held I’ve made a quick list of some of free. Club memberships are very indoor practice sessions and even the advantages of casting. I know inexpensive and even National tournaments at high school gyms. there are many more, but here are casting event fees are extremely some of the benefi ts we ought to reasonable. A comparable sport to GOOD CASTING, remember to discuss with potential casting is target shooting. Every GOOD FISHING casters: time you pull a trigger it costs Except for still fi shing, trolling money. And of course there’s the and jigging, casting skill is one of FAMILY ACTIVITY cost of clay targets, too. You can the major contributing factors to In today’s high-pressured life, make a thousand casts and it won’t it’s important that families spend cost you a penny. Continued on page 11

THE CREEL/Spring 2005/Page 3 th Holiday Inn at The 97 ACA National Tournament Dundee, MI is Schedule of Events headquarters for ACA tournament Monday, August 1, 2005 PRACTICE Location High school ﬁ eld for Distance; Cabela’s Lake for Accuracy Registration: On site: 1PM to 5PM

Tuesday, August 2, 2005 Location Distance casting ﬁ eld (high school) 18gr. 2-Hand Revolving Distance 1-Hand Fly Distance 2-Hand Fly Distance

Wednesday, August 3, 2005 Location Distance casting ﬁ eld 18gr. 2-Hand Distance Spinning 7.5gr. 1-Hand Distance Spinning Angler’s Fly Distance

Thursday, August 4, 2005 Location Cabela’s Lake Trout Fly Accuracy 1/4 oz. Spinning Accuracy Annual A.C.A. Business Meeting at Cabela’s

Friday, August 5, 2005 Location Cabela’s Lake The Holiday Inn at Dundee, MI is the Dry Fly Accuracy 5/8 oz. Accuracy headquarters for the ACA Nationals. 5/8 oz. Accuracy Team Event ACA participants have a special rate Team Casting order Cincinnati - Chicago - Toledo - of $72 per room plus tax but make Golden Gate - Toronto - your reservations as fast as possible. Scarborough - Oakland-Lexington - Let them know that you are an ACA Long Beach - others. participant. To make reservations at the Holiday Inn call 734-529-5100. Second club teams will be cast after (in the same IF YOU ARE FLYING: casting order). For Transfer Service between nearby airports: Cabela’s provides free Saturday August 6, 2005 airport shuttle service . Call Cabela’s Location Cabela’s Lake (Dundee, MI) 734-529-4700 well in 3/8 oz. Accuracy advance and ask for the service desk Bass Bug and relay your ﬂ ight plans.

AWARDS BANQUET Cabela’s 7 PM Banquet awards and rafﬂ e IF YOU ARE DRIVING: Holiday Inn is adjacent to Cabela’s at Distance Events start at 8:00 AM; Dundee, MI. Use Exit #17 off US 23. Accuracy Events will start at 8:30 AM The hotel and Cabela’s is located just 20 miles north of Toledo and 20 miles South of Ann Arbor.

THE CREEL/Spring 2005/Page 4 The 97th American Casting Association National Tournament Registration Form Host: The Toledo Casting Club in conjunction with Cabela’s, Inc. August 1-6, 2005 Dundee, Michigan

Please complete & return registration form by July 15, 2005.

Name______Club______

Address______Day-Time Phone______

City______

State/Province______Zip______e-mail______(Your e-mail address will be kept conﬁdential) Registration Fee: Individual ...... $25.00 Family...... $15.00 per person

Event Fees: Seniors, Women, Men, Intermediates ...... $8.00 per event Juniors ...... $2.00 per event Team Event (maximum of two teams per club) ...... $10.00 per team (paid @ event)

Senior Inter- Distance Events Men Women Men mediates Juniors Youth 18G Revolving Spool (2-Hand) – Tuesday 1-Hand Fly – Tuesday 2-Hand Fly – Tuesday 18G Spinning (2-Hand) – Wednesday 7.5G Spinning (1-Hand) –Wednesday Angler’s Fly – Wednesday Accuracy Events Trout Fly Accuracy – Thursday 1/4 oz. Plug Accuracy – Thursday Dry Fly Accuracy – Friday 5/8 oz. Plug Accuracy– Friday 5/8 oz. Plug Team Event – Friday 3/8 oz. Plug Accuracy– Saturday Bass Bug Accuracy - Saturday

Registration Fee ...... $ ______Total Events ______X $8.00 ...... $ ______Total Events ______X $2.00 (Junior) ...... $ ______Sub-Total $ ______The Creel newsletter subscription (optional, $7.00) ...... $ ______

Grand Total (in U.S. Dollars) ...... $ ______

Make checks payable to: Toledo Casting Club. Please send registration forms by July 15, 2005 to: Toledo Casting Club PO Box 6963 Toledo, OH 43612 (Phone 419-475-5865)

NOTE: Payment on-site prior to ﬁrst event is permissible. Please send registration form early so that tournament ofﬁcials can prepare score cards and rosters.

THE CREEL/Spring 2005/Page 5 Casting: The next growth segment for the tackle industry?

O AHEAD LAUGH! I did, too. I chuckled at Let’s turn to plug casting. At one time, it seemed fi rst. But the more I thought about it the more that you needed a Meek or a Talbot reel to compete it seems to make sense. I realize that (1) we adequately in the plug-casting events, but this is not so G today. There are a number of excellent casting reels don’t have the “numbers” (in terms of casters), and (2) we tend to use specialized equipment that isn’t available available at most tackle shops suitable for the 5/8 oz. even in the best-equipped tackle stores. So how could event, and there never was never a better selection of the casting sport increase sales? spinning reels for the 1/4 oz. and 3/8 oz. events. Let me address the specialized equipment subject There is a program for youngsters called fi rst. True, we are not going to fi nd tackle that’s used CastingKids, which seems to be very successful. There for distance events (such as single-hand distance fl y, are state, regional and national tournaments. Since its two-hand distance fl y, or even a competitive distance inception, CastingKids has reached over one million spinning or plug rod). But we can easily fi nd tackle at children and has awarded over $1,500,000 in cash, Cabela’s and other stores for the three fl y accuracy (Dry prizes and scholarships. That’s quite a bit of interest. A Fly, Trout Fly and Bass Bug) and the three plug casting powerful program. games (1/4 oz. spinning, 3/8 oz., and 5/8 oz. plug cast- Okay, so then these kids grow a little older, then ing). The six accuracy events resemble, if not mirror, what? Sure, some go fi shing with their dads and friends, many angling applications. but I suspect the majority soon loses interest in casting For a number of reasons, including “learning dif- and in fi shing. fi culty” and a soft economy, I don’t think there is a Many of these same youngsters would enjoy compet- tremendous growth in fl y-fi shing sales. Judging from itive casting as they became older if it were available to what I’ve heard from some of the smaller independent them. I think that’s reasonable to assume. Practice cast- fl y shops around the country, sales are fl at. Some stores ing in the backyard alone is not going to do it. Competi- have even closed. One reason is that many people be- tion or fun casting games, would hold their interest. It come interested in fl y fi shing, buy the equipment, take did for the Rajeff brothers. For Chris Korich. For Henry some lessons and then forget what they’ve learned. The Mittel. For many of us. outfi t sits in a closet or attic. We, the casters and the tackle industry, need to work On the other hand, if we, with the help of the fl y on this. Surely it would be mutually helpful to the tackle industry, could encourage newcomers to practice tackle industry and to casting. their casting, so that they could become more profi cient, Research indicates that the young people are shying they would enjoy fl y fi shing, and after some initial suc- away from fi shing and other outdoor activities. I believe cess would probably buy more and more tackle. that if they were properly exposed to casting and fi shing, many would put away their computer games and THINK THIS HAS ESCAPED the fl y tackle industry take that deep breath of fresh air. Iand us, too: There is a wide open market, for casting and fl y fi shing, just waiting for the right nur- turing. A few years ago, many people became interested in fl y fi shing because of the movie A River Runs Through It. They bought fl y tackle. They took lessons, but they never practiced and the interest waned. I believe many of them, had they became interested in casting (at a club or with friends) as a separate activity, would enjoy it and become better anglers. The result would be more tackle sales but more interest in casting and casting clubs.

THE CREEL/Spring 2005/Page 6 The BFCC: Where distance is a way of life!

arl Hutchinson cast 198.33 ft. tion and was heading to see Iain Thom- in the single-hand distance fl y son (co-founder of the 55-Yard Club) of the BFCC in mid 2003. Conversely, Cevent. Scott Simmonds threw a to get some more pointers. [Ed. Note: tournament surf casting in the U.K. fl y 256.33 ft. in the two-hand distance To become a member the caster must which is managed by the U.K. Surf- fl y, while 68-year-old Mike Marshall’s cast a fl y 55-yards or more] I listened casting Federation has a large follow- cast measured an incredible 248 to Iain and started playing around with feet.! In an event similar to the ACA’s ing. the single-hand fl y distance outfi t. Iain Angler’s Fly, James Warbrick-Smith Q: What were the important steps in cast 171 feet! These great casts did said I displayed a natural casting ability starting your casting club? not take place at a West Coast casting and I should pursue the 55-Yard Club. I clubs known for some of the greatest became more and more intrigued with SD: First. I was confi dent in my ability distance casters in history, but instead the mechanics and art of tournament as a leader, motivator and organizer. in England at a club that’s barely a few casting. I also realized that this sport Secondly, I made it a goal to set up a years old. offeredoffered plentyplenty ofof physicalphysical andand club which offered something con- The club was formed by Dr. Sam Davis mentalmental facetsfacets forfor m mee toto structivestructive andand funfun forfor thosethose whowho who was born in Japan, raised in South pursuepursue withoutwithout beingbeing wantedwanted toto castcast asas anan anglerangler Carolina, educated in England (earning nearnear a fi ssh.h. I aamm aalsolso and/orand/or ttournamentournament castercaster his doctorate in Evolutionary Biology one of the fortunate withoutwithout beingbeing chokedchoked byby from University College London), and few to enjoy both someonesomeone else’selse’s estab-estab- now lives and works in Brittany, France fi shing and cast- lishedlished rrules,ules, history,history, oror as a professional fi shing guide, lodge ing with equal politics.politics. Furthermore,Furthermore, co-owner, and outfi tter. Check his web sincesince I waswas soso excitedexcited site at www.fi shandfunbrittany.com zeal. I qualifi ed in mid 2003, aboutabout ttournamentournament cast-cast- In late 2002, Sam developed a strong for the 55-Yard ing,ing, I justjust wantedwanted toto interest in tournament casting. He was Club and I estab- shareshare mmyy eexcitementxcitement living in England at the time, and in withwith otherother fi shermen,shermen, mid-2003 he founded the British Fly lished the British whichwhich wouldwould inin turnturn Casting Club (BFCC). In a remarkably Fly Casting Club short period of time, members of this (BFCC). provideprovide meme withwith friendsfriends toto castcast with.with. SoSo that’sthat’s thethe club achieved tremendous distance fl y Q: You’ve done a background.background. BasedBased onon mymy casting results. remarkableremarkable jobjob inin pro-pro- timetime inin thethe U.K.U.K. tackletackle industry,industry, I What is incredible is how Sam Davis was motingmoting ccastingasting inin England.England. realized immediately that the pool of able to accomplish so much in less than a Did casting exist in Britain in recent potential casters for the BFCC would year’s time. I think his experience will be years prior to your involvement or come directly from two groups, one helpful in inspiring others to start similar was it dormant? casting clubs. We recently interviewed large and one microscopic: The large the 41-year old angler/caster/scientist for SD: Thanks. The answer is yes to both group, of course, was the angling com- a forthcoming book on casting by Creel your questions. Tournament casting munity and the small one was a left editor Jim Chapralis. Here are some has enjoyed a long, rich history over clutch of experienced tournament excerpts from this book whichwhich inin EEnglandngland tthroughouthroughout tthehe casters from the BCA era. Although, I couldcould s serveerve a ass a b blueprintlueprint lastlast centurycentury andand hhadad wanted to open up tournament casting forfor formingforming otherother castingcasting beenbeen ggoverned,overned, untiluntil to those who weren’t fi shermen, I knew clubs: thethe mmidid 1980s,1980s, bbyy it was vital to start with those who Q: When did you get thethe BBritishritish CastingCasting could relate to casting as part of their interested in casting? AssociationAssociation ((BCA).BCA). sport fi rst. How long ago? However,However, aafterfter thethe So with these two groups in mind, I demisedemise ofof thethe BCA,BCA, SD: As a sport in its decided to form an organization which tournamenttournament cast-cast- own right, I got the would give something positive to both. inging inin anyany organizedorganized tournament casting bug For example, this included free in- duringduring thethe wwinterinter ooff 22002002 fashionfashion becamebecame non-non- existent,existent, exceptexcept forfor somesome after I accompanied a friendfriend toto Left: The highly-coveted 55-Yard Club informalinformal accuracyaccuracy eeventsvents atat a a distance-castingdistance-casting lesson.lesson. HeHe want-want- badge. Above: Sam Davis and his ed to obtain his 55-Yard Club qualifi ca- few U.K. game fairs, until the creation fi rst shad caught in France on a fl y.

THE CREEL/Spring 2005/Page 7 struction to all casters on tournament mind and they don’t matter! slowsnap have provided either post- days which would translate into more tournament briefs, chat room support productive fly fishing, plus a distance Q: How did you get members to join or both. badge system which would provide a and/or become interested in casting? SD: Cold calling and e-mail harass- Q: Your club’s emphasis is on dis- mental boost to those casters who were tance. I believe I read in your web searching for a tangible goal-related ment (just kidding) seemed to help the cause. I would call and invite potential site that there are future plans to casting system. For the more competi- add accuracy fly events. Any plans tive types, we offered tournaments to members to casting sessions (sometimes long ones) near my home, for for this or do you feel most of the test their nerves, level of physical members want to do distance? conditioning and ability to translate free so they could see for themselves practice into performance when it re- how particular casting games or tech- SD: I know that the majority of U.K. ally counted. After experimenting with niques could improve their own level casters are more interested in distance these and other things, I began a clear of casting which again translates into than accuracy. This thirst for distance understanding of what to offer the better fishing. over any other casting skill is some- casters, so the next step was to pursue Some casters would drop by because thing promoted to nauseam levels by those individuals who were not only in- they were interested solely to achieve U.K. tackle companies who want to terested in casting, but who were will- a level of skill to gain the coveted 55- promote their rods/fly lines with ad- ing to devote their own particular pro- Yard Distance Fly Club badge which vertising slogans like “Will put out a fessional talents to improving the club. has been in existence since the old full [fly] line” etc. Since most of our For example, Paul Brown is a creative BCA days. I would also talk to poten- members come from the fly fishing director for a large advertising firm tial members on the phone as long as fraternity who primarily fish purpose- in Manchester [England]. We worked it took for them to give casting a try. built and heavily-stocked trout ponds, together and created a unique visual Once the club was up and running I lakes, or reservoirs where accuracy identity for the club. We produced would send our members e-mails to skills aren’t particularly necessary, the original and visually-pleasing logos showcase their casting achievements desire to improve accuracy skills is and certificates for the club. Andy and progress. I also publicized our not high on their priority list. I would Miller and I collaborated on developing results in national fishing magazines. love to see ACA/ICSF accuracy games our web site. Andy specializes in IT Many of the early members saw that I become part of the BFCC tournament with British Telecom. Carl Hutchinson, was sincere about helping others im- menu, but at this point in our develop- who is in the tackle trade, provided prove their casting (sometimes at the ment, the BFCC needs to offer activi- tackle for our tournaments, and Mike expense of my own progress), so they ties, which reflect the interests of its Marshall, an engineer, created all sorts would help spread the word and other members or potential members, which of contraptions which have made our began to join us. at this time are primarily distance- based. I personally enjoy accuracy events much more enjoyable. The list Q: Did you get help from the media? goes on but you get the idea: It was events, and am setting up a course at How about tackle shops? our inn which will have the full range important to find and blend talented SD: Yes we did get limited support by people who also had a keen interest in of accuracy events to entice my clients old and new media and only one tackle to give accuracy a try. casting. shop, World’s End Angling Centre, Q: What were the pitfalls? which has supported us throughout. Q: I’m amazed with your group’s SD: Two come to mind. One was guilt Owner Graham Dadswell, a superb progress. Some of the distances are by association (sorry for the pun). rod builder, gave me total rod-building incredible. Did these casters have Some thought that we were a resurrect- support and offered discounts to club previous fly-casting distance experi- ed BCA which had a very poor reputa- members who wanted their tournament ence? tion resulting in its dissolution in the rods built as well. National magazines SD: We have quite a mixed bag of mid 1980s. I had to argue my case with and angling web sites played an impor- casting experience within the club. many of the old fishing/casting guard tant role in keeping the organization Some have never competed in a casting to prove that the BFCC was indepen- in front of the fishing public. Maga- tournament but enjoy casting shooting dent (in thought and deed) to the BCA. zines such as Trout Fisherman and heads for their distance fishing. Some The other pitfall was simply a case of Fly Fishing and Fly Tying would run have done a bit of competitive casting narrow mindedness displayed by those tournament results and some editorial at local and national game fairs and critics who have not given tournament for free, while web sites such as www. simply wanted to improve their casting casting a chance. In the end it becomes sexyloops.com, www.fishandfly.co.uk, performance. Others are primarily in- a case of mind over matter. I don’t www.ukswff.com, and home.att.net/ terested in the 55-Yard Club. Then we

THE CREEL/Spring 2005/Page 8 have a few who are professional cast- petus to improve while celebrating their Q: You participated in the World ing instructors, either FFF or APGAI, accomplishments visually to others, thus Casting Tournament in Switzerland who wanted to compete and share their the badge (patch) and certifi cate system as a USA member. Was this your skills with the club. And then there is were born. In the past the 55-Yard Club fi rst world competition? Tell me Mike Marshall who was British Cast- was thought of as elitist since it was about your emotions at the tourna- ing Champion in decades past but who viewed as not being related to fi shing, ment? still harbors the skills and love of tour- but the BFCC have broken down that SD: Yes indeed, it was my fi rst world nament casting. And fi nally, a strong barrier by creating a system of steps to competition indeed. Until then I had tail wind doesn’t hurt either! get to the 55-yard point, and now be- only competed in two BFCC tourna- yond, with the inclusion of the 65, 75, ments (as I concentrated primarily on Q: Mike Marshall’s two-handed dis- and 85 yard clubs. This way fi shermen club management up to that point), tance fl y casts are incredible! can gain profi ciency in their casts (at so the learning curve was steep but SD: At 68 years old, Mike is an in- various distances), and celebrate the mo- fun. My feelings about being at Bern, spiration to those elder statesmen and ment with a handsome badge. Switzerland were strong and positive, young bucks. He can only handle short but on two very distinct levels. As an bouts of practice or competition, but Q: What are some of the BFCC’s fu- American, I was immensely proud to with his extensive knowledge of loop ture goals? be part of wonderful control coupled with a deep under- SD: This and talented team of standing of process of rod loading/ question guys representing a unloading, Mike is able to create the would be great country. On an- types of casts that shear brute strength better aimed other level, I was also cannot match alone. Look at the BFCC at Mike Mar- proud to see the return web site and you’ll see what I mean. shall, who has of the U.K. team to [ www.thebfcc.co.uk ] taken over the international casting day-to-day Q: Who teaches your group the ba- sport after a very long running of the absence. I know that sics? You obviously. Any others? club. How- SD: The BFCC teaches on a free basis I helped make this ever, I would happen and was grate- only. Instructors on their own time are say that in- at liberty to charge their own profes- ful to witness a world creasing club record being broken sional rate. I was quite involved with numbers with teaching the basics to all of the begin- by U.K. team member, “participat- Peter Thain, in the ning casters; however, Mike Marshall ing casters” as Dr.. Sam launching a two-hand has taken over that responsibility since 18-gram [plug casting] opposed to “due- distance fl y to another zip zone. distance event. The most my move to France. Carl Hutchinson, payers” who never one of our FFF instructors has also frustrating time for me at show up is a priority. Also, offering the Bern was during Event 2 [single hand been generous with his time with any casters a lively and interesting array of member who wanted to improve. distance fl y], which is normally a very casting events is paramount to the con- strong event for me. My lack of experi- Q: Do your members fi sh a fair tinuing success of the BFCC. I think ence casting on a platform was realized amount or are they primarily inter- too much energy goes into worrying when I found it diffi cult to cast with a ested in tournament casting? about how to get the ‘general public’ strong right to left tailwind. Every time SD: Without a doubt, most of the excited about viewing a casting tourna- I executed my power stroke the leader BFCC and UKSF casters are fi shermen ment. I am more interested in having would hit the platform, thus defl ating who have been intrigued in various de- lots of happy casters who in turn will the acceleration. The high point for me grees by tournament casting. make future events bigger by increased in the competition wasn’t beating my participation. Except for the ICSF type Q: You have many creative aspects personal best in Event 5 [1/4 oz. dis- events, the world is our oyster in terms tance spinning] by over thirty feet with to your casting club. Of particular of what type of casting events we offer; interest are the distance club em- a new rod that I only had 30 minutes so keeping things fresh is something of practice with on that day, but seeing blems. I imagine that has been very Mike and I discussed constantly. Fi- popular. Right? Henry Mittel take the bronze in Event nally, fi nding games that are fun to 8 followed by Steve Rajeff winning the SD: Absolutely. From the outset I play and offer some sort of skill growth asked myself what could I offer the gold. Tournament casting is indeed a will ensure that the BFCC remains an wonderful sport! casters, which would give them the im- important part of U.K. casting.

THE CREEL/Spring 2005/Page 9 Kentucky State Open Casting Two Canadian tourneys you Championships--May 21, 22 2005 ought to consider

How about participating in the Plaques will be presented in these Kentucky State Open Casting Cham- combination events: Scarborough, Ontario pionships hosted by the Bluegrass Distance Plugs, Distance Flies, and June 4 and 5, 2005 Contact Sportsmen’s League-Casting Divi- All Distance Gordon Deval for details. sion. Here are the details: Accuracy Flies, Accuracy Plugs, and [email protected] All Accuracy Toronto, Ontario DISTANCE EVENTS Grand All Around, May 21, 2005 June 11 and 12, 2005 Contact Kentucky Horse Park Campground, Entry Fees: Peter Edwards for details. Lexington, Ky. - (1st gravel road on Men & Ladies = $3.00 per event [email protected] right after entering campground) Juniors and Intermediates = $2.00 planning to cast Starting at 8:00 AM per event Note to U.S. casters in Canada: Make sure you have a 18 Gm. Distance Plug (Revolving Club Team Event = $5.00 per team valid passport. It is now required to Spool) (Maximum of 2 teams per club) have a passport to reenter in the USA 18 Gm. 2-hand Distance Spinning from Canada, according to ACA’s 7.5 Gm. 1-hand Distance Spinning Lunch may be purchased on Sunday memo from Dale Lanser. . 2-hand Distance Fly at the accuracy pools 1-hand Distance Fly Angler’s Fly Distance WHERE TO STAY: The ACA Web Site ACCURACY EVENTS Motels Close to Ky. Horse Park Have you visited the ACA web site May 22, 2005 Motel 6 (Exit 110) (859-293-1431) lately? Henry Mittel has done an out- Bluegrass Sportsmen’s League, Hampton Inn (Exit 110) (859-299- standing job in organizing, designing Handy’s Bend Road, Wilmore, Ky. 2613) and updating the web site. Starting at 9:00 AM Ramada Limited (Exit 110) (859294- Go to: 7375) http://www.americancastingassoc.org/ Dry Fly Accuracy, Men, Ladies Sleep Inn (Exit 108) (859-543-8400) and spend some time clicking and Trout Fly Accuracy, Men, Ladies looking around. It’s a treasure chest Bass Bug Accuracy, Men, Ladies Motels Closer to Accuracy Ponds of good, solid information that will 1/4 Oz. Accuracy Plug, Jr., Int., Men, (BGSL) surely help your casting game. Ladies Comfort Suites (859-296-4446) The fly leaders formula is one of 3/8 Oz. Accuracy Plug, Jr., Int., Men, Holiday Inn Express (Nicholasville the best features, but there are tips, Ladies (800-465-4329) and newsy info everywhere. I par- 5/8 Oz. Accuracy Plug, Jr., Int., Men, Red Roof Inn (859-277-9400) ticularly liked the Q & A he did with Ladies Turfmor Motel (859-858-4839) Randy Olson. 5/8 Oz. Plug Club Team Event For tournament information call Bill Certificate of Awards will be present- Burke 859-362-4644 Tackle for sale? ed in the follow- ing events and Many casters have casting gear classes: that they don’t use anymore. While Distance Events the ACA sells new equipment includ- - Open ing distance blanks, etc. some newcomers to the casting game might Fly Events - Men, A & B; Jacqu J. DuVal III Ladies, Open be reluctant to buy new gear (e.g., a Plug Events - Jr., Open; 2-hand fly rod blank runs $600 plus Int., Open; Men, A & B; the cost of completing it). Maybe we Ladies, A & B could list used tackle for sale in this newsletter and elsewhere. Obviously a “buyer beware” notice would be necessary. What are your thoughts on this?

THE CREEL/Spring 2005/Page 10 apologetic to those who question cast without many backlashes, “Tell the world us. That some people cast but and put the plug where you want about it...” don’t fi sh just proves how great it, it makes muskie fi shing less Contiued from page 3 our casting sport is. It proves that arduous. (I can tell you all about it can be an end in itself. There that. Years ago, I quit my job and successful fi shing. Whether it’s fl y are many archers who never shot spent four months on a Canadian fi shing for trout, or casting a plug an animal. I knew many clay lake in pursuit of one muskie. next to a stump for largemouth, target shooters who never hunted. Well, at least my casting was or stretching out a long cast for People throw a javelin in track and fairly good.) a steelhead, casting is hugely fi eld competition; I’m quite sure There are many other rea- important if not totally essential. that they’ve never hurled one at an sons advantages and benefi ts of You can own the best tackle, fi sh animal. casting. Keep them in mind, and the most expensive places in the Of course, many of the casters when a spectator or an interested world, hire the best guide, but do a considerable amount of angler at Cabela’s ask us about if you can’t make the cast, your fi shing. Steve Rajeff, probably one our sport, we can reply in a most results will suffer. of the best all-round light-tackle positive way! FUN AT ANY LEVEL anglers, is a prime example. And LET’S TELL THE WORLD I think the words “tournament remember, he and his brother ABOUT CASTING! casting” turns some people Tim won the Fly-Fishing Masters Meantime, keep on casting! off, because they may not like competition in 2003 and $30,000! competition. But that’s what’s CASTING: THE great about our casting game. “IN-BETWEEN” ACTIVITY You can practice and never enter Anglers, who “bleed” fi shing, a tournament, if you don’t want can’t wait until the next trip, and to. You can practice alone, with the time in between is “ barely your family or friends. On the tolerable” as one avid fi shermen other hand, casting in tournaments described it. So why not practice offers a wholesome competitive casting between trips? challenge for those who seek it. Much of the fun of fl y fi shing The best of both worlds. for trout is the actual fl y casting. CAST AT ANY AGE I once computed that at our small That’s one of the truly great things fi shing club we made an average about casting. You can do it at of 187 casts per person per rise any age. You can be a preteen or (most of our fi shing is “blind”). more than 80 years old and enjoy Doesn’t it make sense then that casting. Watch the nonadults cast you should enjoy your fl y casting Trout Fly or even Distance Fly! while fi shing to a point where it The Creel Check out the seniors on the Two- is almost a reward in itself? The the offi cial newsletter of the Hand Fly Distance or Single-Hand more one becomes skilled at fl y American Casting Assn. is Distance fl y! It’s really amazing casting, the more he or she will published several to see many of the seniors cast enjoy fl y fi shing. times a year. a fl y over 200 feet with the two- Plug casting? Anyone who hand fl y rod. pursues such species as muskies Editor: Jim C. Chapralis knows the great number of casts [email protected] SOME OF US DON’T FISH. required just to get a follow- Mailing address: SO? SO WHAT? up. You can go for days at some Jim C. Chapralis 3518 Davis St. It’s very true. Some of our best prime waters before you even see Evanston, IL 60203 casters seldom (or may never) a muskie follow. But if you can have fi shed. We tend to be

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