The Reach Cast Simplified | Fly Fishing Technique Breakdown with Pat Ryan

Struggling with drag when fishing across tricky currents? The reach cast might just be the game-changer you’ve been looking for.

Pat breaks down how to perform a reach cast, or reach mend, and explains why it’s one of the most effective techniques for achieving a natural, drag-free drift—especially when targeting spooky or pressured fish. Instead of mending after the line lands, risking unwanted drag or movement of your fly, the reach cast allows you to mend in the air. The result? More natural presentations, longer time in the strike zone, and more eats ideally.

In this video:
• What a reach cast is and why it’s so effective
• How to perform an aerial mend before the line hits the water
• The key timing tips to maintain control
• How to manage your line hand while shooting line
• When to use a reach cast across current for longer drag-free drifts
• How to cast around obstacles like rocks and grass
• How to avoid lining spooky fish when fishing upstream

Give it a try on your next session and see the difference it makes.

Presented by Pat Ryan
Filmed and edited by Dean Johnson & Pat Ryan