Frequently large trout in heavily fished streams refuse one’s dry fly because it is not drifting naturally on the surface. Mixed currents pull on the leader causing the fly to drag. Frequently this “drag” is so subtle the angler cannot see it but the trout can. My favorite slack line cast to assure a natural presentation is one the late Vince Marinaro showed me. Vice called it a “puddle cast”. To achieve it the presentation cast is made with about five feet more line than is needed to reach the target and the rod tip is stopped at about 30 degrees above the stream. The line and leader fall in a puddle, the fly drifts naturally and you’ve got your trout. With a little practice you’ll be amazed with the natural presentations you can achieve with this cast.
