Sinking and sink-tip lines are great for getting flies down deep in the water column where the big trout eat, but they can be a pain to cast and then recast.
First, these lines are heavy—hundreds of grains, for the most part. Second, they don’t really allow for nimble fly casting. These lines are made for deliberate fishing in deeper water under circumstances that require just that. Lastly, trying to cast a sinking or a sink-tip line like you would a normal fly will just plain wear you out over the course of a day.
But, as you’ll see in the Orvis video above, fly-casting instructor Pete Kuzter demonstrates a couple of methods that make casting sink-tip lines a bit easier. First, as you’re preparing to cast, you should make sure the confluence of the floating line and the sink-tip line are “on the rod.” This will allow you load and make that first cast.
But recasting can be difficult. For this, Kutzer recommends that you don’t try and repeat the first process. Rather, rollcast the sink tip to the top of the water column. This will reduce the friction, and allow you lift the line and recast.
See for yourself. Pete makes it look easy, and, with some practice, it sure could be.