Learning the artful rhythm of the four-count cast.
It’s been more than 25 years since Robert Redford brought Norman Maclean’s semi-autobiographical novel A River Runs Through It to the big screen. Along with emerging actor Brad Pitt, the director’s artistic portrayal of the sport of fly fishing captured hearts everywhere.
The breathtaking scenery, the soothing sound of the water, and the appeal of being one with nature have lured scores of anglers to the banks of the Rockies’ trout-filled waters ever since the movie’s release.
While it’s easy to forget your cares wading into our cool mountain streams, you must also forget what you know about conventional fishing. Fly casting is more challenging than casting with traditional gear as the fisherman must work with the weight of the line, not the lure, to achieve distance.
“Casting is an art that is performed on a four-count rhythm between ten and two o’clock,” stated Maclean, who used a metronome to teach his sons to cast in the movie. Although a metronome isn’t necessary, and some anglers prefer a sidearm cast to the traditional overhead cast, mastering the four-count rhythm is the essential first step in learning to fly fish.
With the rivers, creeks and streams now rising in the valley, our fishing staff is gearing up to take guests on unforgettable trips to our own private waters as well as the nearby Colorado River. From rods and reels to waders and flies, our experts offer everything you need to wade into the magical world of fly fishing, including casting lessons at our private trout-stocked pond. Getting started, well, it’s as easy as 1-2-3-4.
To book a lesson or fly fishing trip, call the Activities Center at 970-726-8231.