to mend or not to mend

[pa]

if your drift is not so dead,would it be better to mend your line even if it disturbs the fly or just let it be? may seem dumb to some,but I really dont know.

thanks
pa
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[flygoddess]

Sometimes a little disturbing is a good thing. I can't really answer without SEEING what exactly you are doing, but if the line is pulling the fly, it isn't going to do what it is suppose to, so try the mend.
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[NHAST]

I would say if it isn't a dead drift fix it! It is better to move the fly for a few inches than not get a good drift for several feet, etc.

If fishing from the shore or wading, you have two options, mend (good option if there is still a long drift left) or pick up and re cast. If you mend you might miss a fish the fly is closest to, but may set yourselft up for a good drift and another fish just down river.

On occasion, I have had fish hit the fly right after a mend, but most often the fish want a natural dead drift.

If fishing from a drift boat it is definetly better to mend. You want the longest possible drift. If you can mend and save recasting for later you will set yourself up to drift over more fish and end up catching more fish.
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[LordoftheFlies]

I agree with what the others have said on here. If you choose to mend, you may still catch a fish in the drift. If you let your line drag the fly, in my opinion, you don't catch anything.
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[pa]

thanks folks. that is what I thought the answer would be. greatful for the answers.


pa
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[bassbugn]

You can also take into account how far into your drift you are. If you are going to have to pick up right after you mend then it is kind of pointless. If the mend will help you reach more water that might be productive go for it. Worst case you will get better at mending.
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[Troll]

All this applies to mayfly patterns. When using a caddis, let it skate. caddis do it all the time. They do not just float along like mayflies, they are very active in the water with the ability to literally hang in the current causing a wake.

When I have a guest who can't mend or get a good drift, I caddis them up, works every time.

Fish may prefer dead drift mayflies, but they are not particular when it comes to caddis.
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