It is doubtful whether Tim Rajeff needs a rod and reel to be a successful fisherman. With his 30-plus years involved in teaching fly fishing and his reputation as a world casting champ, it’s a wonder the fish don’t just wave the white flag and jump into his creel. 

Rajeff recently demonstrated his expertise and gave valuable advice to a large crowd at Kames. 

“I began fly fishing more because I was jealous of my brother, Steve, than I did for the love of the sport,” informed Rajeff.

Steve had been successful while competing in fly casting and fishing competitions and Tim, being equally competitive, wanted to beat him. 

“The good thing about fly fishing is that you don’t have to be big and strong, like Steve, to achieve success,” mused Rajeff. “When I discovered that, I knew I could beat him,” he smiled.

Rajeff gave a casting demonstration at Kames before heading inside to give instruction-- answering questions ranging from which rod to purchase to what sort of line to use. Most fly fishing rods used to be made of fiberglass, Rajeff informed. Now they are made of a carbon fiber that is extremely strong and flexible. A good rule of thumb for buying a rod and reel is that your reel should be half the cost of the rod you purchase.

When evaluating fishing styles, Rajeff has noticed that, “People fish like their personalities – some gentle and some like a serious Type A.” If you know your personality type, it will help you to better understand your fishing style and you can make the necessary adjustments when you cast. The snap of the wrist is the most difficult thing to master when learning to fly fish. 

“It’s just something that takes time and lots of practice to perfect,” he said. 
Rajeff reminisced about learning the technique by telling on himself. 

When he was young, he and a friend would flick potatoes from sticks at passing trucks. 
“I wouldn’t advise doing that today, but it did teach me to flick the rod at the very last second,” he blushed.