This steamer presentation is what streamer anglers probably do most — swinging the flies. From what I see on the water, what I read in articles and watch in videos, I think it’s fair to say, swinging is a pretty popular look.

But it’s also fair to say that swinging is what we do the least. I think part of that is regional.

Swinging streamers is a good tactic. It’s not our preferred method, but that might not matter to you and to the trout in your waters. That’s kind of the point to this whole Streamer Presentations series — I think it’s best to be armed with a wide range of tactics — or presentations. Try them all, and then let the fish decide.

I mix in swings every day that I fish streamers. I give swings a chance. Sometimes a swing suits the moment better than anything else. And sometimes I let a slow slide or cross current strips finish out below me, allowing tension to change the head angle, and I finish by letting the fly swing out.

Swinging is arguably the easiest presentation on a streamer. That also might make it the most relaxing. It’s a great way to cover a lot of water, and it’s an easy way to stay in rhythm.

We get more refusals with a swing than with most other tactics. We also average smaller trout to the net. That might have a lot to do with a swinging presentation being more attractive than natural. And when we do get a solid take on a swing, clean hooks sets can be challenging and we’re in a bad place to start fighting a good fish.

My friend, Austin Dando, and I cover all of that and more in this episode.

Resources

READ: Troutbitten | Category | Streamers
READ: Troutbitten | Natural vs Attractive Presentations
PODCAST: Troutbitten | Night Fishing for Trout - Swinging and Drifting

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