I fished my favorite stream recently and noticed a lot of anglers on the water. The conditions were ideal, although very few of my fly fishing friends were hooking up with Mr. Rainbow on this day. As I sat back and studied my fellow fishermen, I couldn't help but think to myself, "Man, these guys need to work on their casting." I'm no Olympic caster (see the post below), but it was evident there are plenty of fly fishers out there who need to work on their craft.

In fact, all of us could use a little help on our casting technique from time to time. And the best way to knock off the rust is by practicing in your own backyard. That's what the fall and winter months are for, right? Working on your technique and tying those favorite spring patterns? Try to remember these five keys next time you're out practicing.

Photo by Brian Milne